The 20 Regions of Italy (what they're known for, where to visit, what to do, and what to eat)
Organized by north to south (and east to west w/in each region), here are Italy's 20 regions, what each is known for, and the major cities! Buon Voyaggio!
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| Photo credit to: https://italiantourism.us/italy-travel-guide/ |
Northern Italy
Tucked in between France, Switzerland, and Piedmont, Aosta Valley is in the northwest corner of Italy. The area is mountainous. The Alps run right through this tiny region, including Mont Blanc (4810m) which is shared with France, and the Matterhorn (4478m) which is shared with Switzerland, and the Gran Paradiso (4061m). There is also the river Dora Baltea flowing through the valley. The valley includes several large sport centers like La Thuile, La Rosiere, Pila, Alagna Valsesia, Monte Rosa and Courmayer.
The region’s mixed heritage makes it culturally, culinarily, and historically fascinating. The capital, Aosta, has some ancient Roman ruins, and other towns boast medieval castles. Aosta Valley is also politically interesting, since it’s an autonomous region. With an agricultural background, Aosta is one of the wealthiest regions in Italy.
Visit Aosta Valley if: you’re a fan of mountains and winter sports, like skiing or snowboarding (more than 700km of ski slopes); if it’s summer, you will love to hike or do other moutaneous outdoor activities; you want to see the picturesque Alpine villages; you want to get out of the heat (because of the mountains, even the summer can be chilly here); you want a taste of a multicultural side of Italy; you like castles and ruins; you want to add a piece of Italy onto a France or Switzerland adventure.
What to eat: kale, soups, polenta, gnocchi, fontina cheese
Piedmont
The northern region of Piedmont is surrounded by the Alps on three sides, but it’s not all mountainous; in fact, much of Piedmont is a flat plain. That’s where many of its farms are, producing food like rice and wine. Some of Italy’s most well-renowned wines come from the area including Barolo and Barbaresco. The Slow Food movement is based here in the region, making it a must-visit for foodies. Piedmont is also industrial, with the Fiat automobile company based in Turin, the region’s capital. With lovely small towns, the bustling baroque city of Turin, and its mountains, Piedmont has something for everyone.
Visit Piedmont if: you enjoy the mountains and/or winter sports; you’re a wine-lover; you love food (and the principles behind Slow Food); you want to get somewhat off the beaten path.
Major cities of Piedmont: Alessandria, Asti, Cune, Moncalieri, Novara, Turin
Often referred to as: Ligurian Riviera or Riviera of Flowers. A narrow strip along the coast in northwestern Italy, Liguria is bordered by France, Piedmont, Tuscany, and Emilia-Romagna. Famous for its seaside (although not necessarily for its beaches, the 317 km long coast tends to be cliffy and rocky). Liguria has a proud maritime history. Its capital, Genoa, was one of the most important maritime states in the Middle Ages and Renaissance; it is also the hometown of Christopher Columbus.
Most tourists know Liguria because of its famous resort towns, including the Cinque Terre and Portofino. In the area of Ponente most famous resorts include San Remo, Imperia, Alassio, Diana Marina, Pietra Ligure and San Bartolomeo Mare. Towns of Sestri Levante, Cerveteri and area of Cinque Terre are located in Levante. The beaches are diverse, very narrow, and they are often artificially modified. If you want to take a mountainous or hiking trip, you should definitely choose Cinque Terre offering the rocky landscape with picturesque bays in the south of Liguria.
Visit Liguria if: you want like to see one of Italy’s most spectacular stretches of coastline; you’re a fan of pesto alla genovese and want to try the real stuff; you want to take a day or weekend trip to the seaside from Milan or Florence; you want to hike or explore the Cinque Terre; you want to see the magical seaside villages.
Major cities of Liguria and top places to visit: Auricle village, Caves of Toirano, Camogli, Cervo, Cinque Terre, Dolceacqua, Finalborgo, Genoa, La Spezia, Moneglia, Portofino,
Portovenere, San Fruttuoso Bay, San Remo, Savona, Sestri Levante promontory and the Bay of Silence (Baia del silenzio), Val d’Aveta, Varigotti’s beaches, Triora
What to eat: focaccia bread and focaccia di recco, pesto, trofie, Cappon Magro, Testaroli, Pansoti in salsa di noci, Farinata
Lombardy is located in the north of Italy, bordering Switzerland. Italy’s wealthiest region; Lombardy is especially strong in the sectors of industry, service, and agriculture. It’s also the most populous. Milan, its capital, is the second-largest city in Italy. But there’s plenty of nature here too! Lombardy is Italy’s “lake district,” with destinations including Lake Como, Lake Maggiore, and Lake Garda.
Visit Lombardy if: you want to experience a city known for its nightlife and fashion; you want to shop in some of the most renowned designer shops in the world; you want to explore Italy’s most famous lakes; you want to day-trip to Switzerland.
Major cities of Lombardy: Bergamo, Brescia, Busto Arsizio, Cinisello Balsamo, Como, Cremona, Gallarate, Legnano, Milan, Monza, Pavia, Sesto San Giovanni, Varese, Vigevano, Rho
and: Cascate del Serio – Italy’s tallest waterfalls (315 meters)
What to eat: risotto, ossobuco, tortelli di zucca, polenta e uccelli, casoncelli alla bresciana, Cremona,
Risotto alla Milanesa, Veal Milanesa, Ossobuco alla Milanesa, Mostarda di frutta, Torrone, Risotto alla Certosina, Casoncelli, Pizzoccheri, Panettone
Stretching across northern Italy, Emilia-Romagna is a wealthy region with the third-highest GDP per capita in Italy. The region includes Renaissance cities like Bologna, Ferrara, and Modena, beautiful stretches of coastline, and, arguably, some of the best regional cuisine in Italy (prosciutto di Parma, Parmigiano-Reggiano, and balsamic vinegar of Modena all come from here). The area is also home to Ravenna, a World Heritage-listed city for its extraordinary Byzantine mosaics.
Visit Emilia-Romagna if: you want to visit beautiful cities that have some must-see sights, but aren’t quite as crowded or touristy as Florence or Venice; you have a weakness for Italian sports cars (Ferrari, Lamborghini, Maserati, De Tomaso and Ducati all are based here); you want to try some of Italy’s most famous foods, in the place where they come from! And my favorite, Ironman Italy is in Cervia.
Major cities of Emilia-Romagna: Bologna, Carpi, Cervia, Cesena, Faenza, Ferrara, Forli, Imola, Modena, Parma, Piacenza, Reggio Emilia, Rimini
What to eat: bolognese, sausage and lentils, lambrusco, pork, cheese, salumi, balsamic vinegar, truffles, chestnuts, tortellini in brodo, homemade tagliatelle, Peperonata, Spongata di Natale, Cotechino in galera, Maiale al latte, Zuppa Inglese, Zuppa imperiale, Torta di riso (o degli Addobbi), Fried lamb chops, Erbazzone, Passatelli with vegetable ragù, Gramigna al ragù di salsiccia (gramigna pasta with sausage ragu), Torta Barozzi, Panpepato, Gnocco fritto, Maltagliati with clams and wild asparagus, Cappelletti romagnoli di magro, Tigelle
Also known as Trentino-South Tyrol, this naturally-stunning, autonomous region in northern Italy used to be part of Austria-Hungary. It was only annexed by Italy in 1919. As you might expect, that means it has a very different, and Austrian-flavored culture than the rest of Italy. In South Tyrol, German, not Italian, is spoken by the majority of the population. Trentino-Alto Aldige also includes a large part of two of Italy’s most major mountain ranges, the Dolomites and the eastern Alps, making it a favorite destination for skiers and hikers. (Lake Garda is located here too).
Visit Trentino-Alto Adige if: you want to practice your German or add a part of Italy to your Germany or Austrian trip; you want an active holiday - hiking, water sports, and mountain sports; you like nature; you want to visit small, picturesque Alpine villages.
Major cities of Trentino-Alto Adige: Bolzano, Bressanone, Merano, Rovereto, Trento
What to eat: strudel, speck, goulash, juniper deer, canederli, gnocchi
What to eat: strudel, speck, goulash, juniper deer, canederli, gnocchi
One of the wealthiest, most developed regions in Italy, the Veneto’s also the best-known to tourists; thanks, of course, to its capital, Venice. Historically poor and agricultural, the Veneto has boomed ever since the 1970s; in fact, after Lombardy and Lazio, it’s Italy’s third-richest region. Although tourism and industry are important here, agriculture still plays a part, and it produces some of Italy’s most famous wines, including Prosecco, Valpolicella, and Soave. Top towns to visit here for their beauty, art and architecture include Venice, Verona, Vicenza, Belluno, and Padua.
Visit the Veneto if: you’re keen to see Venice or Verona - think Romeo & Juliet!; you want to visit a region as well-known for its mountains as its seaside; you’re intrigued by a region of Italy that has a different, but just as renowned, of tradition of art and architecture as regions like Tuscany; you want to try some of Italy’s finest wines; you’d like to combine sightseeing with outdoor activities.
Major cities of Veneto: Belluno, Venice, Verona, Padua, Vicenza, Treviso, Rovigo
What to eat: seafood, polenta, tiramisu, clams, asparagus, asiago cheese
This tiny region, all the way in Italy’s northeastern corner, borders Austria and Slovenia. Like the Aosta Valley, it’s an autonomous region, accounting for its unique cultural heritage. Despite its small size, Friuli has both seaside and mountains, since it’s home to the last section of the Alps. From its food to language, this is a region that’s markedly different than the rest of Italy, and rightly proud of it.
Visit Friuli-Venezia Giulia if: you’re a fan of outdoor activities and winter sports; you want a taste of a unique region of Italy, one with a multicultural background; you like both the sea and the mountains.
Major cities of Friuli-Venezia Giulia: Pordenone, Trieste, Udine
What to eat: boiled meat and beer, Frico, White Asparagus, Muset e bravado, Pitina, Cherry Gnocchi, Rosa di Gorizia, Il Bollito, Girini di Pasta (pasta “tadpoles”), Pestat di Fagagna, Jamar, Smoked Trout, Gubana
Visit Friuli-Venezia Giulia if: you’re a fan of outdoor activities and winter sports; you want a taste of a unique region of Italy, one with a multicultural background; you like both the sea and the mountains.
Major cities of Friuli-Venezia Giulia: Pordenone, Trieste, Udine
What to eat: boiled meat and beer, Frico, White Asparagus, Muset e bravado, Pitina, Cherry Gnocchi, Rosa di Gorizia, Il Bollito, Girini di Pasta (pasta “tadpoles”), Pestat di Fagagna, Jamar, Smoked Trout, Gubana
Central Italy
Who hasn’t heard of Tuscany? The region has it all: seaside and countryside, food and wine, cities and small towns, and the tourism to match. The region’s stunning cities (including not only Florence, but Siena, Lucca, and Pisa) are considered the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance. The beautiful countryside is quintessentially Italian, with rolling hills, cypress trees, and lovely vineyards (in fact, the landscape of Tuscany’s Val d’Orcia was named a World Heritage Site in 2004). Tuscany is also famous for its food and wine, as the region produces Chianti, Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, Brunello di Montalcino, among others.
While Tuscany is touristy, and while some of its towns and cities can be pricey and crowded, there are still plenty of undiscovered corners of this large, central region. I recommend a tour of the Val d'Orcia. Stopping in Florence (Firenze) for a look at Michelangelo's "David" is a life MUST.
Visit Tuscany if: you want to feel like you’ve stepped into a postcard of the Italian countryside; you’re excited to see some of Italy’s most stunning, and important, art and architecture; you’re a fan of the Renaissance; you’re interested in wine tastings or vineyard visits; you feel like you can’t miss Florence or the Leaning Tower of Pisa; you love fresh ingredients and Italian food.
Major cities of Tuscany and what each is known for:
Arezzo (art and history)
Carrara (white marble mountains)
Chianti (wine)
Florence (duomo, art, history, leather)
Grosseto (beach resorts, Maremma)
Livorno (port, Navy)
Lucca (city walls)
Massa (beaches, heritage, marble)
Pisa (The Leaning Tower of Pisa and Square of Miracles)
Pistoia (art)
Prato (Cantucci and Biscotti)
Siena (pecorino cheese, wine, architecture)
Scandicci (the Acciaolo Castle)
Val d'Orcia (countryside, hillside, cypress trees, postcard pictures, wine)
Viareggio (carnevale)
What to eat: drink wine!!, pecorino cheese, gelato, Florentine steak, Lampredotto sandwich, Crostini Toscani, Panzanella, Lardo di Colonnata, Ribollita, Pappa al pomodoro, Cacciucco, Castagnaccio, extra virgin olive oil, cannelloni beans, tagliatelle al tartufo, pappardelle alla lepre
Often referred to as the “green heart of Italy,” Umbria is smack-dab in the center of the boot, and right next to Tuscany, to whom it’s always compared. Like Tuscany, Umbria boasts dozens of medieval hilltop towns (like Assisi, Perugia, and Orvieto), beautiful countryside, and olive and wine vineyards. And, like Tuscany, it has stunning art and architecture and a fascinating history that dates back to the ancient Etruscans. However, Umbria feels a little “wilder” and more off the beaten path than its famous neighbor. It’s also much less touristy (although it’s far from an undiscovered region) and less expensive.
Visit Umbria if: you like the sound of Tuscany or you’ve visited Tuscany, and liked it but you want an alternative destination that’s a little less well-known, touristy, and expensive; you’re looking for a day or weekend trip from Rome (Umbria is closer than Tuscany); you want to get off the beaten path while enjoying delicious Italian cuisine and wine.
Major cities of Umbria: Assisi, Foligno, Orvieto, Perugia, Terni
What to eat: boar, porchetta, truffles, chocolate, Pecorino & Caciotta Cheeses, Prosciutto di Norcia, Salsiccia Secca (Dried Sausage), extra virgin olive oil, Fagiolina del Trasimeno, Imbrecciata (also spelled ‘mbrecciata), Torta al Testo
This relatively little-known region in central Italy is hilly and mountainous, and has a long stretch of coastline along the Adriatic. Historically agricultural and poor, today, it’s known for its specialized industries, like furniture and textiles. Tourism is popular here, too although there are far fewer tourists than in many of Italy’s other regions; with travelers attracted to the region’s lovely beaches, mountains, and small towns.
Visit Le Marche if: you want to get off the beaten path; you want to hit the beach (the beaches around Rimini are especially popular in summer); you want to hike or enjoy other outdoor activities; you’re on a budget.
Major cities of Le Marche: Ancona, Fano, Pesaro, Rimini
What to eat: olives, lasagna, cold cuts and cheese, truffles, Ragù of Le Marche, Vincisgrassi, Passatelli, Roasted Rabbit, Brodetto, Mixed Fried Foods (ascolana olives, zucchini blossoms, zucchini and artichokes), Crescia, Cicerchiata
Lazio
Abruzzo
The rural region of Abruzzo, located near the center of Italy, has beautiful countryside, mountains, and beaches. It’s an especially great place to hike, ski, camp, or bike, and while Italians certainly travel here, it’s rarely a touristy region.
Visit Abruzzo if: you love the outdoors; you want to experience the “authentic Italy”; you’re planning on driving (public transport isn’t great); you want an active vacation; you want to get off the beaten path; you want to travel on a budget (it tends to be pretty cheap to stay and eat in Abruzzo, especially compared to other regions).
Molise
What to eat: rabbit, spaghetti alla chitarra, Composta Molisana, Pampanella, Caciocavallo di Agnone, Pezzata, Torcicolli, Baccala Arracanto, Scarpelle, Signora di Conca Casale, Tortalalli, Cauciuni
Campania
The southern region of Campania has a lot to recommend; from Naples to the spectacular islands of Capri and Ischia, to the world-renowned ruins of Pompeii, to the famed Amalfi coast. But Campania, Italy’s second most populous region and one that has, like much of Italy’s south, struggled with poverty in the past, has lots of off-the-beaten-path destinations, too. The best ancient Greek runs on Italy's mainland can be found in Paestum. And Salerno, a bustling, un-touristy town on the Amalfi coast is a great stop.
Visit Campania if: you’re looking for a taste of Italy’s sun-soaked south, but don’t have time for more than a day or weekend trip from Rome or Florence; you want to visit Naples; you want to visit Italy’s most famous coastline; you won’t necessarily have your own car (you can get around the most popular parts of Campania easily by public transport); you want to taste real mozzarella di bufala and proper pizza napolitana.
Major cities of Campania: Afragola, Acerra, Avellino, Aversa, Battipaglia, Benevento, Casoria, Caserta, Catellammare di Stabia, Cava de'Tirreni, Ercolano, Giugliano in Campania, Marano di Napoli, Portici, Pozzuoli, Salerno, Torre del Greco, Scafati
What to eat: pizza, meatballs, mozzarella, drink coffee!!, Risotto all Pescatora, Spaghetti con Vongole, Parmigiana Melanzane, Caprese Salad, Totani e Patate, Polpette, Pesce all’Acqua Pazza, Fritto Misto di Mare, Broccoli and Salsiccia
Basilicata
The southern region of Basilicata is located in the “arch” of Italy’s boot. Large and rural, it has a very low population density and lots of countryside, not to mention mountains - the Apennines run right through here. People have lived in Basilicata since the Palaeolithic times, and you can still see Neolithic cave dwellings in Matera, the number-one city in Basilicata to visit (and a World Heritage site). One of Italy’s poorer regions, Basilicata is also one of its most beautiful naturalistic, filled with forests, lakes, and tiny villages.
Visit Basilicata if: you’re driving (public transport isn’t great here); you want to really go off the beaten path and explore areas of Italy that tourists hardly ever visit; you like the outdoors; you want an active holiday; you’re traveling on a budget; you’re fascinated by Matera.
Puglia
The “heel” of the boot of Italy. For a long time, Puglia experienced much of the same poverty as the rest of the south. While still poorer than northern Italian regions, though, Puglia today has a good deal of industry, and its agricultural sector, especially its olive oil industry, is one of the most important in the country. Puglia has also gotten very popular lately, finally getting attention in the foreign press and travel magazines for its beautiful beaches, gorgeous countryside, excellent food, and unique towns and architecture (like its cone-shaped trulli). A favorite destination for Italians in the summer, this is hardly an “undiscovered” region… but there are definitely parts of it that remain to be discovered.
Visit Puglia if: you want to see some of Italy’s most beautiful sandy beaches; you’d like a taste of the Mediterranean lifestyle; you’ve always wanted to see (or stay in) a trullo; you want to go slightly off the beaten path (especially if you’re traveling outside of summer); you’re traveling on a budget.
Major cities of Puglia: Altamira, Andria, Bari, Barletta, Brindisi, Bisceglie, Bitonto, Cerignola, Foggia, Lecce, Manfredonia, Molfetta, San Severo, Taranto, Trani
What to eat: Salted Cod, Orchiette, Clams, Frisella, Taralli, Pizzette, Puccia, Orecchiette, Sagne ‘ncannulate, Baccalà alla Salentina, Sott’olio, Pasticciato, Zeppole, Vinello
Calabria
Another quintessential southern region, Calabria sits in the “toe” of Italy’s boot. As you might expect, that means it has lots of beautiful beaches. Like Basilicata, it’s mountainous, so it’s great for hiking. And like the rest of Italy’s south, Calabria historically has been fairly poor. So despite its natural gems (and long stretches of lovely coastline), it’s pretty underdeveloped compared to other seaside destinations in Europe.
Visit Calabria if: you want to hit the beach but still be away from the crowds; you’d like to go off the beaten path; you’re traveling on a budget; you want a taste of quintessential southern Italy, from the food to the small towns; you love sunsets, sandcastles, and the sea.
Major cities of Calabria: Arcomagno, Catanzaro, Corigliano Calabro, Cosenza, Crotone, Gambarie, Isola di Capo Rizzuto and the Aragonese castle, Isle of Dino, Lamezia Terme, Pentedattilo, Reggio Calabria (Chianalea di Scilla), Santa Severina, Scilla, Tropea (vacation capital), and the Sila National Park
What to eat: Stuffed Peppers, Morzella, Involtini, Nduja, Cipolla Rossa di Tropea, Lagane e Ciociari, Pasta ccu ri Sarde, Caciocavallo, Ciambotta, olive oil, Licorice, Pignolata, Liquore al Bergamotto
Sardinia
This island, located in the Mediterranean to Italy’s west and just south of Corsica, is a long-time favorite summer destination of Italians. The beaches are stunning, and the resort towns of Costa Smerelda, in the island’s north, buzz with nightlife. Visit the interior of Sardinia, though, and it’s a different picture, a rural, agricultural area with lots of tiny towns. And by visiting even Sardinia’s most popular coastal areas outside of July or August, you’ll find it’s surprisingly tranquil.
Visit Sardinia if: you want to experience some of Italy’s most spectacular coastlines and beaches; you’re going in August, and want to be where all of the Italians are; you want to visit a part of Italy that has a very different history from, and culture than, the mainland; you are interested in boating and water sports; you love nature, wildlife, and/or archeological sites, old mines, or caves.
Major cities of Sardinia: Alghero, Assemini, Cagliari, Carbonia, Carloforte, Nuoro, Oristano, Quartu Sant'Elena, Olbia, Sassari, Selargius
What to eat: Pane Sardo, Pane Carasau, Lobster, Suckling Pig (Su Porcheddu), Culurgiones, Zuppa Gallurese, Malloreddus, Spezzatino di Vitello con Piselli, Pecorino Sardo, Seadas, Sea Urchins, drink Limoncello, Dogfish
Sicily
The largest island in the Mediterranean, Sicily is a culture, all its own and could even be its own country! That’s because of its unique and ancient, history. Settled by the ancient Greeks and Romans, Sicily later was conquered by the Arabs, Norman French, and Spanish. That mixed-heritage background makes for fantastic art, architecture, and cuisine. For these reasons, along with its sunny climate, miles of beautiful coastline, and natural beauty, Sicily is a top destination for tourists, although you’ll still find plenty of towns and areas untouched by tourism, and outside of high season, even the beaches and resort towns are relatively quiet.
Visit Sicily if: you’re looking for a beach holiday; you’re interested in seeing some of the best ancient Greek and Roman ruins in Italy; you’re curious about a culture that’s Italian… but with a special stamp that’s all its own; you’re attracted to sunny, warm, dry weather; you are a foodie; you want to try real cannoli or arancini (or pasta alla norma, or granita, or oh my gosh, Sicilian cuisine is divine!).
Major Cities of Sicily and what they're known for:
Acireale (Carnevale celebrations)
Agrigento (Scala dei turchi and ice cream)
Bagheria (historical villas often seen in movies)
Caltagirone (ceramics)
Caltanissetta
Catania (Mt. Etna)
Cefalù (seaside, Roman baths)
Gela
Marsala (wine)
Mazara del Vallom (Arab influences)
Messina (orange, lemon and olive groves)
Modica (unique chocolate)
Palermo (capital)
Ragusa (chocolate, architecture)
Syracuse (Greek Theater, Temple of Olympian Zeus, the Fountain of Arethusa)
Taormina (beauty)
Trapani (cousine)
Vittoria (embroidery)
What to eat: seafood, arancine, sardine, sorbet, drink Limoncello, Sfincione, Caponata, Parmigiana di Melanzane, Cannoli, Granita, Cassata Siciliana
If you have any information to add, please message me and I will update!! Thanks!!
Along with experience, friends, and Italian family, here are a few additional references I used to help build this content:
Region photos courtesy of Wikipedia
Visit Le Marche if: you want to get off the beaten path; you want to hit the beach (the beaches around Rimini are especially popular in summer); you want to hike or enjoy other outdoor activities; you’re on a budget.
Major cities of Le Marche: Ancona, Fano, Pesaro, Rimini
What to eat: olives, lasagna, cold cuts and cheese, truffles, Ragù of Le Marche, Vincisgrassi, Passatelli, Roasted Rabbit, Brodetto, Mixed Fried Foods (ascolana olives, zucchini blossoms, zucchini and artichokes), Crescia, Cicerchiata
Lazio is a well-known region and home to Rome. Rome is the capital of Italy! Lazio, which gets its name from “Latium,” has sandy beaches along the coast and hills and small mountains further inland. It’s home to famous lakes, like Bracciano and Albano; the lovely Castelli Romani hills; medieval towns and Renaissance gardens; and great archaeological sites, like Ostia Antica.
Visit Lazio if: you want to see Italy’s famous capital Rome; you want to mix up your city sightseeing with ancient ruins, small towns, and lush countryside; you’re a history buff; and of course art, architecture, food, and wine!
Major cities of Lazio: Anzio, April, Civitavecchia, Fiumicino, Guidoni Montebello, Latina, Pomezia, Rome, Tivoli, Viterbi, Velletri
Things to see and do in Rome: Colosseum, Roman Forum, Trevi Fountain, Spanish Stairs, Pantheon, The Vatican, Palatine Hill, Circus Maximus - so many sites to experience!!
What to eat: Pepe e Cacio (pepper and cheese) - Rome!!, carbonara, pasta, pizza, oxtail, artichokes
Visit Lazio if: you want to see Italy’s famous capital Rome; you want to mix up your city sightseeing with ancient ruins, small towns, and lush countryside; you’re a history buff; and of course art, architecture, food, and wine!
Major cities of Lazio: Anzio, April, Civitavecchia, Fiumicino, Guidoni Montebello, Latina, Pomezia, Rome, Tivoli, Viterbi, Velletri
Things to see and do in Rome: Colosseum, Roman Forum, Trevi Fountain, Spanish Stairs, Pantheon, The Vatican, Palatine Hill, Circus Maximus - so many sites to experience!!
What to eat: Pepe e Cacio (pepper and cheese) - Rome!!, carbonara, pasta, pizza, oxtail, artichokes
The rural region of Abruzzo, located near the center of Italy, has beautiful countryside, mountains, and beaches. It’s an especially great place to hike, ski, camp, or bike, and while Italians certainly travel here, it’s rarely a touristy region.
Visit Abruzzo if: you love the outdoors; you want to experience the “authentic Italy”; you’re planning on driving (public transport isn’t great); you want an active vacation; you want to get off the beaten path; you want to travel on a budget (it tends to be pretty cheap to stay and eat in Abruzzo, especially compared to other regions).
Major cities of Abruzzo: Avezzano, Chieti, Lanciano, L'Aquila, Montesilvano, Pescara, Termao, Vasto
What to eat: lamb, chili, Ventricina Salami, Cozze Ripiene (Stuffed Mussels), Pizza Scima (Stupid Pizza), Pecorino di Farandole, Pallotte Cac e Ove (cheese and egg balls)
What to eat: lamb, chili, Ventricina Salami, Cozze Ripiene (Stuffed Mussels), Pizza Scima (Stupid Pizza), Pecorino di Farandole, Pallotte Cac e Ove (cheese and egg balls)
Southern Italy
Italy’s newest region (until 1963, Molise was lumped in with Abruzzo), Molise is also Italy’s second-smallest region. Mainly agricultural, it produces wine, olive oil, dairy, fruit and vegetables, and cereals like faro, hilly Molise has some lovely small towns, countryside, and castles. Tourism isn’t particularly developed here, so it’s also definitely, an off-the-beaten path destination as well as a good place to find delicious meals and accommodation on a budget.
Visit Molise if: you like to do some outdoor activities; you want to get way off the beaten path; you want to visit some of Italy’s most authentic small towns; you’re traveling on a budget; you have your own car (public transportation is tough here).
Major cities of Molise: Agnone, Acquaviva d'Isernia, Campobasso, Campomarino, Cero ai Volturno, Collercroce, Ferrazzano, Larino, Pietrabbondante, Pescolanciano, Saepinum, Scapoli, Termoli, Ururi, VenafroVisit Molise if: you like to do some outdoor activities; you want to get way off the beaten path; you want to visit some of Italy’s most authentic small towns; you’re traveling on a budget; you have your own car (public transportation is tough here).
What to eat: rabbit, spaghetti alla chitarra, Composta Molisana, Pampanella, Caciocavallo di Agnone, Pezzata, Torcicolli, Baccala Arracanto, Scarpelle, Signora di Conca Casale, Tortalalli, Cauciuni
The southern region of Campania has a lot to recommend; from Naples to the spectacular islands of Capri and Ischia, to the world-renowned ruins of Pompeii, to the famed Amalfi coast. But Campania, Italy’s second most populous region and one that has, like much of Italy’s south, struggled with poverty in the past, has lots of off-the-beaten-path destinations, too. The best ancient Greek runs on Italy's mainland can be found in Paestum. And Salerno, a bustling, un-touristy town on the Amalfi coast is a great stop.
Visit Campania if: you’re looking for a taste of Italy’s sun-soaked south, but don’t have time for more than a day or weekend trip from Rome or Florence; you want to visit Naples; you want to visit Italy’s most famous coastline; you won’t necessarily have your own car (you can get around the most popular parts of Campania easily by public transport); you want to taste real mozzarella di bufala and proper pizza napolitana.
Major cities of Campania: Afragola, Acerra, Avellino, Aversa, Battipaglia, Benevento, Casoria, Caserta, Catellammare di Stabia, Cava de'Tirreni, Ercolano, Giugliano in Campania, Marano di Napoli, Portici, Pozzuoli, Salerno, Torre del Greco, Scafati
What to eat: pizza, meatballs, mozzarella, drink coffee!!, Risotto all Pescatora, Spaghetti con Vongole, Parmigiana Melanzane, Caprese Salad, Totani e Patate, Polpette, Pesce all’Acqua Pazza, Fritto Misto di Mare, Broccoli and Salsiccia
The southern region of Basilicata is located in the “arch” of Italy’s boot. Large and rural, it has a very low population density and lots of countryside, not to mention mountains - the Apennines run right through here. People have lived in Basilicata since the Palaeolithic times, and you can still see Neolithic cave dwellings in Matera, the number-one city in Basilicata to visit (and a World Heritage site). One of Italy’s poorer regions, Basilicata is also one of its most beautiful naturalistic, filled with forests, lakes, and tiny villages.
Visit Basilicata if: you’re driving (public transport isn’t great here); you want to really go off the beaten path and explore areas of Italy that tourists hardly ever visit; you like the outdoors; you want an active holiday; you’re traveling on a budget; you’re fascinated by Matera.
Major cities of Basilicata: Matera, Potenza
What to eat: Red Bell Peppers, Baccala, Scorfano, Senise Peppers, Lucanica Sausages, Matera Bread
What to eat: Red Bell Peppers, Baccala, Scorfano, Senise Peppers, Lucanica Sausages, Matera Bread
The “heel” of the boot of Italy. For a long time, Puglia experienced much of the same poverty as the rest of the south. While still poorer than northern Italian regions, though, Puglia today has a good deal of industry, and its agricultural sector, especially its olive oil industry, is one of the most important in the country. Puglia has also gotten very popular lately, finally getting attention in the foreign press and travel magazines for its beautiful beaches, gorgeous countryside, excellent food, and unique towns and architecture (like its cone-shaped trulli). A favorite destination for Italians in the summer, this is hardly an “undiscovered” region… but there are definitely parts of it that remain to be discovered.
Visit Puglia if: you want to see some of Italy’s most beautiful sandy beaches; you’d like a taste of the Mediterranean lifestyle; you’ve always wanted to see (or stay in) a trullo; you want to go slightly off the beaten path (especially if you’re traveling outside of summer); you’re traveling on a budget.
Major cities of Puglia: Altamira, Andria, Bari, Barletta, Brindisi, Bisceglie, Bitonto, Cerignola, Foggia, Lecce, Manfredonia, Molfetta, San Severo, Taranto, Trani
What to eat: Salted Cod, Orchiette, Clams, Frisella, Taralli, Pizzette, Puccia, Orecchiette, Sagne ‘ncannulate, Baccalà alla Salentina, Sott’olio, Pasticciato, Zeppole, Vinello
Another quintessential southern region, Calabria sits in the “toe” of Italy’s boot. As you might expect, that means it has lots of beautiful beaches. Like Basilicata, it’s mountainous, so it’s great for hiking. And like the rest of Italy’s south, Calabria historically has been fairly poor. So despite its natural gems (and long stretches of lovely coastline), it’s pretty underdeveloped compared to other seaside destinations in Europe.
Visit Calabria if: you want to hit the beach but still be away from the crowds; you’d like to go off the beaten path; you’re traveling on a budget; you want a taste of quintessential southern Italy, from the food to the small towns; you love sunsets, sandcastles, and the sea.
Major cities of Calabria: Arcomagno, Catanzaro, Corigliano Calabro, Cosenza, Crotone, Gambarie, Isola di Capo Rizzuto and the Aragonese castle, Isle of Dino, Lamezia Terme, Pentedattilo, Reggio Calabria (Chianalea di Scilla), Santa Severina, Scilla, Tropea (vacation capital), and the Sila National Park
What to eat: Stuffed Peppers, Morzella, Involtini, Nduja, Cipolla Rossa di Tropea, Lagane e Ciociari, Pasta ccu ri Sarde, Caciocavallo, Ciambotta, olive oil, Licorice, Pignolata, Liquore al Bergamotto
The Italian Islands
This island, located in the Mediterranean to Italy’s west and just south of Corsica, is a long-time favorite summer destination of Italians. The beaches are stunning, and the resort towns of Costa Smerelda, in the island’s north, buzz with nightlife. Visit the interior of Sardinia, though, and it’s a different picture, a rural, agricultural area with lots of tiny towns. And by visiting even Sardinia’s most popular coastal areas outside of July or August, you’ll find it’s surprisingly tranquil.
Visit Sardinia if: you want to experience some of Italy’s most spectacular coastlines and beaches; you’re going in August, and want to be where all of the Italians are; you want to visit a part of Italy that has a very different history from, and culture than, the mainland; you are interested in boating and water sports; you love nature, wildlife, and/or archeological sites, old mines, or caves.
Major cities of Sardinia: Alghero, Assemini, Cagliari, Carbonia, Carloforte, Nuoro, Oristano, Quartu Sant'Elena, Olbia, Sassari, Selargius
What to eat: Pane Sardo, Pane Carasau, Lobster, Suckling Pig (Su Porcheddu), Culurgiones, Zuppa Gallurese, Malloreddus, Spezzatino di Vitello con Piselli, Pecorino Sardo, Seadas, Sea Urchins, drink Limoncello, Dogfish
The largest island in the Mediterranean, Sicily is a culture, all its own and could even be its own country! That’s because of its unique and ancient, history. Settled by the ancient Greeks and Romans, Sicily later was conquered by the Arabs, Norman French, and Spanish. That mixed-heritage background makes for fantastic art, architecture, and cuisine. For these reasons, along with its sunny climate, miles of beautiful coastline, and natural beauty, Sicily is a top destination for tourists, although you’ll still find plenty of towns and areas untouched by tourism, and outside of high season, even the beaches and resort towns are relatively quiet.
Visit Sicily if: you’re looking for a beach holiday; you’re interested in seeing some of the best ancient Greek and Roman ruins in Italy; you’re curious about a culture that’s Italian… but with a special stamp that’s all its own; you’re attracted to sunny, warm, dry weather; you are a foodie; you want to try real cannoli or arancini (or pasta alla norma, or granita, or oh my gosh, Sicilian cuisine is divine!).
Major Cities of Sicily and what they're known for:
Acireale (Carnevale celebrations)
Agrigento (Scala dei turchi and ice cream)
Bagheria (historical villas often seen in movies)
Caltagirone (ceramics)
Caltanissetta
Catania (Mt. Etna)
Cefalù (seaside, Roman baths)
Gela
Marsala (wine)
Mazara del Vallom (Arab influences)
Messina (orange, lemon and olive groves)
Modica (unique chocolate)
Palermo (capital)
Ragusa (chocolate, architecture)
Syracuse (Greek Theater, Temple of Olympian Zeus, the Fountain of Arethusa)
Taormina (beauty)
Trapani (cousine)
Vittoria (embroidery)
What to eat: seafood, arancine, sardine, sorbet, drink Limoncello, Sfincione, Caponata, Parmigiana di Melanzane, Cannoli, Granita, Cassata Siciliana
If you have any information to add, please message me and I will update!! Thanks!!
Along with experience, friends, and Italian family, here are a few additional references I used to help build this content:
Region photos courtesy of Wikipedia
https://www.walksofitaly.com/blog/travel-tips/italy-by-region
https://www.trips2italy.com/popular-italian-destinations-t2i/regions-of-italy-t2i/
https://www.trips2italy.com/popular-italian-destinations-t2i/regions-of-italy-t2i/