The ancient Colosseum is Italy’s most popular attraction and it’s easy to see why. Dizzying in both scale and history, this storied spectacle has been standing for nearly 2,000 years. Channel your inner Russell Crowe and step into the arena where battles were fought and legends were born.

With so many visitors clamouring to take in this world wonder, be sure to save yourself some time and book a skip the line tour.

Few countries inspire romance quite like Italy and this is perhaps best exemplified on the canals of Venice. There is a singular joy to be found cruising along the waterways of this legendary locale. A gondola ride goes perfectly with visits to St. Mark’s Square or Doge’s Palace and for the ultimate Venetian escape, why not combine it with a journey on the iconic Venice Simplon-Orient-Express?

Italy is synonymous with the finest food and drink and anyone looking for world class wine should make beeline for Tuscany. Known for picturesque vineyards and rolling hills, this region is ripe for exploration, when you’re not busy sipping vintage Chianti of course.

Whilst popular as a driving holiday, the luscious landscape also lends itself well to more active adventures such as walking tours.

Just a short ride across the Gulf of Naples, the idyllic island of Capri lies waiting to be explored. Perfect for a day trip or an overnight stay, wander through Capri’s charming streets and their boutique shops and cafés, or perhaps discover the many walking trails and magical sea caves.

Pompeii was a thriving ancient town before the catastrophic eruption of nearby Mount Vesuvius buried the city in ash nearly 2,000 years ago. This UNESCO World Heritage Site provides a rare and fascinating glimpse into the realities of how life was during the Roman times. The well-preserved remains include bathhouses and homes adorned with detailed frescoes.

If you are looking for relaxation on your trip to Italy, look no further than the picturesque shores of Sardinia. White sandy beaches, lush hinterland and quaint towns make it an idyllic holiday destination. Make the most of your visit by staying on both the east and west coast and renting a car so you can find the island’s hidden gems.

Combine history, culture and scenery in one outing with a visit to the world-renowned Il Duomo in Florence. The famous dome defines the city’s skyline and is a highlight that shouldn’t be missed!

Skip the long queues with a ticket to ascend the 463 steps to the top as you listen to your guide’s fascinating insight into the building’s creation over 700 years ago.

There are many exceptional landscapes to take in throughout Italy and perhaps none are more legendary than the spectacularly scenic Amalfi Coast. This stretch of majestic coastline along the southern edge of Italy’s Sorrentine peninsula is awash with pastel-coloured fishing villages, picturesque beaches and dramatic cliffs.

Whilst there are a number of ways to enjoy these vibrant vistas, a popular way is to take it in on foot. Discover centuries old mule trails leading to quiet corners of one of Italy’s most treasured areas and live ‘la dolce vita’.   

Experience another side of Italy with a trip to the glistening lakes. Dazzling and glamorous in equal measure, a boat trip across Lake Garda or Lake Como is a must for making the most of this glorious region. Couple this with a few days beautiful Verona and you have the makings of an outstanding holiday.

Italy is the birthplace of so many of the world's favourite foods, you can be almost guaranteed a fantastic meal wherever you go. Why not visit the home of the pizza in Naples, sample a top rated gelateria in Rome or maybe eat pasta in the gastronomic hot spot of Bologna?

To really make the most of your visit, don’t stop at eating the food but try your hand at making it yourself!