Top 3 Cities to Visit in Italy

Italy is the home of some of the world's most beautiful architecture, art, and food; It does not disappoint.

When planning a trip to Italy, it's important to consider timing. The travel year in Italy is three different seasons – Peak Season (mid-June through August), Off-Season (November through March), and Shoulder Season (April through mid-June and September through October). Traveling in the summer is beneficial because it is the driest time of the year and the longer days allow for maximum sightseeing. However, August is the most humid and hot month of the year, and many locals leave for two to four weeks, leaving some restaurants and services closed.

If your schedule is flexible, shoulder season is a wonderful time to go. There are fewer people, the weather is still comfortable, and the hotel rates are less expensive. The Spring also has the bonus of blooming wildflowers and trees, while the fall brings the grape harvest (think Tuscany!).

Here are the top 3 cities to visit in Italy.

ROME

A must visit spot on your trip to Europe. The aroma of fresh Italian cooking wafts through the alleys, and historical sights stand proudly at every turn. No visit to Italy's capital would be complete without checking out the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, St. Peter's Basilica, the Sistine Chapel and the awe-inspiring Trevi Fountain. If you have additional time, venture beyond the main attractions to the Trastevere neighborhood and the Spanish Steps.

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AMALFI COAST AND CAPRI

A unique corner of Italy, the Amalfi coast has been home to different cultures throughout the centuries since the Roman age. It was among the four Marine Republics that ruled Italy between the Xth and XIIIth centuries (the other three were Genoa, Pisa, and Venice). Among the sights to see are the Cathedral of Amalfi, Ravello, and Positano.

VENICE

The city is built on a lagoon, surrounded by canals, and has no roads. In addition to San Marco square, the Carnaval, the gondolas, and the many bridges and magnificent palaces, Venice is a poetic and romantic city filled with history and art. Many people say the best time to visit Venice is during Winter Holidays; I recommend visiting during Carnaval or Spring.