1. Capri

The mystical and magical island of Capri must be on your bucket list if you’re in search for an Italian destination with a coastal twist. Located in the Tyrrhenian Sea, on the south side of the Gulf of Naples, this romantic site offers enchanting views, delectable cuisine, a rugged landscape, and an abundance of limoncello. One of the island’s most well known natural site, spotted on all the postcards in the area, is a dark cavern known as the Blue Grotto. Here you’ll find glowing electric-blue water due to the result of sunlight passing through an underwater cave.

Popular stays:

Hotel Luna

Jumeirah Capri Palace

Caesar Augustus

Hotel Quisisana

2. Naples

Southern Italy’s largest city, Naples is an incredibly inspiring destination with some of the most culturally rich and one of a kind historical sites in Europe. From visiting the ancient ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum, to binging on the world famous Napoleon wood-fired pizza, there’s plenty to do in this old and chaotic region. Moreover, don’t miss the city’s cathedral, the Duomo di San Gennaro, which is home to important artistic, cultural and historic heritage. Other popular scenic and architectural landmarks include Castel Nuovo and the Piazza del Plebiscito.

Popular stays:

Romeo Hotel

Grand Hotel Vesuvio

Hotel Palazzo Alabardieri

Grand Hotel Capodimonte

View from the terrace at JK Place hotel in Capri. Photo: CN Traveller
Naples, Italy. Photo: Conde Nast Traveller

3. Florence

Florence, the capital city of the Tuscany region, houses utterly irresistible and world-class Renaissance artistic and architectural treasures. Some of the most important and unique sites include the Duomo, the city’s cathedral which has an elaborate 19th-century Gothic Revival façade by Emilio De Fabris. The Palazzo Vecchio, a spot that you certainly cannot miss is a prime historic government building and one of the most famous symbols of the city of Florence. Other than this, don’t forget to feast on the scrumptious gourmet Tuscan cuisine.

Popular stays:

Portrait Firenze

Villa Cora

The St. Regis Florence

Four Seasons Hotel Firenze

4. Positano

A plethora of the country’s timeless la dolce vita atmosphere and exotically picturesque locales can be found at the iconic resort town situated on southern Italy’s Amalfi Coast. Positano should be on the top of your list if you wish to overlook the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean Sea or explore the narrow streets filled with countless lemon themed boutiques and romantic eateries.

Popular stays:

Le Sirenuse

Il San Pietro di Positano

Le Agavi

Covo dei Saraceni

Street view of the Duomo in Florence. Photo: CN Traveller
Positano, Italy. Photo: CN Traveller

5. Cinque Terre

Italy’s string of colourful and dramatic seaside villages located on the rugged Italian Riviera coastline, the Cinque Terre (five lands) ooze authenticity and vibrance. Running from north to south, the villages are Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. All five of these candy-coloured towns have their own unique character and ambience, making a stroll along the cliffs the perfect way to explore around.

Popular stays:

La Torretta Lodge

Terra Prime Suite

 La Vista Di Marina

Casa Gabriella