Italy is a destination that captures the hearts and imaginations of all who venture there. From ancient wonders to the world’s greatest works of art and architecture, and beloved cuisine, the great Italian cities offer visitors plenty of ways to nourish their minds and bodies.

A trip to Italy would be incomplete without a visit to the ancient city of Rome. Renowned for its artistic and historic heritage, Rome is the only city in the world that is the capital of two counties: Italy and the Pope’s place of residence, the Vatican.

The city features a trove of bucket-list experiences. Trace the footsteps of the ancient Romans in the Colosseum, Pantheon and Roman Forum, throw a coin in the Trevi Fountain, climb the Spanish Steps, and marvel at Michelangelo’s iconic painted ceiling in the Sistine Chapel.

While you’re there, be sure to try the city’s famous gelato and Pizza al Taglio.

The cradle of the Renaissance and world capital of art in the 15th century, the city of Florence hosts some of the world’s most cherished historic, articistic, and cultural treasures.

As you wander the city, take a moment to admire the rustic shops, the magnificent architecture of the Duomo di Firenze cathedral framed by idyllic Tuscan hills, and awe-inspiring statues and monuments.

For the art lovers, there are plenty of galleries to explore including the Uffizi Gallery and Galleria dell’Accademia where you can admire Renaissance favourites like Botticelli’s The Birth of Venus or Michelangelo’s Statue of David. 

Florence is situated in the heart of Tuscany and is a foodie paradise. While you’re there, sample some of the city’s unique flavours and dishes like Bistecca Alla Fiorentina.

The ‘city of canals’ is renowned for its bridges, gondola rides, and carnivals and is, without a doubt, one of the world’s most unique cities. Made up of 118 islands united by more than 400 bridges over canals bustling with gondolas and boats, Venice is brimming with art treasures, romantic charm, and history.

The city’s main public square, the Piazza San Marco, is home to the famous St Mark’s Basilica. Visitors may be able to catch one of the regular public concerts and performances held in the Piazza, best enjoyed with a coffee at one of the many outdoor tables.

While in the city, why not pick up a piece of the city’s famous Murano glass, known for its bright, bold colours and intricate designs, or an iconic Venetian Carnival mask.

Nestled among vast plains, gently winding valleys, and rolling hills, Bolonga boasts unique and unparalleled panoramas. Bologna may be a comparatively young city by Italian standards, but it has an enchantingly rich history and is home to one of the oldest universities in the world.

The region also has strong culinary traditions, which has earned it the reputation as Italy’s ‘gastronomic capital’. It is the birthplace of some of the world’s most beloved foods including ragu sauce (commonly known as bolognese), prosciutto ham, parmiggiano reggiano cheese (commonly known as parmesan), and mortadella sausage.

Situated in the beautiful province of Tuscany, the city of Pisa perfectly marries the ancient and the modern. With a proud history as a maritime republic and home to one of Italy's most famous universities, Pisa has plenty more to explore beyond the marvellous Leaning Tower that dominates Piazza dei Miracoli.

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This article is featured in the Spring 2022 issue of National Seniors Australia’s quarterly member magazine, Our Generation. 

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