Italy, known by many as “The Boot Shaped Country”, might bring to mind Chicken Parmesan and large pasta-laden Sunday dinners. If you're one of the lucky ones to have had the opportunity to visit this country, then you know that Italy is the perfect recipe made up of food, history and culture. Depending on the region you visit, traditions can vary and while it’s not possible to do everything on your wish list in just one trip, here's a select taste of what not to miss when you visit Italy.

1. Hike the coastal routes of Cinque Terre, a quaint stretch of fishing villages nestled along the Mediterranean Sea. Stop at a beach or two along the way.


2. Visit a Tuscan vineyard and learn how to pair local cheeses with their fine wines.


3. Take that selfie with the Leaning Tower of Pisa. The city itself is a short 40 minute train ride west from Florence; you can definitely make it a half day trip. A short ride past Pisa is also another captivating town, Lucca. The two can easily both be visited in an afternoon.


4. Get gelato. Every day. This decadent dessert is worth the trip half way across the world. Try different flavors and different scoops from different stands to find the best spot!


5. Forget counting your calories, and devour every last piece of a classic Neapolitan pizza. Traditional Italian pizzas do not have all the toppings we are accustomed to in the U.S. In Italy, a pizza’s purpose is to taste the blend of spices in the sauce and the creaminess of the cheeses.


6. If you’re looking for an art history filled day, then spend a day or two in Florence. Not only is it a museum hub with over 50 galleries, but the city also possesses some of the most iconic sculptures and statues in the world.


7. Jump on a train and head to Venice. Comprised of 177 canals you’ll find yourself in a gondola sooner than later.


8. Lastly, check out Italy’s capital and largest city, Rome. The entire city is a UNESCO World Heritage site, due to its high concentration of history, architecture and Roman ruins.

Italy is one of our members' and travel consultants' favorite vacation destinations. If Italy is on your bucket list, or if you've been before and would like to go again, contact one of our Italy Destinations Specialists and let our expertise make your trip to the "big boot" the best vacation yet.