La Dolce Vita: Italy Travel Guide

Places to visit during your vacation in Italy

The Land of Boots has rich history and phenomenal sights. No matter where in Italy you are on holiday, you can enjoy the sun by the water one day and explore historical monuments the next. Or how about a ride on a Vespa through vineyards and olive groves?

If you want to go on a beach holiday and experience sun and azure waves, then the Amalfi Coast, the Italian Riviera or Sicily could be for you. Or if you'd prefer to while away the hours in idyllic countryside, then Tuscany or the mountain lakes in northern Italy would be a great choice. For vibrant night-life and rich history, explore Naples, Bologna, Florence and Rome.

In this travel guide, we'll explore how you can best enjoy La Dolce Vita during your stay in Italy.

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Countryside stays

Coastal breaks

City escapes

Italian countryside

Italy’s countryside is ideal for a relaxing break, no matter the season. Rolling hills, olive groves and vineyards set the scene for peaceful walks, scenic drives and long, lazy lunches. Spring brings wildflowers and blossom-filled views, while autumn is perfect for food festivals and harvest celebrations. Whether you’re exploring the green heart of Umbria, the golden landscapes of Tuscany or the mountain villages of the north, the countryside offers a slower pace, beautiful views and a real taste of local life. It’s the perfect place to switch off and soak up the natural beauty.

Tuscany

Think rolling hills dotted with olive groves, tall cypress trees and sun-drenched vineyards. Add in medieval villages, golden light, and a warm, welcoming climate – and you’ve got Tuscany. It’s a region that feels made for meandering. Perfect for food lovers, culture seekers and anyone craving a slower pace, Tuscany blends natural beauty with rich history and laid-back charm. Stroll through world-famous cities like Florence, with its Renaissance treasures, or Pisa and its iconic leaning tower. Head off the tourist trail to discover characterful hilltop towns like San Gimignano, known for its towers, Greve in Chianti with its rustic wine culture, or Lajatico – the hometown of Andrea Bocelli. Whether you’re sipping local wine, snapping photos of scenic valleys or wandering cobbled streets, Tuscany serves up the perfect mix of relaxation and inspiration.

Lake Garda

Lake Garda is where mountains meet the water, and every town along its shores feels like a hidden gem. Idyllic villages sit like pearls on a string, each offering stunning views, welcoming piazzas and that unmistakable Italian charm. With its backdrop of dramatic peaks and crystal-clear waters, Lake Garda is a dream for families, couples and explorers alike. Kids will love the lakeside attractions and theme parks nearby, while grown-ups can relax in cosy cafés, browse local markets or sip wine by the water. It’s easy to venture out too, take a day trip to romantic Verona, explore the floating beauty of Venice, or head out for scenic walks around the northern lakes and hills. A boat trip across the lake is a must. It's calm, clear and peaceful, and the perfect way to see this incredible place from a new angle.

Holidays in Italy by the coast

The Italian coast is a brilliant choice for a seaside break at any time of year. With hundreds of miles of shoreline, you’ll find everything from peaceful fishing villages to lively beach resorts, each offering its own slice of coastal charm. In summer, it’s all about sun, sea and gelato, while spring and autumn are perfect for quieter walks along the shore and laid-back seafood lunches.

Whether you head to the Amalfi Coast, the Riviera, or the golden beaches of Puglia, you’ll find picture-perfect views, delicious food and a relaxed pace that makes it easy to unwind.

Amalfi Coast

The Amalfi Coast is one of the most breathtaking stretches of coastline in the world, and it’s easy to see why. Picture dramatic cliffs plunging into turquoise waters, colourful towns clinging to the hillsides, and winding roads with unforgettable sea views at every turn. This is where nature and culture come together in the most romantic way. The scent of lemon trees, wild herbs and flowers fills the air, while cypress-lined paths lead you through postcard-perfect scenery. Spend your days exploring charming towns like Positano with its pastel buildings and boutique shops, Sorrento with its lively piazzas and coastal views, or Vietri sul Mare, known for its handmade ceramics and relaxed vibe. Whether you're soaking up the sun on a cliffside terrace or heading out on a boat trip along the coast, every moment on the Amalfi Coast feels like something out of a film.

Sicily

From dramatic landscapes and golden beaches to colourful fishing villages and ancient ruins, Sicily is bursting with character. This sun-soaked island offers something for every kind of traveller, whether you’re here for food, history or pure relaxation. Explore lively towns like Palermo and Siracusa, wander the elegant streets of Taormina, or slow down in picture-perfect spots like Cefalù and Noto. For a true taste of the island, try local dishes like arancini, pasta alla norma and pistachio-stuffed cannoli, or cool off with a brioche con gelato, a Sicilian favourite. Don’t miss the chance to visit Mount Etna, Europe’s highest active volcano. Its slopes are home to thriving vineyards, thanks to the rich volcanic soil, and many offer tastings of unique, mineral-rich wines. Whether you're beach-hopping, sightseeing or sipping wine in the sunshine, Sicily is full of moments you’ll want to savour.

Italian Riviera

The beautiful coastline of Liguria is also called the "Riviera of Flowers" and for a good reason. The area is rich with florals and greenery and there are lush wide beaches too. Make the most with lots of fresh seafood and soak up the hours of sunshine.

Magical cities such as Sanremo, Alassio and Sestri Levante should be on your itinerary. The slightly larger city of Genoa is also worth a visit and you shouldn't forget the iconic Cinque Terre. Visit the 5 beautiful UNESCO cities in spring or autumn if you want to avoid the large tourist crowds.

Italy's best beaches

Italy is home to some of the most breath-taking beaches in the world. If the family consists of sun lovers and water lovers, you have chosen the perfect destination.

Italy has over 8,000 kilometres of coastline, and you can choose between beautiful sandy beaches by the azure sea, romantic bays and mirror-like mountain lakes. Some of the best beaches in Italy can be found in Sardinia, in Apulia and in Sicily:

☀️ Spiaggia di Pescoluse, Apulia (top picture): here the sand is so soft and the sea so deeply turquoise that it is known as the Salentos Maldives.

☀️ Spiaggia Isola Bella, Sicily (picture left): goes by the name 'The Ionian Pearl', and is where the HBO series White Lotus was filmed.

☀️ Spiaggia della Pelosa, Sardinia (picture right): this beach is known for the finest white sand and crystal clear waters.

Italy’s cities

You can enjoy a city break in Italy all year round, with something special to experience in every season. Whether you’re after sunny piazzas in the summer, cosy cafés in the winter, or quieter streets during spring and autumn, Italy’s cities are always ready to welcome you.

There are plenty of fascinating places to explore, each with its own character, culture and history. From the romantic canals of Venice to the vibrant streets of Naples, the Renaissance beauty of Florence to the ancient wonders of Rome, every city has its own story to tell and plenty to see, eat and enjoy.

Rome

The eternal capital, Rome, exudes history and charm. Exploring the streets of Rome feels like stepping back in time, and a big bonus is that most of Rome's sights can be reached on foot. Top attractions include the Colosseum, the Vatican, the Spanish Steps, the Trevi Fountain and not least the Vatican.

Rome is also home to some famous pasta dishes you might already be familiar Carbonara and Cacio e Pepe, but haven't tried them in Rome! We recommend Roscoli Salumeria and Da Teo if you are looking for a dinner restaurant.

Florence

Finally, Florence, the cradle of the Renaissance, is a good bet for a city break in Italy. Florence is an experience for all the senses, with a wealth of historical sights, impressive buildings and romantic squares and squares.

Florence is also famous for its artworks, including Michelangelo's David and Sandro Botticelli's Nymphs. Explore the Uffizi Gallery and admire stunning views of the city from Piazzale Michelangelo. Take a walk on the famous Ponte Vecchio bridge and let yourself be tempted by the many small stalls. Have a cup of coffee or a glass of wine at one of the many sidewalk restaurants and enjoy the city's pulse and lively atmosphere.

Venice

Magical Venice also promises a wonderful holiday experience. The atmosphere in the narrow streets and by the city's canals is enchanting, and you will find historical sights everywhere. See St. Mark's Square with the famous Basilica Cattedrale Patriachale di San Marco, the Doge's Palace, the Bridge of Sighs and the Rialto Bridge. Explore the small alleys and enjoy a delicious dinner in one of the romantic squares in the city's old quarter.

Just a short boat ride will take you to Murano, which is known for its glass production, and the perfect place if you want to find vintage glass lamps and handmade decorations to take home in your suitcase.

Holidays for the whole family

Italy is the perfect choice for a family holiday, with exciting nature, beautiful beaches, cosy towns and, of course, pizza and pasta! It's a very child-friendly destination with water parks and theme parks to keep everyone entertained.

If you’re travelling with your dog, you can easily bring them along as long as you plan ahead, remembering that the heat means you should never leave them in the car, always carry cold water and take regular breaks. Make sure to follow the rules by bringing an EU pet passport, insurance and vaccination certificates including proof of rabies vaccination within 21 days of travel. Ensure your dog is microchipped and wearing a tag with their name and your phone number.

About us

Welcome to NOVASOL, one of Europe's leading companies in the rental of holiday homes. With us you will find a wide range of cosy holiday homes and unique holiday homes across the most popular destinations throughout Europe. Since 1968, our goal has been to give you an unforgettable experience, and ensure that you are in safe hands before, during and after your holiday. With more than 55 years of experience, we know that a holiday home is more than a place to spend the night. It's a place where unforgettable holiday memories are made and where you get time back to what matters most. Book your next holiday home with NOVASOL and look forward to a holiday full of freedom.