Exploring Captivating Rome, Tuscany & the Amalfi Coast in Italy

The Eternal City of Rome

No trip to Italy would be complete without a visit to its historic capital, Rome. Often called the Eternal City, Rome's ancient monuments, lively piazzas, and mouthwatering cuisine make it a must-see destination.

Top Sites to See in Rome

During your stay in Rome, make sure to check out some of its most iconic attractions:

• The Colosseum - This massive ancient Roman amphitheater was the site of gladiator battles and public spectacles.
• The Vatican & St. Peter's Basilica - See Michelangelo's breathtaking Sistine Chapel ceiling and sculptures by Bernini at the Vatican. Then wander into St. Peter's, the epicenter of the Roman Catholic faith.
• The Pantheon - One of the best preserved ancient Roman buildings with an incredible domed ceiling.
• The Spanish Steps & Trevi Fountain - Two of the city's most elegant and popular public squares. Make sure to toss a coin into Trevi Fountain to ensure your return to Rome one day.

Where to Eat & Drink in Rome

Fuel up between sightseeing sessions by sampling some quintessential Roman food and wine:

• Pizza al taglio - Classic Roman-style pizza baked in large rectangular trays and sold by the slice. Look for busy pizzerias with locals lining up.
• Cacio e pepe - A simple pasta dish made with pecorino romano cheese, black pepper, and pasta water.
• Carbonara - A Roman pasta staple made with eggs, pecorino, guanciale (cured pork jowl) and black pepper.
• Romanesco - A type of broccoli with spiraling, neon green heads that's a local specialty.
• Amarone or Chianti wine - Sip traditional Italian wines with hearty Roman meals.

Postcard-Perfect Tuscany

With bountiful vineyards, charming hilltop towns, magnificent Renaissance architecture and world-class art, Tuscany epitomizes the beauty and culture of Italy. Here are some top towns and attractions not to miss:

Florence

No trip to Tuscany is complete without a stop in its capital, Florence. Some key sights include:

• The Duomo - Florence's grand Gothic cathedral capped by a recognizable red dome.
• Galleria dell'Accademia - Houses Michelangelo's magnificent sculpture of David.
• Uffizi Gallery - One of the world's top collections of Italian Renaissance art.
• Ponte Vecchio - A medieval bridge lined with jewelry shops over the Arno River.

Siena

Siena's entire medieval old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Don't miss:

• Piazza del Campo - The main central piazza famed for hosting the annual Palio horse races.
• Siena Cathedral - Stunning black and white marble church.
• Traditional Tuscan meals - Try ribollita soup, pappardelle with wild boar ragu, pici pasta with toasted pecorino and black pepper, and panforte cake.

San Gimignano

This tiny hilltown dubbed the "Medieval Manhattan" is dotted with stone towers offering breathtaking valley views.

Pienza

Pienza is considered the ideal Renaissance town with quaint architecture and Pecorino cheese shops.

The Spectacular Amalfi Coast

With its steep cliffs plunging into the sea and colorful fishing villages clinging to mountainsides, the Amalfi Coast is one of Italy's most beautiful stretches of coastline.

Towns to Visit on the Amalfi Coast

Some highlights along this fabled coastline include:

• Positano - Known for its cascade of pastel buildings towards the sea and lively beach scene.
• Amalfi - The main town which gives the coast its name. See the impressive Amalfi Cathedral.
• Ravello - A tranquil hilltop retreat with postcard views offering a respite from the bustling coastal towns.

What to Eat on the Amalfi Coast

Be sure to try the fresh seafood, local lemons and regional pasta dishes and desserts, like:

• Spaghetti alle vongole - Pasta with clams, white wine, olive oil, garlic and parsley.
• Gnocchi alla Sorrentina - Potato gnocchi baked in tomato sauce and mozzarella.
• Delizia al limone - A delicious sponge cake infused with lemons.
• Limoncello - The iconic Italian lemon liqueur, best sipped with views of the sea.

With ancient history, exquisite art and food, and dramatic landscapes, Rome, Tuscany and the Amalfi Coast offer the best of Italy. Enjoy immersing yourself in their storied past and vibrant cultures across this captivating country.

FAQs

What is the best way to get around Rome, Tuscany and the Amalfi Coast?

The best way to travel between major cities like Rome, Florence and Naples is by train. Smaller towns in Tuscany and along the Amalfi Coast area often require buses or hiring cars/drivers to navigate between. Plan to walk extensively within cities and towns to see top attractions.

What is the currency used in Italy?

Italy is one of the 19 countries in the eurozone and uses the euro (€) as its official currency. Major credit cards are widely accepted at larger hotels, stores and restaurants, but carry cash for smaller cafes or shops.

What language do Italians speak?

Italian is the official language. English is spoken more fluently in the larger cities like Rome or Florence catering to tourists, but learning key Italian phrases will serve you well in smaller towns and with servers at restaurants.

What is the best Italian cuisine or dish to try?

It's impossible to narrow it down! Rome excels with thin, crisp pizzas and bucatini pasta dishes. Tuscany is known for its simple, seasonal ingredients like truffles and olive oil. And seafood reigns supreme along the Amalfi coast. Try a little of everything!