italy vacation planner
Italy
Fulfill the Dream
ITALIAN GOVERNMENT TOURIST BOARD
WWW. ITALIANTOURISM . COM
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
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Introduction
Why Italy Loves You
ITCP – The Mark of Quality and Reliability
2-3
2
3
Which Is Your Italy
4-5
Italians Who Changed Our World
6-7
The Art of the City
8-9
The Living Past: Italy’s Museums and Historic Sites 10-12
Italy’s Museums
10-12
Remains to Be Seen
12
Performing Arts
Concert Halls & Theaters
Music Festivals
13-15
13
14-15
Cinema: Screening Italy
16
A Feast for the Senses
17-19
Shopping
20-21
21
Comparative-Size Charts
Great Pursuits for the Great Outdoors
22
Natural Therapy: Italy’s Spas
23
Italy – A Land for All Seasons
24-25
25
Major Cities: Average Temperatures Chart
Land of Discovery: Italy by the Region
Map of Italy
Regions of the North
Italy’s Central Regions
Regions of the South
Planning the Perfect Vacation
26-41
26-27
28-32
33-36
37-41
America’s Italy Specialists
42-47
43-47
General Information
48-50
Why Italy Loves You
The Mark of Quality and Reliability
Dear Friends,
Italy has long been fascinated with America. The Americans gave us a reason
to dream of new horizons and better opportunities. America captured our
hearts and imagination and gave us a chance to envision a broader and
more fruitful future. As a people, we were attracted to your optimism, your
sense of self-accomplishment and your freedom – but, more significantly,
we were attracted to your smiles.
We still are. Americans willingly embrace our people, culture and
history as part of your own. You enjoy, respect and revel in our lifestyle,
our gastronomy, our traditions and our history. And we have been
continually delighted to share these experiences with you.
We see you visiting the eternal city of Rome, a city where we all once
belonged. We watch you stroll by the Trevi Fountain in awe and amazement,
throwing coins and making wishes or admiring the mighty Colosseum and
the magnificent Roman Forum, those epic gateways to the past.
Through your enthusiasm and curiosity we feel compelled to welcome,
understand and befriend you – as well as make you smile.
The pages of this book briefly tell the story of who we are and how our
country can inspire emotions and enrich your life experience. With the
help of our partners, we want to share this extraordinary journey with you.
So indulge yourself and fulfill your dream!
Riccardo Strano
Director ~ The Italian Government Tourist Board
North America
Offering peerless experience, dedication and knowledge, Italian Travel Promotion Council ITPC member
companies represent the top echelon of U.S. Tour Operators promoting Italy as a destination. When planning
a vacation to Italy, consulting an ITPC professional can turn an ordinary trip into the vacation of a lifetime.
ITPC member companies cover the spectrum of itineraries. You can choose from escorted tours to independent
hotel arrangements, sightseeing, villa and apartment rentals, pilgrimage tours, cooking schools, food and wine
tours, car rentals, cruises, walking, hiking or biking tours, sporting events, art and music programs, private
limousines and more. ITPC members are the undisputed experts for all aspects of travel to Italy.
To better assist you in planning your vacation, our members offer an ideal combination of cutting edge technology
for fast Web access together with friendly and responsive offices and professional call centers located throughout
the United States. Whether traveling on a budget or the sky's the limit, ITPC members are committed to satisfying
each traveler's needs with the utmost dedication and care. Customer service and satisfaction is a primary goal of the
organization. Member companies are chosen on the basis of their longstanding professionalism and service to the
travel industry. Qualifications are regularly reviewed and all members must abide by the association's strict code
of ethics.
Please use this guide to further whet your appetite for Italy, then call, visit or click on a member company for
additional information. You will find a directory of ITPC members towards the back of this publication. As
always, the ITPC is committed to giving you, the American traveler, the best possible travel experience to Italy.
Sincerely,
Mauro Galli
ITPC Chairman
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WHICH IS YOUR ITALY?
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Italy’s love affair with the American traveler is
one of the longest, most satisfying relationships
between two civilizations. Italy appeals to the
heart and soul of every American traveler,
whether young or old, traveling alone or with
a group, on a budget or seeking luxury. Which
is why, year after year, Italy ranks as the most
requested foreign destination by all Americans.
Romantic Couples fall for Italy’s inspiring beauty, as
seen in cities like Venice, Rome and Verona, home of
Romeo and Juliet. All along the Amalfi coast places
like Positano, Sorrento, Praiano and Ravello offer
spectacular views of the coral-blue sea and the fabled
islands of Capri and Ischia. From a secluded B&B or a
whitewashed Villa tucked amongst floral cliffs this land
beckons to anyone who is in love with someone special
and with life itself. Custom-designed trips known as
FITs allow couples to customize their vacation, ensuring
lifelong memories.
Seniors appreciate Italy’s relaxed pace of life. It
shows in the faces of the Italians that can be found
strolling arm-in-arm in each piazza, sitting and
sipping coffee at sidewalk cafés and admiring amazing
works of art. Italy offers seniors an opportunity to
cherish their golden years as they enjoy La Dolce
Vita beneath Italy’s sunny skies. Escorted Tours by
motor coach provides a safe, relaxed mode of travel
and the comforting camaraderie of like-minded
companions on an unforgettable life journey.
For Students of History and the Arts, Italy is a must,
with treasures from civilizations dating back thousands
of years. Etruscan, Roman and Greek temples lie side
Young & Active travelers of any age will find
endless adventure in Italy. From Alpine skiing to
windsurfing on the Italian Riviera, biking through
Tuscany, hiking the ancient Dolomites and sailing
along the Amalfi coast. Climb an active volcano in
Sicily, ride a hot air balloon over the Tuscan hills,
then catch a game of world-class championship
soccer, Formula One racing or a live open-air
concert. At night, the streets are teeming with life,
offering countless cafés, restaurants, festivals and
nightclubs. Hosted Tours and flexible independent
FIT itineraries can easily match your desires,
schedule and budget.
Italy was made for lovers of Food & Wine. From
Barolo to Brunello, over 400 varieties of wine grace
the Italian table. Hundreds of cheeses from the aged,
aromatic Parmigiano Reggiano to the succulently soft
Mozzarella di Bufala are all produced in strict,
time-honored ways. Pasta, hams, fish, veal, fresh
organic produce, hot crusty bread and the best olive
oil anywhere make Italy a gourmet’s paradise. Cooking
Classes, Culinary Tours, Wine Tours and more are specifically
designed for food lovers to savor the best that Italy
has to offer.
Families experience Italy in a wholly unique way,
creating moments that will last forever, bringing
history and culture to life in the eyes and minds of
your children. Imagine them gazing at the Colosseum
for the first time, riding a gondola in Venice,
marveling at the Leaning Tower of Pisa or the David in
Florence. Family travel can be independent with your
own Rental Car, and can include Hotels, Villas and
Sightseeing Tours along the way. Or you could travel
between the cities by High-Speed Rail – a perennial
children’s favorite.
Italy offers Singles an opportunity to travel simply
and comfortably. The Italians are a warm, welcoming
people. You’ll find yourself making new friends with
other travelers and locals on daily sightseeing tours,
while shopping, and especially at the nightclubs,
cafés and restaurants. Hosted Tours or customized
trips, known as FITs, are an ideal way for singles to
begin their lifelong affair with Italy.
by side with medieval fort towns and majestic
Renaissance cities. Over forty percent of the world's
known works of art are found in Italy, while
architectural wonders seem to fill every corner:
Bernini's columns in Rome, Brunelleschi's dome in
Florence, Palladio's villas in Veneto, the list is endless.
Design a Custom Tour with friends or take a set itinerary
that fits your cultural interests. Whatever your budget,
what awaits you is priceless.
“In the heart of every man,
wherever he is born...there
is one small corner which
is Italian.”
luigi barzini
Groups such as clubs, organizations, parishes, and
communities congregate in Italy, since it’s a
destination that can host a variety of interests –
choirs, bands, golf, biking, hiking, fishing, scuba
diving, sports, opera, concerts, shopping, cooking,
religion, art, archeology and gourmet food and
wine. ITPC Specialists will work together with your
organization to create special Customized Tours that
will provide the maximum enjoyment and value to
your group.
Whichever way you want to experience this magical
land, America's top travel providers to Italy (see list,
starting on page 43), are here to help you make the
most of your trip – and save you time and money.
Buon Viaggio!
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ITALIANS
WHO CHANGED OUR WORLD
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Introducing the Italians who redefined culture,
history and our perspective in both classic and
contemporary times.
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Donatello
Considered the founder of modern sculpture,
Donato de Bardi was born in Florence in 1386. His
bronze David was the first nude statue of the Renaissance.
“A different language is a
different vision of life.”
federico fellini
Masaccio
Enrico Caruso
Tommaso Masaccio was born in San Giovanni Valdarno,
Tuscany in 1401. Leonardo, Michelangelo and Raphael
were all influenced by his work, a collection of which lies
in the Brancacci Chapel of Santa Maria del Carmine
in Florence.
Born in Naples in 1873, Caruso is perhaps the greatest
operatic tenor ever. He emigrated to the United States
in 1905 due to his heavily criticized interpretation of
Elisir D’Amore.
Titian
Raphael
Raffaello Sanzio was born in Urbino in 1493. His superb
use of perspective, realism and animation is exemplified
by the School of Athens adorning the walls of the Vatican.
Tiziano Vecellio was born in Pieve di Cadore in the
Dolomites in 1490. Venice's master painter, his most
recognized work, l'Amor Sacro e l'Amor Profano, is on
display at the Galleria Borghese in Rome.
St. Francis of Assisi
Gian Lorenzo Bernini
Giovanni Francesco Barnardone was born to a wealthy
merchant family in Assisi around 1181. After taking a vow
of poverty, he preached for simplicity and humility before
God – to animals as well as to humans. The founder of
the Franciscan order, he is also the patron saint of
animals and of the environment.
Born in Naples in 1598, Bernini was the dominant figure
of Italian baroque sculpture and architecture, using false
perspective and trompe l'oeil to capture the spectator.
His works include St. Peter's Throne in the Vatican and
numerous Roman churches.
Christopher Columbus
Born in Genova in 1451, his home still stands today.
Columbus guided his three-vessel expedition across the
Atlantic Ocean in 1492, aiming to reach the Far East
through a westward course. Instead, he landed in the
Caribbean and is credited with rediscovering America in
modern times.
Michelangelo Buonarroti
Born in Caprese, near Florence, in 1475, this magnificent
artist and sculptor transformed blocks of marble into
figures full of life. His immortal works include the
Sistine Chapel in the Vatican Museum, the Pieta and
The Last Judgement.
Andrea Palladio
One of history’s most influential architects, born in
Padova in 1508. Thomas Jefferson's Monticello home was
based on Palladio's pioneering designs. The Veneto
region features numerous Palladian villas.
Amerigo Vespucci
Filippo Brunelleschi
Born in Florence in 1454, Amerigo was a navigator and
merchant who estimated the world's circumference within
50 miles. He concluded America was not the eastern part
of Asia, as Columbus believed, but a new continent. It is
duly named after him.
Born in Florence in 1377, Brunelleschi was an architect,
engineer and an inventor. His crowning masterpiece, the
Duomo in Florence established new rules of proportion
and symmetry.
Valentino
Marco Polo
Dante Alighieri
Born in Venice in 1254, Marco Polo’s 24-year odyssey
through Asia opened up the Orient to Europe. He
traveled the ancient Silk Route, was a guest at the court of
the emperor Kublai Khan, and his accounts became the
greatest exotic travelogues of their day.
A literary colossus, born in Florence in 1265, author of
The Divine Comedy and father of the Italian language.
Sandro Botticelli
A friend of both Leonardo and Michelangelo, born in
1445 and renowned for religious and secular-themed
masterpieces such as the Primavera, Birth of Venus and
Adoration of the Magi.
Gianni Versace
Galileo Galilei
Born in Pisa in 1564, the inventor of the first
astronomical telescope also presaged Newton's laws of
motion and confirmed the Copernican theory of the
solar system. Charged with heresy and forced to
renounce his theories, his work was officially recognized
by The Vatican in 1993.
Caravaggio
Born Michelangelo Merisi in Caravaggio, east of Milan,
in 1571, his baroque style explored the balance between
light and dark, portraying still life in astonishingly realistic
form - as shown in Basket of Fruit, The Musicians and
the Burial of Saint Lucy.
Giotto
Ambrogio Bondone was born in Vesipgnano, near
Ravenna, in 1267. He is best known for the emotion and
realism depicted in his frescoes, which grace the Scrovegni
Chapel in Padova and the Basilica of St. Francis in Assisi.
Leonardo da Vinci
Born in Vinci, near Florence, in 1452. A Renaissance
genius, world-renowned for his paintings, including
The Mona Lisa and The Last Supper. Leonardo was also a
master architect, engineer, mathematician and philosopher.
Innovative fashion designer Valentino Garavani was born
near Milan in 1932. His Collezione Bianca was the first
to have the magic V label. Valentino also designed
Jacqueline Kennedy’s wedding dress for her marriage to
Aristotle Onassis.
Niccolo Machiavelli
PIERO DELLA FRANCESCA
Born in Borgo San Sepolcro, Tuscany in 1416,
his major work is a series of frescos entitled
The Legend of the True Cross adorning the
choir of San Francis in Arezzo. Overlooked for
centuries, he is now acknowledged as one of
the supreme artists of the 15th century.
Born in Florence in 1469, Machiavelli was a political
philosopher, a historian, writer, statesman and diplomat.
His book, “The Prince,” is a guide to acquiring,
maintaining and deploying political power; its
controversial ideas are still taught and studied today.
Artemisia Gentileschi
Born in Rome in 1593, Artemisia was the daughter of
artist Orazio Gentileschi. Recognized as the first woman
artist in a male-dominated world of post-Renaissance art,
her works are to be found in Rome and in Florence's
Uffizi Gallery.
Born in Reggio Calabria in 1946, couture icon Versace is
known for his striking colors, materials, and cuts, and
opened his first boutique in Milan's Via della Spiga in 1978.
Luciano Pavarotti
Born on the outskirts of Modena in 1935 and arguably
the most important tenor since Caruso, Pavarotti
combines accuracy of pitch and quality of sound
production with a natural musicality. He is widely
acknowledged for having popularized opera.
Umberto Eco
The author of Foucault’s Pendulum and The Name of
the Rose was born in Alessandria, Piemonte in 1932.
His background in philosophy, medieval literature and
mysticism has captured a generation of loyal readers.
Enzo Ferrari
Born in Modena in 1898, Ferrari's innovation, beauty
and style in automotive design continues to make his
vehicles the most sought after in the world.
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THE ART OF THE CITY
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Italy is a living museum. Her public structures
comprise vivid, visible art and architecture that
stand as testaments to the country’s history and
culture. The Roman and Greek empires
influenced early Italian design with their mighty
temples and impressive amphitheaters, while
Renaissance, Baroque and Gothic design later
played important parts in inspiring both
architects and artists in the centuries to come.
Their tangible, timeless legacies can be witnessed
in every major Italian city and town.
ROME
Founded in 754 BC by orphaned brothers Romulus
and Remus, a walk through Rome is a walk through
time. From the Colosseum to the Pantheon to the
immaculate aqueducts and roads, the Roman
Empire influenced design, engineering and
architecture for centuries to come. The Vatican
offers the awe-inspiring St. Peter’s Basilica, the
Vatican Museums, housing enormous collections of
art and the frescoed ceilings of the Sistine Chapel by
Michelangelo. From Bernini to Bramante, Raphael
and Caravaggio, marvel at the masterpieces that
embellish and define the Eternal City: paintings,
sculptures, palaces and ever-flowing fountains.
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VENICE
Venice is a feast of magnificent churches, lavish
palazzi and stately bridges, all built upon a labyrinth
of waterways and streets that are works of art in
themselves. Stroll across the Rialto Bridge for an
eagle-eye view of the Grand Canal and the gondolas.
Delight in the Byzantine wonder of St. Mark’s
Basilica, watch St. Mark’s Square bell tower pierce
the sky and revel in the riches of the city’s museums.
The Gallerie dell’Accademia showcases Venetian
masters such as Tintoretto, Bellini, Giorgione and
Carpaccio, while the Peggy Guggenheim Collection
presents modern giants like Picasso, Dali, Pollock
and Miro.
“I saw the angel in the
marble and carved
until I set him free.”
michelangelo buonarroti
Ponte Vecchio, Florence
BOLOGNA
This enchanting medieval city in the heart of the
Emilia-Romagna region is peppered with red-brick
roofs and miles of porticos, around which waft
intense aromas of Bologna’s famous culinary
delights. Visitors will be tempted by plump
tortellini, scrumptious tagliatelle with ragu,
fragrant mortadella and more. These hearty, savory
dishes literally capture the true flavor of this
wonderful old town – as well as giving guests the
fuel to explore it! Stroll through the Piazza
Maggiore or scale the Torre Asinelli, one of
Bologna’s Due Torri (Two Towers), a monumental
reminder of its historic past. The city is also home
to the western world’s oldest university, which fills
the atmosphere with a vibrant and passionate
spirit. A trip to Bologna is an absolute treat for all
the senses.
FLORENCE
Built by the Romans and immortalized by the
Renaissance, Florence affords an unforgettable
voyage through timeless art and architecture. Savor
the contrast between the Boboli Garden’s green,
groomed perfection, Brunelleschi's bold, red-tiled
Duomo and Giotto's 14th-century Campanile in
red, white and green marble. Gothic and
Romanesque facades joust for attention on the
churches of Santa Croce and Santa Maria Novella.
Priceless works by Botticelli, Giotto, Michelangelo
and Da Vinci fill the halls of the Uffizi Gallery.
Within the Brancacci Chapel Masaccio's Adam and
Eve are expelled from the Garden of Eden, their
shame and despair palpable. Meanwhile, on the
Ponte Vecchio, the latest generation of craftsmen
fashion unique art one can wear. It’s as if the
Renaissance never ceased: Florence’s enlightenment
continues to enchant the world.
NAPLES
In the 17th century Naples reigned as the undisputed
cultural capital of Europe. Indeed, over 40% of
Italy's works of art still reside here. Within its
National Museum of Archeology lies a bountiful
collection of artifacts, sculptures and mosaics recalling
its past as well as that of Rome, Greece, Egypt,
Pompeii and Herculaneum. Music and song has long
defined this sunny city: Naples is home to the San
Carlo opera house, Europe’s oldest working theatre
since 1737. Architecturally, the jewel in the crown is
the Galleria Umberto I; its elegant glass dome and
barreled vaults now host shops and restaurants.
Nearby, the vast Piazza del Plebescito embraces the
Royal Palace and the church of St. Francis of Paola.
At day’s end, the sun glints on the towers of the
13th-century Maschio Angioino fortress.
PALERMO
This ancient Phoenician seaside colony features
a spectrum of architectural styles reflecting many
civilizations: Greek, Roman, Arabic, Norman,
Spanish, French and Byzantine. Each built upon
and embellished buildings created by successive
cultures, creating a wonderful harmony of designs.
From the stunning Royal Palace to the Palatine
chapel’s lustrous Byzantine mosaics; from St. John
of the Hermit’s original Arab crimson-colored
domes and its serene cloisters to the three-tiered
Baroque sculptural magnificence at the intersection
of Quattro Canti. Palermo’s artistry also finds
expression in its theaters: at The Teatro Massimo
and the Teatro Politeama Garibaldi, concerts and
ballet have been performed for centuries.
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ROME
Capitoline Museums
THE LIVING PAST:
ITALY’S MUSEUMS AND HISTORIC SITES
Two palaces designed by Michelangelo, The Palazzo
Nuovo and the Palazzo dei Conservatori, containing
numerous paintings and classical sculptures.
The Palatine
One of the city’s premier ancient sites of Rome, displaying
ruins ranging from the simple to the very luxurious.
Museo dell’Auto
One of the largest auto museums in the world and the
only one of its kind in Italy, this stylistically modern
building houses a collection of 170 cars.
Pinacoteca Agnelli
Architect Renzo Piano built this structure atop the Fiat
building, featuring the private collection of Giovanni and
Marella Agnelli, including works from Canaletto, Canova
and Matisse.
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Palazzo Corsini and the National Gallery of Antique Art
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Few countries can claim as extensive a heritage
of artistic expression. To experience Italy’s art
firsthand is to touch the soul of the country.
From archeological sites to architecture, museums
and galleries, you will discover the many ways
Italy’s craftsmen and artists have articulated their
passion over thousands of years.
“Art is never finished,
only abandoned”
leonardo da vinci
Originally the Palace of the Corsini Family who, upon
the state’s acquisition, donated their many paintings,
essentially founding the national art collection.
VENICE
Accademia
Museo Nazionale
An incomparable collection of paintings spanning five
centuries through the Byzantine, Baroque, Renaissance
and International Gothic periods.
One of the world’s leading museums of Classical art
housing many antiquities. It has five branches: Palazzo
Altemps, the Baths of Diocletian, the Aula Ottagona,
the Crypta Balbi and the Palazzo Massimo.
Ca’ d’Oro
Sitting on the Grand Canal, the “House of Gold” is a
public gallery boasting an ornate, gold-leaf Gothic façade.
Vatican Museums
Basilica di San Marco
Residence of the Sistine Chapel and the Raphael Rooms,
including many of the most important and unique art
collections on earth.
The most famous church in Venice, set in St. Mark’s
Square, famous for its elaborate Byzantine exterior,
façade mosaics and the four bronze horses that sit atop
the entrance.
ITALY’S MUSEUMS
Brancacci Chapel
Roman Forum
FLORENCE
Galleria dell’Accademia
Built inside the church of Santa Maria del Carmine,
famous for the frescoes on the Life of St. Peter started by
Masolino and his pupil Masaccio, and completed by
Filippino Lippi.
The central area around which the commerce of ancient
Rome developed in the 2nd century BC. Its vivid remains
demonstrate the use of municipal places during the era.
Museo Correr
The Pantheon
Completed in 27 BC this circular temple, dedicated
to “all the gods,” is Rome’s most well-preserved
ancient building.
Doge’s Palace
Founded in 1563, the first school in Europe to teach the
methods of painting, drawing and sculpture.
Bargello Museum
Formerly a town hall and prison, this houses Italy’s finest
collection of Renaissance sculpture.
Santa Croce
A Gothic church containing the tombs of famous
Florentines, such as Michelangelo, Machiavelli and
Galileo. Alongside is the Pazzi Chapel designed by
Brunelleschi.
The Colosseum
The heart of this museum comprises the magnificent
collection of Theodoro Correr, donated to the city of Venice.
A Gothic work of art on the Grand Canal, founded in
the 9th century, this is the official residence of each ruler
(“doge”) of Venice, with the offices of several political
institutions within.
Home to a vast collection of Roman, Greek, Egyptian and
Etruscan artifacts.
NAPLES
Palazzo Reale di Capodimonte
Rome’s greatest amphitheatre, capable of seating 55,000
spectators. It was used for deadly gladiatorial combats and
ferocious animal fights staged by the emperors and
wealthy citizens.
Museo dell’Opera del Duomo
This museum holds the works of Raphael, Perugino,
Titian and Botticelli.
A small museum in the Palazzo Venier dei Leoni on the
Grand Canal, home of the art collection of the niece of
Solomon R. Guggenheim.
MACRO
Museo Vetrario (Murano)
National Archeological Museum
The Museum of Contemporary Art of Rome, built at
the beginning of the 20th century on a large industrial
complex, is now a dynamic center of cultural activity.
This breathtaking museum showcases wonderful antique
pieces of glass from the 16th and 17th centuries, when
Murano was the main glass-producing center in Europe.
Archeological Museum
Features works, carvings and tools by Donatello,
Brunelleschi and Luca della Robbia, plus a section
dedicated to the history of the Duomo.
Dedicated to astronomy, mathematics and navigation.
One of the world’s most important archeological
museums, rebuilt in the late 1600’s as the core of
Naples University.
Pitti Palace
The Royal Palace
Built by Brunelleschi for banker Luca Pitti, later purchased
by the Medici, contains several museums including
The Palatine Gallery, the Royal Apartments, the
Silverware Museum, the Modern Art Gallery and the
Boboli Gardens.
Behind its beautiful façade are great halls of furniture
and paintings, the Biblioteca Nazionale and a small
private theater.
Museum of the History of Science
Uffizi Gallery
Italy’s supreme art gallery, created by the architect Vasari,
contains an unparalleled collection of paintings from
Italy's best known masters.
San Lorenzo
The Medici family parish church contains the Medici
Chapels and mausoleum, as well as works by Donatello,
Michelangelo and Brunelleschi.
Filangieri Museum
TURIN
Palazzo Reale
The seat of the royal Savoy family until the 1861
unification of Italy took place, displaying ornately
decorated apartments, and splendid ceilings painted
by Seyter, Miel and Morello.
Built within the Renaissance Palazzo Cuomo this museum
offers collections of porcelain, paintings, archeological
finds, manuscripts and embroidery.
Armeria Reale
Duomo di San Gennaro
Mole Antonelliana
Within the Duomo is the very lavish San Gennaro Chapel
housing the relics of the patron Saint of Naples.
One of Turin’s foremost symbols of architecture, it now
houses the National Museum of Cinema.
A wing of the Palazzo Reale, opened in 1837 containing
one of the richest collections of arms and armory.
Museo Egizio
The Egyptian Museum of Turin was established in 1824,
with antiquities from about 4000 BC to 639 AD.
Peggy Guggenheim Collection
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PERFORMING ARTS
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Nowhere on earth are the performing arts
celebrated so joyously as in Italy. From drama
to opera to music to film, here are just some
of the places where you can indulge your
particular passion.
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Destroyed in a fire in 1996, for the second time, this
Venice landmark was rebuilt entirely in a 19th-century style.
www.teatrolafenice.it
Teatro Massimo (Palermo)
Designed by a father and son team in the 1800’s,
combining a classical exterior and Liberty-style interior,
the theater was renovated and reopened to the public in
1997, after almost 20 years of disuse.
MILAN
Pinacoteca di Brera
REMAINS TO BE SEEN
www.teatromassimo.it
Pompeii, along with Herculaneum, was destroyed by the
Teatro Massimo Bellini (Catania)
Milan’s most esteemed museum, where the Accademia di
Belle Arti was founded in the 1700’s, its 38 rooms host a
fine art collection covering Renaissance and Baroque art
from the 15th to 20th century.
eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD.
www.pompeiisites.org
Metapontum is an ancient city on the Gulf of Taranto
settled by Greeks around 700 BC, where Pythagoras
taught in the sixth century.
Segesta, in northwest Sicily, was first a Trojan colony, then
a Carthaginian dependency after 400 BC.
Agrigento & the Valley of the Temples are majestic Greek
structures, dating back to the 6th and 5th centuries BC,
and one of UNESCO’s World Heritage sites.
Cerveteri is a vast Etruscan necropolis in Lazio; this
spectacular network of mysterious tombs, shadowy crypts
and burial mounds dates back to the 7th century BC.
Ostia Antica, with its colorful frescoes and detailed
mosaics, show how life once was in this thriving port on
the Tiber river.
The Matera Sassi is an intricate labyrinth of ancient rock
dwellings in the Gravina of Matera, comprising alleys and
stairways, caves, arches, galleries, gardens and terraces.
Nuraghi, these extraordinary Bronze Age towers of stone,
spiraling upward into cones, number over 7,000 and
span the island of Sardinia. How they were actually built
and maneuvered into place remains a mystery. The
nuraghi group Su Nuraxi, near Barumini, is a UNESCO
World Heritage site. Its complex network of towers linked
to walls and ramparts were probably used as dwellings,
fortresses, tombs and meeting places for ancient peoples.
Renowned for the acoustics of its extravagant interior,
and one of Europe’s most beautiful entrance halls,
this glorious venue was built to pay homage to composer
Vincenzo Bellini.
The Museum of Contemporary Art (CIMAC)
Opened in 1984, located on the 2nd floor of Palazzo
Reale, showcasing the cream of modern Italian and
international artists.
Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II
A glorious glass- and steel-covered arcade connected
to Piazza della Scala, known for its high-end stores
and restaurants.
Il Duomo (Milan Cathedral)
This grandiose Gothic Cathedral in the city’s main square
is made of white marble, with a roof of 135 spires and
countless statues and gargoyles, and can hold up to
40,000 worshippers.
Teatro alla Scala
12
Gran Teatro la Fenice (Venice)
Perhaps the definitive opera house, opened in 1778, the
theatre also houses the Museo Teatrale, featuring a
remarkable array of opera costumes, paintings, scripts,
statues and other materials.
Santa Maria delle Grazie
Built between 1465 and 1482, this Renaissance church is
famous for the mural depicting the Last Supper by
Leonardo Da Vinci.
www.teatromassimobellini.it
Teatro Dell’Opera (Rome)
Also known as Teatro Costanzi.
www.operaroma.it
Teatro Regio (Parma)
A 19th century opera house, built in 1821-29, this
neo-classical building is considered one of the most
important and famous shrines of Italian music.
www.teatroregioparma.org
Teatro Rossini Lugo (Ravenna)
The theatre, named Rossini in 1859, still sports in its
18th century style, an austere façade with ornamental
pillars and plaster cornices at each story.
www.teatrorossini.it
Teatro San Carlo, Naples
Teatro San Carlo (Naples)
CONCERT HALLS & THEATERS
Anfiteatro Romano (Cagliari)
After being destroyed by a fire in 1816, the theater was
rebuilt within ten months and now boasts an orchestra
pit conceived by Giuseppe Verdi in 1872.
A 2nd century Roman amphitheater carved out of the
quarry rock, complete with underground cages attesting
to its gladiatorial history.
www.teatrosancarlo.it
www.teatroliricodicagliari.it
This famous neo-classical theater, originally built in 1776
on the site of Santa Maria della Scala, boasts an imposing
façade and has one of the world’s largest stages.
Teatro Carlo Felice (Genova)
A perfect example of the traditional Italian horseshoe
design originally built in the early 1800’s, refurbished
in the 1990’s after damage from World War 11, with a
scenic triangular tower and striking façade.
Teatro alla Scala (Milan)
www.teatroallascala.org
Teatro Verdi (Florence)
www.carlofelice.it
Established in 1854, this theater has undergone three
separate restorations over the past 50 years, while
retaining its classical Italian structure.
Teatro Comunale (Bologna)
www.teatroverdifirenze.it
Built by Antonio Galli Bibiena in 1763 and decorated
with paintings by Luigi Busi and Luigi Samoggia from
the mid-19th century, this theater reopened in 1981.
www.comunalebologna.it
MUSIC FESTIVALS
March
Ravello Classical Music Festival
One of the oldest Italian festivals, this conceptualized the
idea of the “cultural event” and gave Ravello its reputation
as a “Città della musica.”
July
Arezzo Wave Festival
In the heart of Tuscany, the “Woodstock of Italy” is the
nation’s oldest rock concert, featuring many different
stages for music, literature, sports and more.
www.arezzowave.com
Estate Musicale Chigiana
www.rcs.amalficoast.it
San Remo Festival
The world-famous celebration of the Italian Popular
Song takes place on the Italian Riviera at the Teatro
Ariston, attracting guests and renowned artists from all
over the world.
Plan your trip with specialists www.italiantravelpromotioncouncil.org
www.sanremostory.it
14
Discover more of Italy www.italiantourism.com
15
May
Maggio Musicale Fiorentino
The city’s biggest arts festival was founded in 1933 and is
hosted at the Teatro Comunale, featuring an international
program of drama, dance, opera and orchestras.
www.maggiofiorentino.com
June
Arena Summer Festival in Verona
Each year over 500,000 people flock to see opera in this
20,000-seat Roman arena, the world’s third largest
amphitheater, and among the most well-preserved.
Siena’s Santa Maria della Scala and the church of
Sant'Agostino are just two of the beautiful venues
providing the stages for the Accademia Musicale Chigiana.
www.chigiana.it
Festival Pucciniano
This Puccini Festival in Pisa began in 1930 according to
Puccini’s own documented wishes: “…once I would like to
come here and listen to one of my operas in the open air..”
www.puccinifestival.it
Festival della Valle d'Itrira
An annual opera and classical music festival held in the town
of Martina Franca in Puglia, specializing in reviving
unknown works, with supporting talks, recitals and oratorios.
www.festivaldellavalleditria.it
Rossini Opera Festival
www.arena.it
Festival Internazionale Dell’Operetta
www.heineken.it
Held at Trieste’s Teatro Comunale “Giuseppe Verdi,” this
festival of Light Opera features world-renowned performers.
Macerata Opera Festival
Roccella Jonica Jazz Festival
www.teatroverdi-trieste.com/verdi2004/index.htm
New Opera Festival of Rome
www.macerataopera.org
Featuring performances of all classical genres from
concerts to operas in the magnificent Courtyard of the
Basilica of San Clemente.
Pistoia Blues
www.newoperafestivaldiroma.com
Since this festival started in the early 1980’s, legends from
Muddy Waters to Dylan, Patti Smith to Santana have
graced its stage.
Ravenna Festival
www.pistoiablues.com
This multifaceted music event – also including opera,
concerts, dance, jazz, ethnic music, drama, film,
conventions and exhibitions – finds expression in
the town’s theaters, piazzas, basilicas, and other
public spaces.
Summer Opera Season at Caracalla
Rome's opera house relocates to the magnificent Baths of
Caracalla for outdoor opera and ballet performances
among the ruins.
www.operaroma.it
www.ravennafestival.org
Umbria Jazz Festival
This renowned event brings hundreds of artists to the
“green heart” of Italy, and offers street parades and
midnight clubs celebrating excellent jazz, opo and salsa.
www.rototomsunsplash.com
www.roccellajazz.net
Stresa Musical Weeks
Magical music on picturesque Lake Maggiore, where the
“Settimane Musicali” presents the world’s leading performers,
major symphony orchestras and chamber musicians.
www.settimanemusicali.net
September
MTV Day
Bologna, home of Europe's oldest university and Italy's
youngest crowd, hosts this popular youth event in a
spectacular grassed arena.
www.mtv.it
Roma Europa Festival
Top jazz, soul and R&B musicians gather at this festival
located in the spa town of Porretta, in Emilia Romagna.
This exciting event brings together music, dance, theater
and visual arts with performances by over 300 artists from
20 countries in various locations throughout the city.
www.porrettasoul.it
www.romaeuropa.net
Pescara Jazz Festival
Torino September Music
Since 1969 the city hosted this sophisticated international
jazz happening.
Piedmont’s famous classical music festival concentrates
on the core of the classical repertory, avant-garde, jazz,
and world music, all at the Teatro Regio.
Porretta Soul Festival
Osoppo in Udine hosts Europe’s most important reggae
festival, drawing campers and visitors from all over
Europe to the natural amphitheaters in Alpe-Adria’s
hilly countryside.
This major event, held in Reggio, Calabria, is known for
its cutting-edge crossover artistic performances, and
experimental theater shows, all in an acoustically splendid
arena within the natural rock landscape.
www.umbriajazz.com
www.spoletofestival.it
Sunsplash Reggae Festival
Inspired by fresh editions of Rossini’s works, this festival
of operas and concerts is beautifully set in Pesara, on the
Adriatic coast.
www.rossinioperafestival.it
One of the world’s most famous opera seasons, held in
the Sferisterio, an old ball game court.
A unique celebration, conceived to embrace all aspects
of the performing and figurative/visual arts, including
opera, concerts, jazz and dance.
Held in various churches and palaces in the historic city
of Sutri, where the popes once resided, these concerts
encompass classical, symphony and chamber music.
Heineken Jammin’ Festival
Imola is the setting for this three-day rock, pop and
hip-hop festival, which provides a huge camping area
for visitors.
Spoleto Festival of Two Worlds
August
Baroque Music Festival
www.pescarajazz.com
www.teatroregio.torino.it & www.comune.torino.it/settembremusica
S
S
S
CINEMA
A FEAST
SCREENING ITALY
FOR THE SENSES
Plan your trip with specialists www.italiantravelpromotioncouncil.org
S
16
Discover more of Italy www.italiantourism.com
17
Italy’s cities, villages, countryside and coastlines comprise the most beautiful, natural movie set on earth.
Tread the cobblestones of Rome where Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck rode on a scooter. Experience
Tuscany’s rolling hills where Diane Lane found solace. Lose yourself in the landscape of Mastroianni,
La Loren, Fellini, Bertolucci, Cardinale, Pasolini and Antonioni. Indulge in some of the country’s finest
film festivals. And take time to take in some of the following shining examples of Italy on celluloid.
Italian food is an extraordinary feast for the senses. Ranging from simple to hearty, sweet to spicy,
subtle to strong, each dish and delicacy is prepared with the freshest of ingredients. It’s no secret that
Italy’s cuisine is incomparable, but you may not know quite how to enjoy it to the fullest. Here’s a
helpful guide to exploring and savoring Italy’s culinary bounty.
FILMS SET IN ITALY
MANGIA! MANGIA!
“Pizza al taglio” - Pizza by the slice, typically a lunch item
Prima colazione - breakfast, the first meal of the day.
found at bakeries and offered in many different varieties.
when activity stops.
Spuntino - a snack, usually eaten in-between meals.
Merenda - an afternoon snack.
Aperitivo - an aperitif type of drink, usually wine, which is
drunk in order to stimulate the appetite before the meal.
Cena - dinner, usually eaten late, between 8pm and 11pm.
Adriatic Coast
Amarcord, 1974
Amalfi Coast
The Talented Mr. Ripley, 1999
Only You, 1994
Milan
The Bicycle Thief, 1948
Rome
Caro Diario (Dear Diary), 1994
La Dolce Vita, 1960
Roman Holiday, 1953
Sicily
Cinema Paradiso, 1998
The Godfather I and II, 1972 and 1974
Il Postino (The Postman), 1994
Tuscany
La Vita e’ Bella (Life Is Beautiful), 1997
Stealing Beauty, 1996
Under the Tuscan Sun, 2003
Venice
Pane e Tulipani (Bread and Tulips), 2001
The Italian Job, 2003
“The experience of this sweet
life, L’esperienza de questa
dolce vita.”
Pranzo - lunch, the midday meal from 1:00pm to 2:30pm,
Scarpetta - whatever is left on your plate is “scooped” up
with a morsel of fresh bread.
dante alighieri
Pantheon, Rome
ARENA DI VERONA
The Arena of Verona was built over 2,000 years
ago as an open-air amphitheatre, where Romans
could enjoy games, celebrations and fights. In
1913 it was converted into a venue for theatrical
performances, staging the Aida to celebrate
Giuseppe Verdi’s birthday centennial. It remains
one of the largest and most well-preserved
examples of Roman architecture.
MAKE A MEAL OF IT, ITALIAN STYLE
Italian meals consist of 3-4 courses:
Antipasto - a starter (hot or cold), meant to stimulate
the appetite.
Primo - the first course, usually a soup, rice or pasta dish.
This can be topped with a variety of sauces.
(Taste Tip: Never put cheese on any pasta containing seafood. Never chop pasta
with a knife, twirl the strands on your fork like an Italian!)
Secondo - the main dish, meat or fish served with a
contorno (side dish) of vegetables or salad.
(Taste Tip: Don't mix meat and seafood in the same meal. If your first course is
sauced with fish, don’t order a second course of meat.)
Dolce - Dessert or fruit and cheese, followed by coffee or
FESTIVALS
Venice Film Festival
Bologna Future Film Festival
Inaugurated in 1932, the oldest film festival in the world
is a prestigious part of the Biennale of Venice, and takes
place in late August, early September.
Dedicated imagery created with the latest IT, animation,
and special effects, this January showcase celebrates new
media and new digital technology.
www.labiennale.org
www.futurefilmfestival.org
Taormina International Film Festival
Turin Film Festival
Founded in 1955, this celluloid celebration screens films
in competition, previews, independent features,
documentaries, shorts and tributes to filmmakers of the
past – all at the Palazzo dei Congressi and the town’s
famous Greek Theatre in mid-June.
Italy's second biggest film festival takes place in November,
focusing on avant-garde and innovative modern cinema.
www.taorminafilmfest.it
Every December, this fascinating Alpine ski resort screens
the finest mysteries, spy stories, horror and sci-fi.
Rome International Film Festival (RIFF)
www.noirfest.com
Run by a non-profit cultural organization, RIFF’s mission
is to promote and increase the visibility of Italian and
international cinema and upcoming industry talent.
Films are showcased and awarded during March/April.
Flaiano Film Festival
www.riff.it
www.premiflaiano.it
a digestivo such as grappa.
www.torinofilmfest.org
Courmayeur Film Noir
Held in July and August, Pescara presents the very best
of the international film scene.
TIPS ON TIPPING
A coperto is a cover charge, an unavoidable “add-on”
that basically covers bread and water and is charged
per person. Even though tax and services are usually
included in the menu prices, it is typical and courteous
to leave a small tip of around 10 percent.
THE ART OF COFFEE
Making caffé is an art in itself and ordering un caffé
in Italy usually means an espresso. This means “to
press,” and refers to the pressure applied to the hot
water forced through the ground beans, creating this
strong, flavorful mixture, whose main variations are
listed below.
Lungo (long) - More water (about double) is filtered
through the grinds, giving a weaker taste, but still stronger
than normal coffee.
Ristretto (restricted) - Less water, yielding a stronger taste.
salumeria (pizzicagnolo) - for salami and other meat products
i mercati - markets, mainly for fresh fruits and vegetables
Food is sold by the etto (100 grams = 4 oz.), the chilo
(kilo: 1 = 2.2 lbs), or simply in numbers, such as 2 bananas.
WINE - ITALY’S GLORY IN A GLASS
Home to an astounding 2,000 home-grown grape
varieties, Italy produces and exports more wine than
any other country, also offering the largest variety
of categories.
Doppio (double) - Simply two espressos in one cup.
Plan your trip with specialists www.italiantravelpromotioncouncil.org
In Italy, barmen who save coffee by serving a lungo when a
doppio is ordered are frowned upon.
18
Corretto (corrected) - With a dash of liquor.
Americano - Diluted with hot water.
Macchiato (stained) - With a drop of steamed milk.
Con panna - With cream on top
Affogato - Served over ice-cream
Tip: When ordering a coffee in a bar, pay at the cash register first, then take the
receipt to the barista (bartender), who will then make your brew.
THE COOL OF GELATO
Gelato (ice cream) is the true taste of an Italian
summer. Here’s the scoop on the terms you need
to learn before you lick.
Cono - cone
Coppa - cup
Con panna - with whipped cream on top
Gelateria - ice cream parlor
Granita - shaved ice with assorted fruit juices and sugar
Tip: Pay first at the cassa (cash register), then present your receipt when
you order.
Discover more of Italy www.italiantourism.com
19
THE PLEASURE OF FOOD SHOPPING
Although there are many supermarket chains like
COOP and Esselunga, shopping for food in
the specialty shops makes for a richer, more
interesting experience.
il Forno or Fornaio - bread shop
il macellaio - for meat
la norcineria - for pork
una pasticceria - cakes, pastries and cookies
una latteria - for milk
alimentary - pasta, ham, cheese, general food
enoteca/vinaio - wide selection of wine
To guide consumers and ensure quality control,
the Denominazione di Origine Controllata or
DOC (Controlled Denomination of Origin) was
introduced in the early 60’s. Responsible for a
significant enhancement in the quality of Italian
wines, this regulation bears a little explanation to
assist your discovery of one of Italy’s true treasures.
DOC wines are produced in specific well-defined
regions, according to precise rules designed to
preserve the traditional wine-making practices.
For example, the rules for making Barolo differ
markedly from that of Chianti Classico.
In 1980, however, Italian authorities established
a superior classification of DOC wines: DOCG
(Controlled and Guaranteed Denomination
of Origin).
DOCG wines spring from the wine regions recognized
as the finest in the country. They produce less yield,
but with superior quality, DOCG wines must pass a
tasting committee before they can be bottled.
The nine DOCG regions are: Barbaresco, Barolo,
Brunello di Montalcino, Chianti (in seven subzones),
Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, Albana di Romagna,
Gattinara, Carmignano (red only) and Torgiano
Rosso riserva.
You can find most wines at an enoteca or a vineria.
An enoteca is a public or private place where a variety
of wines are displayed, sold or tasted. A winery, or
vineria, is a regional establishment with sales, wine
and food tastings.
OLIVE OIL, OUR LIQUID GREEN GOLD
Olives are grown all throughout Italy, from the
northern shores, to as far as Sicily and Puglia,
meaning each region naturally claims to be the best
producer of olive oil. Here’s a brief look inside this
fascinating industry, to help you pick out the perfect
bottle on your next trip.
How do oils differ?
Within 24 hours of harvest, olives are crushed whole
to maintain their naturally low acidity. The pulp is
pressed and the liquid obtained comprises water and
several oils, the two most common of which are:
Extra-virgin olive oil - The highest quality oil, noticeably
green, with acidity of less than 1%, made by cold-pressing
the olives - though the use of heat provides more quantity
of the oil, the lack of it provides for a better quality.
Virgin olive oil - Produced with no chemical treatment,
occasionally cold pressed method, with slightly higher
acidity between 1% and 3%.
There are three distinct categories of extra-virgin olive oil, each suited
to specific dishes and preparations.
Mild - Light and buttery, ideal for raw meats and carpaccio,
fish, vegetables, soups and pasta sauces.
Fruity - Slightly stronger and fruitier flavor, complements
grilled meats, pastas or rice in mild sauces, cooked
vegetables and bruschetta.
Fruity-Spicy - Aggressive taste, perfect for accompanying
rustic dishes like the panzanella, Tuscan bread and tomato
salad; ribollita, Tuscan vegetable soup; or pasta with beans.
Tips: How to taste oil
Like wine, olive oil is a high-quality product with
body, acidity and fruitiness that vary from product
to product. Experts recommend tasting it before you
buy, so it helps to train your palate to distinguish
one from the other. In general, good olive oil is
sweetish with a peppery tone to it.
Olive oil tasting should be carried out in a
controlled environment. Begin by purchasing a
couple of top-quality extra-virgin olive oils
produced in different parts of Italy along with
one of inexpensive brand to compare.
1. Look at the oil against the light to get an idea of
the color. For example, greener oils are usually
pressed from early-season olives.
2. Smell the aroma of each of the oils and sort
them from mild to strong to establish the ideal
order for tasting.
3. Taste them either on a piece of unsalted bread
or from separate glasses, using about a tea
spoonful of each oil. Cup the glass in your hand
to warm it and rotate the oil to release its
aromas and flavors. Sip and inhale to vaporize
the oil in your mouth.
4. Do not swallow. Spit the oil out and rinse
your mouth with some water, or have a small
piece of fruit to cleanse your palate before the
next sampling.
How to buy
Buy olive oil in small quantities, since it ages and
oxidizes. Check where the olive oil was bottled,
and ensure that the color is green or a dark green.
Look for the DOP label, a standard organization
that defines the various grades of olive oils: this
signifies improved quality.
The best place to buy olive oil is in frantoi in Italy,
where olive pressing takes place. You can also find
top quality oils on estates throughout Italy, from
the farms, or from other specialty shops such as an
enoteca where you buy wine as well.
S
S
SHOPPING
Plan your trip with specialists www.italiantravelpromotioncouncil.org
SAY HELLO TO SOME GOOD BUYS
Italian goods are renowned for their quality, design and
style, with every town offering unique craftsmanship.
From Milan’s peerless fashion designs to Como’s silk and
Cremona’s violins; from the marble of Massa Carrara,
Murano’s timeless Venetian glassware and the genius of
Piedmont’s goldsmiths to Ravenna’s mosaics and the
ceramic beauties of Vietri sul Mare; Italy is a shopper’s
and gift-giver’s wonderland where you always find more
than you bargained for.
Main street shopping
Italy’s main avenues and boulevards are vital to the country’s
shopping scene, and a long-observed social convention.
Here you can browse store windows with the Italians,
checking the prices and the latest trends as they stroll and
enjoy one another’s company.
Sale months
Set sale dates are established twice a year by the local
authorities, so can vary from city to city, but are normally
in January and July. Seasonal stock is marked down to
clear and make way for new merchandise.
BOLOGNA
La Piazzola (every Friday and Saturday)
Clothing, shoes and more are found at this labyrinthine
shopper’s paradise.
TURIN
Porta Palazzo (Monday through Saturday)
The day’s freshest food produce and meats are the main
attraction on this exuberant Roman piazza.
Steps from the Piazza San Lorenzo, this two-level indoor
market features fragrant cheeses and fresh meats and a
kaleidoscope of vegetables and fruit.
MILAN
Fiera di Senigallia (Saturdays)
Set by Navigli’s charming canals, the numerous stands
contain new and used articles from the ethnic and
modern to the vintage and collectible.
Mercato di Viale Papiniano (Tuesdays and Saturdays)
This gigantic market hosts plenty of vendors hawking their
wares, especially clothing and shoes.
to the consumer, and is found in Rovereto near Trento.
www.wineoutlet.it
Valdichiana Outlet Village is surrounded by charming
villages in the heart of the Val di Chiana near Arezzo
and offers over 20 thousand square meters of designer
shopping heaven.
www.franciacortaoutlet.it
www.lagalleriaoutletcenter.it
www.valdichianaoutlet.it
TAX-FREE SHOPPING IN ITALY (I.V.A. Refund) is 16.7%,
and is included in the purchase price of nearly
everything sold in Italy. Non-European residents
can claim a refund of IVA on each purchase over
€154.94 - except accommodations, dining or tourist
services. Ask for an IVA Refund Form when purchasing
items and receive a validation stamp from the Customs
Office at the airport you depart from or in offices
located throughout Rome.
over 52 shops featuring clothing and accessories for men,
women, children, home furnishings and food courts.
McArthurGlen Designer Outlets has three locations, Serravalle
Outlet near Alessandria, the Castello Romano near
Rome, and Barberino di Mugello near Florence. The
malls contain over 150 stores including clothing, footwear
and accessories, all at significant savings.
www.globalrefund.com
www.mcarthurglen.it
COMPARATIVE-SIZE CHARTS
WOMEN’S DRESS
USA
ITALY
2
36
4
38
6
40
8
42
10
44
12
46
14
48
16
50
5 1/2
35
6 1/2
36
7
37
7 1/2
38
8
38 1/2
8 1/2
39
9
40
10
41
34
44
36
46
38
48
40
50
42
52
44
54
46
56
48
58
14
36
14 1/2
37
15
38
15 1/2
39
16
40
16 1/2
41
17
42
17 1/2
43
6
39
6 1/2
40
7
40 1/2
7 1/2
41
8
41 1/2
8 1/2
42
9
42 1/2
9 1/2
43
18
52
20
54
22
56
10
43 1/2
10 1/2
44-44 1/2
11-11 1/2
45
WOMEN’S SHOES
USA
ITALY
MEN’S SIZES
Stroll this famous market specializing in clothing,
souvenirs and leather goods.
Mercato Centrale (Mondays through Saturdays)
and Quicksilver for the younger shopper, with Versace,
Pancaldi and Furla for the brand name seekers.
WineOutlet features wines sold directly from the producer
AREZZO
Piazza Grande (first weekend of each month)
FLORENCE
Piazza San Lorenzo (daily)
Fidenza Village, near Parma, mixes bargains like Reebok
Franciacorta Outlet Villane. Guess, Gianfranco Ferre and
Frette’s famous Italian linens are just a few of the top
fashion brands in this high-tech mall featuring an
Autogrill food court and located in Rodengo Saiano
near Brescia.
La Galleria Outlet Center Seriate is located near Bergamo, with
These are core events on the couture calendar.
In mid-March, the fall/winter collections are previewed.
The spring/summer collections are unveiled in October.
www.cameramoda.it
www.outletcastelguelfo.it
www.fidenzavillage.com
The savvy collector will love this market of antique furniture,
books, clothing and more, all from a time gone by.
MILAN FASHION WEEKS
Castel Guelfo Outlet is just 15 miles from Bologna, specializing
in designer labels and accessories priced up to 70 percent off.
There is a playground for kids.
www.fifty.it
www.fashiondistrict.it
ROME
Porta Portese (every Sunday)
www.vicolungooutlets.com
Fifty Factory Stores are located throughout the northern
part of Italy with two malls in Aosta, Biella, Meda near
Milan, and near Bologna. The malls contain mostly
contemporary fashions with brands like Cerruti,
Henry Lloyd and Guy Laroche.
Gran Balôn (Second Sunday of each month)
Antique buffs will enthuse over the selections of
collectible items and heirlooms.
name brands of clothing, sportswear accessories, home
furnishings, cosmetics and products for the whole family.
A more economical way of keeping up with the trends and
a relatively new concept here, these suburban centers
located within warehouses or in shopping villages offer
discounted designer labels from factory surplus or
previous seasons.
Fashion District offers an array of designer labels, with mall
outlets in Bagnolo San Vito in Mantova; Valmontone,
south of Rome; and Molfetta, near Bari.
An energetic, memorable market offering the finest food,
including freshly caught fish from local waters. Perfect for
preparing picnic lunches.
This enormous flea market specializes in clothing, shoes,
music CDs, house and kitchen wares, outdoor gear,
luggage, tools and much more.
Vicolungo Outlets, in Vicolungo near Novara, has prestigious
This celebrated market, one of Europe’s largest, is held in
the Piazza della Repubblica, highlighted by a vast selection
of delectable foodstuffs.
PALERMO
La Vucciria (daily)
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Food, clothing and housewares await the eager shopper at
this engaging marketplace, located in the Vomero district.
OPEN-AIR MARKETS
Campo de' Fiori (daily except Sundays)
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NAPLES
Mercato di Antignano (Monday through Saturday)
OUTLETS
USA
ITALY
DERUTA
MEN’S SHIRTS
Everyone wants to bring home a “piece” of
Italy as a reminder of their travels. The hill
town of Deruta, in Umbria, has been famed for
its glazed and glossy majolica earthenware
since the 15th and 16th centuries. Today’s
shopper will marvel at the elegant, vivid and
regal pieces created in the workshops and
bottegas by talented artisans.
USA
ITALY
MEN’S SHOES
USA
ITALY
CHILDREN’S SIZES
AGE
WEIGHT
HEIGHT
AGE
WEIGHT
HEIGHT
USA
ITALY
4-5
35-41 lbs
15-18 kg
39-43 in
104 cm
USA
ITALY
8-9
58-72 lbs
25-28 kg
44-46 in
128 cm
USA
ITALY
6-7
42-57 lbs
19-24 kg
41-43 in
116 cm
USA
ITALY
10-11
73-90 lbs
29-36 kg
47-48 in
140 cm
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GREAT PURSUITS FOR
NATURAL THERAPY:
THE GREAT OUTDOORS
ITALY’S SPAS
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SAILING AND SCUBA DIVING
Maybe the true religion of Italy, calcio is passionately
followed, debated and played nationwide. Nothing
compares to seeing a major league (Serie A) match, so
try to get a ticket: the season runs from September to
May. The modern game was said to be invented in
Florence during the 16th century; it was played in the
biggest square of the city in teams of 27 players using feet
and hands.
www.lega-calcio.it (in Italian)
Italy’s 5,000 miles of coastline offer glorious sailing and
rich marine life for the divers, particularly a round
Panarea, Vulcano and Lampedusa in Sicily, or Portofino,
Capri and Porto Cervo.
AUTO & BIKE RACING
From legendary Grand Prix sites like Imola, Monza and
Mugello to the museums of revolutionary brands like
Ferrari, Maserati, Lamborghini, Ducati, Aprilia, Augusta
and Alfa Romeo; Italy is a mecca for speed freaks of the
two- or four-wheel variety.
GOLF
The ancient game combines the love of nature, precision
and competition. The Romans used to play a variation,
the "paganica," with a stick and a leather ball stuffed with
feathers. Today, Italy offers the modern golfer a selection
of magnificent courses in unspoiled landscapes all over
the country, of which Palazzo Arzaga and Villa Condulner
(Mogliano Veneto) are just two superb examples.
www.federgolf.it
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SOCCER
Rich in thermal and mineral waters, with a
mild climate and stunning scenery, Italy has
long been a destination for spa tourism, for
therapeutic or pampering reasons. Since
Roman times taking care of and cleansing the
body has been a central part of the
culture, as borne out by famed, popular
spa sites such as Abano, Salsomaggiore,
Chianciano, Montecatini, Fiuggi and Ischia.
These are ideal holiday resorts in their own
right, close to historical artworks and places
of great beauty, featuring world-class
accommodations. For a complete list visit
www.federterme.it.
Thermal Hot Springs: focuses on health problems and
medical healing, detoxification and anti-stress treatments,
weight loss programs, rest relaxation.
Health and Beauty Spas emphasize beauty treatments, massage
and holistic medicine and are usually available in most
luxury hotels and resorts and the thermal spas.
Thermal Baths feature mineral-rich mud and water
treatments from natural hot springs and are usually
visited for medical purposes.
CYCLING
The “Giro d’Italia,” held in March, is second only to the
“Tour de France” in importance, and Italy has a proud
tradition of cyclists. For the amateur, there are myriad
challenging bike trails, both on- and off-road. Tuscany,
Umbria and Sicily are just some of the many regions
where you can safely ride while enjoying the scenery.
EXTREME SPORTS
Recent additions for the more adventurous visitor to Italy
include hand-gliding, rock climbing, rafting and caving.
Friuli, Trentino, Umbria and Abruzzo lead the way in
catering to the thrill seekers.
MILLE MIGLIA
Not to be missed is the famous Mille Miglia,
the Thousand Miles Race, a wonderful
historical re-enactment of the 1927 epic
vintage car rally from Brescia to Rome
and back.
www.millemiglia.it
“Beauty is how you
feel inside, and it reflects
in your eyes. It is not
something physical.
sophia loren
TERME DI SATURNIA
Maremma is one of Tuscany’s most evocative
landscapes, southwest of Florence and home
to the famous sulphuric thermal baths. For
centuries people have luxuriated in these warm
waters, hoping to heal the body and mind.
Saturnia stands high up on a plateau in the
Albegna valley, from where it dominates
the magical tufa-dotted landscape inland from
Grosseto. The centre contains a fine
archaeological area and hot sulphur springs.
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ITALY –
S
A LAND FOR ALL SEASONS
Plan your trip with specialists www.italiantravelpromotioncouncil.org
What to do in: Winter - skiing & snowboarding, Christmas and Carnevale. Summer - beaches
and boating, Alpine hiking, wine tasting. Spring - Hiking & biking, the art and culture trail.
Fall - Grape harvest, truffle hunting, olive picking.
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SUMMER
Italy blossoms during the summer, the time to go wild, to
show some skin and have long walks along the beach. Of
all the coastline’s different resorts and enchanting ports,
Rimini and Riccione are for partying; Viareggio and
Gargano are for families; Cinque Terre and Amalfi for
new and old lovers; Sardinia and Sicily for the more
expert sailors and divers. But, as you’ll discover, there are
so many more to explore. Italians celebrate the Ferragosto
Festivity which marks the hottest day of the year,
August 15th. Everything closes and everyone heads to
the beaches – so get your towel ready!
SPRING
Springtime begins with the Easter holiday. In Italy, this is
celebrated with friends rather than family as the famous
quote says: “Natale con i tuoi, Pasqua con chi vuoi”
(Christmas with the family, Easter with whomever you
want) Easter Monday (Pasquetta) is all about recovery
after the Sunday feast. Spring is also when Italian nature
bursts with fragrances and colors. It’s a time to explore art
cities, to marvel at surrounding beauties and enjoy all the
cafés waiting for you in the middle of ancient squares.
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FALL
September marks the breaking of the heat and the return
from the holidays. Cities become more vibrant, and harvests
dot the countryside - grape and olive picking, truffle and
porcini mushroom hunting, making for a season rich in
culinary delights. This is a wonderful time to enjoy the
mountains, woods, remote towns and local wine festivals.
And the weather is ideal for seeing the south in its best
light: Sicily, Puglia or Campania, to name a few.
WINTER
The Alps, the Apennines and the Dolomites comprise a
white wonderland for skiers. December also contains great
historical celebrations, including Naple’s nativity sets,
created in all the churches by various artisans. Christmas
festivities begin after December 8, and continue through
January 6 (Epiphany) when the Befana (a witch) pays a visit
to deserving children, giving them gifts.
The Sun, with all the planets
revolving around it, and
depending on it, can still
ripen a bunch of grapes as
though it had nothing else in
the Universe to do.
ITALY’S TEMPERATE CLIMATE
Italy’s weather is mild, thanks to the moderating influence
of the seas and the Alps that protect her from north winds,
but conditions vary considerably according to how far one
is from these two elements. The winter is very cold in the
Alps, misty in the Po Plain and the central Apennines;
mild and even warm on the Ligurian coast, the Neapolitan
coast and in Sicily. The summer is hot and dry, but this is
offset by coastal breezes, while in the Apennines and Alps
it is pleasantly cool.
Galileo Galilei
For last-minute forecasts log onto: www.eurometeo.com/english
LA BEFANA (THE EPIPHANY)
As the story goes, on the night between January 5
and 6, the Befana flies on her broom, clutching a
heavy sack full of toys, chocolates and candies
(plus coal and ashes), passes over the homes below
and descends the chimneys to fill stockings hung
by children. A plate of tangerines or oranges and a
glass of wine is prepared for the arrival of the good
witch. The next morning, along with their gifts,
they discover that the meal has been consumed and
the Befana’s hand print is traced in the ashes found
on the plate. This tradition is typically Italian and
has not yet been substituted by the “foreign” figure
of Santa Claus. Sometimes, in poor communities,
people used to dress as the Befana, going from
house to house, bringing gifts in exchange for a
smile and kind wish.
MAJOR CITIES: AVERAGE TEMPERATURES
CITY
JAN
FEB
MARCH
APRIL
MAY
JUNE
JULY
AUG
SEPT
OCT
NOV
DEC
Amalfi
48
52
52
56
64
71
76
76
71
63
54
50
Bari
Bologna
Bolzano
Cagliari
Capri
Florence
Genoa
Milan
Naples
Palermo
Perugia
Reggio Calabria
Rome
Taormina
Turin
Treiste
Venice
48
35
34
50
47
41
48
35
48
55
40
53
47
54
36
42
35
48
39
39
51
47
44
48
38
52
55
42
53
48
54
39
44
39
52
48
47
53
51
48
53
45
52
57
47
55
52
56
47
49
44
56
57
54
57
55
55
56
51
56
60
54
59
55
60
52
56
53
63
68
62
63
64
62
63
60
64
66
61
66
63
67
60
64
60
71
71
68
71
70
69
69
67
71
73
68
74
69
74
68
70
68
76
75
73
76
76
73
75
72
76
79
73
80
75
80
73
75
73
75
75
71
77
75
73
76
71
76
80
73
81
75
81
71
75
71
70
70
65
72
70
68
71
65
71
76
68
76
71
76
65
69
64
63
57
54
65
61
59
63
54
63
70
58
69
64
69
55
60
55
55
47
42
57
52
50
54
43
54
62
49
61
55
62
44
50
44
50
38
35
52
48
42
49
36
50
58
42
55
49
57
37
45
37
Asti
Cagliari
Carbonia
Iglesias
Ogliastra
8˚
0
0
50
Major Cities
Regional Capital
National Capital
Regional Boundary
italy
Elba
50
100 Miles
100 Kilometers
Rivers
Arezzo
Florence
M
VATICAN
CITY
Viterbo
Orvieto Terni
Latina L A
Rome
Rieti
12˚
Pantelleria
Strait
of
Sicily
Trapani
Ancona
Teramo
Chieti
Pescara
C
A
Benevento
Ragusa
Siracusa
Catania
S I C I L Y
Enna
Taormina
Messina
Catanzaro
Crotone
16˚
Reggio di Calabria
Vibo Valentia
Cosenza
Strait
of
Otranto
Otranto
Lecce
Brindisi
S
Ionian
Sea
Golfo di
Ta r a n t o
Matera Taranto
P U Bari
G L
I A
Trani
BA S I L I C ATA
Potenza
Andria
Foggia
Barletta
Tremiti Islands
Adriatic
Sea
O Campobasso
Aeolian Islands
Pompeii
Caltanissetta
Agrigento
SE
Avellino
Salerno
Amalfi
Capri
Positano
Naples
M
Isernia
Caserta
Palermo
Z I
O
Frosinone
A B R U Z Z O
L'Aquila
Ascoli Piceno
Fermo
Perugia Macerata
A
Pesaro
Urbino
SAN
MARINO
Rimini
Ty r r h e n i a n S e a
Grosseto
Montepulciano
T U S C A N Y
Siena
S. Gimignano
Pisa Arno
Pistoia Cesena
Prato
Forli
Ravenna
Gulf of
Venice
U M B R I A
Ferrara
Rovigo
Padova Venice
N I A
P A
Road
Modena
Mantova
Verona
Lucca
Massa
Livorno
Medio Campidano
Oristano
Nuoro
SARDINIA
Sassari
Olbia
Tempio
Parma
Po
Cremona
Reggio
IL
Bologna
I Anell'Emilia
Portofino
R O M
A G N A
Genoa
Ligurian
Sea
Imperia
Sanremo
Piacenza
Alessandria
Pavia
Lodi
Savona
Cinque Terre
La Spezia
IA
Vercelli
Gorizia
Trieste
Udine
FRIULIVE NEZI A GI UL IA
H E
M
L A B R I A
C A
36˚
LI
T
Tarviso
ITALY BY THE REGION
Mediterranean Sea
Cuneo
Turin
Pordenone
Treviso
V E N E
T O
Belluno
Bolzano
16˚
LAND OF DISCOVERY
40˚
44˚
AO S TA VA LL E Y
Y
Tirano
TRENTINOA LTO A D I G E
Adig
e
Lecco D
Trento
Como
Varese
Monza
Bergamo
Brescia
Vicenza
Novara Milan
Adda
Sondrio
R
A
Aosta
Verbano-Cusio-Ossola
P
I
E D
M
G
L O
M
N
O
ro
Ta
na
R
ino
M
U
Tic
E
R
C
Tiber
B
12˚
and some special places of ITCP interest
LI
8˚
S
36˚
40˚
44˚
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REGIONS OF THE NORTH
PIEDMONT
LOMBARDY
A region rippling with Alpine streams flowing into the
Po, and dominated in the east by the lakes of Maggiore
and d'Orta. The capital, Turin, features cultural and
artistic influences from the Romanesque-Gothic and
Baroque styles, while Sestriere and Bardonecchia offer
fantastic skiing resorts.
Italy’s northern regions are a symphony of breathtaking contrasts. Liguria stretches along the
Mediterranean, and the jagged peaks of the Alps extend throughout Valle d’Aosta and Piedmont,
complemented by Lombardy’s rolling plains. The snowy Dolomites provide the backdrop to
the Trentino Alto-Adige and the Veneto regions, while Venice and the sea maintain their delicate,
dramatic relationship and the region of Friuli Venezia Giulia yields a treasure trove
of Roman remains.
Temptations
Spreading over the Po Valley and bordered to the north by
the Alps, this region is a veritable lake district, including
eastern Maggiore, Varese, Iseo, Como and northern Garda.
Each major city contains striking monuments to Romanesque
and Gothic architecture, such the Cathedral of Milan, while
sumptuous Renaissance palaces and churches abound – some
containing examples of the Lombard painting movement,
which peaked during the fifteenth century.
“I hope that I may always desire
more than I can accomplish.”
michelangelo buonarroti
(1475 - 1564)
•
•
•
•
•
•
Barolo (DOCG), red
Barbaresco (DOCG), red
Barbera (DOC), red
Nebbiolo (DOC), red
Dolcetto (DOC), red
Asti Spumante (DOCG), sparkling white
Tastes
• White truffles from Alba
• Risotto with rice from Vercelli, a dish made with
beef stock, veal bone marrow and saffron
• Castelmagno cheese is a cylindrical pressed,
semi-fat semi-hard cheese tinged with blue mold
• Robiola from Murazzano is creamy fresh cheese,
superb with olive oil and fresh herbs
• Bicerin is Turin’s signature blend of coffee,
milk and chocolate
Arts & Crafts
AOSTA VALLEY
Just For Kids
This is the most mountainous region of Italy, dominated
by Alpine peaks, glaciers, valley streams, pine forests and
high pasturelands, and accessed by the tunnels at the
historic passes of Monte Bianco and Gran San Bernardo.
The capital, Aosta, recognizes both Italian and French as
its native tongues, and offers visitors such sights as the
11th century Romanesque Cathedral, Sant'Orso Church
and the perfectly preserved forts of the Aosta Valley.
Gran Paradiso National Park, set in the Valleys of Cogne,
Valsavarenche and Rhemes, is rich in chestnuts, oaks,
white fir and locust-trees, as well as wildlife such as
royal owls, woodpeckers, martens, partridges and the
alpine finch.
• Wickerwork from Alessandria
• Ceramics and stoves from Castellamonte
• Silverware and jewelry from Valenza
Just For Kids
www.parks.it/parco.nazionale.gran.paradiso/Eindex.html
Safari Parks in Murazzano, in the Langhe region, with
a variety of 300 animals to observe, and in Pobia,
showcasing various endangered species.
Red Letter Days
Red Letter Days
Temptations
January 30/31 Feast of Saint Orso in Aosta, an important artisan
fair featuring the mountaineer art of the alpine bow.
February 10 - 26, 2006 XX Olympic Winter Games,
hosted by Turin and the surrounding Alps.
•
•
•
•
•
May, second Sunday Festival du “Vien de Nus,” in Nus,
celebrates the excellent local wines, Rouge and Malvoise,
with tasting in the afternoon.
September, second Weekend Douja d’Or, Asti, where
prestigious wine producers (a douja is an old decanter)
host a celebration involving food stands and a parade
in traditional costume with carts, wagons and
vintage tractors.
Valle d’Aosta Müller Thurgau (DOC), white
Valle d’Aosta Torrette Superiore (DOC), red
Chambave Passito (DOC), dessert wine
Genepy des Alpes grappa
Moretti beer
Tastes
•
•
•
•
•
Fontina, a semi-soft, smooth whole milk cheese
Renette apples and Martin Sec pears
Chestnuts from the Lillianes municipality
Tegole almond cookies from Aosta
Beefsteak alla valdostana, a breaded veal cutlet fried
and topped with fontina and ham, then reheated in
the oven on a slice of polenta.
Arts & Crafts
• Sabots, the famous wooden clogs from Val d’Ayas
• Hand-woven wool draps (covers) and rustic
upholstery fabrics from Valgrisenche
• Lace clothing, curtains and tablecloths from the
Cogne valley
June 23/24 Feast of San Giovanni, Gressoney Saint John,
beginning with the Fires of St. John, the town’s patron
saint, the night before a mass, followed by the “Walser”
procession with the blessing of the lambs.
September, Last Sunday Grape Festival, Chambave, a seasonal
event honoring the wine harvest with public sales and tastings.
November 1 Cantes Festival, Cogne, wherein the
community’s bachelors offer each other wine and food,
and sing until sunset.
October, first Sunday Palio degli Asini, Alaba, is literally
The Race of the Donkeys, a comical contest dating
back to the medieval rivalry between the cities of Alba and
Asti, which coincides with the Feast of the Truffle and a
historical recreation of the Giostre delle Cento Torri,
or Tournament of the 100 Towers.
September 17 The Palio of Asti recreates historical events
and everyday life in medieval times, with Italy’s oldest
horse race, a historic procession in medieval attire and
spectacular sbandieratori (flag-wavers).
Temptations
•
•
•
•
Franciacorta Spumante (DOCG), sparkling white
Bonarda (DOC), red
Lambrusco (DOC), red
Valtellina superiore (DOCG), red
Tastes
• Torrone from Cremona, a traditional sweet made of
almonds, nougat and honey
• Risotto alla Milanese, sautéed rice cooked in broth
and saffron
• Ossobuco, shank of veal with its bone and marrow
• Pavese Soup, a clear broth served with toasted bread
and eggs
• Bresaola from Valtellina, a cured thin-sliced meat
Arts & Crafts
• Violin-making in Cremona, home to the
world-famous Stradivari
• Legendary accordions from Stradella
• Pottery from Lodi, suppliers to many European
noble houses
• Printing and dyeing silk in Como
Just For Kids
The Leonardo da Vinci Museum of Science and Technology in Milan
is a wonderful way to witness the inventions of the great
man; the fabulous Toy Museum in Canneto sull’Oglio near
Mantua; Fantasy World provides a miniature version of
Italy for children to play in; they also love climbing the
spiral stairs to the top of the Duomo Cathedral, the world's
largest Gothic cathedral.
Red Letter Days
Year-round, last Sunday of every month, except July &
August, Naviglio Grande Antiques Fair, one of Milan’s most
charming sections is transformed into a bustling market.
December 7-9, Feast of Saint Ambrogio, Milan, celebrated for
three days in the Piazza of St. Ambrogio with antiques, crafts,
food delicacies, sweets, wine, and a market on the third day.
Coincides with the Opera season premiere at La Scala.
FRIULI VENEZIA-GIULIA
VENETO
A broad, flat province stretching from the Tagliamento
River and to the Adriatic coastline, dotted with lagoons,
interesting geological formations and countless grottoes.
The regional capital is Trieste; major towns include
Udine, Gorizia and Pordenone. Evidence of older
civilizations is abundant: Aquileia is a noted Roman
archeological center, also with magnificent mosaics in
its Romanesque Gothic Basilica.
Bordered by the eastern part of the Po Valley, this extensive
plain comprises the majestic Dolomites of Cadore and the
lagoon zone, including Venice, the region’s agelessly
beautiful capital. Here, Byzantine influences abound, in
San Marco’s and the Cathedral of Torcello, while there
are innumerable glorious examples of Romanesque,
Gothic and Renaissance art and architecture. Other
unmissable treats include the Venetian islands of Murano,
Burano and Torcello; Chioggia; the canals of the Brenta
and the Veneto villas.
Temptations
Plan your trip with specialists www.italiantravelpromotioncouncil.org
• Colli Orientali del Friuli: Tocai Friulano (DOC), white
• Collio Goriziano Cabernet (DOC), red
• Ramandolo (DOCG), dessert white
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Venice, gondolas
Tastes
TRENTINO AND SOUTH TYROL
• San Daniele Prosciutto, renowned sweet air-cured ham
• Montasio, a creamy, rich, hard cheese made from
cow's milk
• Musèt, a spicy pork sausage
• Iota from Trieste, a traditional soup with beans,
potatoes and sauerkraut
A dramatic Alpine province, rich in rivers and lakes, and
clusters of mountains and valleys, bisected by the Adige river.
Three natural parks, Adamello-Brenta, Paneveggio-Pale
of S. Martino and Stelvio conserve the native flora and fauna,
including bears. Straddling Germany and northern Italy, the
capital Trento combines both diverse cultures to create a
fascinating artistic aesthetic.
Temptations
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Caldaro (DOC), red
Santa Maddalena (DOC), red
Marzemino (DOC), red
Teroldego Rotaliano (DOC), red
Riesling (DOC), white
Muller Thurgau (DOC), white
Merlot (DOC), white
Pinot Bianco (DOC), white
Bianco Val d’Adige (DOC), white
Moscato, amber dessert wine
Tastes
• Speck, a smoked ham
• Biroldi, blood sausages filled with nuts, nutmeg, cloves
and cinnamon
• Gemsenfleisch, Alpine chamois goat with red wine
vinegar, salt pork, herbs and sour cream
• Orzetto, a barley soup with onion, garlic, vegetables and
herbs simmered with speck
Arts & Crafts
• Wooden sculptures and masks from the Moena and
Pozza are hand carved and hand painted, called faceres
and used in the Ladin Carnival period
• Copper articles from Cavalese
• Wrought iron from Malè
Just For Kids
Topolino Junior Ski Trophy, Madonna di Campiglio, second
week of February 2006, with races, competitions and
displays hosted by Mickey and Minnie Mouse.
Kids Fun Park in the Alta Badia is a winter wonderland,
including a toddler’s play area and a solarium for adults.
Visit the Clifftop Castles, such as the Churburg (Castel Coira)
in Sluderno, Castle Tyrol in Merano, Schloss Runkelstein
in Bolzano and the Castle Kastelbell west of Merano.
The Archeology Museum of the Upper Adige in Bolzano
specializes in the Stone, Copper and Bronze Ages, and
is home to the 200-year-old mummified Ice Man.
Red Letter Days
October, first week Festa dell’uva, Merano, celebrates
the harvest with a grape festival and a parade in
Tyrolean costume.
December, first Saturday Festa dei Klosen, Passo dello
Stelvio, dedicated to Santa Claus, where costumed locals
wander the streets until the church bells are rung and
everyone unites in prayer.
February, second Weekend Carnevale Asburgico (Hapsburg’s
Carnival), Arco, began in 1876 to unite the population
with their imperial rulers, the Hapsburgs. On the Friday,
a concert is held in the hall of the casino; Saturday sees a
tribute to traditional artisans and craftsmen, with an
evening gala ball; Sunday, is a masked parade, celebrated
with floats.
Arts & Crafts
• Hand-crafted wooden chairs from Manzano
• Ceramics from Udine
• Mosaic work from Spilimbergo
Just For Kids
Aquasplash in Lignano Sabbiadoro, is a spectacular water
park that suits thrill lovers and families.
www.acquasplash.it (in Italian only).
Take in the Punta Verde Wildlife Park, Lignano Sabbiadoro,
home to 1500 animals, plant life and small lakes.
www.parcozoopuntaverde.it
Temptations
•
•
•
•
•
Recioto di Soave (DOCG), a golden, fruity white
Bardolino (DOCG), red
Prosecco di Valdobbiandene (DOC), sparkling white
Tocai (DOC), white
Amarone della Valpolicella - (DOC) dry, light,
harmonious red
Tastes
• Pandoro, a Christmas bread cooked in butter, sprinkled
with fine white sugar
• Fegatio alla Veneziana, calf’s liver sautéed in onions,
parsley and sage with butter, oil and a hint of vinegar
• Pasta e Fasoi, noodles and beans in a thick broth
flavored with onion, carrot, celery and pork rind
• Sardele in Saor, fried sardines in oil with onions and
vinegar, marinated with pine nuts, raisins and lemon peel
• Tiramisu, coffee-flavored cream of mascarpone
and eggs layered with ladyfingers and topped with
bitter chocolate
Arts & Crafts
• Murano glass, uniquely hand-blown, fused and tinted
• Burano lace, crafted entirely by needle
• Venice Carnival masks, made with papier-mâché and
hand painted
Red Letter Days
January 6 Epiphany of the Thaler, Gemona del Friuli,
a historical parade of dames and knights accompanying
the mayor to the duomo for the celebration of the Mass.
June 23-26 “Aria di Festa,” San Daniele, a San Daniele
promotional event, with tastings, music shows
and exhibitions.
www.prosciuttosandaniele.it
September, 2nd Sunday Provincial Grape Festival, Cormons,
offers samplings of the area’s finest wines and typical
dishes, with a market, an allegorical parade, folk groups
and bands.
October, second Sunday “Barcolana” Autumn Cup, Trieste,
a spectacular sailing event, open to large yachts and
thousands of smaller boats, creating a regatta where
famous champions and Sunday sailors compete together.
www.barcolana.it
Just For Kids
Gardaland, Castelnuovo del Garda, is the largest
amusement park in Italy. CanevaWorld, also on Garda, is
another theme park with movie studios, water rides and
themed restaurants.
Red Letter Days
January 28-February 8 Venice Carnival, the highlight of the
year, with masked balls and decorated costumes of the
18th century.
June 12-13 Festa di San’Antonio, Padua, a historical, costumed
parade, a torchlight procession on the Bacchiglione and
lots of fireworks!
June 17-August 31 Summer Theater in Verona, the world’s third
largest Roman amphitheater hosts its annual opera season.
Red Letter Days
Red Letter Days
July, every weekend Sagra del Muscolo (Cozze) held
on Portovenere’s seashore is the Feast of the Mussels
organized to help fund Cadimare’s rowing team
during the regatta Palio del Golfo in La Spezia.
Renowned for delicious mussel-based dishes, dances
and other entertainment.
July, third Sunday Feast of the Redeemer, Venice, Holy Mass is
held followed by a religious procession and fireworks.
The Saturday night before, St. Mark’s Basin features a
kaleidoscopic play of lights and reflections against the
city’s silhouetted spires, domes and bell towers.
September, first Sunday Historical Regatta, Venice, a
procession of 16th-century style boats, with the famous
Bucintoro, the boat representing the Serenissima, at its
head, followed by a racing competition.
Plan your trip with specialists www.italiantravelpromotioncouncil.org
September, every even numbered year A human chess game is
played on the square of Marostica every second Friday,
Saturday and Sunday. This tradition dates back to 1454.
December, second Sunday Fiera del Radicchio, Treviso,
honors the uniquely long-shaped radicchio in the Piazza
dei Signori.
LIGURIA
Centered around the Gulf of Genoa on the Tyrrhenian
Sea, Liguria is a mountainous region formed by the
Maritime Alps and the Apennines, leaving only a narrow
coastline. The region is divided at Genoa, the capital,
into the Riviera di Ponente (west to Ventemiglia), and
the Riviera di Levante (east to La Spezia) – the tail end
of which is the beautiful, unspoiled “Le Cinque Terre”
(the Five Lands). Throughout Liguria, you can find
superb examples of Roman ruins, Romanesque and
Baroque architecture and many medieval forts, towers,
walls and castles.
Temptations
•
•
•
•
Sciacchetra’ (DOC), white
Pigato (DOC), white
Vermentino (DOC), white
Rossese di Dolceacqua (DOC), red
32
33
Tastes
Discover more of Italy www.italiantourism.com
• Basil Pesto, a cold sauce of fresh basil, olive oil and
pine nuts
• Focaccia, a flat bread with salt and olive oil
• Farinata, a thin pancake made of chick pea flour and
baked in wood ovens.
Arts & Crafts
•
•
•
•
White and blue ceramics from Albisola
Handmade lace, macramé, from Chiavari
Plush velvet from Zoagli
Lace and embroidery from Portofino
Just For Kids
Genoa Aquarium is the biggest in Europe, featuring
sandbar sharks, seals and dolphins. Also visit
Le Caravelle Water Park, in Ceriale.
May and July Regata delle Antiche Repubbliche Marinare, this
rotating yearly celebration comes to Genoa (the other
venues are Amalfi, Pisa and Venice), beginning with a
historical costumed parade and starring a 2,000-meter
boat race.
May, second weekend Sagra del Pesce (Feast of the Fish),
at Camogli, is over 50 years old, a competition
between the districts of Porto and Pinetto, that build
large wooden structures on the beach which become
night bonfires. On Sunday, in an enormous pan in
the town square, almost two tons of fish are fried
and consumed.
S
S
VENETO (cont’d from pg.31)
ITALY’S CENTRAL REGIONS
Central Italy abounds with diverse landscapes and towns rich in art, architecture and
culture. From Tuscany’s transcendent treasures amid countless towers, palaces and churches,
to the “green heart” of Le Marche and Umbria, to the lush Po Delta in Emilia Romagna and
Lazio, home to Rome and the independent papal state, Vatican City.
EMILIA ROMAGNA
Arts & Crafts
Half mountain range (the Apennines), half coastal plain
along the Adriatic Apennines, this region’s capital is
Bologna, a famous university town. Historically, important
Roman traces can be found in Rimini and Ravenna, once
capital of the Western Roman Empire. Romanesque
Lombardian style is showcased by the Cathedrals of
Modena and Piacenza e Ferrara, while Gothic,
Renaissance and Baroque styles are all well represented
in the main towns.
•
•
•
•
Ceramics from Faenza
Graffito ceramics from Ferrara
Clay pots from Montetiffi
Golden mosaics from Ravenna
Just For Kids
Mirabilandia is an amusement park in Savio with
36 rides, 14 waterfalls, ice skaters, fireworks,
acrobatic parrots, stuntmen, flowers and gardens,
plus a small town, “Bimbopoli” for very little ones.
Temptations
www.mirabilandia.com/index_en.htm
•
•
•
•
•
Italy in Miniature in Rimini is the most famous
miniature park in Italy, with rides, games,
monuments and great food.
Albana di Romagna (DOCG), white
Sangiovese di Romagna (DOC), red wine
Trebbiano di Romagna (DOC), sparkling white
Lambrusco di Sorbara (DOC), sparkling red and rosé
Castell’Arquato Nocino walnut liquor
www.italiainminiatura.com
Tastes
Red Letter Day
• Balsamic vinegar from Modena
• Parmigiano Reggiano cheese from Parma
• Tortellini Bolognese in Brodo, pasta filled with
Mortadella, prosciutto and veal, in a meat broth
January 27-20 “Arte Fiera,” Bologna, a large
international contemporary art fair at the Piazza della
Costituzione devoted to young galleries,
publishing houses, bookstores and institutions.
www.artefiera.bolognafiere.it
FERRARA
A rare treasure combining history, beauty
and romance, Ferrara is a former fortified city
in the heart of the Emilia-Romagna region. Its
peaceful ambience – which inspired de Chirico’s
metaphysical paintings – studded with gems for
her guests to discover. Its cathedral reflects the
glories of both the Romanic and Gothic styles;
the Church of Sant’Antonio in Polesine
contains fascinating frescoes from the 13th
and 14th centuries; and the Estense Castle is an
extraordinary example of military architecture.
The Casa Romei (Palazzo dei Diamanti) was a
luxurious private Renaissance residence, while
the Museo Nazionale Archeologico hosts
numerous artifacts that testify to Ferrara’s
formidable past.
April 13-17 “Paganello,” Rimini, sees hundreds of
people compete on the beach for the “Ultimate Frisbee”
World Cup.
www.paganello.com
May, last weekend Palio di Ferrara, Ferrara, is a
dramatic horse race between the eight town districts
around the oldest town square in Italy,
complemented by a Historical Renaissance Parade.
www.paliodiferrara.it/
August, last week Palio di S.Reparata e della Romagna-Toscana,
Catrocaro Terme, is another wonderful horse race, offset
with Renaissance pomp, entertainment and decorations.
TUSCANY
Stretching gently down the Apennines to the Tyrrhenian
Sea, this region is a geographically charming mix of hilly
landscapes and long sandy expanses, headlands and
archipelagos. With Florence as its capital, Tuscany is
unrivaled as a cradle of art and monuments to Italy’s
many eras and civilizations: Etruscan, Roman, Gothic
and Romanesque. From Fiesole to Chiusi, Volterra to
Siena, Pisa to Elba, Tuscany’s beauty and appeal is as
varied as it is enchanting.
Temptations
Plan your trip with specialists www.italiantravelpromotioncouncil.org
•
•
•
•
Bianco di Pitigliano (DOC), white
Vernaccia di San Gimignano (DOC), white
Chianti (DOC & DOCG), red
Brunello di Montalcino (DOC), red
Tastes
• Ribollita, a popular Florentine vegetable
minestrone with black cabbage
• Bistecca Fiorentina, a regionally unique T-bone steak
• Pecorino & Raveggiolo cheeses, from sheep’s milk
in the Sienese hills
Arts & Crafts
• Ceramics and terracotta from an ancient tradition
dating back to the Etruscan era
• Jewelry from Florence and Arezzo
• Marble from Massa Carrara
• Il Toscano, a long, slim cigar with an intense,
strong aroma
• Any leather goods, from jackets to handbags
April 30 - June 30 Maggio Musicale Fiorentino, Florence, is
the city’s biggest arts festival, including international
music, drama and dance.
www.maggiofiorentino.com
June 2 –Festa di Sant’Erasmo (Feast of St. Erasmo), Monte
Argentario (Porto Ercole), sees the town’s Spanish
fortresses adorned with lights while an evening procession
of boats dressed with flags is held on the sea.
June, third Sunday and September, first Sunday Giostra del
Saracino (Saracen’s Game), Arezzo, is an ancient festival
with eight riders, two from each of the city’s districts,
each galloping towards the “Saracen,” an “armed,”
revolving mannequin in a fight for the most points.
June 16 Luminara e Regata Storica per San Ranieri (Illuminations
and Historical Regata for St. Ranieri), Pisa, is notable for
the evening before, when a display of candles embellishes
the contours of buildings and monuments; floating
candles also light up the Arno river. The day after, the
true festival begins with a rowing regatta with four
competing teams.
June 25 2006 Il Gioco del Ponte (Bridge Battle), Pisa, is a
grand military parade in 17th-century costume, followed
by a competition between two teams pushing a cart on the
bridge in opposite directions.
www.comune.pisa.it
July 2 & August 15 Palio di Siena, perhaps Italy’s most
famous and colorful horse race in the historic
town square.
www.ilpaliodisiena.com
Just For Kids
Parco Collodi near Pistoia is a park devoted to Pinnochio
(named after his creator Carlo Collodi)
www.pinocchio.it.
The Viareggio Carnival Parades, with floats and papier-mâché
puppets take place each February.
34
www.viareggio.ilcarnevale.com.
35
Near Siena is the Museum for Kids, to introduce children to
the world of visual arts through labs, excursions, visits and
arts and crafts.
September 13 Luminara di Santa Croce (Illuminations of the
Holy Cross), Lucca, is a centuries-old procession carried
out on the eve of the recurrence of the Holy Cross
through a city decorated with thousands of lights, from the
Church of St. Frediano to the Cathedral of St. Martino.
Tastes
• Black truffles of Norcia, Cascia, and Spoleto; earthy,
distinct and strong flavor
• Honey from Valnerina, a delicate, mixed flower
fragrance and flavor
• Budellaccio salami from Norcia, flavored with salt,
pepper, and fennel seeds, dried fireside
• Porchetta, pork, cooked on a spit over a wood fire,
stuffed with minced liver, heart and lungs, pepper,
garlic, salt and wild fennel
Discover more of Italy www.italiantourism.com
www.comune.siena.it
Also Cavallino Matto, near Livorno, is an exciting theme park
deep in the pine forest along the Tyrrhenian coast.
www.cavallinomatto.it
Red Letter Days
March 27 Scoppio del Carro, Florence, is a spectacular Easter
celebration involving a cart with fireworks set up in Piazza
del Duomo di Santa Maria del Fiore, and the liberation
of a dove of peace.
www.comune.firenze.it
Temptations
• Colli Perugini (DOC), red and white
• Torgiano Rosso Riserva (DOCG), red
• Sagrantino (DOCG), dry dessert wine
Arts & Crafts
• Lace pillows, a delicate, timeless art
• Accordions and other high-quality musical instruments
from Castelfidardo
• Engraved and decorated furniture
Arts & Crafts
Just For Kids
• Pottery from Deruta, with a unique color scheme
• Pottery from Gubbio, based on a 16th-century luster
technique that causes red-golden reflections
• Tablecloths from Perugia woven in the “occhio di
pernice” (eye of a partridge) design of white linen
embellished with blue bands and geometric decorations
Gran Sasso & Monti della Laga National Park, in Casa del Parco
di Arquata del Tronto.
Just For Kids
www.parconazionalegransasso.it
Red Letter Days
July 15 – August 15 Macerata Opera Festival, Macerata, one
of the world’s most famous opera seasons held in the old
arena called Sferisterio.
Citta’ della Domenica in Perugia is a nature park and zoo
with hundreds of wildlife and exotic animals, even a
reptile house, a huge play area and a little train to
tour visitors.
www.maceratagallery.it
www.cittadelladomenica.it
www.summerjamboree.com
Red Letter Days
August, third Sunday Festa del duca (The Duke’s Festival),
Urbino, held in honor of the Duke Federico da
Montefeltro, begins on the 15th with heralds, drummers,
games, crafts and foods recalling the Renaissance,
followed by tournaments on the Sunday.
February, last weekend Black Truffle Fair, Norcia, has local
and national food producers showing off their specialties,
with frequent tastings of truffles, the cheese and lentils of
Castelluccio and forest fruits.
May, last Sunday Palio della Balestra, Gubbio, consists of a
medieval crossbow contest between the Società Balestrieri
Eugubina and San Sepolcro.
October, first Sunday Palio dei Terzieri, Trevi, boasts a
contest between three districts and a historical, costumed
procession, commemorating the reconstruction of the
town destroyed in the 13th century.
UMBRIA
The “cuore verde” (green heart) of Italy comprises an
undulating landscape dominated by woods, valleys and
water – most notably the lake known as the Trasimeno,
and Falls of the Marmore, which are the highest in Italy.
Etruscan traces are abundant in Todi, Bettona, Orvieto
and Perugia, while Spoleto and Spello feature impressive
Roman remains; Spello is a city, where the Romans
left some impressive remains. Beautiful examples of
Romanesque style are embodied in the Cathedrals of
Assisi, St. Silvestro and St. Michele in Bevagna. The
Renaissance still lives through magnificent monuments
in towns like Perugia and Gubbio, to name but two.
• Arrosto segreto, a fish dish, cooked on both sides at
the same time
• Porchetta, a very flavorful dish of roast pig
• Fabriano Salame, very spicy cured beef from Fabriano
MARCHE
A rugged region, facing the Adriatic Sea, with narrow
valleys, deep gorges and numerous rushing streams that
meet a coastline of gently rolling hills and flat plains.
The regional capital is Ancona, and remarkable Roman
remains exist in Ascoli, Fano, Ancona, Fermo, Urbisaglia
and near Macerata. The presence of local artists such as
Raphael and Bramante made this area one of the hotbeds
of Renaissance art. Beauty can also be found in natural
form in the stunning views from cities such as Pesaro
and Urbino.
Temptations
• Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi (DOC), white
• Piceno Red (DOC), red
Tastes
• Fossa, cheese aged while buried in a pit, great with jam
• Brodetto, a simple, tasty fish soup
August 1 - 7 Summer Jamboree Festival, Ancona, an eclectic
musical festival with bands from all over the world.
ABRUZZO
The region embraces the highest and hugest massifs of
Central Italy, with peaks which often are higher than
2,000 meters, as well as a steep and rocky Adriatic coast.
The capital L’Aquila has strong Roman and Renaissance
influences, but the most creative period was during the
Middle Ages, as seen in many wonderful cathedrals,
abbeys and sculptures. Goldsmithing is also a renowned
craft, dating back to the 16th century. Adding to the
drama of this area, the National Park of Abruzzo is home
to species like the Marsican Bear and the Gray Wolf.
Temptations
•
•
•
•
Montepulciano d’Abruzzo (DOC), red
Cerasuolo (DOC), rosé
Trebbiano (DOC), white
Centerbe, a liqueur from various aromatic plants
Tastes
•
•
•
•
Saffron, the pride of the Navelli plains
Purple-red garlic, exclusively from the fields of Sulmona
Black lentils from Santo Stefano di Sessanio
Maccheroni alla Chitarra, a handmade pasta cut in thin
strips using a fine wireframe similar to the strings of
a guitar
• Confetti, sugar-coated almonds, a traditional wedding
treat from Sulmona
• Parrozzo, a rich chocolate cake, a Christmas favorite
Arts & Crafts
• Laces from Scanno, artfully crocheted
• Blankets, rugs and tapestries from Taranta Peligna, with
flowers, birds, vivid sceneries artistically woven in
• Gold and silver jewelry from Sulmona and
L’Aquila’s goldsmiths
• Iron and copper artifacts: gates, housewares from
Guardiagrele, Manoppello and Pescocostanzo
Plan your trip with specialists www.italiantravelpromotioncouncil.org
Just For Kids
36
Discover more of Italy www.italiantourism.com
37
The National Park of Abruzzo, The National Park of Gran Sasso-Laga,
the Regional Parks of Sirente-Velino and Maiella-Morrone, numerous
State Reserves and three World Wildlife Fund Oases, are all natural
sanctuaries where stunning landscapes house recognizable
and rare animals, extraordinary flowers and plants to
enrapture a young traveler.
Red Letter Days
May, first Thursday Procession of the Snake Catchers, Cocullo
(L’Aquila), takes place in a picturesque mountain village,
where the inhabitants celebrate St. Dominick by draping
his statue in live snakes.
July, first Sunday Sagra dell’Agnello (Feast of the Lamb),
Rocca Pia, a food festival with a traditional contest called
solco dritto, involving a ploughing competition.
September, first Sunday La Corsa degli Zingari (The Gypsies’
Race), Pacentro, has participants meeting on a crag of the
Ardinghi hill facing the town. When the bell rings, the
racers rush barefoot down the slope, towards the town
finish line at the church altar.
LAZIO
Billowing between the Apennines and the Tyrrhenian Sea, this
varied region combines coastal flatlands, and extinct volcanoes
that form the lakes of Bolsena, Vico, Bracciano, Albano and
Nemi. Rome is, of course, the capital of Italy, as well of the
region, which itself is incredibly rich in outstanding relics of
all the different periods, and has always been the center of an
intensive artistic life from the Middle Ages to the 18th century
– and contains the hub of the Papacy in Vatican City.
Temptations
•
•
•
•
•
•
Frascati (DOC), white
Montefiascone Est!Est!Est! (DOC), white
Torre Ercolana (DOC), red
Fiorano (DOC), red
Colle Picchioni (DOC), red
Peroni beer
Tastes
• Puntarelle, spears resembling endives
• Bruschetta, homemade bread oven toasted and topped
with garlic, tomatoes, olive paste
• Carciofi alla Giudea, artichokes deep-fried in olive oil
and garlic, seasoned with mint
• Spaghetti alla Carbonara, a cream sauce with bacon,
garlic and chili peppers mixed in a bowl with raw eggs
• Bucatini all’Amatriciana, slender pasta tubes with
tomato sauce and salt pork, and grated pecorino cheese
• Abbacchio alla Cacciatora, baby lamb cooked with
rosemary, garlic, anchovies and vinegar
• Porchetta, roasted pork from the Castelli Romani,
an area south of Rome
S
REGIONS OF THE SOUTH
S
ABRUZZO (cont’d from pg.35)
Arts & Crafts
• Ciocia, a local peasant leather sandal from Ciociaria
• Wrought iron from Veroli
Just For Kids
Pulcinella Puppet Theatre, on the Gianicolo Hill in Rome has
free daily shows, though donations are appreciated.
Bioparco, the Rome zoo has a vast array of animals in a
natural setting.
For older kids, head to the Capucin Crypt, an eerie secret
vault filled with monks’ skulls!
Outside of Rome, try the Giardini di Bomarzo, a garden
located near Viterbo, featuring statues of mythical
monsters in a surreal setting.
Red Letter Days
February 2 Festa delle stuzze, Fiuggi, honors the miracle of
San Biagio, who in 1928 chased out the enemies intent on
attacking the town. Large tree trunks, stuzze, are carried
from the forest and lit in the main square.
March 26 Rome Marathon, Rome, sees the city come to
life with music, events, concerts and more all along the
race route.
Blending sheer spectacle with a plethora of architectural remains, the south of Italy presents
much to enchant today’s visitor. See the breathtaking Roman ruins preserved at Pompeii, the
Greek influence and magnificent beaches of Sicily and the mystifying ancient structures in
Sardinia called nuraghi. Admire the Romanesque and Baroque stylings from Puglia to
Campania. Bliss out on the Amalfi Coast or lose yourself in the forested landscape of Abruzzo
and Molise, the rugged countryside and bustling fishing ports of Basilicata and Calabria.
CAMPANIA
Just For Kids
This region is renowned for having one of Italy’s most
beautiful coastlines, backed by irregular massifs punctuated
by valleys and plains. Among Campania’s riches are the
isles of Capri, Ischia and Procida in the Gulfs of Naples
(the regional capital) and Salerno, as well as examples of
classic antiquity, such as those in Herculaneum, Pompeii,
Paestum and Cuma, where amphitheaters, triumphal
arches, villas, bridges and tombs are plentiful. Baroque
design is strikingly expressed in The Royal Palace of
Caserta, and even Paleolithic Art is represented in Naples
and Nocera, while relics of the Longobard Age can be
found in Capua and Benevento.
Vesuvio National Park, in San Sebastiano al Vesuvio (Naples)
offers a “hands-on” sensory trail where kids can discover,
touch, smell and observe the diverse colors and scents of
the local plant life.
Temptations
June 16-24 Festa de’Noantri Trastevere, Rome, has the image of
Madonna de Noantri moved by a procession on the eighth
day. This takes place on the Tiber, where the statue was
discovered, and food banquets with local products abound
in Trastevere and its surrounding neighborhoods.
•
•
•
•
August 5 Festa della Madonna della Neve, Rome, celebrates
the legend that in year 352 it snowed on the Esquilino,
now home to Santa Maria Maggiore Church. Today
white petals are thrown from the Borghesiana Chapel
of the dome.
Tastes
December 15 - January 15 Mercato della Befana, Rome, is a
well-known Christmas fair held in Piazza Novana.
December 25 A public blessing on Christmas Day by the Pope in St.
Peter’s Square, Rome.
Biancolella (DOC), white
Falerno del Massico (DOC), red & white
Lacryma Christi (DOC) red, white & rosé
Limoncello, a popular golden citrus liqueur
from Amalfi
www.vesuviopark.it
Edenlandia, in Naples, is a theme park with a host of rides,
live music and dance shows, 3-D theatre, games
and more.
www.edenlandia.it (only in Italian)
For an educational excursion, Citta della Scienza, Naples,
is a science center and planetarium with workshops and
displays exploring nature, science and the environment.
www.cittadellascienza.it
The Villa Comunale Aquarium in Naples is one of the oldest in
Europe (1873) and houses many varieties of marine life.
Red Letter Days
• Mozzarella, moist, fresh and pungent, from Campania
buffalo’s milk
• Sweet, fragrant lemons from Sorrento
• Zuppa di vongole e cozze, a savory clam and mussel
soup flavored with tomatoes and spices.
• Neapolitan Pizza, crisp yet soft to the bite, inimitable
• Sfogliatelle, shell pastry filled with ricotta cheese,
scallop-shaped and dotted with candied citrus peel
Arts & Crafts
• Ceramics from Vietri sul Mare, dazzling
majolica earthware
• Handmade paper from Amalfi
• Coral cameos from Torre del Greco
• Leather sandals from Positano, Capri or Palinuro;
original designs or crafted to order
Monthly, third Sunday except August Villa Comunale Antique
Fair, Naples, is held in the Villa Comunale gardens.
In December it is open every weekend for the pre-holiday
shopping season.
www.fieraantiquarianapoletana.it (only in Italian)
September 19 Feast of San Gennaro, Naples, commemorating
the “miracle” of the liquefying of the saint’s blood,
followed by eight days of other celebrations including
processions and prayer.
Arts & Crafts
Arts & Crafts
• Carpet woven from sheep's wool
• Enameled, patinated brass cowbells from Stigliano
• Hand-carved wood, in chestnut, oak, beech, fir, cherry
and pear depicting pastoral life and historical traditions
• Clay for the manufacture of majolica, porcelain
and ceramics
• Nativity figurines made out of clay
• Pietra Leccese, a soft stone perfect for intricate
detail work; visible all over Lecce throughout its
baroque architecture
Just For Kids
Walk through the labyrinthine alleyways of the Sassi of Matera,
or take a tour with the pollicino bus.
Plan your trip with specialists www.italiantravelpromotioncouncil.org
Lago di San Giuliano is surrounded by a thick forest and is a
breeding ground for water birds and the ideal habitat for
many kinds of fish.
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39
Sorrento, Campania; view of Mt. Vesuvius
MOLISE
Molise is a hilly continuation of Abruzzo’s landscape,
crossed by many rivers that flow into the Tyrrhenian Sea.
The region’s place in the history of Italian art is secured
by the cycle of ninth-century frescoes in the crypt of San
Lorenzo in San Vincenzo al Volturno. Elsewhere there
are plenty of examples of Romanesque, medieval and
Baroque-style architecture – of which Roman- and
Neapolitan-influenced design can be seen in the
civic palaces.
Red Letter Days
Gioco Tradizionale “La Pezza de Casce” In this lively carnival
game, volunteers toss a hefty wheel of cheese along a tricky
route in Vinchiaturo, full of inclines and descents,
eventually to return back in front of the Castle of
Vinchiaturo. The winner, positioning the cheese on
a specified spot, yells out the crucial phrase,
“A la ‘n ‘ tutta!” or “It’s all here!”
BASILICATA
• Giant white celery from Campobasso
• Calcioni di ricotta rustici, rounds of pasta dough filled
with ricotta, provolone and prosciutto fried in olive oil
• Picellati, honey pastries with nuts and grapes
An arid, rocky region of two coastlines, one in the center of
the Gulf of Taranto in the Ionian Sea, and a tiny one on
the Tyrrhenian Sea, with the famous resort of Maratea.
Potenza is the capital of this archaeologically blessed area.
Relics of the Greek era can be found in Metaponto
(the Palatine Tables), while ruins of the Roman Age can
be seen in Venosa. Medieval art is featured in Venosa and
Cerenza (Romanesque style), with Arab-Byzantine and
French-influenced architecture in Melfi and Lagopesole
and Matera – where visitors can also see the “Sassi,” typical
houses and churches literally dug into the “tufa” crag.
Arts & Crafts
Temptation
Temptations
• Biferno (DOC), red, white & rosé
• Pentro di Isernia (DOC), red, white & rosé
Tastes
• Engraved church bells of Agnone
• Zampogne, homemade bagpipes called from Scapoli
• Steel fretwork, such as firearms, knives, scissors
from Campobasso
• Hand-crocheted pillow lace from Isernia
Just For Kids
The Association of Folklore and Culture in Vinchiaturo gives kids 5
years and up experience of the local traditions with local
dances and songs.
Red Letter Days
May 19 & 20 Festa di San Bernardino da Siena, Vinchiaturo,
celebrates the saint whose statue was found intact and
undamaged after the 1805 earthquake, and who saved
other citizens from harm.
• Aglianico del Vulture, red
• Moscato del Vulture, dessert wine
Tastes
• Diavolicchio, a chili pepper found in many local recipes
• Luganiga, a salt-cured meat kept in lard or olive oil
• Ciaudedda, artichokes braised and stuffed with potatoes
and stewed in tomatoes
• Pignata di Pecora, ewe cooked with potatoes, tomatoes,
onions, pork and pecorino in a clay pot called pignata
May 29 La Sfilata dei Turchi, Potenza, a parade in costume,
food and entertainment to recall the legend of San
Gerardo, who saved the city from a Turkish invasion.
June 15 Festa di San Vito, Castelmezzano. San Vito’s statue
along with Sant’Antonio and patron San Rocco are
paraded from the church through the streets amidst food
stands and fireworks.
July 2 Festa della Madonna Bruna, Matera, entails a painting of
the Madonna being carried on a cart through the streets
by costumed horsemen, then returned to the church
where the cart is demolished, and faithful followers obtain
a small relic to take home.
APULIA
Occupying the easternmost part of the peninsula with a
long coastline on the Ionian and the Adriatic Seas, Apulia
is essentially flat and dry, with occasionally plunging cliffs.
Of great cultural interest are the megalithic monuments
at Dolmens and Menhirs, as well as the great archeological
complexes at Canne della Battaglia and Ignazia. Roman
remains are especially noteworthy throughout the region,
and there are superb Romanesque cathedrals at Trani,
Barletta, Molfetta, Bitonto and Ruvo di Puglia and
Bari – where majestic castles of thirteenth-century
Byzantine-Arab style can also be found. Also unmissable
is Alberobello with its typical “trulli” houses.
Just For Kids
Zoosafari, the largest safari park in Italy, and Fasanolandia, an
amusement park, are both located in Fasano, Brindisi,
steps away from one another.
www.zoosafari.it
Red Letter Day
August 27 Cavalcata di Sant’Oronzo, Ostuni, a parade of
costumed horsemen carry a giant statue of Saint Oronzo
through the streets.
September 20-23 Anniversary of the Stigmata and death of Padre
Pio, San Giovanno Rotondo, remembers and celebrates a
popular figure from Pietralcina with religious ceremonies,
prayers and a torchlight procession.
December 13-24 Fiera dei presepi e dei pupi, Lecce, is an 11-day
antique market displaying hand-crafted nativity figures.
CALABRIA
The extreme south-western region of Italy, washed by the
Tyrrhenian and Ionian Seas, dominated by a high central
Apennine ridge, overgrown with thick woods, and wild
coastal landscapes. Catanzaro is the capital of this region,
which yields abundant evidence of previous artistic
civilizations and ancient colonies in Sibari, Crotone,
Catanzaro, Locri, Vibo Valentia. In Cosenza and Reggio
Calabria are baths, theaters and bridges of the Roman
Age, while the religious buildings show Byzantine
influences, reflecting the region’s time under the Empire
of Byzantium. Gothic, Renaissance and baroque
influences and styles are also well represented in art,
design and monuments.
Temptations
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Cirò (DOC), red, white & rosé
Greco (DOC), white
Savuto (DOC), red
Lamezia (DOC), red, white & rosé
Temptations
Tastes
• Aleatico (DOC), red
• Moscato di Trani (DOC), white
• Aubergines, pickled, fried, stuffed or added to
scrumptious pasta sauces
• Maccaruni and lasagna, stuffed with cured meats,
sausage, hard-boiled eggs and cheese.
• Soffritti and morsello, a distinctive dish of tripe and
innards boiled and cooked with tomatoes and spices
• Capocollo, cured, aged pork tenderloin from the neck
or upper shoulder, seasoned with salt and spices
• Caciocavallo silano, cheese from cow’s milk,
formed and strung oval-shaped pairs
• Bergamot, a fragrant citrus fruit whose essence is
used in teas, candies and liqueurs
Tastes
• Orechiette and rabe, the classic pugliese’s pasta course
• Tarallucci e vino, a simple appetizer of salty and spicy
donuts, great with wine
• Cosciotto di capretto in creta, an ancient recipe
featuring a goat cooked on clay
CALABRIA (cont’d from pg.39)
SICILY
Unique Arts & Crafts
Less than two miles from the Italian mainland, Sicily is the
largest island in the Mediterranean and the southernmost
region of Italy. Famous for its blue skies and mild winter
climate Sicily is also home to Mount Etna, Europe’s
largest active volcano. This fertile paradise was settled by
Siculi, Phonecians, Greeks, Carthaginians, Romans,
Moors, Normans, Spaniards and Bourbons among
others, and the remnants of these astounding cultures
cover the entire island; from the temples of Agrigento to
the priceless mosaics of Piazza Armerina and the ancient
capital of Siracusa. Smaller islands, such as the Aeolian,
Aegadean and Pelagian chains as well as Pantelleria, just
90 miles off of the African coast, are also part of Sicily,
offering superb beaches and local lore.
• Colorful pottery from Seminaria; vases, tableware,
urns and masks
• Tapestries and blankets from Longobucco, created
on looms worked by hand and foot
• Chestnut wood wickerwork from San Giorgio Morgeto
• Briarwood smoking pipes from Reggio di
Calabria, hand crafted and carefully carved
Just For Kids
Plan your trip with specialists www.italiantravelpromotioncouncil.org
Natural Museum Libero Gatti Copanello, has a botanical garden
overlooking the reefs of the Ionic Sea with over 1,000
specimens of beautiful shells from all over the world.
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During the summer kids can enjoy the Aquarium and Marine
Park of Isola di Capo Rizzuto, observing fish and marine
life while learning about the protected zones of the
Calabrian coastline.
www.riservamarinacaporizzuto.it
Zambrone Aquapark and Odissea 2000 in Rossano are two of the
largest water parks in the south, filled with thrilling water
slides and various pools.
www.aquapark.it or www.odissea2000.it
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Nero d’Avola (DOC), red
Aglianico del Taburno (DOC), red & white
Sambuca di Sicilia (DOC), red & white
Cerasulo di Vittoria (DOC), rosé
Bianco Alcamo (DOC), white
Moscato (DOC), white
Gold, Amber and Ruby Marsala, dessert wine
Tastes
Red Letter Days
Easter Week Rito dei Vattienti, Nocera Terinese, is highlighted
by the Easter Saturday procession, in which a statue of
the Addolorata is carried, followed by several rituals of
the “Vattienti.”
May 3 Feast of the Tri da Cruci, Tropea, commemorates the
end of the Saracen occupation during the Middle Ages
with fireworks and symbolic acts such as the explosion of
a galley and the burning of the dove.
July 1-7 Sagra della Cipolla Rossa, Tropea, or “the feast of
the red onion,” honors the queen of the gastronomy
of Tropea. Many farm stands display and sell their
home made specialties, while the feast concludes with
games and musical shows.
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Temptations
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Delicate and fruity extra virgin olive oils
Sea salt from Trapani
Sicilian honey, pistacchios and succulent blood oranges
Almond paste marzipan shaped into colorful
miniature fruits
• Ricotta-filled cannoli
• Delicious cassata cake with ricotta and pistacchio
In Palermo itself, discover the Museo Internazionale delle
Marionette, an entire museum dedicated to the Sicilian art
of puppetry.
Midway between the temples of Agrigento and the
Roman-era mosaics of Piazza Armerina kids can enjoy
a fun-filled afternoon at the Parco Acquatico Conte, a
waterworld theme park in Sommatino.
Red Letter Days
February 3 – 5 Catania hosts three days of festivities
in honor of St. Agatha, revolving around sweets made
from marzipan.
May 9 – 10 Tre Castagni enjoys two days of celebrations
complete with local specialties, processions and Sicilian
Carts in honor of Santi Alfio, Filadelfio e Cirino.
July 9 – 15 Palermo offers seven days of non-stop
excitement in honor of Santa Rosalia, featuring a huge
fireworks display on the 14th and a magnificent parade
on the 15th.
July 25 In Caltagirone, thousands of olive oil-bearing
torches (coppi) connected by a fuse are lit at once
in commemoration of a day-long festival honoring
San Giacomo.
August 13 – 15 La Cavalcata dei Giganti, Messina, stars
30-foot-tall papier-mâché knights leading a parade
of bands and Sicilian carts through the city in a
three-day celebration.
Arts & Crafts
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Red coral artwork from Trapani
Hand-painted tambourines
Medieval style puppets on a string
Highly collectable ceramics from Caltagirone
Fanciful Sicilian carts in all sizes
Artistic objects made from glazed bread in Salemi
Just For Kids
August, last week La Festa del Turista, Vibo Valentia, celebrates
the end of the summer holidays with the gathering of the
“giants” (huge papier-mâchè depictions of the Saracens)
and tastings of delicious regional specialties.
In Bagheria, near Palermo, is the Museo dei Giocattoli Pietro
Piranio with over 700 toys from the last four centuries.
The creepy catacombs of San Giovanni beneath Siracusa
date back almost 3000 years.
Il Piccolo Teatro dei Pupi, also in Siracusa, showcases medieval
puppetry most summer evenings.
December 13 Siracusa is home to a huge celebration in
honor of Santa Lucia, the city’s patron saint, involving
pageantry, parades and plenty of pushcarts filled with
tempting delicacies.
SARDINIA
The second largest island in the Mediterranean, formed
by a series of mountainous massifs, hills and narrow
highlands, has jagged, rocky coasts concealing marvelous
beaches and countless picturesque inlets and islets.
Cagliari is the capital, ruled by a special statute. Pre- and
post-historic eras are expressed by the megalithic “Tombs
of the Giants”; the “domus dejanas” (houses of the witches),
tombs dug into the rock; and the mysterious “nuraghi,”
around 7,000 truncated cone towers found all over the
island. Phoenician and Roman remains have come to
light at Tharros and Nora; there are Roman relics at
Porto Torres and Cagliari and the Gothic-Catalonian
style survives from the rule of the Spanish House
of Aragon.
Temptations
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Vernaccia (DOC), white
Malvasia (DOC), white
Nuragus (DOC), white
Cannonau (DOC), red & rosé
Tastes
• Pecorino, cheese made from sheep’s milk, eaten either
fresh or aged to a sharp, piquant flavor and grated
• Porcheddu, roast suckling pig flavored with herbs and
spices and then spit-roasted
• Fiore sardo, golden cheese from sheep’s milk
Unique Arts & Crafts
• Wrought-gold or filigree creations make lovely jewelry
• Filet lace from Bosa and Osilo, with delicately
embroidered flowers, fruits, geometric shapes and
folk scenes
• Basket-making from the Campidano area, where straw is
woven into spirals around a small brocade fabric center
Just For Kids
Aquarium Laguna di Nora in Pula reveals the fish and flora of
the Sardinian seas.
Aquadream in Baja Sardinia is a major water theme park
with twisting slides, games, miniature golf and more.
www.aquadream.it (only in Italian)
Water Paradise in Sorso offers pools with artificial waves as
well as “kiddie” pools, water slides, whirlpools and more.
www.waterparadise.it (only in Italian)
To better understand this extraordinary island, visit
a perfectly detailed, scaled-down model at
Sardegna in Miniatura, Barumini.
www.sardegnainminiatura.it
Red Letter Days
May 1 Festival of Saint Efisio, Cagliari, is a celebration including
the longest procession in the Catholic world, including
decorated carts, musicians, worshippers, knights and more.
May, second to last Sunday Cavalcata Sarda, Sassari,
or the “Sardinian Ride,” recalls the victory of the
Sardinian and Pisan forces over the Saracens around the
year 1000. Hundreds of horses and knights from all parts
of the island show off their skills.
S
PLANNING THE
PERFECT VACATION
S
Plan your trip with specialists www.italiantravelpromotioncouncil.org
Italy’s waiting. On the previous pages we’ve tried to give you a flavor of her exclusive appeal and
many attractions; a sense of the varied beauty of the land and its remarkable regions; a glimpse of the
myriad artistic, cultural and historic influences that remain to be enjoyed there.
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43
The Italian Travel Promotion Council (ITPC) represents a broad range of member companies, each
of which has exceeded the highest industry standards for customer service, quality, reliability and
price/value satisfaction. While each company specializes in one or more forms of travel, they are all
committed to assisting you in planning the Italian vacation of a lifetime. Travel with confidence
and style. The choice is yours!
Start by determining which kind of travel you enjoy the most.
Type A — Carefree
Type C — A Little of Both
Prefer to concentrate on seeing and experiencing the
country? Try a fixed schedule approach with daily
itineraries such as an Escorted Tour by motor coach;
mostly all-inclusive with a full-time escort, available
year-round. Rates vary based on the season, length of stay,
accommodations and destinations. Special interests such
as food & wine, archaeology, religion and sports often fall
within this category.
If you enjoy some structured touring with the flexibility
to discover independently, a Hosted Tour may just be
the answer. Generally includes airfare and transfers,
accommodations, group sightseeing tours in each
destination, some meals – and plenty of free time as well.
Next, explore the following alphabetical list of Italy
specialists to find the vacations closest to your personality
and style.
AMERICA’S ITALY SPECIALISTS
Allegro Tours
BellaVista
Italy is our expertise.
For over twenty years, Allegro Tours has been a leader
in customizing group and individual cultural travel to Italy.
Whatever your interest, Allegro Tours can design a complete
program for you. Our vast knowledge and leadership in the
travel industry guarantees an outstandingly sophisticated
tour, made easier and more affordable than you can imagine.
Mediterranean Tours
Specializing in group and individual travel arrangements,
including escorted and semi-escorted tours and
independent excursions. Our thorough destination
knowledge and commitment to personalized service lets
BellaVista Tours arrange any desired itinerary from budget
to deluxe, including the following services:
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Choral-performing tours
Orchestra-performing tours
Opera
Art tours
Academic tours
Leisure tours
Food & wine tours
Garden tours
Senior citizens leisure weeks
Students cultural tours
Private minivan and English-speaking driver for
small groups
Call your travel agent today, or contact us directly:
877-566-1998
www.allegro-tours.com
Type B — Independent
If you love exploring on your own, choosing your own
destinations and accommodations, then a custom-designed
Independent Tour, FIT or villa vacation works best for
you. Airfare, car rentals, rail, ferry tickets and even access
to special venues such as concerts or wineries can all be
incorporated to meet your timetable and budget.
“As the Italians say, good
company in a journey makes
the way seem shorter.”
Izaak Walton
Auto Europe
Italy a la carte – with one call
Auto Europe, a leader in European car rental services, can
arrange all your transportation needs in Italy.
• Over 300 car rental locations
• Largest selection of prestige & sports car models from
Ferrari to Lamborghini
• Chauffeur-Driven service in all major cities
• From Executive Sedans to Limousines
• Coach, Business Class & First-Class Airfare from all
major cities in the USA
• Package Savings combining rental with Air or Hotel;
over 300 properties throughout Europe
• GPS & Cell Phone Rentals
Contact your travel agent or call:
800-223-5555
www.autoeurope.com
Hotel accommodations throughout all regions of Italy
Sightseeing, with private guides if desired
Transfers, car and villa rentals
Train tickets & rail passes — authorized Trenitalia agent
Land only arrangements or with air service from major
US gateways to Italy and beyond.
877-723-0802
www.bellavistatours.com
Brendan Worldwide Vacations
More Choices, More Places
Our fully escorted tours, locally hosted vacations and
independent “City Breaks” are tailored to show you the Italy
of your dreams in confidence, convenience and comfort.
In business for 37 years, Brendan knows Italy intimately: the
scenic highways and back roads, castles, hotels, museums and
historic sites and cities, the islands of the Tyrrhenian Sea.
Whatever you seek in this marvelous country, we have the
vacation for you.
• Locally hosted vacations from 8-11 days. Including
Rome, Florence & Venice
• Escorted vacations from 8-16 days. Including Rome,
Sorrento, Florence, Tuscany, Pisa, Milan & Sicily
• Independent City Breaks. Explore Milan, Sorrento,
Rome, Florence, & Venice
For reservations contact your local travel agent or call:
800-421-8446
www.brendanvacations.com
Plan your trip with specialists www.italiantravelpromotioncouncil.org
AMERICA’S ITALY SPECIALISTS
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45
Cartan Tours
Doorways, Ltd.
Satisfied Travelers Since 1899
For over 106 years Cartan Tours has provided travel programs
for travelers who expect memorable vacations with superior
service, be it a spa retreat, a shopping splurge, a Gourmet Tour,
or a visit to the Eternal City. Our “Gems of Italy” programs are
designed for independent travelers who wish to experience Italy
at their own pace. Combine and customize programs to suit
your interests and time schedule.
Italian Villa Vacations
Exquisite villas for vacations in Italy. Choose your dream
property from a carefully vetted quality selection to ensure
a wonderful experience.
• Discovery Programs — Explore some of Italy’s most
popular locations from Lake Como to Sicily, as well as
new favorites Piedmont and Apulia
• Indulge Programs — Luxuriate in a world-class spa
• Culinary Programs — Learn to cook Italian dishes and
discover secrets only chefs know
• Villas, Apartments & Farmhouses — Immerse yourself in
the lifestyle and culture of Italy and live like locals do
Visit your Travel Agent or call us.
800-818-1998
www.cartan.com
Celtic Tours
Members of USTOA, ASTA TOP & NTA
For over 33 years, Celtic Tours has offered unforgettable,
individualized vacations to Europe, combining excellent
customer service, products and value. Imagine living in an
authentic Italian villa where you can cook and sample local
foods and wine with renowned chefs and a sommelier. Enjoy
the warmth of the Sicilian Sun or soak up the romantic
ambiance of Venice, Florence and Rome. Relax and enjoy a
luxurious tour with your own private chauffeur, or the fun
and flexibility of an Italian rail journey. Fulfill your travel
plans, your way.
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Independent Rail Programs
Escorted Tours, Customized Group & Individual Tours
Chauffeur-Driven Tours
Villa Stays & Cooking Programs
Weddings & Honeymoons
City Stays, Transfers & Day-Tours
800-833-4373
www.celtictours.com
Club ABC
For Members Only
Club ABC Tours is a members-only travel club providing
outstanding vacation values since 1966. Our bi-monthly
brochure offers hundreds of tour programs, independent quick
trips and cruise itineraries to Italy. Most packages include air
and feature either first class or deluxe accommodations.
Members book directly with Club ABC by phone, online or by
mail. Membership is available for only $30 per year, $45 for
two years, or $60 for three years, covering a maximum of two
adults per household and their dependent children.
For more information, call:
888-TOURS-ABC (868-7722)
www.clubabc.com
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300 premier villas, castles, cottages and apartments
100 air-conditioned properties
Professional and experienced staff
Extra attention for families
Rental cars, chauffeur services, meet-and-greet services
Extra services in the villa (maid, chef, cooking class)
Custom tours (sightseeing, wine tasting, shopping, art
and architecture)
• Weddings and honeymoons, special interest groups and
courses (language, ceramic painting, painting)
• Custom-guided bicycle tours and bicycle rentals
• Travel Tips, Restaurant Guides, Day Trip Guides,
Quarterly Newsletter
Contact us, or call your travel agent.
800-261-4460
www.villavacations.com
Distinctive Journeys International, Ltd.
Offering distinctive experiences to Italy and around the world!
DJI is a full-service U.S. tour operator specializing in deluxe
custom-designed travel programs to Italy and other European
destinations for FITs, small groups and incentives. Professional,
personable and extremely well traveled, our team offers the utmost in
service and reliability, from initial planning until your return, including:
• Full range of accommodations from villa-style and
boutique properties to deluxe city hotels and resorts
• Transportation options: rental cars, chauffeur-driven and rail
• Public and/or private sightseeing
• Pre-and/or post cruise tours plus exclusive shore excursions
• Special activities: olive oil tastings, wine tastings, gallery
visits, tickets to cultural performances, etc.
• Personalized itineraries with restaurant and shopping
tips, emergency contacts, maps/brochures, and more
Call your travel agent or reach us at:
800-922-2060
www.distinctivejourneys.com
EAC – Europe At Cost
Superb Vacations by Design
Founded in 1966, EAC - Europe at Cost©, is one of the oldest leading
tour operators to Italy, specializing solely in exclusive
customized ground services arrangements in Italy and Europe.
• Established 40 years, offices in Milan, Rome, Nice and New York,
as well as affiliated organizations and staff throughout Europe
• Competitive, direct supplier-to-customer prices
• Extensive expertise in groups & incentives
• Commitment to complete customer satisfaction
• Professional Licensed Escorts are part of our own permanent
staff. Fully trained by EAC, they assure top- quality service,
possessing degrees in art history, architecture and liberal arts,
adding greater perspective to your group vacation.
800-322-3876
[email protected]
European Connection
Key Tours International
Italian Travel Specialists
Our award-winning team of Italy Experts will customize your dream
trip to Italy, from itinerary planning to hotel selection, transportation
needs, sightseeing, special activities and complete documentation.
Key Tours is a wholesale tour operator, specializing in
tailored itineraries for Europe and the Mediterranean.
Several things set us apart.
• Wide selection:over 500 properties from deluxe hotels
to charming country inns
• Rail passes, individual tickets & seat reservations
• Private sightseeing, with excellent guides or scheduled tours
• Lowest car rental rates
• Shore Excursions from all Italian ports
• Chauffeur-driven & motor coach services throughout Italy
• Cooking classes, wine tasting, and many other unique opportunities
• Family groups & special interest tours, our specialty
• Incentive & Meeting Planning Division
800-345-4679
www.europeanconnection.com
European Incoming Services (EIS)
Reinventing Customized Travel
For 25 years, EIS has been a leader in customizing group and
individual travel to Italy and the Mediterranean. With
headquarters in Rome and sales offices in the USA, we are your
personal tour advisor — experts on all regions, eager to share
special places and devoted to tailoring your trip to your needs.
Whether you want to learn the secrets of balsamic vinegar in
Modena, perform in a choir at St. Peter’s or attend a fashion show
in Milan, EIS gets you into places not normally accessible to the
public. For customized programs for special interest groups,
incentives or FITs, we offer:
• Hotels, villas, farmhouses, apartments
• Unique experiential activities — tastings, seminars, lessons
• Special interest arrangements– choir & performance,
sports teams arrangements, culinary, soft adventure, religious
• Expert guides, sightseeing & tour directors
• Private transfers & car rental
Contact us or your travel agent for more information.
800-443-1644
www.eistours.com
Insight Vacations
The Art of Touring in Style
The world leader of premium, first-class escorted tours to Europe,
The United States and Canada. You’ll notice the Insight difference
right away: smaller group sizes mean more attention, extra leg room
and overall comfort. Our vacations include airport transfers,
first-class, centrally located hotels, sightseeing excursions, premium
highlights and most meals. Guests can also enjoy the security of
booking one of Insight’s guaranteed departures. Each Insight itinerary
is carefully designed to allow the world’s most fascinating destinations
to be explored at a leisurely pace with our top-notch tour directors.
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Italian Intermezzo
Best of Italy
Country Roads of Southern Italy & Sicily
Italian Escapade
Easy Pace Italy
Country Roads of Italy
Grand Tour of Italy & Sicily
Easy Pace Monte Carlo, Tuscany & Como
For more information or reservations, please contact your local travel agent or call:
888-680-1241
www.insightvacations.com
• Extensive experience on destinations
• Good value for money
• The best protection of your travel funds —
100% escrow of funds
• Flexible & customized programs
• Itineraries may also be adapted to any group of 10 or more
• City Tours: 100% flexible mini packages including hotel,
meals, sightseeing
• Package Tours (air & land), Custom group tours
• Air, land & cruise packages
• Air & land escorted packages
• Special interest Fly & Drive packages including air, land
A member of the American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA),
and designated as a TOP Tour Operator. All travel funds stay
in escrow until return of travelers.
800-576-1784
www.keytours.com
Maiellano
Bargain Car Rentals in Italy & Europe
For 36 years, Maiellano has been a leading provider of
high-quality, high-value fly and drive travel programs.
Specializing in comprehensive travel arrangements to Italy
and beyond, we offer all-inclusive price quotes, innovative
itineraries, excellent car rental options, and impeccable
service — everything you need to make the self- drive
vacation of your dreams. From a bargain rental to a deluxe
chauffeured limousine, a quaint villa or a full-service hotel,
Maiellano’s experienced personnel have the capacity and
desire to accommodate your every wish. Maiellano is a
member of the World Travel Group.
• Bargain Car Rental
• Chauffeured Limo Rental
• All-inclusive Car Rental Rates
• Fly & Drive Travel Packages
• Hotel Accommodations throughout Italy & beyond
• Italian Villas, Castles & Home rentals in Umbria,
Liguria, Amalfi Coast, Sicily & Tuscany
• HERTZ partnership
• Excellent customer service
• 24-hour online booking with immediate confirmation
800-223-1616
www.maiellano.com
AMERICA’S ITALY SPECIALISTS
Michelangelo Tours of Italy
Italian–Born Italy Specialists Since 1970
Michelangelo Tours offers expert custom-designed group
tours and FIT’s for every budget and itinerary.
Plan your trip with specialists www.italiantravelpromotioncouncil.org
• Special Interest Programs: Students & Educational tours,
Opera & Music, Religion, Art, Food & Wine.
• Depend on us for value and quality of service. We are
committed to meet your request with efficiency and courtesy.
• Featuring packages to Italy, escorted and independent, with
first class hotels, motor coaches, sightseeing, tour managers,
and local guides – creating the perfect vacation package.
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Discover more of Italy www.italiantourism.com
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877-267-2307
www.michelangelotours.com
Perillo Tours
Chi viaggia con Perillo, viaggia tranquillo
61 years ago an Italian immigrant opened a "travel bureau"
in the Bronx called Joseph Perillo & Sons. He never lived to
see his son Mario turn the little business into the largest
travel company to Italy in America. But it was Joseph’s
example of hard work, rock solid integrity and respect for
our clients that made our success possible. What does this
have to do with YOUR vacation? Plenty! Our family values
extend to every aspect of your trip - from the warmth of our
guides to the careful selection of restaurants and hotels. So
when you compare our trips to other companies, you’ll see
rates and dates, meals and excursions. But what you won’t
find in the rate box is the most important thing of all – the
magic of traveling with the Perillo family. That’s my gift
from our family to yours. — Steve Perillo
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Roman Holiday
The 10 Day Vesuvius Tour
The 10 Day Marco Polo Tour
Italy North Classic
Italy North Continental
Tuscany Plus!
Three City Aristocrat
South & Sicily
For more information or reservations see your travel agent or call:
800-431-1515
www.perillotours.com
The International Kitchen
TourCrafters
Your Passport to Cooking in Europe
Since 1994, the premier culinary travel company to Italy,
France and Spain, offering authentic and unique all-inclusive
experiences that include hands-on classes, tastings of wine,
cheese, olive oil and vinegar, market visits, excursions to
historical locations, and much more.
The Tour Operator That Knows Italy Best
TourCrafters, the dependable family-owned tour operator,
has been offering packages, tours and travel services in the
U.S. since 1980, with offices in Libertyville, IL and Rome.
As a cover story in Travel Agent Magazine says, “…quick and
personal service has been a TourCrafters hallmark since it was
founded….” TourCrafters’ Italy brochure is published twice
yearly; there are also special brochures on Tuscany, Umbria
and the Italian countryside; Sicily; and the Amalfi Coast.
• 2-7 night programs throughout many regions of Italy
• Classes taught by local chefs, "nonnas,” and culinary personalities
• Accommodations range from farmhouse to deluxe hotels
& villas, chosen for their charm and scenic locations
• Trips include round-trip transfers, all meals with highquality local wines, all transportation for excursions
• For those whose schedules don’t permit longer stays,
we offer the option of a one-day class in many regions
• All programs in English
• Complimentary pre- and post-planning
Please contact us by telephone or e-mail, or through your local travel agent.
800-945-8606
www.theinternationalkitchen.com
Tauck World Discovery
Picasso Tours
Parker Villas
Your Key to Every Corner of Italy
A vacation home lets you explore the country independently at
your own pace and in spacious comfort. Parker Villas prides
itself on selecting beautiful, staff inspected properties
throughout Italy with the American traveler in mind and at
affordable weekly rates.
• Rent a cottage for two to an entire estate for 40 persons
• Tuscany, The Lakes, Amalfi Coast, the Italian Riviera,
Veneto, Umbria, Sicily & more
• Rentals starting at $500 a week to the sky’s the limit; many
with maid/cook options
• US-based company with our own customer support staff in Italy
• Extended-Stay Discounts
• Half-day interactive excursions with vintners, chefs & artists
• Trip Postponement Coverage
• FREE 300+ page color catalog
• Web site with 1000s of photos & real-time availability
The only surprises on your Italian trip should be
pleasant ones.
Please call us or visit our Web site.
800-280-2811
www.parkervillas.com
by Picasso Travel
Picasso Tours, a division of Picasso Travel, offers a variety of
tour programs to Europe, with focus on Mediterranean
destinations and Italy in particular. In addition to scheduled
Escorted Tours and Cruise Tour departures we offer a large
number of independent vacations — city packages and
combination of 2 or 3 city packages. Picasso Tours also
handles FITs and all kinds of affinity groups: pilgrimages,
alumni, students, seniors & special interests.
• Escorted Tours: Scenic Italy,Essential Italy,
Highlights of Sicily
• Independent Vacations: Italy by Eurostar Train; Naples,
Capri & Sorrento; Naples, Sorrento & Positano
• City Packages: Naples, Capri, Sorrento, Amalfi, Positano,
Ravello,Como, Cernobbio, Bellagio, Stresa, Venice,
Florence, Rome
Call your travel agent or contact us:
800-995-7997
www.picassotours.com
Tauck World Discovery is the world leader in upscale, escorted
travel, offering 130 land, cruise, river cruise and safari packages
in 60 countries and on all seven continents. Amongst our
exciting Italy options are the following:
• Classic Italy (14 days): Sorrento, Rome, Umbria, Tuscany,
Florence, Venice
• A Week in Italy (8 days): Umbria, Orvieto, Todi, Assisi,
Siena, Florence, Rome
• A Week In Rome, Capri and the Amalfi Coast (8 days):
Positano, Pompeii, Ravello, Naples, Vatican City
• Tuscany, Umbria & Florence (9 days:) Monteriggioni,
Siena, San Gimignano, Spoleto, Assisi, Perugia
• Italian Lakes, Venice, Florence & Rome (10 days):
Lake Como, Lake Lugano, Tuscany, Siena, The Vatican
• Cruising Mediterranean Shores (15 days): Two-night stays
in Rome and Florence, plus 10-night luxury cruise visiting
Sicily, the Amalfi Coast, Monte-Carlo, Barcelona,
Majorca, Tunisia
• Treasures of the Mediterranean (13 days): 7-night luxury cruise
visiting Sicily, Corsica, the Amalfi Coast, and Monte-Carlo,
plus two nights in Provence and one in Malta
• Sicily, the Amalfi Coast & Rome (11 days): 2-nights in
Rome, one night in Malta, plus seven-night luxury cruise
visiting the Amalfi Coast, Lipari, Segesta, Taormina
For more information, visit your travel professional.
800-468-2825
www.tauck.com
Tours & Packages
• Good-deal packages to Italian cities & resorts
• Escorted tours all over Italy
• Special opera packages
• Private deluxe tours
Services for Independent Travelers
• Reservations in selected hotels of superior quality
• Flight reservations and train tickets
• Sightseeing tours & excursions
• Car rentals, transfers, private limousine services
All products and services are available through travel agents,
except for some discounted "web only" winter packages, which
must be booked directly with the company.
800-482-5995
www.tourcrafters.com
Visit Italy Tours
Visit Italy Tours is Italy’s finest Tour Operator specializing
in custom-designed packages. With offices in Rome and
Los Angeles, we ensure the best-quality service and
expert knowledge on both sides of the Atlantic.
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Escorted, Independent & Hosted tours
Custom-designed trips
Chauffeur-driven limousines
Special Interest Tours: Food & Wine, Religious Programs,
Honeymoon/romance, Archaeology, Art/museums, Shopping
Car Rentals & fly/drive packages
Hotel Accommodations
Villa rentals
Specialists in Alumni, Soft adventure, Sports, Senior Citizens
For reservations call your Travel Agent or Visit Italy Tours at:
800-255-3537
www.VisitItalyTours.com
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GENERAL INFORMATION
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TRAVEL SEASONS
NORTHWEST AIRLINES: 1-800-447-4747 www.nwa.com
High
Daily flight:
Detroit, MI – Rome (seasonal)
June - September.
This is the most expensive and popular time to travel.
Shoulder April - May
September - October
December 15 - 24
Plan your trip with specialists www.italiantravelpromotioncouncil.org
Low
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Discover more of Italy www.italiantourism.com
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November 1 - December 14
December 25 - March 31
EUROFLY: 1-800-459-0581 www.euroflyusa.com
Weekly flights from New York/JFK to:
Naples (Mon-Wed-Fri)
Bologna (Tue-Thu-Sun)
Palermo (Sat)
From January 2006 a business class-only flight will operate between New
York/JFK and Milan with daily departures.
DOCUMENTATION
Passports
Approximate flight times to Rome from:
A passport is valid for 6 months beyond the date of the return
flight. Citizens of the USA and Canadian citizens with a valid
passport can stay in Italy 90 days. If a longer period is
required they must obtain a visa.
Note: Minors under 18 years of age not traveling with their parents require
a declaration from both parents, or their legal guardian, authorizing their
independent travel.
Los Angeles: 15h 35m
New York: 9h 45m
Chicago: 10h
MAJOR ITALIAN AIRPORTS
Rome (FCO)
Fiumicino – Leonardo da Vinci www.adr.it
Ciampino www.adr.it
NONSTOP FLIGHTS: USA TO ITALY
ALITALIA: 1-800-223-5730 www.alitaliausa.com
Bologna (BLQ)
Daily flights:
New York/JFK – Rome/Milan
Newark, NJ – Rome/Milan
Boston, MA – Milan
Boston, MA – Rome (seasonal)
Miami, FL – Milan
Chicago, IL – Milan
Washington, DC – Milan
Guglielmo Marconi www.bologna-airport.it
DELTA: 1-800-221-1212 www.delta.com
Malpensa www.sea-aeroportimilano.it
Linate www.sea-aeroportimilano.it
Daily flights:
New York/JFK – Milan
New York/JFK – Rome
New York/JFK – Venice
Atlanta, GA – Rome
Atlanta, GA - Milan (seasonal)
Cincinnati, OH – Rome (some seasonal restrictions)
CONTINENTAL: 1-800-525-0280 www.continental.com
Daily flights:
New York (EWR) – Milan
Two daily flights:
New York (EWR) – Rome
AMERICAN AIRLINES: 1-800-433-7300 www.aa.com
Daily flights:
New York (JFK) – Rome
Chicago, IL (ORD) – Rome
Florence (FLR)
Amerigo Vespucci www.aeroport.firenze.it
Genoa (GOA)
Cristoforo Colombo – Sestri www.airport.genova.it
Milan (MXP)
Bergamo (BGY)
Milano Orio al Serio www.sacbo.it
Naples (NAP)
Capodichino www.gesac.it
Pisa (PSA)
Galileo Galilei www.pisa-airport.com
Palermo (PMO)
Punta Raisi www.gesap.it
Turin (TRN)
Citta di Torino www.airport.turin.it
Venice (VCE)
Marco Polo www.veniceairport.it
US AIRWAYS: 1-800-428-4322 www.usairways.com
Daily flights:
Philadelphia, PA – Rome
Philadelphia, PA – Venice (May through October)
Note: Pisa-Florence link
People traveling to Florence can fly to Pisa and then take the new train service
directly from Pisa airport to Florence (travel time – 60 minutes). The railway
station in Pisa is practically inside the airport. Rail services connect with arrivals
and departures of all international flights and major domestic services.
DUTY FREE
Traffic Regulations
The following goods may be imported into Italy without
incurring customs duty by passengers over 17 years of age
arriving from countries outside the EU.
Traffic drives on the right. An International Driver’s license is
required for driving in Italy. Passengers are required by law to
wear seat belts. Speed limits are 50kph (30mph) in urban
areas, 90/110kph (55/65mph) on country roads, 130kph
(80mph) on highways. High beams are prohibited, especially
in towns and cities, but are permitted when an emergency
arises, when driving through darkness but only when no
vehicles are coming in the opposite way. Lights are required
by law to be ON at all times by law. Red warning triangle on
board is mandatory.
• 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 100 cigarillos or 250g of
tobacco 2 liters of wine and 1 of spirits (over 22 per cent)
or 2 liters of fortified or sparkling wine
• 50ml of perfume and 250ml of eau de toilette
• 500g of coffee or 200g of coffee extract (if over 15 years
of age)
• 100g of tea or 40g of tea extract
• gifts not exceeding $200.00 (if entering from a
non-EU country)
TRAVEL WITHIN ITALY
Air
Domestic airlines connect all country’s airports as well as some
European cities. Among them:
Meridiana: www.meridiana.it
Alpi Eagle: www.alpieagles.it
Air Dolomiti: www.airdolomiti.it
Air One: www.flyairone.it
Air Europe: www.aireurope.it (in Italian only)
Ferries
Regular boat and hydrofoil services run to most of the islands,
including Capri, Elba, Giglio, Sardinia, Sicily and the Aeolian
Islands. There are also some links along the coast. Ferry service
from main ports connects most of the ports of the Mediterranean
countries, included Greece, Croatia, Slovenia, Albania, Malta,
and the island of Corsica.
www.ferriesonline.com
www.snav.com
Rail
There are nearly 16,000km (9400 miles) of track in the country.
The Italian State Railroad, Trenitalia, runs a nationwide network
at very reasonable fares, calculated on the distance traveled, and
there are a number of excellent reductions. A new rail pass, the
Trenitalia Pass, is the only pass available to people resident
outside of Italy (it supersedes the old Italy Flexicard, Railcard and
Kilometric ticket). This allows from 4 to 10 days of unlimited
travel within a two-month period. Any train in Italy can be used,
although a small supplement is payable on Eurostar Italia services.
The pass also entitles the holder to discounts on some
Italy-Greece ferry routes, hotels and other special offers. Both
first- and second-class passes are available. Children aged from
four to 11 pay half the adult fare, and there is a reduced-rate
Youth Pass for travelers aged under 26. Please note that once you
purchase your train ticket you must validate it at the yellow box at
the beginning of the train tracks, otherwise it will be invalid.
For further information, log onto www.trenitalia.com.
Road
The highway (AUTOSTRADA, symbolized by AA) has tolls and
charge according to distances and size of the motor vehicle.
Some stretches, the Salerno–Reggio Calabria, Palermo–Catania
and Palermo–Mazara Del Vallo, are toll-free. Gas stations along
the highway are open 24/7. State roads (SS) are also very good
and require no tolls.
Gas stations on the secondary roads are usually closed from
1:00pm to 3:00pm. Visitors should check locally about exact
hours of operation. The road signs are usually international.
Italian highways do accept credit cards – pick the lane that
reads Via Card and any major credit card will be accepted by
the machine. More information on the Italian motorway network
is available from the Società Autostrade at www.autostrade.it.
Note: Fines for speeding and other driving wrongdoings are
particularly heavy and on-the-spot.
Road service: In case of vehicle breakdown, dial 116 at the
nearest telephone and tell the operator your location and
car description and the nearest Automobile Club of Italy
(ACI) office will be notified for immediate assistance.
Travel Times
The following chart gives approximate travel times
(hour.minutes) from Rome to other major cities in Italy.
Florence
Milan
Venice
Naples
Palermo
AIR
ROAD
RAIL
0.45
0.65
0.65
0.45
0.60
2.30
6.00
6.00
2.00
10.00
2.30
6.00
6.30
2.30
14.30
TRANSPORT
All Italian cities rely on trams and bus transportation: the fare
structure is integrated between the various modes. Tickets
can be purchased:
75 minutes
1Euro
24 hrs.
4Euros
36 hrs.
11Euros
1 week
16Euros
1 month
10Euros
Tickets can be purchased from tobacco shops or newsstands.
Taxi: Available in all towns and cities. Government-regulated
taxis are either white or yellow. Avoid taxis that are not metered.
There are extra charges for night service, luggage and taxis called
by telephone. All charges are listed on a rate card displayed in
the cab with an English translation. Taxis can only be hailed at
strategically located stands or booked by telephone. One cannot
hail a cab from the streets. A 10% tip is expected by taxi drivers
and this is sometimes added to the fare for foreigners.
MONEY MATTERS
Single European currency (Euro)
The Euro is official currency. The first Euro coins and notes
were introduced in January 2002; the Italian lira was still in
circulation until 28 February 2002, when it was completely
replaced by the Euro.1 Euro = US$ 1.30 approximately. Do
check before traveling www.eurochange.com.
Notes are in denominations of Euro 500, 200, 100, 50, 20,
10 and 5. Coins are in denominations of Euro 2 and 1, and
50, 20, 10, 5, 2 and 1 cent.
Currency exchange
Post Offices
Travelers’ cheques and foreign money can be changed at banks,
railway stations and airports, and very often at major hotels
(generally at a less convenient rate, depending on the
denominations of currency being bought or sold). Check with
banks for details and current rates.
Letters between Italy and other countries usually take 4 to 7 days
to arrive. Stamps are sold in post offices and tobacco shops.
Hours vary but usually are as follows:
Mon-Fri
8:00/8:30am-1:00/1:30pm
2:00/2:30pm-5:30/6:30pm
Saturday
8:00am – 1:00pm.
Credit cards
American Express, MasterCard and Visa are accepted, as well as
other cards. Check with your credit card company for merchant
acceptability and other facilities that may be available. Most of
credit card companies charge a fee for overseas purchases.
Travelers cheques
Travelers cheques are accepted almost everywhere. To avoid
additional exchange rate charges, travelers are advised to take
travelers cheques in Euro.
Plan your trip with specialists www.italiantravelpromotioncouncil.org
Currency restrictions
Check with the embassy before departure. Import and
export of both local and foreign currency is limited to
Euro 12,50000. If it is intended to import or export
amounts greater than this, the amount should be declared
and validated in Italy on form V2.
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• Outgoing international code: 001, US city area code and
Discover more of Italy www.italiantourism.com
In Italy the current is 220 volts, compared to the US 110 volts.
If you plan on using your own 110-volt appliances, you will
need a voltage converter, unless your appliance is designed to
also work with 220 volts electricity (dual voltage). For example,
most laptops and some electric shavers are designed to work
both at 110 and 220 volts. Plugging in an appliance that is not
designed to run on 220 volts electricity without using voltage
converter will damage it. Regardless of voltage, you will need
an adapter.
USEFUL INFORMATION
Marriage or procedures on marriage in Italy please visit
www.italyemb.org/marriage.htm
Banking hours
These vary from city to city but, in general, Mon-Fri 8:30am1:30pm and 3:00pm-4:00pm, Sat 8:30am-1:00pm,
although many banks are closed on Saturdays and Sundays.
ATM card
Ente Nazionale Italiano per il Turismo (ENIT) (Italian
State Tourist Board)
Via Marghera 2, 00185 Rome, Italy
Tel: (06) 49711 Fax: (06) 446 3379
[email protected]
Using your ATM card is the easiest and more convenient way
to get cash when needed. Just make sure that your card has
logos in the back reading NYSE – MAESTRO and PLUS or
CIRRUS, and that your pin code is numeric only. Check with
your bank for restrictions.
www.enit.it
COMMUNICATIONS
www.italiantourism.com
Telephones
Embassy of the Italian Republic
Full IDD (International Direct Dial) service is available.
• Italy country code is 39, so from the US, dial 011 39
followed by 06 for Rome, 02 for Milan, 011 for Turin,
081 for Naples, 041 for Venice and 055 for Florence),
drop the 0 if calling an Italian cellular number.
telephone number.
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ELECTRICITY
Italian Government Tourist Board (ENIT)
630 Fifth Avenue, Suite 1565, New York, NY 10111, USA
Tel: (212) 245 5618 Fax: (212) 586 9249
[email protected]
3000 Whitehaven Street, NW, Washington, DC 20008, USA
Tel: (202) 612 4400 or 4405/7 (visa section)
Fax: (202) 518 2154 or 2142 (consular section)
[email protected]
[email protected] (consular section)
www.italyemb.org
Consulate General of Italy
Telephone booths now only accept phone cards, which can be
purchased at post offices, tobacco shops and certain newsstands
and are available for 5, 10 and 20 euros.
690 Park Avenue, New York, NY 10021, USA
Tel: (212) 439 8600
Fax: (212) 249 4945 or 439 8649 (visa section)
[email protected]
Mobile Telephones
www.italconsulnyc.org
GSM 900 and 1800 networks. Network operators are Telecom
Italia Mobile (TIM) (www.tim.it), Vodafone Omnitel
(www.vodafone.it), Wind (www.wind.it) and H3G (www.h3g.it).
If you are traveling to Italy and want to use your cell phone, you
most likely won’t be able to do so. Unless you have a GSM tri-band
phone, you will need to make special arrangements with your
cellular carrier. Another alternative is to rent a cell phone. In fact,
most tour operators from our list will be happy to arrange this.
Consulates General in: Boston, Chicago, Detroit, Houston,
Los Angeles, Miami, Philadelphia and San Francisco.
Embassy of the United States of America
Via Vittorio Veneto 119/A, 00187 Rome, Italy
Tel: (06) 46741 Fax: (06) 4882 672 or 4674 2356
www.usembassy.it
US Consulate General
Internet
Internet corner booths operated by Telecom Italia are available
for public access and can be found at airports, major hotels and
in other public places. Many Internet cafes are scattered
throughout all main towns. To hook up the computer modem
line one needs to purchase an adaptor in the USA designated for
Italy. Wireless connection for laptops are available at the Rome
(www.adr.it) and Milan airports. (www.sea-aeroportimilano.it)
For more information consult www.laptoptravel.com.
Lungarno Vespucci 38, 50123 Florence, Italy
Tel: (055) 266 951 Fax: (055) 284 088
[email protected]
This office does not deal with visas or give out information regarding visas.
italy vacation planner
ITALIAN GOVERNMENT TOURIST BOARD
WWW. ITALIANTOURISM . COM