Top 7 Unique Places in Italy Worth the Detour

There is no place like Italy anywhere on Earth. The sights, the smells, the rich culture, the sense of history… Italy is a feast for the mind and the senses.

Italy has one of the oldest and most interesting histories of any country of culture. Before becoming Italy in 1861, it was the heart of the Roman Empire. It was also the spiritual hub of Catholicism, with the Vatican existing inside its borders.

Much of this history is still alive and well in many parts of this fascinating country. Of course, modern Italian culture is a marvel as well. It’s a site for some of the most striking fashion, the greatest food and art, and a treasure trove of natural beauty.

We’re going to take a look at some of the best places in Italy to experience its unique culture and history!

1. Valley Of The Temples

Since we started out talking about ancient Rome, let’s begin with one of the best-preserved sites of ancient Roman culture. The Valley of the Temples is one of the best-preserved archaeological sites on Earth. It’s home to almost perfectly preserved Doric temples which were built in the 5th Century.

It’s also a chance to experience the unique layering of time that only happens in Italy. The Doric temples overlook the town of Agrigento, offering a spectacular view of the capital city.

2. Taormina

We’ll stay in Sicily for one of the best places in Italy to experience ancient Roman life. Taormina is home to an ancient Greek theater, offering you a chance to experience an amphitheater the way a Greek or Roman person would have thousands of years ago.

It’s also an opportunity to appreciate some of the splendor that Sicily has to offer. The Greek theater overlooks the town of Taormina, letting you take in its ancient winding streets from a bird’s eye view.

It also offers a breathtaking vision of the Ionian sea. Taormina has everything you could want out of an Italian destination.

3. Mount Vesuvius

The third entry of our best places in Italy is both culturally significant and naturally beautiful. It’s also a bridge between the past and the present, as you wouldn’t have been able to appreciate its beauty a thousand years ago.

Mount Vesuvius is best known as the volcano that transformed Pompeii into a living museum, frozen in half-life until being rediscovered in 1748.

Climbing to the top of Mount Vesuvius lets you gaze into the past and the present, simultaneously. It’s easy to imagine the terror and awe that the natives of Pompeii must have felt. You’ll be treated to awe-inspiring views of the Gulf of Naples at the same time.

You don’t have to be a history lover to be moved by Mount Vesuvius. If you are interested in antiquity, however, you’ll be transported like nowhere else on Earth.

4. Cinque Terre

Here’s another chance to experience some of Italy’s glorious history, inspiring natural beauty, and some contemporary culture in one stop. Cinque Terre is a UNESCO world heritage site as well as a national park.

Cinque Terre is a cluster of five villages that sit on top of epic granite cliffs. All five villages overlook the Italian Riviera, well-known for being one of the most beautiful places on Earth.

Cinque Terre is situated between the charming port towns of La Spezia and Levanto. The surrounding areas are chock full of traditional Italian olive groves, fabulous Italian restaurants, and inspiring views of the sea of the Cinque Terre.

5. Urbino

Here’s another UNESCO world heritage site as well as an important Italian cultural destination. Urbino is a relic of the Italian renaissance, offering you a glimpse of the world of the 15th Century that inspired some of the finest artwork humanity has ever produced.

Urbino is a walled city in the Marche region of Italy. It was home to some of the Renaissance’s finest painters, from Raffaelo to Bramante. You’ll practically be able to hear the echoes of the 1400s within Urbino’s cloistered walls.

6. Ischia

The Mediterranean Seaside is one of the most popular place in Italy for tourists to visit, and for good reason. You haven’t lived until you’ve seen the sapphire waters of the Mediterranean Sea and sipping a cappuccino.

Unfortunately, most of these sites are well-known by tourists all over the Earth. That means that your relaxing holiday getaway could end up as anything but.

If you’re looking for a chance to experience the glory of the Mediterranean Seaside in Italy without the crowds, try Ischia. Ischia is every bit as charming as better-known port towns like Capri but less populated and therefore more authentic.

Ischia is well-known for its natural spas, making this an essential stop for those looking to renew their health and beauty while experiencing some world-class culture. Make sure to visit the natural spas near Maronti Beach on your way to or from the ocean.

7. Bologna

Don’t let the name fool you – Bologna is an essential stop for those looking to experience all the glories that Italian food has to offer. Bologna is one of the cultural hubs of Emilia Romagna, which is a mainstay of Italian food culture.

Several famous Italian dishes originated in Bologna. Tortellini, mortadella, and lasagne all call this city home. That’s one reason it’s known as “the kitchen of Italy.”

Italy offers a wealth of riches for absolutely everybody, no matter what you’re into. Whether you’re looking to experience awe-inspiring natural beauty, world-class food, or experience the roots of a culture that helped shape the modern world, it’s all there to be had.

Check out some of the tour options that are available and experience this treasure trove for yourself.

Want To Know More About The Best Places In Italy?

The world is such a vast and inspiring place! Seeing new sights, hearing new sounds, and tasting new sensations helps you to remember this, seeing the world in a bright, fresh new light.

Now that you know more about the best places in Italy to visit, browse the rest of our travel and entertainment articles today!