Best of Italy: Tuscany, Cinque Terre & The Amalfi Coast

Cinque Terre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a slice of Italian paradise nestled along the rugged Ligurian coast. This collection of five fishing villages—Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore—offers visitors a breathtaking landscape of pastel-colored homes perched on cliffs overlooking the Mediterranean. The region’s centuries-old terraced vineyards, winding hiking trails, and crystal-clear waters make it an enchanting destination for outdoor enthusiasts and lovers of natural beauty. Wander through narrow streets, dine on fresh seafood, and sip local white wine as you immerse yourself in the charm of this coastal gem.

One of the most popular ways to explore Cinque Terre is by foot along the Sentiero Azzurro, also known as the Blue Trail. This path connects all five villages, offering hikers stunning views of the coastline and the Ligurian Sea. For a more leisurely experience, take a scenic train ride between the villages, hopping off at each stop to discover quaint harbors, lively piazzas, and local markets. Don’t miss Vernazza, often considered the jewel of Cinque Terre, with its charming harbor and ancient watchtower.

Cinque Terre is also known for its culinary delights, especially its fresh seafood and pesto, which originates from the nearby city of Genoa. Visitors can indulge in dishes like trofie al pesto, made from local basil and pine nuts, or savor fritto misto, a medley of fried seafood caught fresh from the sea. Be sure to pair your meal with a glass of Sciacchetrà, a rare and sweet wine produced in the steep terraced vineyards that line the cliffs.

Fun fact: The Cinque Terre National Park is Italy's smallest yet one of its most ecologically rich areas. The park is home to unique flora and fauna, making it a haven for nature lovers. Whether you’re hiking, swimming, or simply enjoying the laid-back coastal atmosphere, Cinque Terre’s stunning blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage will leave you enchanted.

Cinque Terre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a slice of Italian paradise nestled along the rugged Ligurian coast. This collection of five fishing villages—Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore—offers visitors a breathtaking landscape of pastel-colored homes perched on cliffs overlooking the Mediterranean. The region’s centuries-old terraced vineyards, winding hiking trails, and crystal-clear waters make it an enchanting destination for outdoor enthusiasts and lovers of natural beauty. Wander through narrow streets, dine on fresh seafood, and sip local white wine as you immerse yourself in the charm of this coastal gem.

One of the most popular ways to explore Cinque Terre is by foot along the Sentiero Azzurro, also known as the Blue Trail. This path connects all five villages, offering hikers stunning views of the coastline and the Ligurian Sea. For a more leisurely experience, take a scenic train ride between the villages, hopping off at each stop to discover quaint harbors, lively piazzas, and local markets. Don’t miss Vernazza, often considered the jewel of Cinque Terre, with its charming harbor and ancient watchtower.

Cinque Terre is also known for its culinary delights, especially its fresh seafood and pesto, which originates from the nearby city of Genoa. Visitors can indulge in dishes like trofie al pesto, made from local basil and pine nuts, or savor fritto misto, a medley of fried seafood caught fresh from the sea. Be sure to pair your meal with a glass of Sciacchetrà, a rare and sweet wine produced in the steep terraced vineyards that line the cliffs.

Fun fact: The Cinque Terre National Park is Italy's smallest yet one of its most ecologically rich areas. The park is home to unique flora and fauna, making it a haven for nature lovers. Whether you’re hiking, swimming, or simply enjoying the laid-back coastal atmosphere, Cinque Terre’s stunning blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage will leave you enchanted.

Cinque Terre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a slice of Italian paradise nestled along the rugged Ligurian coast. This collection of five fishing villages—Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore—offers visitors a breathtaking landscape of pastel-colored homes perched on cliffs overlooking the Mediterranean. The region’s centuries-old terraced vineyards, winding hiking trails, and crystal-clear waters make it an enchanting destination for outdoor enthusiasts and lovers of natural beauty. Wander through narrow streets, dine on fresh seafood, and sip local white wine as you immerse yourself in the charm of this coastal gem.

One of the most popular ways to explore Cinque Terre is by foot along the Sentiero Azzurro, also known as the Blue Trail. This path connects all five villages, offering hikers stunning views of the coastline and the Ligurian Sea. For a more leisurely experience, take a scenic train ride between the villages, hopping off at each stop to discover quaint harbors, lively piazzas, and local markets. Don’t miss Vernazza, often considered the jewel of Cinque Terre, with its charming harbor and ancient watchtower.

Cinque Terre is also known for its culinary delights, especially its fresh seafood and pesto, which originates from the nearby city of Genoa. Visitors can indulge in dishes like trofie al pesto, made from local basil and pine nuts, or savor fritto misto, a medley of fried seafood caught fresh from the sea. Be sure to pair your meal with a glass of Sciacchetrà, a rare and sweet wine produced in the steep terraced vineyards that line the cliffs.

Fun fact: The Cinque Terre National Park is Italy's smallest yet one of its most ecologically rich areas. The park is home to unique flora and fauna, making it a haven for nature lovers. Whether you’re hiking, swimming, or simply enjoying the laid-back coastal atmosphere, Cinque Terre’s stunning blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage will leave you enchanted.

Chianti, nestled in the heart of Tuscany between Florence and Siena, is a world-renowned wine region that exudes quintessential Italian charm. Famous for its rolling hills, cypress-lined roads, and sprawling vineyards, Chianti offers travelers an unforgettable experience of Italy’s rich viticulture and history. Visitors can explore charming medieval villages like Greve in Chianti and Castellina in Chianti, where cobbled streets, ancient stone buildings, and historic piazzas transport you back in time. The region is also home to some of Italy’s most prestigious wineries, where visitors can indulge in tastings of the famed Chianti Classico, a robust red wine known for its distinctive black rooster seal.

Chianti’s scenic beauty and rich cultural heritage make it a paradise for history lovers. The Castello di Brolio, a stunning castle that dates back to the 12th century, offers panoramic views of the surrounding vineyards and provides a glimpse into the region’s feudal past. Many of the vineyards in Chianti are dotted with Etruscan ruins, remnants of Italy’s ancient civilization, and medieval fortresses that once served as strategic strongholds during the region’s tumultuous history. Visitors can explore the Abbey of San Michele Arcangelo, a beautiful Romanesque structure that showcases Tuscany’s architectural brilliance.

For food enthusiasts, Chianti’s culinary scene is as impressive as its wines. Local trattorias serve traditional Tuscan dishes like pappardelle al cinghiale (wild boar pasta) and bistecca alla fiorentina, a perfectly grilled T-bone steak. The region’s olive groves also produce some of Italy’s finest extra virgin olive oils, which you can sample during a visit to local farms. Pairing these delicacies with a glass of Chianti Classico while overlooking the vineyard-covered hills is an experience that captures the essence of Tuscan living.

Fun fact: The Chianti region has been producing wine for over 2,000 years, with its wine-making traditions dating back to the Etruscans. Today, Chianti is home to more than 300 producers who adhere to strict regulations to maintain the quality and authenticity of their wines, making it a must-visit destination for wine lovers and cultural explorers alike!

Chianti, nestled in the heart of Tuscany between Florence and Siena, is a world-renowned wine region that exudes quintessential Italian charm. Famous for its rolling hills, cypress-lined roads, and sprawling vineyards, Chianti offers travelers an unforgettable experience of Italy’s rich viticulture and history. Visitors can explore charming medieval villages like Greve in Chianti and Castellina in Chianti, where cobbled streets, ancient stone buildings, and historic piazzas transport you back in time. The region is also home to some of Italy’s most prestigious wineries, where visitors can indulge in tastings of the famed Chianti Classico, a robust red wine known for its distinctive black rooster seal.

Chianti’s scenic beauty and rich cultural heritage make it a paradise for history lovers. The Castello di Brolio, a stunning castle that dates back to the 12th century, offers panoramic views of the surrounding vineyards and provides a glimpse into the region’s feudal past. Many of the vineyards in Chianti are dotted with Etruscan ruins, remnants of Italy’s ancient civilization, and medieval fortresses that once served as strategic strongholds during the region’s tumultuous history. Visitors can explore the Abbey of San Michele Arcangelo, a beautiful Romanesque structure that showcases Tuscany’s architectural brilliance.

For food enthusiasts, Chianti’s culinary scene is as impressive as its wines. Local trattorias serve traditional Tuscan dishes like pappardelle al cinghiale (wild boar pasta) and bistecca alla fiorentina, a perfectly grilled T-bone steak. The region’s olive groves also produce some of Italy’s finest extra virgin olive oils, which you can sample during a visit to local farms. Pairing these delicacies with a glass of Chianti Classico while overlooking the vineyard-covered hills is an experience that captures the essence of Tuscan living.

Fun fact: The Chianti region has been producing wine for over 2,000 years, with its wine-making traditions dating back to the Etruscans. Today, Chianti is home to more than 300 producers who adhere to strict regulations to maintain the quality and authenticity of their wines, making it a must-visit destination for wine lovers and cultural explorers alike!

Nestled along the cliffs of the Gulf of Naples, Sorrento will charm you with its picturesque scenery and breathtaking coastal views. Three hours south of metropolitan Rome, Sorrento provides easy access to many of Italy’s most beloved destinations, including Naples, Pompeii, Amalfi, and Capri. Swim near the piers of Sorrento’s Marina Grande, stroll the delightfully Mediterranean Piazza Tasso, nibble on lemony gelato and fresh seafood, or travel north to the Parco Regionale dei Monti Lattari to hike the peninsula’s stunningly verdant mountainside. Sparkling Sorrento awaits!

Nestled along the cliffs of the Gulf of Naples, Sorrento will charm you with its picturesque scenery and breathtaking coastal views. Three hours south of metropolitan Rome, Sorrento provides easy access to many of Italy’s most beloved destinations, including Naples, Pompeii, Amalfi, and Capri. Swim near the piers of Sorrento’s Marina Grande, stroll the delightfully Mediterranean Piazza Tasso, nibble on lemony gelato and fresh seafood, or travel north to the Parco Regionale dei Monti Lattari to hike the peninsula’s stunningly verdant mountainside. Sparkling Sorrento awaits!

Amalfi, Italy, is a gem nestled along the world-famous Amalfi Coast, where dramatic cliffs meet the shimmering Mediterranean Sea. This enchanting town, once a powerful maritime republic, is now a beloved destination for those seeking a blend of history, culture, and breathtaking natural beauty. The heart of Amalfi is its bustling Piazza del Duomo, dominated by the stunning Amalfi Cathedral. With its striking Arab-Norman architecture, bronze doors from Constantinople, and beautifully ornate interior, this 9th-century cathedral is a must-visit for anyone intrigued by Italy's rich historical tapestry. Climbing the 62 steps to the cathedral’s entrance rewards visitors with a commanding view of the lively square below, filled with quaint cafes, boutique shops, and the joyful hum of daily life.

Just steps away from the cathedral lies the Chiostro del Paradiso, a peaceful cloister dating back to the 13th century that showcases Moorish-influenced architecture and houses the tombs of Amalfi’s nobility. The adjacent Museo della Carta offers a fascinating glimpse into the town’s history as a medieval center of papermaking, where visitors can witness traditional techniques still in practice today. Wandering through Amalfi's labyrinthine streets reveals charming piazzas, vibrant ceramics shops, and delightful spots serving limoncello, the zesty lemon liqueur made from locally grown lemons. For those with a sweet tooth, indulging in a delicious sfogliatella, a shell-shaped pastry filled with ricotta and citrus, is a must.

Amalfi also serves as a gateway to the natural wonders of the Amalfi Coast. The Valle delle Ferriere is a serene nature reserve just a short hike from the town center, where visitors can escape the crowds and immerse themselves in lush greenery, cascading waterfalls, and ancient ruins. The valley is named after its historic ironworks, some of which still stand today. For those who prefer the sea, Amalfi’s pebble beaches, such as Marina Grande, offer the perfect spot to bask in the sun or take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters. Boat tours along the coast provide a unique perspective of the region’s dramatic cliffs and hidden coves, including the famed Emerald Grotto, known for its dazzling green waters.

Fun fact: Amalfi was one of the four great maritime republics of Italy, alongside Venice, Pisa, and Genoa. During its peak in the 10th and 11th centuries, Amalfi established the Amalfi Tables, the earliest known maritime code that governed the Mediterranean Sea. These regulations were so influential that they remained in effect until 1570, demonstrating Amalfi’s historical significance as a formidable maritime power. Today, this legacy lives on, not only in its historical sites but also in the town’s enduring spirit of adventure and discovery.

Amalfi, Italy, is a gem nestled along the world-famous Amalfi Coast, where dramatic cliffs meet the shimmering Mediterranean Sea. This enchanting town, once a powerful maritime republic, is now a beloved destination for those seeking a blend of history, culture, and breathtaking natural beauty. The heart of Amalfi is its bustling Piazza del Duomo, dominated by the stunning Amalfi Cathedral. With its striking Arab-Norman architecture, bronze doors from Constantinople, and beautifully ornate interior, this 9th-century cathedral is a must-visit for anyone intrigued by Italy's rich historical tapestry. Climbing the 62 steps to the cathedral’s entrance rewards visitors with a commanding view of the lively square below, filled with quaint cafes, boutique shops, and the joyful hum of daily life.

Just steps away from the cathedral lies the Chiostro del Paradiso, a peaceful cloister dating back to the 13th century that showcases Moorish-influenced architecture and houses the tombs of Amalfi’s nobility. The adjacent Museo della Carta offers a fascinating glimpse into the town’s history as a medieval center of papermaking, where visitors can witness traditional techniques still in practice today. Wandering through Amalfi's labyrinthine streets reveals charming piazzas, vibrant ceramics shops, and delightful spots serving limoncello, the zesty lemon liqueur made from locally grown lemons. For those with a sweet tooth, indulging in a delicious sfogliatella, a shell-shaped pastry filled with ricotta and citrus, is a must.

Amalfi also serves as a gateway to the natural wonders of the Amalfi Coast. The Valle delle Ferriere is a serene nature reserve just a short hike from the town center, where visitors can escape the crowds and immerse themselves in lush greenery, cascading waterfalls, and ancient ruins. The valley is named after its historic ironworks, some of which still stand today. For those who prefer the sea, Amalfi’s pebble beaches, such as Marina Grande, offer the perfect spot to bask in the sun or take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters. Boat tours along the coast provide a unique perspective of the region’s dramatic cliffs and hidden coves, including the famed Emerald Grotto, known for its dazzling green waters.

Fun fact: Amalfi was one of the four great maritime republics of Italy, alongside Venice, Pisa, and Genoa. During its peak in the 10th and 11th centuries, Amalfi established the Amalfi Tables, the earliest known maritime code that governed the Mediterranean Sea. These regulations were so influential that they remained in effect until 1570, demonstrating Amalfi’s historical significance as a formidable maritime power. Today, this legacy lives on, not only in its historical sites but also in the town’s enduring spirit of adventure and discovery.