I had the wonderful opportunity to visit Italy this summer. For three weeks, I was able to tour many popular sites, as well as some places that I had never heard about prior to experiencing this beautiful country. I went to more places than this, but these five stood out to me most. They are all places that I would advise anybody going to Italy to experience for themselves.
1. Venice
Venice is filled with unreal beauty and culture. Canals are in between colorful buildings, while there is also bridges and many historical sites to see. Venice is the most romantic and family-friendly part of Italy that I experienced, and it is one that I would absolutely love to see more of. Make sure to go on a gondola ride, cause the beauty and magic of the moment will be something you will never forget.
2. Cinque Terre
I was able to tour four of the five villages that make up Cinque Terre (Riomaggiore, Monterosso, Vernazza, and Manarola). Even though I wasn't able to see Corniglia, I saw plenty of Italian beauty. Monterosso and Vernazza are most known for the beaches, and they are both gorgeous. Riomaggiore and Manarola are filled with romance and drop-dead beautiful sites. It is nice to have a couple beach days on the Italian beaches, and then spending a full day in the other two. Overall, Cinque Terre is the number one place that I would tell someone traveling to Italy to go to.
3. Capri
Right off of the Amalfi Coast, (which is also insanely beautiful) is the amazing island of Capri! There are many hotels and restaurants in the town itself, but even just exploring the sea off of it is quite the experience. If you go to Capri, you must go to the Blue Grotto. It is a cave with sunlight shining through the seawater, creating a blue reflection. The experience made my heart beat quicker, and it is something that is definitely crucial to take a trip out to Capri just for it!
4. Rome
As you've probably heard, if you make a trip to Italy in your life, go to Rome. I found it to be a little overrated because of the crazy amount of people, thieves, and salesmen walking around. But the history of the city is something so cool to witness. The Coliseum and the Trevi Fountain were my favorite parts, but I also did not have time to see more of it! There is also a keyhole that will give you a full view of St. Peters Basilica if you look through it, which is insanely awesome. If you like history and/or art, go to Rome. If you don't like crowds of people, still go to Rome because it will be worth it!
5. Pompeii Ruins
Pompeii was by far one of my favorite parts about Italy. It's so crazy that the town was buried underground for 17 centuries, discovered, and then rebuilt. The history behind it is fascinating, and there are many tours available each day. I would recommend going on a tour around it, because you might be a little confused what each room was used for.
If you ever find yourself planning a trip to Italy, try to spend a couple weeks there. There are many forms of transportation that will take you from each town to the other, and you will be able to see how each place is completely unique. These are only five of the many places that I was able to tour, and there is a whole lot more to do! Plan a trip to Italy before you die. It will change your life.
