Destination Spotlight: Italy
Written on May 14, 2026
It’s no surprise that enchanting Italy is included in so many lists across the internet featuring the most visited countries of Europe. Often in the top five, it’s popular among a variety of travelers like honeymooners, fans of guided tours and cruises, and even families. Italy often feels like a perfect pick for those who want to dip their toe into European travel but it is also a destination that deserves repeat visits.
Why Italy
The country offers beautiful landscapes. From the seaside cities and villages that dot the coasts, to the sweeping fields of the interior, to the mountain ranges that stretch to the sky, to the hustle and bustle of chic cities, Italy has something for everyone. (And fortunately, many itineraries allow you to experience a little bit of everything!)
The food leaves you dreaming of your next meal. There’s a reason why so many people immediately think of food when they think of Italy. Cheesy, peppery cacio e pepe. Creamy gelato. Indulgent carbonara. Perfectly prepared cannoli. Delicate, creamy burrata. Neapolitan pizza. Take your pick and treat your tastebuds.
The art and architecture of the country are some of the best in the world. Museums that house renowned paintings and sculptures, along with a staggering 61 UNESCO World Heritage sites, numerous opera houses and theaters promise visitors an immersive cultural experience.
Distinctly Italy
Rome wasn’t built in a day, but three days is a good amount of time to see the main sites. Larger-than-life monuments like The Colosseum, The Pantheon, and Trevi Fountain top the list for many tourists. (Tours with skip-the-line access help streamline your day!)
Art is everywhere. (But Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance, is the primary destination!) Galleria dell’Accademia is the home to Michaelangelo’s David. The Uffizi is where you can view Botticelli’s The Birth of Venus and Caravaggio’s Medusa. Spend some time wandering the halls, appreciating art from another time.
Coffee culture is a vital part of Italian life. Morning coffees are meant to be consumed quickly, and asking for a to-go cup will earn you funny looks. Sweeter, milky coffees are for mornings, and espresso and macchiato are for the afternoon and evening. Before heading to Italy, acquaint yourself with some of the nuances so you’ll blend in and order like a pro.
“La dolce vita” is the sweet/good life. It can be challenging to decompress, even when on vacation. During your time in Italy, embrace la dolce vita and savor simple joys, a slower pace, and the calm of living in the moment.
Pop Culture Italy
Movies/TV Shows Filmed There: White Lotus – Season 2 (Sicily), Roman Holiday, Letters to Juliet, Only You, The Talented Mr. Ripley, The Italian Job, Life is Beautiful, The Godfather, and many, many more.
Books Set in Italy: Under the Tuscan Sun: At Home in Italy by Frances Mayes, One Italian Summer by Rebecca Serle, The Amalfi Curse by Sarah Penner, A Room with a View by E.M. Forster, My Brilliant Friend by Elena Ferrante, The Birth of Venus by Sarah Dunant, The Good Left Undone by Adriana Trigiani, Beautiful Ruins by Jess Walter
Fun Facts
When it comes to fashion, Milan nears the top of the world’s list, joining New York City, London, and Paris on a list referred to as “The Big Four” in the fashion industry.
Italy is home to the most UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the world.
Mount Etna (Sicily) is Europe’s most active volcano.
Michaelangelo spent five years painting the Sistine Chapel (1508 to 1512) and it covers over 5,000 square feet.
Legend has it that tossing a coin into the Trevi Fountain ensures a return to Rome, and you’ll often spot tourists standing with their backs to the fountain and tossing a coin over their shoulder. (This was popularized in the 1954 film Three Coins in a Fountain!) The €1 million+ collected each year is donated to charity.
When it comes to planning a trip to Italy, your wish list might be long…and Italy is simply too expansive and too incredible to see it all in one trip. Together, we can discuss your bucket list and find or create an itinerary that works for you…whether it’s your first visit or your fifth!
