Our family really enjoyed Liguria. We stayed in Lavagna because we had friends in that area; this is south of Portofino and north of Cinque Terre. Easy to get around by train. My favorite: wonderful pesto for sell in the pasta shops! We'd buy a box of Ritz crackers and a pint of pesto and be in heaven!!

I'd highly second Jack's recommendation re: the Orcia valleys. We spent 5 nights outside of Pienza and really loved it.<BR><BR>I'd add Bologna. Not just for the food, but . . . ohmygodthefood!

Basilicata, definitely. One of the out-of-the-way towns I especially liked in that region was Pietrapertosa.<BR><BR>You've already been to Sicily, but if you want to know a very untouristy part of it that's my favorite, it's the Nebrodi Mountains area, not just the Parco dei Nebrodi, but also some towns that are technically not within the confines of the park.

I have to vote with the previous Napoli fan. I absolutely loved Napoli!! Yes it is congested but it is exciting and alive. If you haven't been, consider giving it a try.<BR><BR>April<BR>[email protected] <BR>

May's issue of TRAVEL and LEISURE features an article on Pantelleria, an Italian island between Sicily and Tunisia. Apparently, you can fly there from Rome during the summer months. It sounds heavenly, although probably better for a couple seeking isolation, sun, and interesting food and culture than for a family with kids looking for things to do.<BR>They also recommend Monterpertuso,a small mountain village that overhangs Positano. I've been there, and it would be a lovely day visit from Positano, because you can walk back to Positano by way of a footpath that descends from the church of Santa Maria della Grazia. Also Monterpertuso is home to two restaurants: Il Ritrovo, and Donna Rosa, both well worth a visit.<BR><BR>Have a great time!

I have to agree with &quot;a napoli fan&quot; &amp; &quot;AprilA&quot; above. Naples is truly an amazing place to experience. So much to see &amp; do. You will definitely experience true Italian life in Naples. The people are great &amp; the food is wonderful. I've been to many cities in Italy, but Naples is one of my favorites &amp; I plan on returning soon. It's a must see.

My vote is the Cinque Terre. There are several agriturisms near Levanto on the north and La Spezia to the south. Traveling to these towns and taking the train is the best way to travel into the Cinque Terre. You will love the hiking and the beaches. I am told that it is possible to rent apartments in the small towns, but I don't know of any sites to find them. Maybe someone could help. I think doing a Google search of Cinque Terre would offer some ideas.
Lucca and Pisa are also near. We stayed in an adorable little town northeast of Lucca, Montecarlo. We had some of the finest dining in all of Italy at the small tratorias in this village. The drive through the mountains to get to Montecarlo is beautiful. Have a great trip.

I would vote for Naples as well. Also a pleasant change of scenery would be the Umbrian towns (I've been to two, Assisi and Orvieto).