Your Three Favourite Cities in Italy and Why
Mar 22nd, 2009, 03:04 PM
#21
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I just love hearing/FEELING your descriptions !
Even though my trip isn't until September, the postings make me feel , so excited !
LoveItaly; is Florence crowded because of tourists or just its population? Is it only crowded at certain times of the year?You also said "if one has enough time" in reference to Rome, Florence and Venice. How much time is enough time?
Leely2; thank you for the lovely descriptions
traveller1959; you sound like you have been many beautiful places in Italy...sometimes it is hard to choose between picturesque or history/architecture/art when given limited time ? (As an aside, does 1959 denote your birth year? I just turned "50" !)
Peter; very eloquent...if only I had the luxury of time on my side I would DEFINITELY spend time strolling and getting the feel of the city before seeing the "sights"...alas...
Vincenzoda; interesting....why?
Thank you all, thank you, thank you !!
(How do I say thank you in Italian ?)
Even though my trip isn't until September, the postings make me feel , so excited !
LoveItaly; is Florence crowded because of tourists or just its population? Is it only crowded at certain times of the year?You also said "if one has enough time" in reference to Rome, Florence and Venice. How much time is enough time?
Leely2; thank you for the lovely descriptions
traveller1959; you sound like you have been many beautiful places in Italy...sometimes it is hard to choose between picturesque or history/architecture/art when given limited time ? (As an aside, does 1959 denote your birth year? I just turned "50" !)
Peter; very eloquent...if only I had the luxury of time on my side I would DEFINITELY spend time strolling and getting the feel of the city before seeing the "sights"...alas...
Vincenzoda; interesting....why?
Thank you all, thank you, thank you !!
(How do I say thank you in Italian ?)
Mar 22nd, 2009, 03:17 PM
#22
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I just returned from a 10-day trip to Italy -- toured Venice, Ravenna, Florence, Assisi and Rome. Here are my picks:
Assisi -- incredibly calm, quiet, and allows the opportunity for introspection that you don't find many places. Specifically St. Francis Basilica and The Hermitage. Beautiful architecture and peaceful and amazing views from atop the hills.
Rome -- the New York City of Italy. Fast paced, with modern restaurants next door to ruins; a visual feast of history around every corner. An easy subway to navigate, TONS to see (you cannot possibly see it all), and fabulous food (and gelato!) The Vatican is also incredible if you like art, sculpture, ornate decoration, etc. The Sistine Chapel is beyond compare.
Venice -- an amazing city with something for everyone... art, culture, history, water, islands to visit, gondola rides, Murano glass, academics, etc.
Have fun on your trip!
Assisi -- incredibly calm, quiet, and allows the opportunity for introspection that you don't find many places. Specifically St. Francis Basilica and The Hermitage. Beautiful architecture and peaceful and amazing views from atop the hills.
Rome -- the New York City of Italy. Fast paced, with modern restaurants next door to ruins; a visual feast of history around every corner. An easy subway to navigate, TONS to see (you cannot possibly see it all), and fabulous food (and gelato!) The Vatican is also incredible if you like art, sculpture, ornate decoration, etc. The Sistine Chapel is beyond compare.
Venice -- an amazing city with something for everyone... art, culture, history, water, islands to visit, gondola rides, Murano glass, academics, etc.
Have fun on your trip!
Mar 22nd, 2009, 03:59 PM
#23
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julia; thanks for the links to your pics ! Loved them. Burano looked very colourful, loved the reflections shots,evening lights were BEAUTIFUL, Corricella looked very picturesque, and so did Mantua...thanks
Mar 22nd, 2009, 04:50 PM
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There is no city in Italy that I don't love,
but favorites are:
Venice because it is so mysterious, unreal, romantic.
Siracusa - only visited in the evening and it was also mysterious with lovely ally-ways, beautiful windows, charming restaurants and really, really nice people who went out of their way to be helpful and friendly.
Now, count me crazy, but I love Naples. It is a city that seems to exist for the people who live and work there, not visitors or tourists. Because of that it seems more real, less of a fantasy (like Venice), or a major archeological site (like Rome, which I also love). Naples has much that is beautiful with excellent food and the warmest people anyplace in Italy. It is easy to get around and feel comfortable in. It is grittier, but that just makes it more interesting to me. Life in Naples seems so intense. I love that.
but favorites are:
Venice because it is so mysterious, unreal, romantic.
Siracusa - only visited in the evening and it was also mysterious with lovely ally-ways, beautiful windows, charming restaurants and really, really nice people who went out of their way to be helpful and friendly.
Now, count me crazy, but I love Naples. It is a city that seems to exist for the people who live and work there, not visitors or tourists. Because of that it seems more real, less of a fantasy (like Venice), or a major archeological site (like Rome, which I also love). Naples has much that is beautiful with excellent food and the warmest people anyplace in Italy. It is easy to get around and feel comfortable in. It is grittier, but that just makes it more interesting to me. Life in Naples seems so intense. I love that.
Mar 22nd, 2009, 04:58 PM
#26
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Rome - I was surpised at how much I liked Rome. I did not think I would enjoy a big, bustling city, but it turns out I liked Rome BECAUSE of its energy. Oh, and all that great history. It was amazing to see in person so many things I had read about in art or history classes.
Orvieto - Agree with kybourbon about the surprising number of Italians. We particularly enjoyed the passeggiata in the evenings when many families were out. (We were there in October). The facade of the duomo is magnificent, especially late in the day when the golden mosaics are most brilliant. And the fresco inside by Luca Signorelli is also breathtaking.
Venice - A city unlike any other. To really capture its magic, though, I think you have to spend a few days there and be willing to explore beyond San Marco.
Also loved Bologna and its porticos, Ravenna and the hilltowns of Val D'Orcia and Umbria as well as San Gimignano. I think I could fall in love with most of Italy.
The places I did not like --Florence, Milan and Pisa -- I spent less than a day or a few hours in. I think giving yourself enough time to really experience a place is the secret, at least for me. I look forward to returning to Italy and next time, will devote more time to Florence.
Orvieto - Agree with kybourbon about the surprising number of Italians. We particularly enjoyed the passeggiata in the evenings when many families were out. (We were there in October). The facade of the duomo is magnificent, especially late in the day when the golden mosaics are most brilliant. And the fresco inside by Luca Signorelli is also breathtaking.
Venice - A city unlike any other. To really capture its magic, though, I think you have to spend a few days there and be willing to explore beyond San Marco.
Also loved Bologna and its porticos, Ravenna and the hilltowns of Val D'Orcia and Umbria as well as San Gimignano. I think I could fall in love with most of Italy.
The places I did not like --Florence, Milan and Pisa -- I spent less than a day or a few hours in. I think giving yourself enough time to really experience a place is the secret, at least for me. I look forward to returning to Italy and next time, will devote more time to Florence.
Mar 22nd, 2009, 05:43 PM
#27
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Venice: the beauty is more than you can imagine. Everything you read or see about Venice can never do justice to it. From the moment you arrive each corner holds some new beauty. It is also very mysterious feeling with its narrow street/alleys.
Rome: Architecture, history, all up close with little or no barriers. So much different than travel in many places where viewing is done from afer. I recall climbing to the top of a building (wish I could remember the name) and there was a cafe on the roof. We sat to have a beverage and looked over our shoulder and there was the Colisseum! Seeing the Trevi Fountain during one of its daily cleanings, the cafes dotted along there, the produce stand just around the corner, fountains, Spanish steps, so much to see you have to limit it so you can spend time enjoying it--that's the point in Italy!
A region is next: travels south of Rome: Molise region for its countryside: the rolling hills and SMALL villages bulit into the sides of mountains looking like tey are just hanging onto the edge. I found these areas where I could experience true Italy without the tourism. Million dolar views in a humble countryside atmosphere, no wonder everyone is so friendly they get bto wake up to those surroundings everyday! Try to stay at an agriturismo if you can, these are guest houses where the owners have to grow and prepare everything that is served on their own land. Try La Fonte in Baranello for a great experience! Head further south and see Pompeii: with Vesuvius in the backdrop it is an eerie visual reminder of how that area was buried.
Rome: Architecture, history, all up close with little or no barriers. So much different than travel in many places where viewing is done from afer. I recall climbing to the top of a building (wish I could remember the name) and there was a cafe on the roof. We sat to have a beverage and looked over our shoulder and there was the Colisseum! Seeing the Trevi Fountain during one of its daily cleanings, the cafes dotted along there, the produce stand just around the corner, fountains, Spanish steps, so much to see you have to limit it so you can spend time enjoying it--that's the point in Italy!
A region is next: travels south of Rome: Molise region for its countryside: the rolling hills and SMALL villages bulit into the sides of mountains looking like tey are just hanging onto the edge. I found these areas where I could experience true Italy without the tourism. Million dolar views in a humble countryside atmosphere, no wonder everyone is so friendly they get bto wake up to those surroundings everyday! Try to stay at an agriturismo if you can, these are guest houses where the owners have to grow and prepare everything that is served on their own land. Try La Fonte in Baranello for a great experience! Head further south and see Pompeii: with Vesuvius in the backdrop it is an eerie visual reminder of how that area was buried.
Mar 22nd, 2009, 07:23 PM
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1.Venice--for its water and light, lack of cars, wonderful art. Heavily trafficked tourist area around San Marco to Rialto Bridge can be avoided, much of the city is quiet and peaceful. We disagree strongly about the food. It is possible to eat extremely well in Venice, inexpensively, moderately and for Michelin star splurges--you need to know where.
2. Venice
3. Florence in early December or midJanuary when it is empty of tourists and you can stroll into the Accademia to see the David, walk through the very beautiful city.
2. Venice
3. Florence in early December or midJanuary when it is empty of tourists and you can stroll into the Accademia to see the David, walk through the very beautiful city.
Mar 23rd, 2009, 04:41 AM
#30
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So many beautiful cities and regions !
sasafras; the people you meet/encounter do make a place/trip special and memorable...as much, sometimes more,as some of the 'sights'
mama_mia; I'm sure wherever I decide to go this first trip will be surprising...one never knows how a place with affect you until you are actually there...anticipation doesn't come close to the actual experience
klaybill; the Molise region sounds wonderful...I loved the little moments you described in Rome
cmstraf; thank you for the positive and peaceful description of Venice and Florence
dina; so many beautiful cities, hard to choose...thank you
Well, 'grazie' everyone for your portrayals/anecdotes, that have created wonderful pictures in my mind !
Everyone talks about Venice as being 'mysterious'...an interesting adjective. I've never been to city I would describe as 'mysterious', so my curiosity is definitely peaked.
Jody
sasafras; the people you meet/encounter do make a place/trip special and memorable...as much, sometimes more,as some of the 'sights'
mama_mia; I'm sure wherever I decide to go this first trip will be surprising...one never knows how a place with affect you until you are actually there...anticipation doesn't come close to the actual experience
klaybill; the Molise region sounds wonderful...I loved the little moments you described in Rome
cmstraf; thank you for the positive and peaceful description of Venice and Florence
dina; so many beautiful cities, hard to choose...thank you
Well, 'grazie' everyone for your portrayals/anecdotes, that have created wonderful pictures in my mind !
Everyone talks about Venice as being 'mysterious'...an interesting adjective. I've never been to city I would describe as 'mysterious', so my curiosity is definitely peaked.
Jody
Mar 23rd, 2009, 05:27 AM
#31
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Rome - the history is an amazing part of everyday life and one can walk everywhere. It's colorful and alive.
Sorrento - I was made to feel "alluring"; and I'm a pudgy, middle aged woman.
Oh, and it's got some wonderful scenery.
Taormina - it is truly one of the most beautiful places. Sketching the Greek theater with Mt Etna in the distance is one of my most special travel moments.
Sorrento - I was made to feel "alluring"; and I'm a pudgy, middle aged woman.
Oh, and it's got some wonderful scenery.Taormina - it is truly one of the most beautiful places. Sketching the Greek theater with Mt Etna in the distance is one of my most special travel moments.
Mar 23rd, 2009, 07:26 AM
#32
Ooohhh good one...
1) Rome -- big city, lots of culture, things to do, amazing sights at every turn
2) Florence -- culture, history, small city feel, great people
3) Pienza -- tiny town with a phenomenal view over the valley; I was here on a bike tour and the surrounds are just gorgeous
1) Rome -- big city, lots of culture, things to do, amazing sights at every turn
2) Florence -- culture, history, small city feel, great people
3) Pienza -- tiny town with a phenomenal view over the valley; I was here on a bike tour and the surrounds are just gorgeous
Mar 23rd, 2009, 12:22 PM
#34
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>>>traveller1959; you sound like you have been many beautiful places in Italy...sometimes it is hard to choose between picturesque or history/architecture/art when given limited time ? (As an aside, does 1959 denote your birth year? I just turned "50" !)<<<
You are right - but you asked for cities. I would always combine city and region. The good thing about Italy: Whereever you are, it is neither far to a beautiful city nor to a scenic region. E.g. you can combine Rome, Vesuvius/Pompeii/Naples and Costiera Amalfitana. Or you combine Rome, Umbria, Tuscany and Florence. Or Florence, Tuscany and Cinque Terre. Or Venice, Verona, Lake Garda, Dolomites. Or Lake Garda, Milano, Lake Como, Lage Maggiore. Or Milano, Lago Maggiore, Turino, Piemonte. Or Turino, Piemonte and the Riviera. Or Palermo, Mount Etna, Taormina.
You get the picture? Next Saturday, I will fly to San Francisco, Monterey, Big Sur, Sonoma Valley.
Did I get 50 four weeks ago? Can't remember. Must be the age.
You are right - but you asked for cities. I would always combine city and region. The good thing about Italy: Whereever you are, it is neither far to a beautiful city nor to a scenic region. E.g. you can combine Rome, Vesuvius/Pompeii/Naples and Costiera Amalfitana. Or you combine Rome, Umbria, Tuscany and Florence. Or Florence, Tuscany and Cinque Terre. Or Venice, Verona, Lake Garda, Dolomites. Or Lake Garda, Milano, Lake Como, Lage Maggiore. Or Milano, Lago Maggiore, Turino, Piemonte. Or Turino, Piemonte and the Riviera. Or Palermo, Mount Etna, Taormina.
You get the picture? Next Saturday, I will fly to San Francisco, Monterey, Big Sur, Sonoma Valley.
Did I get 50 four weeks ago? Can't remember. Must be the age.
Mar 23rd, 2009, 03:22 PM
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I'm not a big city person as I would much rather wander the small quiet towns. For bigger towns I love Siena and Assisi. For smaller villages I love the Cinque Terre, Erice, Pienza and Civita. It is a pleasure to drive through Tuscany, Umbria, Puglia, etc. and encounter tiny undiscovered towns. I have been in villages that time seems to have forgotten with a total population of under 20 souls.
Peace and tranquility are very alluring to me. I shy away from cosmopolitan cities and resort towns. The less people and chaos the better!
Peace and tranquility are very alluring to me. I shy away from cosmopolitan cities and resort towns. The less people and chaos the better!
