“Venice is the city of mirrors, the city of mirages, at once solid and liquid, at once air and stone.” - Erica Jon

Built on more than 100 small islands with canals instead of roads, Venice is unlike any other city in the world and is often considered one of the most beautiful because of its magnificent palaces and piazzas. Piazza San Marco is the most famous, surrounded by arched walkways and ornate buildings including striking St. Mark’s Basilica and towering San Marco Campanile, which was once used as a watch tower and offers fantastic panoramic views across this unique city. Another major Venice attraction is the monumental Grand Canal which snakes right through the centre of the city and under four bridges. The Rialto Bridge is undoubtedly the most iconic and makes a beautiful backdrop during a romantic gondola ride.

“There is no world beyond Verona’s walls.” - William Shakespeare 

Best known as the romantic setting for Shakespeare’s legendary love story, Romeo and Juliet, the ancient city of Verona is nothing short of stunning. The historic centre leads to the large Piazza Bra, home to an abundance of traditional outdoor cafes and the stunning Verona Arena. This well-preserved Roman amphitheatre is best appreciated whilst enjoying a traditional local lunch of pasta or risotto with donkey meat. Situated just off the square is Verona’s most famous attraction, Juliet’s House. Here visitors can stand upon Juliet’s balcony and snap a photo with the Juliet statue - it is believed that touching her breast brings good luck!

“When you write the story of two happy lovers, let the story be set on the banks of Lake Como.” - Franz Liszt

The most glamourous of Italy’s lakes, in Lake Como you’ll find snow-capped mountains, beautiful gardens, grand hotels and elegant villas which act as holiday homes to the rich and famous including George Clooney and Sylvester Stallone. Como, the provincial capital, is the main gateway in and out, a graceful town with a Gothic Duomo and plenty of charming spots to enjoy an aperitivo. From here it is easy to catch a boat across the water, or join the road which connects the attractive towns which surround the lake. Bellagio is the most popular, known as the ‘pearl of the lake’ because of its lovely promenade and pretty cobbled streets lined with cute boutiques and cosy restaurants.

“Milan is beautiful in fog, like a woman with a veil.” - Ornella Vanoni

Fast-paced Milan, or Milano to the locals, is rich in history yet incredibly modern and sophisticated with pretty tree lined streets, a charming historic downtown and stylish designer shops. The city’s fashion and art culture is complemented by its world-class dining scene, presenting the city as more European than Italian. Occupying the heart is a spectacular Gothic Duomo, the largest church in Italy which took nearly six centuries to complete. Additional must see attractions include the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, an elegant shopping mall which houses some of the most luxurious boutiques in Milan, and the Santa Maria delle Grazie where Leonardo da Vinci's, The Last Supper is displayed.

For more inspiration, take a look at our Italy Holidays pages.