About Italy: A Dolce Vita Dream
Italy. The very name conjures images of sun-drenched coastlines, ancient ruins whispering tales of empires past, and vibrant cities bursting with art, culture, and delicious food. From the rolling hills of Tuscany to the dramatic cliffs of the Amalfi Coast, Italy offers a captivating blend of history, beauty, and modern excitement that resonates deeply with travelers of all ages. It's a place where you can lose yourself in the charm of a medieval village, marvel at masterpieces of Renaissance art, or simply savor the moment with a glass of exquisite wine. The energy is infectious, the landscapes breathtaking, and the experiences unforgettable. This is Italy – a country that effortlessly blends old-world romance with contemporary cool.
Top Accommodations in Italy
- Hotel Santa Maria Novella, Florence: This stylish hotel, nestled in the heart of Florence, offers a unique blend of historical charm and modern luxury. Best for: couples seeking a romantic getaway. Location perks: walking distance to major attractions.
- Hotel Caruso, Ravello: Perched on a cliffside overlooking the Amalfi Coast, this luxurious hotel boasts breathtaking views and impeccable service. Best for: luxury travelers seeking an unforgettable experience. Location perks: stunning coastal views and easy access to nearby towns.
- Borgo Santo Pietro, Tuscany: This stunning countryside retreat offers a tranquil escape with luxurious accommodations and exceptional dining. Best for: families and those seeking a relaxing vacation. Location perks: surrounded by rolling hills and vineyards.
- The Gritti Palace, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Venice: Experience unparalleled elegance at this historic hotel overlooking the Grand Canal. Best for: couples celebrating a special occasion or those seeking a luxurious Venetian experience. Location perks: prime location on the Grand Canal.
- Rome Cavalieri, A Waldorf Astoria Resort, Rome: This sprawling resort offers a luxurious escape with stunning views of the city and a world-class spa. Best for: families and those seeking a relaxing vacation with access to luxurious amenities. Location perks: panoramic views of Rome.
- Grand Hotel Excelsior Vittoria, Sorrento: This elegant hotel, located on the Sorrento Peninsula, offers stunning views of the Bay of Naples. Best for: couples and those seeking a luxurious coastal getaway. Location perks: beautiful coastal views and easy access to nearby attractions.
Why Hotels in Italy Are Unmissable
Italian hotels offer more than just a place to sleep; they provide an immersive experience. Many boast unique architectural details, reflecting the country's rich history and artistic heritage. From boutique hotels tucked away in charming villages to grand resorts with breathtaking views, there's an option to suit every taste and budget. The exceptional service, attention to detail, and often, the inclusion of local experiences, make a stay in an Italian hotel a truly memorable part of your trip. The proximity to iconic landmarks and hidden gems further enhances the appeal, allowing you to easily explore all that Italy has to offer. Imagine waking up to the sound of church bells, stepping out onto a balcony overlooking a picturesque piazza, or enjoying a leisurely breakfast surrounded by the beauty of the Italian countryside. These are the moments that make an Italian hotel stay truly special.
The Ultimate Italy Bucket List
- Visit the Colosseum and Roman Forum in Rome.
- Explore the canals of Venice in a gondola.
- Toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain in Rome.
- Climb the Duomo in Florence for panoramic city views.
- Explore the ancient ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum.
- Enjoy a cooking class in Tuscany.
- Take a scenic drive along the Amalfi Coast.
- Local Secret: Discover the charming hilltop towns of Cinque Terre.
- Local Secret: Explore the hidden beaches of Sardinia.
Best Zones, Landmarks & Areas to Explore in Italy
- Rome: Explore the Colosseum, Roman Forum, Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, and Vatican City. Rome offers excellent public transport and is largely walkable, especially within the historical center.
- Florence: Visit the Duomo, Uffizi Gallery, Ponte Vecchio, and explore the Oltrarno neighborhood. Florence is very walkable, but public transport is also available.
- Venice: Take a gondola ride, explore St. Mark's Square, Doge's Palace, and get lost in the charming backstreets. Venice is best explored on foot or by vaporetto (water bus).
- Amalfi Coast: Drive along the scenic coastal road, visit Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello. While some areas are walkable, renting a car or using local buses is recommended.
- Tuscany: Explore the rolling hills, vineyards, and medieval towns of Tuscany. Renting a car is highly recommended to explore this region fully.
Best Hotels Near Landmarks
For stunning views of the Roman Forum and Colosseum, consider hotels near the Monti neighborhood in Rome. In Florence, hotels near the Ponte Vecchio offer proximity to iconic landmarks and charming shops. For a Venetian experience, hotels near St. Mark's Square provide easy access to major attractions. On the Amalfi Coast, hotels in Positano or Ravello offer breathtaking coastal views.
Must-Try Foods & Restaurants in Italy
- Pizza Napoletana: Try it in Naples, the birthplace of pizza.
- Pasta Carbonara: Enjoy this classic Roman pasta dish in a traditional trattoria.
- Gelato: Indulge in this delicious Italian ice cream in any city you visit.
- Risotto: Sample this creamy rice dish in Milan or other northern Italian cities.
- Tiramisu: This classic Italian dessert is a must-try.
Best Time to Visit Italy
Peak Season (June-August): Expect warm weather, large crowds, and higher prices.
Shoulder Seasons (April-May & September-October): Pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and potentially lower prices.
Off-Season (November-March): Cooler temperatures, fewest crowds, and potentially the lowest prices. However, some attractions may have limited hours or be closed.
Getting Around Italy
Italy offers a variety of transportation options, from high-speed trains connecting major cities to local buses and ferries. For a seamless trip, visitors can plan their entire journey from flights, hotels, and local transport like car rentals or airport transfers using Traveloka, Southeast Asia’s leading travel platform. Renting a car is recommended for exploring the countryside, while public transport is efficient in major cities. Remember to validate your tickets on public transport.
Shopping Highlights in Italy
Must-Visit Markets/Boutiques
- San Lorenzo Market, Florence: Best for leather goods and souvenirs. Pro tip: Bargaining is expected.
- Campo de' Fiori Market, Rome: Famous for fresh produce and local delicacies. Pro tip: Go early for the best selection.
What to Buy
- Leather goods: High-quality leather bags, shoes, and jackets are iconic Italian products.
- Ceramics: Hand-painted ceramics from towns like Deruta are beautiful souvenirs.
Avoid Tourist Traps
- Skip: Mass-produced souvenirs.
- Instead: Seek out local artisans and markets for unique items.
Hidden Gems in Italy
Underrated Spots Loved by Locals
- The Dolomites: A stunning mountain range offering breathtaking scenery and hiking opportunities.
- Lake Como: A picturesque lake surrounded by charming towns and villas.
Local’s Tip
- Take a day trip to a smaller, less-visited town to experience authentic Italian life.
Staying Connected in Italy
Buying a SIM Card
SIM cards are readily available at airports and phone stores throughout Italy. Please check Traveloka App to get the detail information.
Wi-Fi Access
Most hotels and cafes offer Wi-Fi. Please check Traveloka App to get the detail information.
Pro Tip
Download offline maps before your trip, especially if you plan to explore rural areas.