Welcome to our comprehensive guide exploring the diverse regions of Italy! Italy is a country renowned for its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture. From the sun-soaked shores of Sicily to the majestic mountains in Lombardy, each region boasts its own unique charm and allure. Join us on a virtual tour as we delve into Italy’s remarkable regions’ distinct characteristics, captivating attractions, and hidden gems. Whether you’re planning a trip to Italy or are simply curious about this captivating country, this page is your gateway to discovering the extraordinary diversity that makes Italy truly one-of-a-kind. Looking for insights and advice? Contact a travel adviser in Italy.

Here are links to our guides of Italy regions in alphabetical order:

Regions of Italy

Ciao, and welcome to the land of pizza, pasta, and gelato! Italy is a traveler’s paradise with its rich history, stunning architecture, breathtaking landscapes, and mouthwatering cuisine. From the snow-capped peaks of the Alps in Trentino-South Tyrol to the crystal-clear waters of Sardinia’s beaches, this country has something for everyone. Let ItalyTravelandMore.com take you on a journey through all 20 regions of Italy and show you why it’s one of Europe’s most beloved travel destinations. So pack your bags, grab your passport and let’s explore Italy together! We offer custom itineraries and guidance. Contact a travel advisor.

Abruzzo

Tucked away in the heart of Italy, Abruzzo offers a perfect blend of stunning landscapes, rich history and culture that has been preserved for centuries. Known as the “Green Region” due to its national parks and nature reserves, this region is home to mountains, forests, beaches and medieval towns.

If you’re an adventure lover or just looking for some peace and quiet amidst nature’s beauty, Abruzzo won’t disappoint. You can explore Gran Sasso National Park which boasts breathtaking views from its mountainous peaks or experience the pristine beaches at Pescara on the Adriatic Coast. If you’re interested in history, don’t miss visiting L’Aquila – the capital city that dates back to 13th century.

The region also has a rich culinary heritage with dishes like arrosticini (grilled lamb skewers), maccheroni alla chitarra (homemade pasta) and Montepulciano d’Abruzzo wine being among its specialties.

In summary, Abruzzo is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by travelers who love natural beauty combined with rich cultural experiences.

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Aosta Valley

Nestled in the heart of the Italian Alps, Aosta Valley is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The region boasts stunning landscapes, including majestic mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and lush forests.

A visit to Aosta Valley offers endless opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, snowboarding, mountaineering and more. Visitors can explore Mont Blanc or ski down its slopes at Courmayeur Ski Resort. Alternatively they can traverse Gran Paradiso National Park which provides an opportunity to spot rare wildlife like ibexes.

Aosta Valley also has a rich cultural heritage that dates back to Roman times with numerous castles and ruins scattered throughout the valley. The town of Aosta itself is home to many medieval churches dating from the 11th century with gorgeous frescoes adorning their walls.

Foodies will enjoy sampling local delicacies such as Fontina cheese and Jambon de Bosses ham while sipping on Valle d’Aosta wines produced in small vineyards dotting across the landscape.

Overall,Aosta valley is truly a hidden gem worth exploring by anyone travelling or planning travel through Italy!

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Apulia

Apulia, also known as Puglia in Italian, is a southern region of Italy that stretches along the Adriatic Sea. Known for its whitewashed hill towns and beautiful coastline, Apulia offers travelers a unique experience.

One of the most popular destinations in Apulia is the city of Lecce. This Baroque masterpiece is often referred to as the “Florence of the South” due to its stunning architecture and rich cultural heritage.

Another must-visit place in Apulia is Alberobello, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its unique trulli houses made from limestone. These cone-shaped buildings are an iconic part of the region’s history and culture.

Foodies will also appreciate a visit to Apulia for its delicious cuisine. From fresh seafood dishes like octopus salad to hearty pasta dishes like orecchiette with turnip tops, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Apulia offers visitors an opportunity to experience authentic Italian culture while enjoying some of the country’s most beautiful scenery and delicious food.

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Basilicata

Basilicata is a region located in southern Italy, known for its stunning landscapes and rich history. It’s often overlooked by tourists who tend to visit more popular destinations like Tuscany or Sicily. However, Basilicata has so much to offer.

One of the most famous attractions in Basilicata is the Sassi di Matera, a complex of ancient cave dwellings that have been inhabited since prehistoric times. The city of Matera itself has also been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its unique architecture and historical significance.

In addition to its cultural heritage, Basilicata boasts some of the most unspoiled natural beauty in all of Italy. The Pollino National Park offers visitors breathtaking mountain views and an opportunity to see rare wildlife such as wolves and eagles.

Foodies will be delighted with the local cuisine which features dishes made from fresh ingredients such as homemade pasta, lamb meat, and locally grown vegetables. Don’t forget to try Lucanian sausage – it’s a regional specialty!

If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path destination with plenty of charm and character then Basilicata should definitely be on your travel list when visiting Italy!

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Calabria

Calabria is a region in southern Italy that is blessed with magnificent beaches, stunning mountain ranges and charming hilltop towns. It’s no wonder why Calabria is quickly becoming a popular travel destination for those who seek an authentic Italian experience.

One of the most remarkable things about Calabria is its coastline which stretches over 500 miles. Along this coastline, you will find some of the most breathtaking beaches in all of Italy such as Tropea Beach and Capo Vaticano.

In addition to its beautiful beaches, Calabria boasts several national parks including Aspromonte National Park and Sila National Park which provide visitors with spectacular views of the countryside. The rugged landscape also provides opportunities for hiking enthusiasts to explore scenic trails such as La Cascata del Marmarico.

The region’s cuisine is another highlight not to be missed during your visit. From spicy ‘nduja sausage to fresh seafood dishes like swordfish, there are plenty of culinary delights unique to Calabrian gastronomy worth trying.

Visiting Calabria provides an unforgettable experience full of natural beauty, cultural richness and delicious food that will leave you wanting more!

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Campania

Located in Southern Italy, Campania is a region that boasts stunning coastlines along the Tyrrhenian Sea and mountain ranges. One of its most popular destinations is the ancient city of Pompeii, which was destroyed by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in AD 79 but has been preserved for visitors to explore.

Aside from Pompeii, Campania also has many other attractions such as Naples – one of Italy’s largest cities with vibrant street life and an impressive collection of museums and churches. The Amalfi Coast is another must-visit destination for those who love sunsets overlooking dramatic cliffsides.

Campania’s cuisine is also famous worldwide with dishes like pizza Margherita, spaghetti alle vongole (spaghetti with clams) and mozzarella di bufala coming from this region. In addition to food, Campania produces some excellent wines such as Taurasi reds made from Aglianico grapes.

Visitors can experience all these delights while staying at authentic agriturismos or enjoying a day trip on a boat around Capri island. With so much to see and do in Campania, it’s no wonder why it remains one of Italy’s top tourist destinations year after year.

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Emilia-Romagna

Emilia-Romagna is a region in northern Italy that boasts of its rich history, culture and cuisine. It is located between the Po River to the north and the Apennine Mountains to the south-east. The region’s capital city is Bologna, which is well-known for its historic architecture and vibrant food scene.

One of the most popular dishes in Emilia-Romagna is tagliatelle al ragù, a pasta dish made with flat ribbons of egg pasta served with a meat-based sauce. Another famous delicacy from this region is Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, known globally for its distinct flavor.

Tourists can visit Ravenna, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its stunning Byzantine mosaics or head to Modena where one can see Ferrari’s headquarters and museum.

Emilia-Romagnia also has an extensive coastline dotted with charming seaside towns such as Rimini and Cesenatico making it an ideal destination for beach lovers.

Emilia-Romagnia offers visitors an opportunity to experience Italian culture through its delicious food offerings while exploring historical sites throughout this beautiful region.

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Friuli Venezia-Guilia

Friuli Venezia-Giulia is one of the 20 regions in Italy, located in the northeastern part of the country. It has a unique culture and history that sets it apart from other regions.

One of its main attractions is the city of Trieste, which was once an important port for Austria-Hungary and later became a cultural hub for writers and artists. Today, visitors can explore its historic architecture while enjoying delicious coffee at local cafes.

The region is also known for its natural beauty, with stunning mountain ranges like the Carnic Alps and Julian Alps providing breathtaking views. The area’s national parks offer hiking trails that lead to waterfalls, lakes, and wildlife sightings.

Foodies will love Friuli Venezia-Giulia’s cuisine, which blends Italian and Austrian influences. Local specialties include prosciutto di San Daniele, frico (a cheese-based dish), goulash stewed beef with paprika sauce) or jota (a soup based on beans). Wine lovers can indulge in tastings at vineyards throughout the region.

Whether you’re interested in history or outdoor adventures – or just good food – Friuli Venezia-Giulia should be on your travel list when visiting Italy!

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Lazio

Lazio is a region in central Italy known for its capital city, Rome. This region boasts numerous historical landmarks and attractions that attract visitors from all over the world. One of the most popular tourist destinations in Lazio is Vatican City, which houses St. Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel.

Apart from Rome, Lazio has other cities worth exploring such as Viterbo which is famous for its medieval architecture and thermal springs. Another must-visit destination in Lazio is Tivoli where you can find two UNESCO World Heritage Sites – Hadrian’s Villa and Villa d’Este.

For those who love nature, there are plenty of options to explore such as Lake Bracciano or Monti Sabatini Regional Park. Here, you can immerse yourself in hiking trails while enjoying breathtaking views of the landscape.

Foodies will also have a great time in Lazio since it offers an array of delicious dishes including pasta alla amatriciana, coda alla vaccinara (oxtail stew), supplì (fried rice balls stuffed with cheese) and porchetta (roasted pork).

Lazio has so much to offer beyond just Rome. It’s truly a destination that should be on any traveler’s list when planning their next trip to Italy!

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Liguria

Liguria is a small region on the northwest coast of Italy, bordered by France to the west. Although it may not be as well-known as Tuscany or Sicily, Liguria has plenty to offer for travelers looking for an authentic Italian experience.

One of Liguria’s most famous attractions is the picturesque Cinque Terre, a collection of five colorful fishing villages perched on rocky cliffs overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. Visitors can hike between each village along scenic coastal trails and enjoy fresh seafood and local wine in charming restaurants and cafes.

In addition to its stunning coastline, Liguria also boasts beautiful mountain scenery inland. The rugged Apennine Mountains are dotted with historic hilltop towns such as Dolceacqua and Apricale, which offer a glimpse into traditional Italian life away from the tourist crowds.

Foodies will love exploring Ligurian cuisine, which features delicious dishes such as pesto alla genovese (made with locally grown basil), farinata (a savory chickpea pancake) and focaccia bread topped with olive oil and sea salt.

Liguria is a hidden gem that should not be missed on any trip to Italy. Its unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage and culinary delights make it an unforgettable destination for travelers seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences.

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Lombardy

Lombardy is one of the most prosperous regions in Italy, known for its stunning landscapes and rich history. Located in the northern part of Italy, Lombardy offers a unique blend of modernity and tradition that attracts travelers from all over the world.

One of the main attractions in Lombardy is Lake Como, an idyllic retreat nestled between mountains and forests. The lake boasts charming towns such as Bellagio and Varenna, where visitors can enjoy picturesque views and explore historic sites like Villa del Balbianello.

Milan is also located in Lombardy, making it an excellent destination for those interested in art, fashion, and architecture. The city’s iconic Duomo di Milano cathedral is a must-see attraction that showcases Gothic architecture at its finest.

For foodies, Lombardy offers delicious cuisine ranging from risotto alla milanese to bresaola della Valtellina. Visitors can savor these dishes while enjoying some of the region’s famous wines such as Franciacorta or Oltrepò Pavese.

Whether you’re looking to explore historic cities or relax by beautiful lakeshores with breathtaking views, Lombardy has something to offer everyone who travels here.

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Marche

Marche is a beautiful region located in central Italy, known for its stunning landscapes and picturesque towns. The region boasts of a diverse range of attractions that cater to different travel preferences.

If you are looking for breathtaking views, Marche’s rolling hills dotted with olive trees provide the perfect backdrop. For beach lovers, the Adriatic coastline offers pristine waters and sandy beaches where one can relax and soak up the sun.

The cities within Marche hold their own charm as well. Urbino houses an impressive art collection at Palazzo Ducale and Loreto has religious significance with its basilica housing the Holy House of Nazareth. Additionally, Ascoli Piceno is famous for its delicious stuffed olives and historic architecture while Macerata hosts an annual opera festival.

Marche offers visitors a glimpse into authentic Italian life with its rich culture, stunning landscapes and friendly locals – making it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Italy.

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Molise

Located in the south-central region of Italy, Molise is one of the smallest and least populated regions in the country. Despite its small size, Molise is a hidden gem that offers visitors a unique taste of Italian culture.

One of the main attractions in Molise is its stunning natural beauty. The region boasts picturesque mountains, rolling hills, and pristine beaches along its Adriatic coastline. Visitors can also explore numerous nature reserves and parks throughout the area.

Molise’s rich history can be seen through its many ancient ruins and archaeological sites scattered throughout the region. One such site is Saepinum, an ancient Roman city that dates back to 275 BC.

Foodies will delight in sampling traditional dishes from Molise’s cuisine which includes locally produced cheeses like Caciocavallo di Agnone PDO, wines such as Tintilia del Molise DOC red wine or Biancolilla del Molise white wine paired with local meats like lamb fricassee or capretto al ragù (kid goat stew).

Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure or simply want to immerse yourself in authentic Italian culture at your own pace – Molise should definitely be on your travel itinerary!

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Piedmont

Piedmont is a region located in the north-west of Italy, bordering France and Switzerland. It is known for its stunning natural scenery, including the snow-capped Alps and rolling vineyards. One of Piedmont’s main attractions is Turin, which was once the capital of Italy.

Turin is home to many historical landmarks such as the Mole Antonelliana tower and the Royal Palace of Turin. The city also boasts excellent cuisine with dishes like agnolotti pasta and bagna cauda dip being local favorites.

The wine produced in Piedmont is world-renowned with Barolo being one of its most famous exports. Visitors can take part in tours throughout the vineyards or enjoy wine tastings at various wineries across the region.

For outdoor enthusiasts, there are plenty of opportunities for hiking, skiing or simply enjoying nature with stunning national parks such as Gran Paradiso National Park offering breathtaking views.

Whether you’re interested in history, food or nature – Piedmont has something for everyone making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking a taste of Northern Italian culture.

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Sardinia

Sardinia is an autonomous island region of Italy, located in the Mediterranean Sea. It’s known for its beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters that attract tourists from all over the world.

The coastlines offer a variety of experiences, ranging from sandy beaches to rugged cliffs. The best-known beach is La Pelosa, which boasts clear turquoise water and white sand. Besides swimming or sunbathing at the beach, visitors can also enjoy sailing, windsurfing and other water activities.

Inland Sardinia offers a unique landscape with hillsides covered in oak forests and open plains where sheep graze freely under the hot sun. The region’s traditional cuisine features dishes made with locally grown ingredients like lamb and cheese.

Sardinia also has plenty of archaeological sites that date back to prehistoric times. One such site is Su Nuraxi di Barumini, one of the largest nuraghe (prehistoric stone structures) complexes on the island.

Sardinia offers something for everyone – whether you’re looking to soak up some sun on pristine beaches or explore ancient ruins rich in history and culture.

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Sicily

Sicily is the largest island in the Mediterranean and a popular destination for those who want to experience Italy’s rich culture and history. With its stunning landscapes, ancient ruins, and delicious cuisine, Sicily has something to offer every traveler.

The island boasts several UNESCO World Heritage sites such as the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento and Baroque cities of Val di Noto. The Greek temples at Selinunte are also a must-see attraction that transports visitors back in time.

Apart from its historical landmarks, Sicily is known for its delicious food including fresh seafood, aromatic pastries like cannoli and cassata cake, pasta dishes like spaghetti ai ricci (spaghetti with sea urchins), arancini (stuffed rice balls) among others which can be enjoyed along with local wine.

With its warm climate throughout most of the year and beautiful beaches along both coasts – North Coast featuring Taormina’s iconic cliffs while South Coast home to Scala dei Turchi – it’s no wonder why many tourists return again and again to this enchanting island.

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Trentino- South Tyrol

Trentino-South Tyrol is a region located in the northernmost part of Italy, bordering Austria and Switzerland. It stands out for its breathtaking landscapes, majestic mountains, and charming towns that attract visitors from all over the world.

The Dolomites mountain range dominates this region with its snow-capped peaks offering endless opportunities for skiing enthusiasts. Trekking and hiking are also popular activities during summer months when wildflowers bloom across the hillsides.

The capital city of Trento has an impressive history dating back to Roman times, but also offers contemporary cultural events such as exhibitions at MUSE Museum of Science. Bolzano is another must-visit destination with its medieval center featuring colorful buildings decorated with frescoes.

Thanks to its unique position between different cultures, traditions, and languages (Italian and German), Trentino-South Tyrol is home to diverse culinary delights such as apple strudel or canederli dumplings.

Visiting Trentino-South Tyrol means immersing oneself in a natural paradise where culture blends perfectly with nature creating unforgettable memories!

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Tuscany

Tuscany is one of the most popular regions in Italy, known for its beautiful landscapes and rich cultural heritage. The region is located in central Italy and boasts some of the world’s most renowned art cities such as Florence, Pisa, Lucca and Siena.

Tuscany is home to rolling hills covered with vineyards, olive groves and cypress trees that create a stunningly picturesque landscape. This region has produced some of the world’s best wines like Chianti Classico, Brunello di Montalcino or Vino Nobile di Montepulciano which can be tasted at any winery throughout Tuscany.

Apart from wine-tasting tours or admiring the breathtaking scenery, there are plenty of activities visitors can enjoy in Tuscany such as cooking classes where you learn how to make delicious Tuscan dishes using local ingredients. Exploring medieval villages on foot or by bike is another great way to experience this beautiful region.

Whether you’re interested in history or simply looking for a relaxing vacation spot filled with natural beauty, Tuscany has something for everyone. With so many things to see and do here it’s no wonder why it’s a top destination for travelers visiting Italy.

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Umbria

Umbria is a region located in central Italy and is known as the “green heart” of Italy for its lush landscapes. The region has plenty to offer for travelers looking to immerse themselves in nature, art and history.

Perugia, the capital city of Umbria, boasts an impressive historic center filled with beautiful architecture from different eras. Visitors can enjoy exploring ancient churches such as San Lorenzo Cathedral or admire the Palazzo dei Priori which houses some of Umbria’s most important artworks.

Assisi, another town in Umbria, is famous for being the birthplace of Saint Francis. This picturesque hillside town offers visitors stunning views over the surrounding landscape and features many religious sites such as Basilica di San Francesco.

Umbria also hosts several annual events that attract tourists from all around Europe. For example, Perugia holds a world-famous chocolate festival every October where visitors can taste artisanal chocolates from all over Italy.

Umbria is an excellent destination for those who want to embrace Italian culture while enjoying breathtaking natural beauty.

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Veneto

Veneto is the northeast region of Italy, famous for its stunning architecture and canals in Venice. The region has a rich historical past and features art, culture, and natural beauty.

From skiing in Cortina d’Ampezzo to exploring charming towns like Verona, Vicenza, and Padua, Veneto offers something for everyone. The Prosecco hills offer scenic views that are sure to captivate wine lovers.

Italy is a country full of diverse regions offering unique experiences for travelers looking to explore its history, culture, and landscapes. Whether you want to bask on the beaches or ski down snow-capped mountainsides while sipping fine wines with panoramic views, Italy has something for every type of traveler. So why not pack your bags today for an unforgettable journey through this land of magnificent beauty?

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