For centuries the rich
artistic and cultural history of Italy has
attracted tourists and the historic towns
and cities date back thousands of years.
The country is famed for its wine and food
and since the rise of the Roman Empire,
two thousand years ago, and on through the
Renaissance to the present day has been
at the centre of Western culture. Tourist
attractions include the Venice canals, the
remains of Pompeii, Florentine art, Roman
architecture and beautiful landscapes and
beaches. Italy is also known for the design
of fashion and cars. Milan is a popular
destination for clothes shopping.
The weather in Italy is
at its best between April and May or October
and November, when the climate is pleasant,
the scenery beautiful and there are fewer
crowds than during the hot Summer months.
Most Italians take their holidays in August
and many shops and businesses are closed
during that month. Attractions for visitors
and locals include the Regata of the Four
Ancient Maritime Republics held each June,
which rotates between Venice, Pisa, Genoa,
and Amalfi and the Sardinian Cavalcade in
May. There are also many festivals to celebrate
the Patron Saints Days held throughout Italy.
Geography: Italy is a peninsula located
south of Austria and Switzerland. The country
extends into the Mediterranean Sea and ranges
from mountains to plains and coastal lowlands.
Getting There: Visitors can enter northern Italy by road or rail.
There are regular flights from across Europe to
airports in cities such as Rome, Milan, Naples
and Venice. Ferries sail to and from ports around
the Mediterranean.
