While there may be more than a dozen beaches and mouthwatering pizza in Miami, even we’ll be the first to admit that none match the experience of relaxing on a Sicily beach with a mountainous backdrop or enjoying a warm slice in Napoli. If you’re looking to get a head start on your Italian getaway this summer, Europe’s captivating country is bursting with exciting destinations. Of course, you should make time for typical attractions like a picturesque gondola ride in Venice or the Colosseum in Rome, but there are many more unique destinations to truly make your trip memorable, such as concerts in magical venues illuminated by countless candles or a surreal sculpture garden dreamed up by an artist.
1. Explore the underground ruins beneath the Trevi Fountain
No trip to Rome is complete without tossing a coin and making a wish at the Trevi Fountain. But what if we told you there’s a little-known secret lying beneath the city’s surface, including the architectural marvel? Nine meters below the streets, you’ll discover a water city dating back to ancient Rome known as Vicus Caprarius. Venturing down and getting a tour of this archaeological area would be a great addition to your Italian itinerary!
2. Enjoy a captivating Candlelight Concert in the most magical locations
It’s one thing to catch a candlelit concert here at home, but it’s a totally new experience in Italy, where the most incredible venues steeped in historical charm and amazing architecture set the scene for these performances.
Listen to classical renditions of your favorite songs at the Palazzo de Gregorio in Palermo, a neoclassical beauty also known as ‘The House of the Princess.’ Venice’s Scuola Grande San Giovanni Evangelista is another beautiful building that lends its architectural beauty to Candlelight. And watch as the glow of candles illuminate the already grandiose Castello Due Torri, a fortified building in the province of Rimini with sweeping views.
3. Visit the whimsical Tarot Garden
Sure, you can spend the day tasting wine or take a vespa tour through the countryside in Tuscany. But over in the little town of Capalbo, you’ll find an imaginative park containing 22 larger-than-life sculptures covered in mosaics. The Tarot Garden, or Giardino dei Tarocchi, was created by artist Niki de Saint Phalle, who was inspired by the esoteric tarot cards. The visual artist worked on the fantastic works between 1979 and 1993.
4. Revel in nature’s beauty at Villa Gregoriana
Italy certainly does not lack picturesque scenery and this park located in Tivoli — just 30 minutes from Rome — is a nature lover’s dream. Villa Gregoriana is known for its lush vegetation, ancient Roman ruins and mysterious caves. It’s also home to a large waterfall, plunging 120 meters (394 feet)!
5. Hike the picturesque Path of Lemons
It wouldn’t be a trip to the Amalfi Coast without its famous lemons! Embark on this scenic trail lined by lemon trees that give off a lovely citrus scent and are quite the sight to see. It connects the town of Maiori and Minori and was once one of the busiest roads for lemon growers. It’s not a challenging path, so all you need are you comfy shoes and a camera to capture all the amazing views!
Now, if you’re not planning to travel to Italy anytime soon, there’s still so much to explore in Miami!