Evidence of this demand is obvious in the statistics: Italy is the fifth most visited country on the planet. Not only that, but tourism in Italy made $39 billion in revenue in 2010, and saw nearly 45 million international visitors. This has to come as no surprise, considering that country definitely is a must-see tourist destination. For most, tours in Italy involve a visit to four of the country’s most commonly known cities: Rome, Venice, Florence, and Milan. Each city offers something different as well as something similar all at the same time.
Rome – This ranks among the most well-known cities not only in Italy, but also worldwide. This exciting city is modern and classic all at the same time. Anywhere you look, there are left overs of the past. From the many basilicas to the countless museums, each structure has its own story to tell.
Among the most visited attractions is The Colosseum. Finished in 80AD, this landmark is the oldest existing from Imperial Rome. The structure once was host to hardcore gladiator and animal fights. Today, thousands line up each day simply to get a glance at the interior.
Rome is also home to the Vatican. This city-state is well known as the center of Christianity, but more than that, it also holds some of the earth’s greatest art works. This consists of St. Peter’s Basilica, the seat of the Roman Catholic Church and an work of art on its own.
Venice – This northeastern city is best known for its canals and gondola rides. Lots of people check out the place just to experience the city’s different and unparalleled architecture. Built on a lagoon, the locale has a little over a hundred bodies of land connected by over 400 bridges. The Grand Canal ranks among Venice’s most popular points of interest. It is filled with all types of boats, and is lined with wonderful buildings.
Florence – Just like many other Roman cities, Florence has a number of the world’s most beautiful architecture. Regrettably, just like most modern Roman cities, the destinations are lined with many eager tourists as well. Visitors seeking to steer clear of long lines and crowded areas should think about getting Florence day trips. Since the city is inside the Italian province of Tuscany, it’s the ideal point of entry into the nation’s countryside. Florence day trips may consist of wine tasting excursions in one of the many vineyards, or a visit to Boboli Garden, overlooking the metropolis.
Milan – Viewed as by many to be the fashion capital of the world, the pace here is faster than other Roman cities. The city proper is lined with numerous big ticket fashion stores. For all those looking to shop till they drop, the Galleria Vittorio Emanuelle II is a shopping haven. For all those who’d plan to experience more Italian culture, there are many points of interest to visit like the Duomo and La Scala.
Catherine Nichols is a tour guide who has taken visitors in various tours in Italy. For a far more in-depth look at the places you could visit, please check out Florence day trips.
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