Italy holidays

Like a fine wine

Throughout the country, from the edge of the Alps on Lake Garda to the Amalfi Coast near Sorrento you’ll find vineyards and cellars dotted all over to sample the finest regional wines. Usually named after their grape varieties, village or area of origin, these top tipples make the drop of the day. The most widespread is Tuscany’s Chianti, which you’ll never see in short supply.

Feast yourself

Holidays to Italy aren’t complete without feasting on authentic food. Pasta and pizza (thought to have been invented in Naples), play a leading role in all recipes and menus, but there are many other local specialities to consider in all the country's regions. Tuscany’s noted for its bean dishes and the Po Valley’s known for its rich risottos. Get to know mozzarella, gorgonzola and pecorino, too.

A shopper’s paradise

Rome and Milan come with all the names you’d expect from some of the leading style centres. And big names line their streets, with the likes of Versace, Bulgari, Gucci and countless small boutique shops among the line-up, each giving Italy its fashionista status. If you’re after a little retail therapy, an Italy holiday won’t disappoint.