Italy has more than enough history, fine cuisine and breathtaking scenery to keep you coming back again and again. From the culture-filled capital of Rome and the stunning Amalfi Coast to the majestic mountains of the Italian Alps, there is something to keep everyone happy here. The country has a natural year-round appeal thanks to its particular geography and climate. Temperatures skyrocket during the summer bringing with them plenty of sunshine and a chance to laze on the beach, while in the winter the Alps enjoy excellent conditions for skiing. Meanwhile, spring and autumn are good times to soak up the sights in Italy's historic towns and cities. The country's rich heritage has helped to give it the edge as a fantastic city break destination. No sooner will you have finished a long weekend exploring the mysteries of labyrinthine Venice than you'll be itching to come back and sample beautiful Florence, Pisa or perhaps sophisticated Milan. Rome, of course, is a key destination for many visitors. As a world religious centre and mine of cultural and ancient gems it is hard to truly appreciate the capital's offerings in just one weekend. Our wide variety of hotels in Rome will help you to get the most from your visit while introducing you to awe-inspiring sights such as the Colosseum, St Peter's Basilica and the Sistine Chapel. Italy's wide-ranging attractions are as flavoursome and enticing as its world-renowned cuisine. The Italians know how to enjoy their food and are keen to share their enthusiasm, whether over a simple dish of pasta and Chianti or a sumptuous spread of seafood topped off with gelato ice cream.
For a selection of superb accommodation to perfectly complement your next summer or winter break check out our Italy hotels today.
Fact file
Language: Italian
Capital: Rome
Currency: Euro
Religion: Dominant religion is Roman Catholic
Time difference: GMT +1 hour
Things to do in Italy
Soak up the culture in Rome
This ancient city is saturated with wonderful sights guaranteed to absorb and amaze you from the start. The Colosseum – a mighty symbol of the power and ingenuity of the Roman Empire built nearly 2,000 years ago – is a good example, as is the beautiful Trevi Fountain, where thousands flock each year to throw coins into its waters for luck. Italy's spiritual and religious heart is in Rome's Vatican City, where visitors can stand in awe of the stunning St. Peter's Basilica and the Sistine Chapel as they marvel at the works of famous artists such as Botticelli, Bernini and Michelangelo.
Marvel at mighty Vesuvius and Pompeii
Once a thriving Roman city, the solemn yet beautiful Pompeii is now in ruins and serves as a stark reminder of the awesome power of nature. This site offers a fascinating snapshot of Roman life just hours before the destruction of the whole city in AD79. The culprit, the imposing Mount Vesuvius nearby, is an impressive sight in itself. Visitors to the volcano can journey to its crater by car, with just a short walk on foot, where they can look out over the Bay of Naples and enjoy stunning views of Pompeii, Naples and Sorrento. Our selection of Amalfi Coast hotels offers easy access all these attractions and more.
Sample the sights and tastes of Tuscany
The region of Tuscany has itself been likened to a fine wine. Divided into ten provinces, Tuscany's breathtaking sights – which include the region's capital city Florence and the beautiful Pisa – are the result of centuries of nurturing that began in ancient times. Home to both Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci, Tuscany's visual delights include works by these two great masters as well as architectural triumphs such as the famous leaning tower of Pisa and the Campanile tower in Florence. Added to these visual treats are its lovely rolling hills and picturesque vine yards. As a well known wine region Tuscany inspires the taste buds with its quality wines such as Chianti and Monte