WORLD TOURISM DAY: TOP CITIES TO VISIT IN ITALY

Tourism’s Impact Beyond Borders: A Celebration of Global Unity

As anyone who has ever travelled to another country to taste and experience the sights and sounds of its local delicacies and cultural sites has undoubtedly realized tourism is one of the world’s most important economic sectors.  In fact, tourism is often not only highlighted for its role in economic development, it also plays a significant role in fostering peace.  Indeed, what better way to get to know and learn to love a people better than to visit and fall in love with the country where they are from?

Yes, tourism is an industry made by people and is for people. It allows for the meeting of the “other” and opens the door to intercultural dialogue.  It fosters the learning of different cultures, the tasting of exotic flavors, and the experience of ordering food in a different language. Most especially, it is the best and most natural way to curb stereotypes and challenge prejudices.

This is why the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), a specialized agency of the United Nations with headquarters in Madrid, Spain, which promotes responsible, sustainable and universally accessible tourism, established  World Tourism Day  in 1980.

The primary objective of this day is to raise awareness of the role of tourism especially within the international community and highlight its significance on a global scale. Apart from the economic impact tourism brings to a country, it also plays a role in influencing its social, political and cultural growth.  By celebrating this day, countries and nations understand that tourism isn’t just about revenue (although it is indeed a very large part of it), but is also about making connections, opening themselves up to other cultures, and something that has become increasingly important as the years have gone by: promoting sustainable practices.  Most significantly, tourism’s most positive effects are felt not only in a country’s most famous tourist attractions and places, but also in its most disadvantaged areas, benefitting rural populations and its most vulnerable communities.

This is why Italy and its love of La Dolce Vita wholeheartedly embraces World Tourism Day. Voted, “The most desired destination in the world” in 2023, Italy tackles the major challenge set by the World Tourism Organization by working to make every part of the sector sustainable, inclusive and accessible.  Italy offers a unique cultural heritage and a rich biodiversity that rivals the best that the rest of the world has to offer.  Indeed, its history, art, food & wine and natural beauty enamor an ever- increasing number of visitors who choose to spend their unforgettable holidays there.

Lake Como : The Timeless Inspiration Behind Filippo Loreti

Filippo Loreti's inspiration, Lake Como, described by the Huffington Post in 2014 as 'the most beautiful lake in the world', is an upmarket resort in the Lombardy region of northern Italy. Known for its dramatic scenery the lake is set against the foothills of the Alps, and is shaped like an upside-down Y with three slender branches flanked by steep, thickly wooded mountainsides that meet at the resort town of Bellagio.  To the north of Lake Como are the Alps, which are snow dusted for most of the year, while along the lakeshore are palm trees next to ornate villas that, in many cases, have origins as far back as the 16th century.

One of Italy’s most famous locales, Lake Como is less than an hour away from Milan, and any mention of it immediately brings to mind the glitz and glamour of wealth and abundance.  It is in these tourist sites, its lesser-known villages, and its hamlets with its breathtaking views that interests us today as Filippo Loreti wholeheartedly endorses World Tourism Day and its theme for 2024: “Tourism and Peace,” as it has been established that countries with a more open and sustainable tourism sector are known to be more peaceful.

Top Cities to Visit in Italy

Italy, a country renowned for its rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes, offers travelers an endless array of experiences. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or a lover of art and architecture, Italy has something for everyone. Here’s a guide to some of the most captivating cities you must visit in Italy, each offering unique highlights and unforgettable sights.

1. Rome – The Eternal City

Rome is a city where ancient history meets modern life. Walking through Rome is like stepping into an open-air museum, where you’ll find iconic monuments on every corner.

Must-see places: The Colosseum, Vatican City, St. Peter’s Basilica, the Sistine Chapel, Trevi Fountain, and the Pantheon. Don’t forget to stroll through the charming Trastevere neighborhood for a taste of local life.

2. Florence – The Cradle of the Renaissance

Florence is an art lover’s paradise. The city’s history as the birthplace of the
Renaissance is visible through its grand architecture and world-class museums.

Must-see places: Uffizi Gallery, Michelangelo’s David at the Accademia, the Florence Cathedral (Duomo), Ponte Vecchio, and the Boboli Gardens. A sunset view from Piazzale Michelangelo is a must.

3. Venice – The Floating City

Venice is a romantic dream with its winding canals, historic palazzos, and
picturesque bridges. There’s no other city in the world like Venice.

Must-see places: St. Mark’s Square and Basilica, the Doge’s Palace, the Rialto Bridge, and a gondola ride along the Grand Canal. Don’t miss exploring the lesser- known islands of Murano and Burano.

4. Milan – The Fashion Capita

Known for its style and elegance, Milan is a city of fashion and design. Beyond the runways, Milan offers stunning art and historic sites.

Must-see places: The Duomo of Milan, Leonardo da Vinci’s "The Last Supper," Sforza Castle, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, and La Scala Opera House. For modern art lovers, the Fondazione Prada is a must.

5. Naples – A Taste of Authentic Italy

Naples is often considered Italy’s most authentic city, known for its vibrant street life and world-famous pizza. It’s also the gateway to some of Italy’s best day trips.

Must-see place: Pompeii and Herculaneum ruins, Mount Vesuvius, the Naples National Archaeological Museum, and the historic Spaccanapoli street. From Naples, you can easily visit the Amalfi Coast and Capri.

6. Bologna – The Culinary Heart

Bologna is a foodie’s haven, known for its rich cuisine. It’s also a city of great beauty, with medieval towers, porticoes, and lively piazzas.

Must-see places: Piazza Maggiore, the Two Towers (Le Due Torri), the Basilica of San Petronio, and the University of Bologna (the world’s oldest). Try the local delicacies like tagliatelle al ragù and mortadella.

7. Verona – The City of Romance

Famous as the setting for Shakespeare’s "Romeo and Juliet," Verona is a city of love and history. It’s also home to one of the best-preserved Roman arenas.

Must-see places: Juliet’s House and Balcony, the Verona Arena, Piazza delle Erbe, and Castelvecchio. Take a walk along the Adige River for some stunning views of the city.

8. Pisa – More Than Just a Leaning Tower

While the Leaning Tower is the star attraction, Pisa offers much more, with its
charming streets, riverside walks, and historic charm.

Must-see places: The Leaning Tower of Pisa, Piazza dei Miracoli, Pisa Cathedral,
and the Baptistery. Walk along the Arno River for a picturesque view of the city’s
skyline.

9. Siena – A Medieval Gem

Siena is known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and the famous Palio
horse race. It’s a city rich in history and charm.

Must-see places: Piazza del Campo, Siena Cathedral (Duomo), Torre del Mangia, and the Civic Museum. A visit to the nearby Chianti wine region is a perfect day trip from Siena.

10. Turin – A City of Royal Heritage

Turin is often overlooked but is a treasure trove of Baroque architecture, royal
palaces, and excellent museums. It’s also the birthplace of Italian cinema and
chocolate.

Must-see places: Mole Antonelliana and the National Cinema Museum, the Royal Palace of Turin, Piazza Castello, and the Egyptian Museum (one of the best in the world).

These cities, each unique in their own right, provide the perfect blend of Italy’s historical grandeur and vibrant modern life. Whether you’re seeking art, history, culture, or culinary delights, these Italian gems will leave you with memories to cherish for a lifetime. Ready to book your next trip to Italy and start exploring?