Official Name: Italian Republic
Capital: Rome
Size: 301,338 km2
Population: 60,795,612 (2014 estimate)
Official language: Italian
EU member state since: 1 January 1958
Currency: Euro
Italy is located in Southern Europe, it is a boot shaped peninsula located on the Mediterranean Sea. To the north; Italy borders Slovenia, Austria, Switzerland and France. It has got two large islands, Sardinia and Sicily, and roughly 70 smaller islands. There are two independent city-states within Italy: the Republic of San Marino and the Vatican City in Rome.
Italy is famous for its art works by Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci and Raphael just to name a few. You can also find architectural masterpieces in most cities like Pisa or Rome. We must not forget its fashion industry, delicious cuisine, and luxury sports cars and motorbikes. If you want to see nature’s beauty at its best, Italy offers you plenty to see: stunning beaches, crystal clear alpine lakes and the Alps; the biggest mountains in Europe.
The official language is Italian, it is spoken by the majority of the population. The younger generation can speak some level of English in bigger cities. Don’t expect the older folks to understand you as English teaching did not start until the 70’s.
Italy has got two major airports for intercontinental arrivals: Rome and Milan. The larger airports are served by most airlines whereas Rome is the main gateway for intercontinental travelers.
Most Interesting Places to visit in Italy
Pompeii
Visit one of the most important archaeological sites in the world: Pompeii. You can spend a day surrounded by nature, culture; this journey will take you back in time and show you the daily life of the people of a town as ancient as Rome, a town that remained preserved in time, because of the catastrophic eruption of the Vesuvius Volcano!
Capri
If you love sun, sea, nature, fancy to experience a lavish lifestyle, then visit Capri; one of the most beautiful islands in the world. In the island of Capri you will find history, local flavours and typical colours, artisans shops and luxury boutiques, all this in a fun day that will leave a precious memory in your hearts.
Florence
Florence is considered the place of Renaissance birth and it is known worldwide for its art and architecture. The squares, paintings, churches, small local streets will give you an unforgettable experience in a city with glorious past and present. Don’t miss out the Accademia gallery to view the famous David of Michelangelo. Enjoy your lunch in a restaurant in one of the most famous locations of Florence: Piazza Santa Croce.
Assisi Orvieto
Assisi is a town full of history and art (the magnificent paintings of Giotto that describe St Francis`s life). Assisi is one of the most popular destinations, visited by pilgrimages and tourists from every part of the world. This is where St Francis and Santa Chiara spent their lives. Assisi is the city of peace.
Tivoli and its Villas
Very close to Rome, you will find a quaint town, Tivoli. Here you can visit Villa Adriana the largest residence of a Roman emperor and Villa d`Este a masterpiece of Italian Renaissance with its many fountains and water works.
Ancient Ostia
Ostia used to be the Roman Port, it is located south of Rome on the coast. The archaeological excavations are a must see, where you will admire a theatre, baths, temples and mosaics of ancient Rome.
Castelli Romani
Spend a day in Roman Castles area “Castelli Romani” where you will enjoy breath taking views in the “regional park”. Places to visit: Castelgandolfo (Papal summer residence), Ariccia, Genzano, Rocca di Papa, Grottaferrata and Frascati.
www.enit.it
Italy is a country which has succeeded in cultivating the greatness of even its least noted cities, villages and hamlets. There is scarcely a place in Italy that has remained untouched by the waves of history, art, folklore and culinary tradition, where a visit does not afford a chance for reflection or even simple pleasure.