The Basics:
Italy is in the eastern mediterranean bordered by the Tyrrhenian Sea to the west, the Adriatic sea to the east and the Ionian and Med to the south. The highest point is Monte Biancho at 4748 meters,
Its primary land borders are France, Switzerland, Austria, Slovenia and Croatia. Within Italy the there are two Micro-states, the Vatican and San Marino, and two large islands, Sicily and Sardinia.
Rome, the capital and largest city, is home to almost 3 million residents, about 5% of the total Italian population of about 60 million people. The country is a little larger than the UK.
Italy has a vast history as far back as 40,000 years ago. It’s too vast to cover here, so I’ll limit it to the most rudimentary information! Pre-dating the Romans were the Etruscans, Celts, Umbrians and Latins. The Phoenicians colonized the south and by the 8th century BC the Greeks has established colonies.
The Roman empire, 509 BC saw the start of government rather than the historic monarchies. For more than two centuries Rome was the center of the world and “governed” an enormous territory at its peak. The middle ages saw a series of wars and ongoing struggles between the Papacy and the Roman empire, the crusades, the black death and ultimately the Renaissance. More wars ensued, against Austria, the Spanish and ultimately the creation of Italy as we know it today. Italy was part of the alliance with France and Britain in WW1, in WW2 they aligned with Germany and Japan. Following the liberation Italy abolished the monarchy and reinstate democracy, joining the EU, NATO and the G6 (now G20).
The broad and significant history of Italy is obvious in its art, culture, architecture, cuisine, wine and overall economy.
Currency :
Euro (€) – Credit cards are widely accepted
Language:
There are some regional differences, but Italian is the official language. Depending where you are, most Italians speak at least some English. German is spoken in the north east and many Sardinians speak a unique langue called Sardo.
Religion:
Almost 75% of Italians are Roman Catholic, with almost 22% stating they have no religion. Many festivals are religious based, even if the participants are not active in the church .
Time Zone:
1 hour ahead of the UK i.e. + 6 hours from New York New Year’s eve.
Visiting
Getting there: It’s not difficult to get to Italy: car, ferry, plane and train are all options. From North America the major airlines all fly to at least 1 city and there are dozens of European airline carriers. Google them! Getting around Italy is mostly easy, an extensive train system, lots of flights and good roads for cars and also bus routes.
Destination ( 1 week +) = Absolutely
There is so much to see that 1 week will not be enough – especially if you go to see the Palio.
What to do/see:
- The North: A diverse geography owing to the Alps and Apennines splitting the area and two coasts.
- Rome – Rome is in the center of Italy but most deem it to be part of the north. A plethora of options including The Vatican, Sistine Chapel, Borghese Museum, Roman ruins, shopping and eating.
- Venice – the Island city is a must see. But choose your season so you are not wading through the ever rising waters. In addition to the lagoon/canals, there is St Mark’s Square, the Doges Palace and of course walking across the Rialto bridge. Seeing Murano glass made is also a worthy trip
- Milan – the Duomo, the Sforsesco castle, DaVinci museum to name just one, and of course shopping
- Florence – often thoughts of as the art capital of Italy, you can visit the Uffizi Gallery, climb the Duomo,look at jewelry crossing the Ponte Vecchio, stroll the gardens and eat fabulous food – including some of the best gelato I’ve every had.
- Tuscany – Visit Montepulciano, San Gimignano and of course Siena – Go to the Palio see “The Palio” Siena is a prettier and (IMO) cleaner city than Florence.
- Bologna – Though one of the largest cities it still has charm, wonderful architecture and amazing history
- Genoa – on the coast, it was once a major world economy and remains beautiful to visit and see.
- Cinque Terra – you’ve seen the pictures now visiting and explore these pretty little towns on foot or even by bike.
- Parma – for the cheese and wine aficionados
- Lake Garda – an enormous lake with incredible scenery and interesting little towns. Brescia is close by with a great Roman history.
- Como – of the famed Lake Como. Explore the gardens and wander the streets before sitting down for an Aperol overlooking the lake
- The South – very different to the north and with a diverse and different history.
- Naples – the southern-most large metropolis. Close proximity to Mt. Vesuvius, Pompeii and Herculaneum and the jumping off point for the Amalfi coast. Naples was not my favorite city. If you have to choose between visiting Pompeii and Herculaneum I’d recommend the latter, though smaller it isn’t overrun with cruise ship guests and it’s easier to see the homes and preserved art.
- Amalfi Coast – stretching from Naples to Salerno these towns perch precariously amongst and along cliffs. Stops in Positano and Amalfi can be done by ferry – as can Capri from Sorrento – a lovely little town to base yourself in.
- Palermo – The Island of Sicily – Catacombs, the Abbey, markets and interesting museums.
- Capri – the perfect day trip from Sorrento or Naples. Fantastic scenery, an abundance of eating and shopping
What to eat and drink:
The food in Italy is of course delicious. There are wide variations in the types of cuisines by region. This is not an all-encompassing list – but a guide to think about.
- Pasta dishes
- Cacio e Pepe – this simple but hard to replicate dish of pecorino cheese, black pepper over al dente spaghetti is sublime when made well.
- Lasagna – originally Lasagna did not use tomatoes, just ragù, béchamel sauce, and cheese, usually mozzarella or Parmigiano Reggiano- one of the most delicious versions I ever had was in Siena, but most regions now make it. Some incorporate tomatoes but not overwhelming American style versions.
- Carbonara – made well this dish is superb, not it’s a globby mess. Seek it out from a restaurant with a good reputation, especially in Rome
- Pizza – be it Naples or Roman style look for ones with less toppings as these will let each shine.
- Meats
- Osso buco – Milan is its home but you can see it in other northern towns. Owing to the length of preparation time it’s not a common sight, but in the right restaurant really delicious.
- Salami – especially the wild boar version near Siena, Copa, Prosciutto, Soppresseta, Braesola and more. Pair with fresh bread, olives and a delicious wine
- Risotto – classic versions include with squid ink, saffron and fresh garden peas. Versions with seafood abound along the coasts.
- Desserts:
- Gelato – it’s hard to find bad gelato but fabulous versions are less common. My favorite is along the Arno river in Florence, there is always a line, but it’s worth it.
- Tiramisu – ending dinner with this light and scrumptious dessert is a must, even if the caffeine keeps you awake.
- Cannoli – Sicily lays claim to this dessert, though other regions serve it. Fresh ricotta and light pastry deep fried.
- Wines and Liquors
- The range of Italian wines is spectacular from light and fruity whites, sparkling Proseccos and unusual grapes grown on Mt Vesuvius to the rich and pungent reds of Montepulciano, Amarone and Barolo. My recommendation: drink local.
- Grappas are not for everyone, but if you like fiery spirits then try the vast array that are available from every possible fruit.
What to bring home:
Wow – lots
- Leather clothing, purses, shoes, designer clothing
- olive oil, vinegars, grappa, wine
- ceramics, jewelry
- Momentos – Contrada scarves from the Palio
- – too long a list to publish here.
What you should know before you go
- Italy loves tourists, their economy is driven by them, but sometimes there are just too many. Think about visiting in the shoulder seasons, not peak summer tourist times. This is especially true in Venice and Rome.
- The history of Italy is fascinating, it’s a big country and the north and south are quite different.
- Getting around Italy is not difficult, even if you don’t want to drive yourself. Trains, planes, buses, even hiring day drivers are all possible.
- The food is delicious, though it’s usually much better away from the mass tourist areas. That said, I’ve eaten and drunk great food and wines in the center of towns. Just ask the locals.
- There are a wide variety of accommodations, do your research to be sure you are staying where you like.
- While the trains and planes run on time, trains, restaurants and meetings often start late. Do not be alarmed
- Popular events and resorts can be booked up to a year in advance, so if you are not flexible plan ahead
- If you have food allergies you will be pleasantly surprised at how the menus have coding – numbers/letters indicating gluten, egg, soy, peanuts, crustaceans etc.
The brilliant Palio di Siena
Il Palio. Even if you do not love horses, I cannot state this strongly [...]