ITALY

ANCONA (AOI)

Ancona, a picturesque port city on Italy’s Adriatic coast, serves as the historic capital of the Marche region. Built across a dramatic promontory, it is famous for being one of the rare places where visitors can watch both sunrise and sunset over the sea. Its rich maritime past is highlighted by the majestic Roman Trajan’s Arch and the hilltop San Ciriaco Cathedral, which overlooks the bustling harbor. Beyond its historic plazas and vibrant seafood scene, Ancona serves as the gateway to the stunning Mount Conero Riviera, offering travelers dramatic limestone cliffs, hidden coves, and pristine, crystal-clear coastal waters.

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BARI (BRI)

Bari is a vibrant port city where the smell of salty Adriatic air mixes with the aroma of freshly made “orecchiette” pasta. It remains the gateway to the sun-drenched region of Puglia. Visitors are drawn to Bari Vecchia (the Old Town), where “pasta nonnas” still hand-roll dough in the streets, and the majestic Basilica di San Nicola. With its bustling promenade, elegant 19th-century boulevards, and proximity to the primeval Foresta Umbra, Bari is a city that perfectly captures the gritty, generous, and joyful heart of Southern Italy.

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BOLOGNA (BLQ)

Known by three telling nicknames—La Dotta (the Learned), La Grassa (the Fat), and La Rossa (the Red)—Bologna is Italy’s ultimate sensory capital. Home to the world’s oldest university, its medieval center is defined by over 60 kilometers of UNESCO-listed porticoes and the leaning Two Towers. While the Asinelli Tower remains a skyline icon, visitors should note its climb is currently paused for preservation. From the unfinished majesty of the Basilica of San Petronio to the hidden canals of Via Piella, the city’s terracotta streets lead inevitably to the Quadrilatero market for authentic tagliatelle al ragù.

Early Christian Monuments of Ravenna (alternative to Ravenna)

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BOLZANO/BOZEN (BZO)

Bolzano (Bozen), the alpine capital of South Tyrol, is a captivating cultural crossroads where Mediterranean flair meets Central European tradition. Nestled in a glacier-carved valley at the doorstep of the Dolomites, the city is famous for its bilingual heritage and the world-renowned South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology, home to Ötzi the Iceman. Visitors stroll through medieval arcades in the Portici, enjoy local Lagrein wine in the vibrant Piazza Walther, and take cable cars to high-altitude plateaus. With its mix of Gothic cathedrals, Tyrolean stube, and sun-drenched vineyards, Bolzano offers a unique, sophisticated Italian-Austrian experience.

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BRINDISI (BDS)

Brindisi, a historic port city on the Adriatic coast in southern Italy’s Apulia region, has served as a key maritime gateway to the East since antiquity. Famously marking the terminus of the ancient Appian Way, anchored by a magnificent Roman Column overlooking the harbor, the city seamlessly blends rich antiquity with relaxed Mediterranean charm. Visitors can explore the imposing 13th-century Swabian Castle, marvel at the Romanesque Cathedral, and wander the lively waterfront promenade surrounding the natural inner port. Serving as an ideal hub for exploring the Salento peninsula, Brindisi offers travelers rich history, pristine coastal views, and exceptional Puglian cuisine.

Castel del Monte (alternative to Bari)

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CATANIA (CTA)

Catania, Sicily’s energetic “Black City,” sits at the foot of Mount Etna and is built largely from the volcano’s dark basalt. Its heart is the Piazza del Duomo, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring the iconic Elephant Fountain and the Baroque Cathedral of Saint Agatha. The city is a sensory delight, from the chaotic “La Pescheria” fish market to the aromatic streets serving Pasta alla Norma and pistachio arancini. Visitors can explore ancient Roman theaters hidden beneath street level or hike the lunar landscapes of Etna. Catania’s resilient spirit and bold flavors make it an essential Sicilian gateway.

Arab-Norman Palermo and the Cathedral Churches of Cefalú and Monreale (alternative to Palermo)
Archaeological Area of Agrigento (alternative to Palermo)

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COMISO (CIY)

Comiso, a charming city in southeastern Sicily’s Ragusa province, rests gracefully at the foot of the Hyblaean Mountains. Rebuilt in elegant Sicilian Baroque architecture following the devastating 1693 earthquake, the town centers around the lively Piazza Fonte Diana, home to the ancient Thermal Baths of Diana. Visitors can explore historic landmarks including the majestic Castle of the Naselli Princes, the Church of Santa Maria delle Stelle, and the Church of San Biagio. Surrounded by rolling vineyards producing fine Cerasuolo di Vittoria wine, Comiso serves as a serene gateway to the UNESCO-listed Val di Noto, offering an authentic Sicilian getaway.

Archaeological Area of Agrigento (alternative to Palermo)

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FLORENCE (FLR)

Florence, the enchanting capital of Italy’s Tuscany region, is universally celebrated as the birthplace of the Renaissance. This UNESCO-listed historic center is a breathtaking open-air museum overflowing with world-class art and architectural masterpieces. The city’s skyline is defined by the iconic red-tiled dome of the Florence Cathedral, engineered by Brunelleschi, while the Uffizi Gallery and Accademia house legendary works by Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, and Botticelli. Visitors can stroll across the medieval Ponte Vecchio, lined with historic jewelry shops, or watch the sunset from Piazzale Michelangelo. Florence offers an unparalleled, romantic immersion into centuries of artistic brilliance and Tuscan charm.

Ancient and Primeval Beech Forests of the Carpathians and Other Regions of Europe *[IT] (alternative to Pescara)
Assisi, the Basilica of San Francesco and Other Franciscan Sites (alternative to Perugia)

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FOGGIA (FOG)

Foggia, a historic city in southern Italy’s northern Apulia region, lies at the heart of the fertile Tavoliere plain. Steeped in rich medieval heritage, it once served as a favored imperial residence for Holy Roman Emperor Frederick II, whose legacy endures in the historic Arch of Frederick II. Visitors can explore the magnificent Romanesque Cathedral of Santa Maria Icona Vetere, admire the elegant Palazzo Dogana, and wander pleasant grand plazas like Piazza Cavour. Serving as the primary gateway to the scenic Gargano Peninsula, Foggia offers travelers an authentic blend of rich Puglian culture, traditional gastronomy, and serene southern Italian charm.

Ancient and Primeval Beech Forests of the Carpathians and Other Regions of Europe *[IT] (alternative to Pescara)
Castel del Monte (alternative to Bari)

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FORLI (FRL)

Forlì, a historic city in northern Italy’s Emilia-Romagna region, sits gracefully along the ancient Via Emilia. Rich in history and culture, the city is centered around the vast Piazza Aurelio Saffi, one of Italy’s largest public squares, which is dominated by the majestic Romanesque Basilica of San Mercuriale. Visitors can explore the imposing 14th-century Rocca di Ravaldino fortress, wander through peaceful green parks, and visit the renowned San Domenico Museum complex to admire world-class art exhibitions. Surrounded by rolling vineyard-covered hills and celebrated for its rich regional gastronomy, Forlì offers travelers an authentic, serene, and culturally rewarding Italian escape.

Early Christian Monuments of Ravenna (alternative to Bologna)

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GENOA (GOA)

Genoa, the “La Superba,” is Italy’s grandest maritime gateway, nestled between the Ligurian Sea and the Apennine Mountains. Its soul resides in Europe’s largest medieval old town, a dizzying labyrinth of narrow caruggi (alleys) that open into magnificent hidden plazas. The city is a UNESCO World Heritage site for its Palazzi dei Rolli, a series of Renaissance and Baroque palaces once used to host visiting dignitaries. From the futuristic Porto Antico designed by Renzo Piano to the iconic San Lorenzo Cathedral, Genoa blends industrial grit with aristocratic elegance. As the birthplace of pesto and focaccia, it remains a culinary powerhouse.

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MILAN (BGY/LIN/MXP/PMF)

Italy’s global capital of fashion and finance, Milan is a sleek, sophisticated metropolis where centuries of art meet cutting-edge innovation. The city took the world stage as the primary host of the Winter Olympics, with its historic arenas and modern skyline buzzing with international energy. At its heart stands the magnificent Duomo di Milano, a Gothic masterpiece of white marble spires. Nearby, the glass-domed Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II offers a luxury stroll toward the legendary La Scala Opera House. From Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper to the vibrant canals of the Navigli district, Milan is a relentless celebration of style, history, and the perfect aperitivo.

Cathedral, Torre Civica and Piazza Grande, Modena (alternative to Bologna)

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NAPLES (NAP)

Naples, Italy, is a high-octane sensory explosion where ancient history meets gritty modern life under the watchful eye of Mount Vesuvius. As the birthplace of pizza, the city’s UNESCO-listed historic center is a labyrinth of narrow streets like Spaccanapoli, filled with Baroque churches and artisan workshops. Visitors can marvel at the “Veiled Christ” in the Sansevero Chapel or explore the vast Naples National Archaeological Museum. Beyond its chaotic charm, Naples serves as the ultimate springboard for the ruins of Pompeii, the idyllic island of Capri, and the breathtaking Amalfi Coast.

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PALERMO (PMO)

Palermo, the chaotic and captivating capital of Sicily, is a Mediterranean crossroads where Arab, Norman, and Baroque influences collide. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, it is famed for its “Arab-Norman” architecture, best seen in the glittering mosaics of the Palatine Chapel and the imposing Palermo Cathedral. The city’s soul resides in its gritty street markets—Ballarò, Capo, and Vucciria—where vendors hawk legendary street foods like arancine, panelle, and the daring pani ca meusa. From the grandeur of the Teatro Massimo to the bustling intersections of Quattro Canti, Palermo offers an intoxicating, multisensory journey through layers of ancient history.

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PERUGIA (PEG)

Perugia, Umbria’s hilltop capital, is a labyrinth of medieval secrets and chocolate-scented air. At its heart lies the stunning Piazza IV Novembre, home to the 13th-century Fontana Maggiore and Gothic Palazzo dei Priori. Travelers can explore the haunting Rocca Paolina underground city or visit the Casa del Cioccolato Perugina. The city vibrates during the International Journalism Festival (April) and Umbria Jazz (July). Accessible via San Francesco d’Assisi Airport, Perugia balances historic gravitas with a youthful, student-fueled energy, offering a sophisticated, authentic alternative to Italy’s more crowded tourist hubs.

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PESCARA (PSR)

Pescara, a dynamic coastal city in central Italy’s Abruzzo region, stretches gracefully along the sun-drenched shores of the Adriatic Sea. Renowned for its expansive sandy beaches and bustling seafront promenade, the city seamlessly blends modern resort energy with rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the historic birthplace of legendary poet Gabriele D’Annunzio, walk across the striking, cable-stayed Ponte del Mare bridge, and discover regional traditions at the Museo delle Genti d’Abruzzo. Serving as a prime gateway to Abruzzo’s rugged national parks, Pescara offers travelers a vibrant Italian coastal escape highlighted by fresh seafood, lively nightlife, and scenic Adriatic charm.

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PISA (PSA)

Pisa, a radiant jewel of Tuscany, is far more than the home of its world-famous Leaning Tower. Situated along the River Arno, the city boasts the Piazza dei Miracoli, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring the stunning Romanesque Cathedral and Italy’s largest Baptistery. Beyond the marble wonders, Pisa’s historic heart reveals vibrant student life, the medieval Piazza dei Cavalieri, and the serene botanical gardens. Visitors can stroll the high-altitude city walls or enjoy local cecina (chickpea flatbread) in hidden plazas. Blending ancient maritime prestige with youthful energy, Pisa remains an essential, soulful Italian destination.

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RAVENNA (RAN)

Ravenna, an enchanting city in northern Italy’s Emilia-Romagna region, served as the capital of the Western Roman Empire during the fifth century. World-famous for its unparalleled artistic legacy, the city houses eight UNESCO World Heritage monuments renowned for their breathtaking early Christian and Byzantine mosaic masterpieces. Visitors can marvel at the shimmering gold and vibrant lapis lazuli mosaics within the Basilica of San Vitale, the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, and the Neonian Baptistery. Near the historic city center lies the serene tomb of legendary poet Dante Alighieri. With quiet, bike-friendly streets and rich culinary traditions, Ravenna offers a sublime, culture-filled Italian getaway.

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RIMINI (RMI)

Rimini, a vibrant coastal hub on Italy’s Adriatic sea in the Emilia-Romagna region, seamlessly blends ancient Roman history with energetic seaside resort culture. World-renowned for its miles of wide sandy beaches and bustling nightlife, the city also harbors a rich historical core. Visitors can cross the 2,000-year-old Tiberius Bridge, admire the ancient Arch of Augustus, and explore the Renaissance masterpiece Tempio Malatestiano. Celebrating its creative heritage as the birthplace of legendary filmmaker Federico Fellini, Rimini features an interactive museum dedicated to his legacy. With exceptional seafood, warm local hospitality, and vibrant piazzas, Rimini offers a dynamic Italian coastal getaway.

Early Christian Monuments of Ravenna (alternative to Ravenna)

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ROME (CIA/FCO)

Rome, the “Eternal City,” remains a living museum where 2,800 years of history meet a vibrant modern pulse. The city is more accessible than ever, benefiting from the new Metro C extension and “Archeo-stations” like Colosseo. Travelers can marvel at the Pantheon’s new Basilica of Neptune experience or toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain (noting the new nominal €2 access fee for the basin). From the sprawling ruins of the Roman Forum to the bohemian lanes of Trastevere, Rome rewards explorers with legendary Carbonara and world-class gelato, capturing the timeless essence of la dolce vita.

18th-Century Royal Palace at Caserta with the Park, the Aqueduct of Vanvitelli, and the San Leucio Complex (alternative to Naples)
Ancient and Primeval Beech Forests of the Carpathians and Other Regions of Europe *[IT] (alternative to Pescara)
Archaeological Areas of Pompei, Herculaneum and Torre Annunziata (alternative to Naples)
Assisi, the Basilica of San Francesco and Other Franciscan Sites (alternative to Perugia)
Costiera Amalfitana (alternative to Naples)

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SALERNO (QSR)

Salerno, a captivating port city in Campania, sits dramatically along the Gulf of Salerno at the eastern edge of the famous Amalfi Coast. Rich in history, the city is home to the medieval Schola Medica Salernitana, one of Europe’s earliest medical schools, and the majestic 11th-century Salerno Cathedral containing apostle relics. Travelers can stroll the palm-lined Lungomare Trieste promenade, explore the hilltop Arechi Castle for sweeping sea views, and wander the lively, narrow lanes of the historic center. Serving as an accessible, authentic hub for coastal ferries and regional excursions, Salerno offers a delightful blend of Italian culture, history, and seaside charm.

18th-Century Royal Palace at Caserta with the Park, the Aqueduct of Vanvitelli, and the San Leucio Complex (alternative to Naples)
Archaeological Areas of Pompei, Herculaneum and Torre Annunziata (alternative to Naples)
Costiera Amalfitana (alternative to Naples)

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SIENA (SAY)

Siena, a historic jewel in the heart of Italy’s Tuscany region, is world-famous for its remarkably preserved medieval cityscape and rich cultural heritage. Defined by warm, brick-red architecture, its UNESCO-listed historic center swirls around the iconic, shell-shaped Piazza del Campo. Here, the world-renowned Palio horse race takes place biannually amidst passionate local neighborhood rivalries. Dominating the skyline is the majestic Siena Cathedral, a masterpiece of Italian Gothic architecture featuring intricate marble mosaics and zebra-striped columns. With its winding cobblestone alleys, vibrant artisanal traditions, local Chianti wines, and breathtaking Tuscan countryside views, Siena offers a captivating step back into medieval Italy.

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TRAPANI (TPS)

Trapani, a captivating coastal city on western Sicily’s tip, sits dramatically between the Tyrrhenian and Mediterranean seas. Renowned for its ancient maritime history, the city boasts a charming historic center filled with ornate Baroque churches, historic palaces, and the iconic Torre di Ligny watchtower. Nearby, the famous Trapani Salt Pans showcase a picturesque landscape of shallow pools and historic windmills. Serving as the primary gateway to the stunning Egadi Islands and the medieval hilltop town of Erice, Trapani offers travelers an authentic and delightful blend of rich Sicilian culture, scenic coastal views, and vibrant culinary traditions like fresh seafood couscous.

Arab-Norman Palermo and the Cathedral Churches of Cefalú and Monreale (alternative to Palermo)

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TURIN (TRN)

Turin, an elegant city in northern Italy’s Piedmont region, rests gracefully along the Po River against a dramatic backdrop of snowy Alpine peaks. As the former first capital of unified Italy, the city boasts a magnificent royal heritage, grand shaded boulevards, and elegant arcaded squares like Piazza Castello. Visitors can admire the iconic Mole Antonelliana, explore renowned ancient artifacts inside the famed Egyptian Museum, and tour the lavish historical residences of the Royal House of Savoy. Celebrated for its rich culinary traditions, historic cafés serving traditional bicerin, and fine gianduja chocolate, Turin offers travelers an authentic and refined Italian getaway.

Church and Dominican Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie with “The Last Supper” by Leonardo da Vinci (alternative to Milan)

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VENICE (TSF/VCE)

Venice, the “Floating City,” is an extraordinary UNESCO World Heritage site composed of 118 islands linked by over 400 bridges in the Venetian Lagoon. Renowned for its Gothic and Renaissance architecture, the city’s heart is the magnificent Piazza San Marco, home to the golden mosaics of St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace. Visitors navigate the labyrinthine “calli” (alleyways) or glide along the Grand Canal by gondola and “vaporetto” (water bus). From the glass-blowing traditions of Murano to the colorful houses of Burano, Venice offers an unparalleled romantic atmosphere steeped in centuries of maritime history.

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VERONA (VRN)

Step into the romantic heart of the Veneto, where Verona enchants as a UNESCO-listed masterpiece of Roman and medieval architecture. Its centerpiece is the Verona Arena, a first-century Roman amphitheater that still hosts the world-renowned summer Opera Festival. Beyond the pink-marble pavements of Piazza Bra, visitors follow the legend of Shakespeare to Juliet’s House or climb the Torre dei Lamberti for sweeping views of the Adige River. From the vibrant markets of Piazza delle Erbe to the fortified Castelvecchio, Verona seamlessly blends its ancient heritage with a sophisticated modern lifestyle and world-class Valpolicella wines.

City of Vicenza and the Palladian Villas of the Veneto (alternative to Venice)

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Featured Image

Colosseum, Rome (FeaturedPics, Wikipedia/CC BY-SA 4.0).

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