Italy is one of those countries that is bursting with things to visit, it oozes culture and history like few other nations. So how do you choose where to go? Picking a name out of a hat possibly, or better yet, you could visit them all. Corrib Travel has the lowdown on what makes these destinations so special.
Sorrento
Situated on the west coast of Italy near Naples, the glorious Sorrento is an extremely popular tourist destination. Sorrento offers so much more than just great weather, with plenty of sights to see and things to do as well. Old Sorrento is vintage Italy; its narrow, winding, streets are some of the most charming in Europe. It is well worth your time to just wander through them and drink in the beauty of the place. Sorrento is scattered with historical buildings, like the Cathedral of Sorrento or the Basilica of Sant’Antonino, an 11th century structure that displays some superb architecture.
Sorrento is also only a short train ride from Pompeii and the nearby Mount Vesuvius. Witness what a Roman city of the time looked like, with people, animals, paintings, and artifacts preserved as they were in the moment when disaster struck.
You can also get a ferry to the Isle of Capri, where you can see the famous Blue Grotto or book a tour of the island that includes many secret grottos which you might miss otherwise miss.
Lake Garda
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Rather than being a destination frequented by sun burnt policemen, Lake Garda is in fact actually the biggest lake in Italy and one of its most popular tourist destinations. Relaxing beside it is an amazing experience, with some truly spectacular panoramic views to take in.
There is an array of small villages dotted along its shores that are worth checking out and Verona is not too far away. If you are staying there for a while, Milan and Venice are well within travelling distance too.
You can also take part in many watersports on the lake, including surfing, sailing, and kayaking.
Sicily
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The cities of Palermo and Catania are two historical centres that are well worth checking out on a trip to Sicily. Both cities have a superb natural setting: Palermo is is surrounded by rocky headlands and Catania is at the foot of the towering Mount Etna. Palermo might have the edge in terms of culture, with some interesting museums and a gilded opera house, but Catania's nightlife is second to none.
If you are looking for a break from the cities, the wonderful Sicilian countryside is close at hand. From the mountains and forests of the north, to the laid back olive groves of the south, the expansive hinterland is truly breathtaking.
Mount Etna provides some great hiking opportunities, the largest volcano in Europe and one of the most active in the world. To reach the crater at the summit, you will need to have an official guide with you.
