The most famous Italian cities. Italian city-states

During the holiday season, many of our compatriots choose beautiful Italy as a holiday destination. For those who are no longer surprised by the bustle of the eternal city of Rome and the shopping of Milan, our selection of the most cozy Italian cities on the seashore.

Probably, each of us has ever dreamed of spending, if not life, then at least a vacation in a quiet village on the seashore, drinking coffee and tasting wine in local restaurants, listening to the voices of seagulls and the sound of the surf.

Let's choose!

(Total 10 photos)

Vernazza is considered the most organic, beautiful and picturesque town of the Italian “five lands” (Cinque Terre) of Liguria. Today, just over a thousand people live here, so Vernazza is also one of the quietest towns, and only calm Manarola can compete with it. Against the background of multi-colored multi-story tower houses, the older medieval walls of galleries, palaces, a monastery and, of course, the castle, whose low walls once protected the peace of local residents from pirate raids, catch your eye. On the narrow streets of Vernazza, going down to the sea at steep angles, at almost every step you can see boats “parked” near houses as natural as the cars parked in our courtyards at the entrances look.

Portofino is a resort on the Ligurian coast. It is surrounded by hills covered with olive trees. From the windows of the observation cable car, the entire town is visible at a glance. Guy De Maupassant loved to be here, who wrote about Portofino: “This green bay in the kingdom of harmony and peace contrasts so much with all the vain worries of our life.” Everything is here: untouched nature and magnificent beaches, architectural monuments and expensive shops. The former fishing village has turned into an amazing resort that world celebrities love to visit.

Atrani is a small town on the west coast of Italy, in the Campania region, province of Salerno. Atrani carefully preserves its medieval origins and, with its picturesque alleys, arches, courtyards, squares and stairs, looks like a festive Christmas decoration washed by the sea. During the Amalfi Republic, the most noble families lived in this town. The coronation and burial of the doges took place here. Atrani is located just 700 meters from Amalfi, in a natural amphitheater surrounded by huge, soaring cliffs. The center of Atrani is located away from the noisy roads of the coast, as only local residents are allowed to enter the city: this helps to maintain a pleasant and relaxing atmosphere in the city.

Positano is one of the most famous resorts in southern Italy, located on the shores of the Gulf of Salerno, on the Amalfi Coast. The beauty of the local landscapes made Positano a Mecca for artists back in the 19th century. The town is scattered across three small valleys, sandwiched between the mountains and the sea. Characteristic colorful houses climb the steep mountain slopes. From almost anywhere in the town there is a magnificent view of the sea. Positano has been known since Roman times. According to legend, it was founded by the god of the sea himself, Neptune (Poseidon). The Galli islets off the coast of Positano are mentioned in the Odyssey - according to Homer, this is where the Sirens lived. Since the Middle Ages, the town has preserved watchtowers built to protect against Saracen pirates.

Ravello is a city of music with romantic gardens, cool alleys and medieval architecture. In the 11th – 13th centuries, at the invitation of wealthy merchants, Arab architects came to Ravello and erected luxurious palaces here. To this day, Ravello has retained the charm of an ancient village. Ravello's rich culture is closely linked to its musical heritage. Wagner often vacationed here, in love with this place, which inspired him to write many of his famous works. Every year in the summer a symphonic music festival named after him is held here. From the slopes of the terrace on which Ravello is located, magnificent views of the Amalfi Coast open up.

Manarola is a small fishing town in Liguria, northern Italy. The city is located on a cliff overlooking the wild coastline of the Ligurian Sea. It is also one of the five towns that make up the Cinque Terre. Manarola is the oldest and one of the smallest cities of the famous five. In the center of the town is the Church of San Lorenzo, built in 1338. In the western part there is a small harbor, and in the east there is a square where local residents often gather to discuss any important questions. Although there is no beach, it is a good place for snorkeling and exploring caves and rock crevices. A special staircase was built to descend to the water. The main industry here is traditionally fishing and winemaking. Even during the Roman Empire, the local wine was valued for its excellent taste.

Sorrento has always been known as a prestigious holiday destination: Roman patricians built villas in the vicinity of the city, and Emperor Tiberius himself settled on the nearby island of Capri. Sorrento is located on steep cliffs of volcanic tuff, plunging into the Gulf of Naples. Piazza Tasso can be called the heart of Sorrento. It is from here that the main shopping street, Via Corso, begins, famous for its restaurants, shops and clubs. Sorrento has two ports - Marina Piccola and Marina Grande. Every morning, sea rockets depart from Marina Grande to the islands of Capri, Ischia, Procida and the neighboring cities of Positano and Amalfi.

40 kilometers from Genoa is the small town of Rapallo. There are many historical monuments- ancient cathedrals and churches, the oldest is considered to be the church of St. Gervasio and Protasio, which is mentioned in ancient manuscripts of the 6th century. Rapallo is a very clean, noble and cozy city. In one of best hotels 19th century, located on a high bank near the port, Hemingway liked to stay. Every day snow-white yachts moor to the shores of Rapallo.

Lerici is a bizarre mixture of buildings, small coves and rocky cliffs that jut into the sparkling sea. This is a favorite holiday destination for residents of the northern part of Italy, as here you can enjoy a quiet, comfortable holiday away from the crowds of foreign tourists. The main attraction of the town is the ancient medieval castle.

10. Castigliocello

Castiglioncello is a small town in the province of Livorno, located on a cape washed by the Tyrrhenian Sea. The city is surrounded by pine and oak forests, as well as picturesque hills that literally drop off and fall down, forming cliffs, small bays and cozy coves with charming beaches. The ancient Romans and Etruscans, and later the Medici during the Renaissance, could not pass by the beauty of these lands. IN Lately Castiglioncello is famous as a resort town, where Marcello Mastroianni and Luchino Visconti once built their villas. The town allows you to lead a calm and measured lifestyle, eliminating unnecessary fuss and noise. Castiglioncello is a secluded resort for the elite. Mass tourism is an unwritten taboo here. Therefore, Castiglioncello attracts many creative people, including the artists who founded the commune here.

The Italians are the descendants of the sages, politicians and military leaders of antiquity, and yet the Eternal City remains young, full of energy and life today. A traveler visiting the Apennine Peninsula for the first time should begin his acquaintance with this country from its capital, because not only ancient heritage and modern attractions are located here - right in the center of Rome is the dwarf state of the Vatican.

Catholics from all over the world come to Italy to see the head of their faith - the Pope, God's vicar on earth. Travel companies offer pilgrimage tours to this country, which is directly related to the formation of early Christianity. In Loreto, seekers of spiritual enlightenment are invited to visit the House of the Virgin Mary, brought from Nazareth; in Bari, they are invited to attend the liturgy in the Basilica of St. Nicholas; in Amalfi, according to legend, the relics of St. Andrew the First-Called himself are kept. A huge number of Christian shrines are located in Rome, Florence, Padua, and Venice.

Italians know a lot about good wine and hearty healthy food. Gastronomic tours to Italy offer tourists to attend cooking classes in Tuscany and Liguria, get acquainted with local cuisine and wines in Lazio, Piedmont, Veneto, Trentino, and take part in tastings in Sardinia, Lombardy, Umbria. Lovers of the classics will find it in abundance in Pisa, romantics flock to Venice and Juliet's homeland - Verona, flirtatious fashionistas gather in the world capital of haute couture - Milan.

The peninsula is surrounded on three sides warm seas, it’s no surprise that Italy is considered a beach holiday mecca. The main resorts are located on the islands: Sicily, Sardinia, Capri, Ischia and Elba. In Rimini, mostly young people gather to “hang out” all night long at a beach disco; Abruzzo is ideal for eco-tourists who prefer peace, quiet and complete fusion with nature; people flock to Puglia brave adventurers, and exotic lovers come to Calabria.

Ski resorts in Italy are no less popular than the beaches: you can try yourself as a skier or bobsledder in Bormio, Cervinia, Sestriere, Val di Sole, Passo Tonale. Children are crazy about thematic amusement parks located in the Emilia Romagna region in the resorts of Milano Marittima, Riccione, Cesenatico. Lovers of spa holidays choose the small town of Fiuggi and the resort of Montecatini, not far from Tuscany. “Lone wolves” also have something to see in the homeland of Celentano, Boccaccio and Fellini: Pesareo, Ravenna, San Marino - these and other cities have a lot to offer even the most experienced traveler.

Italy belongs to the list of countries for which tourism is an important component of the economy. The industry generates significant income as it satisfies the most diverse needs of guests of the state. There is something for lovers of architecture and antiquity to see here: from Rome to Florence, where unique sights of the past have been preserved.

Avid romantics in mandatory visit Venice and Verona. Fans of a relaxing holiday will easily choose one of the beaches of Positano. Gourmets and wine connoisseurs will appreciate Sorrento's cuisine. Religious tourism, for example, pilgrimages to the Vatican, also plays an important role in the list. Developed infrastructure helps you get to exotic places and enjoy comfort even in provincial Italy.

Italy - a list of the most interesting and beautiful cities

Top cities and holiday resorts in Italy

Rome

All roads, as we know, lead to Rome - a city where history and modernity collided and were tightly intertwined. Here is the oldest European aqueduct, the Colosseum, the Pantheon, many iconic squares and more than nine hundred churches. Since ancient times, there has been a rather small area of ​​urban development here, especially when compared with other capitals. Another feature is that it’s good to come here at any time of the year.

Venice

The fact that Venice is slowly sinking under water only adds to the city’s popularity. More than a hundred islands have become a single whole, and it is customary to travel between them by gondolas or river buses. Numerous bridges and frescoes are the main attractions of the city, where every little detail is connected with important stage stories. The Venice Film Festival, a high-profile event on a global scale, also takes place here.


Milan

Milan never tires of competing with the capital for the title of the most popular city in the country. In addition to architectural sights from the past, there are also plenty of modern trends. Milan is the center of high fashion. Both shows of famous designers and simple shopping attract tourists every year. The La Scala Theater has not lost ground for many decades. And football is a second religion for local and visiting fans.


Florence

Created as a cultural and commercial center, Florence continues to be such. IN different time Outstanding citizens of Italy lived and worked here: da Vinci, Galileo, Michelangelo, Dante and others. Galleries, cathedrals, palaces and squares are the main targets of tourist groups. They introduce you to the spirit of the city, which is quite cozy and green, given the density of buildings.


Sorrento

Another Italian city located on the coast. Its development was influenced by different peoples and countries, so there is plenty of flavor here. Visitors take with them porcelain figurines produced by a small manufactory, and liqueurs. Neapolitan music, popular all over the world, was born here. Seafood dishes and olives grown nearby are the hallmark of the region.


Verona

Verona owes its popularity primarily to Shakespeare. The fictional characters of his Romeo and Juliet made the city one of the romantic centers of the world. Another reason for the endless tourist flow is architecture. Several eras and styles coexist perfectly side by side. The streets are lined with ancient Roman and medieval buildings and monuments, as well as churches and palaces from more recent periods.


Positano

After World War II, many artists moved here from different countries, including from the USSR and Germany. They attracted the attention of the world community to the city. Sunny weather, mountainous landscapes and long beaches make tourists come throughout the year. The commune is a great place for a sedate holiday: leisurely walks, a couple of hours on a sunbed and local cuisine.


Naples

The close location of Naples to Vesuvius does not bother tourists at all. But the criminal situation on the streets is legendary and may scare away some potential guests of the city. Naples is the birthplace of special music and pizza. The juxtaposition of modernity and architectural monuments is very noticeable here different periods. The resulting contrast is the highlight of a region that champions diversity.


Turin

The fourth most populous city in Italy. Several of the local palazzos and castles are included in the UNESCO heritage list. The Shroud of Christ is kept in the Cathedral of John the Baptist. The museum of Egyptian culture stands out from the general ensemble, but it has become popular. Football plays an important role in the life of the city, since the Juventus club is based in Turin.


Palermo

Royal Palace of Palermo - many styles brought together: the Arabic approach, the work of Constantinople masters, the symbiosis of wood and stone, not to mention the uniqueness of the interior decoration. There are about three hundred churches, cathedrals and former monasteries in the city. They also belong to different eras. A gloomy but unique attraction is an underground cemetery with eight thousand graves.


Ischia

A small volcanic island located in the Gulf of Naples. Most of the attractions here are natural, but there is an exception - an ancient fortress, rebuilt into an Aragonese castle. Tourists are more attracted thermal springs, medical resort, using them, as well as sulfide silt mud, a botanical garden and volcanic emissions of water vapor.


Bologna

Despite constant development and expansion, Bologna has retained the atmosphere of the old city. The local university is one of the most respected in Europe. Tourists never ignore the numerous squares with their arches, unique architecture and monuments. In the vicinity of the city there is a monumental cemetery that looks more like an object of art.


Genoa

The largest port in Italy is located in Genoa. Palazzi dei Rolli is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. The architecture is largely characteristic of a typical city in the north of the country. The surrounding area is rich in interesting places. The largest aquarium in Europe is located here. And the marble tombstones of the Staglieno cemetery are no less valuable and majestic than the city monuments.


Cagliari

The historical center of Cagliari will not leave anyone indifferent. Along with architectural monuments, here you can find modern shops, cozy restaurants with local cuisine and wines. The archaeological museum will allow you to get closer to the history of the region. There is also a botanical garden and art festivals. The rest of the time tourists spend mainly on the beaches, if the weather permits.


Catania

Catania is located at the foot of Mount Etna. The city was rebuilt mainly in the Baroque style from dark volcanic stone. Cathedral Square is the heart of Catania. Wide and narrow streets diverge from it, where you can find churches, fountains, statues and other beauties in a chaotic manner. The fish market is an addition to the local flavor that stands out from the general decor.


Syracuse

There are not many historical monuments in Syracuse. The most important of them can be visited in less than one day. These include Piazza Archimede, Syracuse Cathedral, Temple of Apollo, Arethusa Fountain, Grotticelli Necropolis, Maniace Castle, Gothic Theater and others. There are museums here that focus on different time periods. The city is also famous for its drama festival, held in May and June.


Pisa

It's not just a leaning tower. Numerous palaces, cathedrals and simpler buildings, decorated with frescoes, as well as galleries created during the heyday of the Medici family - this is the true appearance of the city. The local cuisine will test the taste buds of gourmets, as it is often spicy and aromatic. Pisa is quieter than other tourist centers. It is less crowded, but is in demand.


Lucca

A city for those who like to follow not only all the famous tourist routes. In the middle of the plain of the Serki River, you can admire nature and attractions and escape the hustle and bustle of big cities. The locals are especially proud of the Guinigi Tower with its oak trees growing directly on the upper platform. The fortress walls and fortifications are better preserved here than in any city in Italy.


Padua

The outskirts of Padua are the site of a concentration of villas that once belonged to the Venetians. The city itself is a haven for the remains of St. Luke, the author of one of the Gospels. Astronomy lovers will be able to examine in detail numerous frescoes on this topic. The palace and protective redoubts are also perfectly preserved and are accessible to visitors. And the Botanical Garden of Padua is included in the list of UNESCO monuments.


Rimini

The city is considered the center of the Romagna Riviera. Rimini has many beaches with rich entertainment programs and parks within walking distance. The cuisine is simple and at the same time colorful: Parma ham and mortadella sausage are beyond compare. Lovers of antiquities can explore the ruins of an amphitheater or an arched bridge from the time of Tiberius. There are also churches here; one of them houses part of the relics of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker.


Trieste

Externally it looks quite modern, although it still retains some imprints of past centuries. Tourists are interested in the ruins of ancient Greek buildings, tombs of pretenders to the Spanish throne, and several castles, one of which was built on the foundation of a Venetian fortress. The Trieste beach is separated for vacationers by gender, which is an exceptional case in Europe.


Lecce

The buildings in Lecce are invariably striking. No matter what period of construction they belong to, there is something attractive about the architecture of the entire city. The ancient amphitheater does not stand idle: artists still give performances there. The Basilica of Santa Croce is a little more modest in appearance, but the interior paintings are amazing. Politeama Greco is an old theater with great sound. As for the cuisine: it is traditionally “poor”, simple and satisfying.


San Gimignano

The development of San Gimignano largely stopped in the Middle Ages, in terms of expansion and density of buildings. The walls and stone towers, which from a distance look like skyscrapers, are well preserved. There are fourteen of them in total, the highest reaching fifty meters. The historical center of the city is rich in frescoes and amazing buildings from different periods. And the local museum consists of ten galleries.


Salerno

A seaside town with a rich history. The mild climate allows you to relax at sea almost all year round, even in different quality. The indigenous people are hospitable and love to bargain. An entire street is dedicated to the sale of souvenirs and other shops. The attractions are varied: numerous palaces, Mercatello Park, Minerva Garden, fragments of an ancient waterfall, Arechi Fortress and others.


Perugia

A picturesque city surrounded by greenery. The panorama of the area is impressive, but in fact the streets here are quite narrow. There is little architecture that is valuable from a historical point of view. Although there are churches built in different centuries. The Cathedral of St. Lawrence houses wedding ring Virgin Mary. The many shops open throughout the city add to the buzz. Locals love to hold festivals.


Sienna

The center of Siena is protected by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. Old city It has been perfectly preserved, its narrow streets and dense buildings are the face of the region. It is in Siena that the Palio festival is held - a horse racing competition in the square between the Siena contrades. The event is divided into two dates. The school of painting of the same name, which has its own traditions, was born in the city.


Taormina

In Taormina, you can find something amazing and ancient at every step. Most of the churches were built between the 15th and 17th centuries. The Greek theater, naumachium and odeon are well preserved, and the latter has geographical features of its location that distinguish it from similar structures. The squares, castles and towers are in different states: some are fully functional, others are in need of reconstruction.


Bergamo

The city is divided into two halves: old and new. They are located on different heights and are connected by a funicular. Bergamo has many attractions: the fortress wall, the Colleoni Chapel, the Baptistery, the Covered Staircase, the city palace and others. It is noteworthy that with such a rich and varied collection of interesting objects, the city is not included in most tourist routes.


Cinque Terre

Uniting the Five settlements received a common name - Cinque Terre. Car traffic is almost completely prohibited here. In one of the villages it is allowed, but with restrictions. Must-see attractions include the impressively sized Neptune statue, the Aurora Tower, the local patisserie and wine cooperative, the Capuchin monastery and the Path of Love. Walking between them is worth admiring the beauty of nature.


Vatican

The Vatican City State is the residence of the Pope. Pilgrims flock to the enclave governed by the Holy See from all over the world, regardless of religion. The main attractions are predictably associated with Catholicism: St. Peter's Basilica, the Sistine Chapel, the Vatican Library and others. The city is also interesting for its decoration and traditions. There are few residents here, and they have special passports.


Italy is the most detailed information about the country with photos. Sights, cities of Italy, climate, geography, population and culture.

Italy (Repubblica Italiana)

Italy is a state in southern Europe in the center of the Mediterranean, located mostly on the Apennine Peninsula. The country also occupies a small (northwestern) part of the Balkan Peninsula, the Padana Plain, the Southern Alps and a number of large and small islands Mediterranean Sea, including Sicily and Sardinia. Italy borders France in the northwest, Switzerland and Austria in the north, and Slovenia in the northeast. The state also has internal borders with the Vatican City and San Marino. It is a country with the greatest cultural, historical and artistic heritage, the cradle of one of the greatest empires in human history and the Renaissance.

Italy is one of the most unique and enchanting places in the world. It has some of the most beautiful and varied landscapes in Europe, the world's largest treasure trove of history, culture and art, a favorable warm climate and delicious, authentic cuisine. However, Italy is not ideal at all. Its historical cities and antiquities suffer from modern development, infrastructure is at its peak, there are problems in the economy and social sphere. But, having been here, you will definitely fall in love with this country for its wild temperament, reckless disposition, delicious cuisine and special atmosphere.

Useful information about Italy

  1. The population is 60.8 million people (according to this indicator, Italy ranks 23rd in the world).
  2. Area - 301,340 square kilometers.
  3. Language - Italian.
  4. Currency - euro.
  5. Visa - Schengen.
  6. Time - Central European UTC +1, summer +2.
  7. VAT ( Tax Free) you can return 154.94 euros from your purchase.
  8. The electrical network voltage is 220 V, 50 Hz. Please note: Italy uses its own electrical connector, so some devices may require an adapter. It can be bought at any supermarket.
  9. Italy is a fairly safe country. The main thing is to adhere to basic safety rules and beware of scammers in popular tourist spots.
  10. Italy is a unitary parliamentary republic. The head of state is the President. The executive branch is the Parliament, the head of which is the Chairman of the Council of Ministers.

Geography and nature

Italy is located in Southern Europe in the Mediterranean. Most of the country lies on the Apennine Peninsula. The territory is mainly hilly and mountainous. From the north, Italy is supported by the Southern Alps, and on the peninsula are the Apennine Mountains. The territory of the country is located at the point of contact of lithospheric plates, so earthquakes are not uncommon here. In addition, there are several large volcanoes located here: Etna, Vesuvius, etc.


Italy is a huge coastline. The country is washed by the following Mediterranean seas: Adriatic and Ionian in the east, Tyrrhenian and Ligurian in the west. The largest river is the Po River. Large lakes - Garda, Como.


Thanks to geographical and climatic features The nature of Italy is very diverse. Although most of territory has been changed by human activity since ancient times. In the north, on the slopes of the Alps, mixed and coniferous forests grow, on the coast and south - subtropical plants. The central part of the country is a mixture of subtropical and temperate latitude nature.

Climate

The climate of Italy is very diverse and can be very different from the Mediterranean in some regions. In most of the territory, summers are very warm and dry, and July is the hottest month. Autumn is usually rainy. Winters are cool and damp (hence frequent fog) in the north and milder in the south. In the provinces located in the foothills of the Alps, the climate is mountainous. Summers are cool and winters are cold and snowy.


Best time to visit

Italy has a favorable warm climate. Although it can be quite cold in the Alps and foothills. To choose the best time to visit, you need to weigh several factors: hotel and food prices, weather, cultural events and seasonal atmosphere. The highest season is summer. If you want to come to Italy to explore its wonderful cultural and historical heritage, then it is better to choose the lowest season - winter. The most optimal time in terms of weather and number of tourists - April-May and September-October.


Story

The history of Italy is very rich and varied. During the period of its existence, the country has known ups and downs, was fragmented and united. In ancient times, a great empire, the Roman Empire, arose on its territory. And it is Italy that can be called the cradle of Western civilization.

The territory of modern Italy was inhabited more than 50 thousand years ago. The country's name comes from a tribe of Italians who inhabited a small part of the Emilia-Romagna region in the 5th century BC. Already in the 3rd century, Italy was understood as the entire peninsula up to the Rubicon River, and in the 2nd century - the territory up to the slopes of the Alps. In the pre-Roman period, tribes of Ligurians, Etruscans, Umbrians and even Gauls lived here.


In 753 BC, Rome was founded on the Tiber River. The Romans gradually began to spread their influence over the entire Apennine Peninsula. Rome was originally ruled by 7 kings. In 509, the kings were replaced by a republic. During the Republican period, active military expansion into other tribes began. By the 3rd century BC, Rome had conquered most of modern Italy.

In 390, the Gauls defeated the Roman army, captured and burned Rome.

The growth of Rome's power and the spread of its influence in the Mediterranean led to a clash with Carthage. As a result of three Punic wars, Carthage was destroyed, and its territory became part of the republic. In the 1st century, the republic was rocked by internal conflicts. First there was a slave uprising led by Spartacus. Later broke out Civil War, in which Julius Caesar won. He established a dictatorship and laid the foundations for the creation of an empire.


After the assassination of Julius Caesar, power passed to Octavian Augustus, who is considered the founder of the Roman Empire. After the death of the first Roman emperor, power passed to Tiberius, who became the first of the Julio-Claudian dynasty. The Claudian dynasty ended in the mid-1st century AD with the assassination of Nero. Then, until the end of the 1st century, Rome was ruled by the Flavian dynasty, which was replaced first by the Antonine dynasty, and later by the Severans. During this period, the Roman Empire reached the peak of its power and development, owning almost all of Southern Europe, a huge part of Western Europe and North Africa.


In the 4th century the fall of Rome began. In 330, Emperor Constantine founded Constantinople and moved his capital there. At the end of the 4th century, the Western and Eastern Roman Empires were formed. In the 5th century, Italy was invaded by the Vandals and Visigoths. Rome was taken and sacked, and the mighty ancient empire fell. The Eastern Roman Empire (Byzantium) existed after this for almost a thousand years and fell only in the 15th century.

In the 5th century, Italy was conquered by the Ostrogoths. In the 6th century, the kingdom of the Lombards arose in the north. From the 8th to the 11th centuries, Italy was part of the Frankish Empire. Its southern part was captured by the Normans during this period. In the 11th-13th centuries, the Frankish empire was destroyed. Power was concentrated in the “hands” of the Popes. The Kingdom of Sicily and several free states in Northern Italy arose.


In the 13th to 15th centuries, the power of the Popes decreased significantly. Many states arose on the territory of Italy: the kingdom of Naples, the Papal States, the republics of Genoa, Savoy, Milan. At the end of this period, the Renaissance began, the cradle of which was Florence.

Several Italian wars broke out in the late 15th and first half of the 16th centuries. The First Italian War arose from French claims to the north of the country. French troops occupied Tuscany, Rome and moved towards Naples. But they were stopped by the alliance of Venice, Milan and Emperor Maximilian. During the Second Italian War, France captured Genoa and Milan, and Spain -. As a result of the third war, the Spaniards defeated the French, who were forced to abandon their claims to Italy. In the 16th century, most of its territory was under Spanish influence.


At the beginning of the 18th century, after the War of the Spanish Succession, Italy became part of the Austrian Habsburg empire. At the end of the 18th century, French troops entered here. At this time, several republics were formed, which later merged into Italian Republic, in 1805 transformed into a kingdom. During this period, a movement for freedom and independence emerged - the Risorgimento. By 1860, the unification of the country around the Sardinian kingdom began. In 1870, Rome became part of the Kingdom of Italy, which became its capital.

At the beginning of the First World War, Italy declared its neutrality. But in 1915 she joined the Entente. In 1919, a fascist movement emerged here. In 1922, the fascists led by Mussolini came to power. In 1940, Italy entered World War II on the side of Germany. In 1943 it capitulated. In 1945, the Mussolini regime was overthrown. In 1947, the Constitution was adopted and the country became a parliamentary republic.

Administrative division

Administratively, Italy is divided into 20 regions: Valle d'Aosta, Lombardy, Trentino-Alto Adige, Friuli-Venezia Giulia, Piedmont, Liguria, Venice, Tuscany, Umbria, Emilia-Romagna, Marche, Abruzzo, Lazio, Molise, Basilicata, Campania , Calabria, Puglia, Sardinia and Sicily. The capital of the country is Rome. The regions, in turn, are divided into provinces, of which there are 110.


Italy can also be conditionally divided into regions:

  • Northwestern Italy (Piedmont, Liguria, Lombardy, Valle d'Aosta) is the richest and most developed region of the country. It is located here largest port countries - Genoa, the main financial and business center - Milan, the center of industry and technology - Turin.
  • Northeast Italy (Emilia-Romagna, Friuli-Venezia Giulia, Trentino-Alto Adige and Veneto) is a diverse region with beautiful Venice and one of the main student cities - Bologna, charming Parma and romantic Verona. Here you can find almost everything: from ski resorts and the natural beauties of South Tyrol to the coast and beaches.
  • Central Italy (Lazio, Marche, Tuscany, Abruzzo and Umbria) - breathes history, culture and art. The country's most important attractions and most famous artistic masterpieces are located here. The cities here need no introduction: the eternal city - the legendary Rome, the cradle of the Renaissance and modern Italian language- Florence, ancient Pisa, Lucca and Siena.
  • Southern Italy (Apulia, Basilicata, Calabria, Campania and Molise) is a southern region with an incredible temperament: vibrant Naples, dramatic ruins of Pompeii, romantic Amalfi Coast and Capri.
  • The islands of Sicily and Sardinia have beautiful sea and beaches. Here are the most famous resorts Italy.

Population

In terms of population, Italy ranks fourth in the European Union. More than 90% of the population are Italians. Large diasporas: Romanians, people from North Africa, Albanians. The official language is Italian. In Bolzano and South Tyrol they also speak German, in Trieste - Slovenian, in Aosta - French.

Italians themselves are open, friendly, very temperamental and emotional. Although there are differences between North and South. So in the north of Italy people are more closed, punctual and pragmatic, while in the south everything is quite the opposite.

Italians are very traditional, proud of their country and cuisine. They love their region, have fun and eat well.

Transport

Major international airports:

  • Rome - with two airports: Fiumicino (FCO - Leonardo da Vinci) and Ciampino for low-cost airlines.
  • Milan - with two airports: Malpensa (MXP) and Linate (LIN). In addition, there is an airport in Bergamo (BGY - Orio al Serchio).
  • Bologna (BLQ - Guglielmo Marconi).
  • Naples (NAP - Capodichino).
  • Pisa (PSA - Galileo Galilei).
  • Venice (VCE - Marco Polo).
  • Treviso (TSF - Antonio Canova).
  • Turin (TRN - Sandro Pertini).
  • Palermo (PMO - Punta Raisi).
  • Catania (CTA - Vincenzo Bellini).
  • Bari (BRI - Palese).
  • Genoa (GOA - Cristoforo Colombo).

Rail connections connect Italy with Germany (via Munich), Austria (Vienna, Innsbruck, Villach), France (Paris, Lyon, Nice), Switzerland (Basel, Geneva), Spain (via Barcelona). High speed trains go to the largest cities in Italy: Rome, Turin, Milan, Venice, Bologna, Florence, Naples.

Separately, it is worth noting the highways that penetrate the entire country. These roads are of simply excellent quality and are no different from the famous German autobahns, except that they are toll roads. When entering the motorway you need to take a special ticket. When leaving, you need to give this ticket to the cashier or insert it into a special machine. Cash and bank cards are accepted for payment. Payment methods are indicated on special signs.

Cities of Italy

There are hundreds of popular cities in Italy that are worth visiting. Almost every city boasts interesting sights and rich history. But there are places that you must see. Our Top 10 cities in Italy:

  1. Rome is the capital of Italy and one of its oldest cities. A place where history literally froze on the streets, and the sights have long become symbols of the entire country.
  2. - one of the most romantic cities in the world. A unique place with canals, bridges, gondolas and wonderful architecture.
  3. Florence is the cradle of the Renaissance, the city where Leonardo da Vinci, Dante, Michelangelo and dozens of other geniuses were born. The capital of Tuscany will amaze you with its museums and art collections.
  4. Milan is one of the capitals of world fashion. A modern metropolis, the financial and business center of the country. If you are interested in shopping, this is the place for you.
  5. - the capital of the Italian south. An ancient city with a southern temperament and the birthplace of pizza.
  6. - one of the most romantic cities in Italy, where you can touch history and feel like Shakespeare’s heroes.
  7. Bologna is the gastronomic capital of the country, a city of youth, culture and art.
  8. Pisa is one of the most popular cities in Tuscany with the famous Leaning Tower.
  9. Turin is the first capital of the United Italy, a city of industry and technology.
  10. Genoa is the largest Italian port, a city with a rich history and many attractions.

Other interesting places:

  • Lake Garda and Como and the pearl dolomites- Bryes.
  • The Italian Alps and South Tyrol - picturesque nature and stunning mountains.
  • Amalfi is a rocky coastline with beautiful towns.
  • Cinque Terre are charming seaside towns on the Ligurian coast.
  • Pompeii and Herculaneum are the ruins of ancient cities destroyed during the eruption of Vesuvius.
  • Sardinia - stunning beaches and seascapes.

Attractions

Italy has as many attractions as no other country in the world. There are 53 UNESCO World Heritage Sites on its territory. Just listing the main attractions will take several pages. Therefore, only symbolic attractions are indicated here.


A grandiose ancient amphitheater and probably the most famous landmark in Italy. Located in Rome. It was built in just 8 years. The construction was started by Emperor Vespasian and completed by Titus.


The Colosseum is shaped like a giant ellipse. This is the largest amphitheater of antiquity, striking in its size - the outer axis is 524 meters long, the dimensions of the platform are 85 x 53 meters, and the height is from 48 to 50 meters. This is one of the most amazing and huge structures of Ancient Rome.


One of the greatest domed structures in the world. It was built between 25-27 AD. consul Marcus Vipsanius Agrippa and rebuilt in 126 after a fire during the reign of Hadrian. Pantheon translates as "temple of all gods." This is one of the best preserved ancient buildings in Rome.


The heart of the Roman Empire, the main political and social center of ancient Rome. It is a rectangular area surrounded by the remains of ancient buildings and temples. The Roman Forum is located in the valley between the Capitoline and Palatine hills in the center of the capital of Italy.


The Vatican is the heart of the Catholic world, a mini-state in the center of Rome. The largest Christian church in the world is located here. And the Vatican Museums exhibit great art treasures.


The Leaning Tower of Pisa is the famous leaning tower, the main symbol of Pisa. It was conceived as the bell tower of the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta. It was built over almost two centuries from the 12th century. The height of the tower is more than 50 meters, and the deviation from the axis is at least 4%.


Santa Maria del Fiore is the main attraction and one of the most recognizable symbols of Florence. The beautiful and imposing cathedral, decorated with pink, white and green marble, is made in the Gothic style and is located in the historical center in Piazza Duomo. Santa Maria del Fiore is built on the site where the ancient cathedral of the capital of Tuscany, Santa Reparata, once stood, the remains of which are visible in the crypt.


The Duomo or Cathedral of Santa Maria Nascente is a symbol of Milan, located in the heart of the city on the square of the same name. It is one of the largest religious buildings in the world (accommodates about 40,000 people) and probably the most beautiful church in the Gothic style. The Duomo was built over 4 centuries from the 14th century. Its roof is topped with 135 spiers, and its façade is decorated with 2,245 marble statues.


Amalfi is a stunningly beautiful stretch of coastline south of Naples with picturesque towns that climb up sheer cliffs.


Venice is a city of amazing beauty, which is a landmark in itself. More than 20 million tourists come here to see the charming canals, graceful architecture and bridges, ride gondolas, stroll along San Marco, see the Rialto Bridge, buy glassware on the island of Murano and photograph the colorful houses of Burano. The historic center of Venice is built on 118 islands of the Venetian Lagoon.


Pompeii is a legendary ancient city destroyed during the devastating eruption of Vesuvius in 79 AD at the height of its power. Despite the lava flows and tons of ash that buried the city and its inhabitants, it was preserved in fantastic condition.

Accommodation

Major cities and popular tourist areas offer a variety of accommodation options, from world-class hotels to family-run inns and apartments. One caveat - there are few hostels in Italy. In Tuscany, Piedmont, Umbria, Abruzzo, Sardinia, Puglia and Emilia-Romagna, agritourism is increasingly popular. In Italy you can find many charming hotels with two stars or less.

The cost of living depends on the popularity of the region, location and season. The most high prices for hotels from May to August. The lowest are in winter. In general, prices for hotels and apartments in Italy are not the highest compared to the rest of Europe. The most money for accommodation will be needed in Milan, Venice, and the vicinity of lakes Garda and Como. Although you can find interesting and cheap options there too.


Kitchen

Italian cuisine is perhaps the most delicious and varied in Europe. However, the cuisine remains purely regional. Believe me, Italian cuisine is not only pasta and pizza. These are a huge number of dishes and ingredients that can satisfy any gourmet.


Traditional Italian dishes and products:

  • Pizza is one of the most popular dishes of Italian cuisine, which has spread widely throughout the world. Each region has its own traditions of preparing it. The way they prepare pizza in Italy is the same way they don’t prepare it anywhere.
  • Risotto - rice with meat, vegetables and seafood.
  • Polenta - corn grits with meat.
  • Pasta (spaghetti, pasta) with sauces and meat.
  • Lasagna.
  • Tortellini - Italian dumplings with cheese and meat
  • Gelato - ice cream.
  • Panini - sandwiches.
  • Cheese. Some types of cheese can only be produced in a specific region. More than 800 types of cheese are produced in Italy.
  • Wine.
  • Olive oil.
  • Sausage and ham - more than 400 types.

The main drink in Italy is wine. Grapes are grown in almost every province except the highlands. Each region has strong winemaking traditions.

All cities and resorts in Italy for travel. List of the most famous regions, areas, cities and resorts in Italy: population, codes, distances, best descriptions and reviews from tourists.

  • Tours for May to Italy
  • Last minute tours to Italy

Popular

Cities, resorts and regions of Italy on the map and alphabetically

The first thing you should know is that Italy is very big and very different. The South is completely different from the North, and the mainland is completely different from the islands. Therefore, read useful and short reviews about all provinces and regions of Italy: regions and islands, South, Center and North of Italy.

Cities of history

The “Eternal City” and the absolute center of Italian history, Rome is a must-see for all lovers of bygone times. The number of Roman attractions is so great that in order to somehow facilitate perception, they are usually divided into broad groups of different historical periods: ancient, Byzantine, medieval, etc. The Vatican with its St. Peter's Basilica and the residence of the Pope makes a significant contribution.

An abundance of ancient ruins is located in the vicinity of southern Salerno - there are three famous archaeological parks here: Pompeii, Paestum and Positano. You can walk along the ancient streets and get acquainted in detail with the structure of ancient cities - from the capitol and forum to the brothel and public toilets. Bonus - the most beautiful mosaics, which to this day have not lost their vivid colors.

Known even from school history textbooks, Syracuse is a significant center of the ancient Greek world and the associated variety of architectural monuments. Visit numerous ancient fortified palaces and admire the greatness of the ancient Greeks in the Neapolis Archaeological Park.

Sweet Naples, soaring measuredly in a trembling haze of heat, leisureliness and contentment with life, is the birthplace of no less sweet Neapolitan songs, as well as the now pan-Italian pizza.

Beaches of Italy

Picturesque rocky and gentle sandy beaches in Italy almost equally, and any sun worshiper can find a place to his liking here. Italian beaches are for the most part well (and in some cases simply wonderful) well maintained, equipped with umbrellas, sun loungers and other accessories necessary for a comfortable stay at the water's edge. As a rule, these very amenities are paid, but this is only beneficial for the beaches (and the tourists themselves): this way the number of splashing people is limited - if all the umbrellas and sunbeds are occupied, you need to look for another beach. In addition, the beaches of each region of the country have their own pleasant characteristics. For example, the Venetian Riviera is famous for its wonderful fine dolomite sand, in Sorrento you can dive into a marine reserve and travel through underwater caves, on the Ligurian coast there is a picturesque rugged coastline, and the beaches of the Tuscan Riviera, in addition to the ideal sea and a high level of relaxation, offer stormy nights entertainment, often without going far from the surf line. And of course, the proximity of historical monuments, architecture and art pleasantly dilutes the idle lying on the shore.

Thermal resorts in Italy- 5 different springs with water temperatures up to +34 °C, suitable for drinking, mineral baths and mud therapy.

  • Chianciano Terme - cold and hot mineral springs increased “armor-piercing”, the waters of which can relieve a whole range of diseases.
  • Fiuggi - unique mineral water, dissolving and removing stones from the kidneys.

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