Could Italy Be Your 2022 Getaway? *

*Collaborative Post.

Travel was off the cards for many of us last year. For some of us, travel also wasn’t an option this year. The coronavirus and Covid-19 pandemic that has wrought chaos and tragedy around the world has undoubtedly impacted the majority of our lives in countless ways – and travel is a huge industry and activity to be damaged by the entire situation. Of course, many of us may have had more on our minds lately than getting away on a holiday. But as things seem to be settling down and as vaccines are becoming an option for increasing numbers of us, many of our minds are turning back to travel and many of us feel we could do with a getaway to recuperate and relax after this difficult time. So, it’s not all too surprising that many of us are planning trips away right now. Whether that’s for January or December 2022, it’s important that you spend time planning to make your future trip as smooth and enjoyable as possible. Here are some pieces of information that can help you on this journey if you’re considering a trip to Italy!

Why Italy?

Tourism is a huge trade in Italy. The country attracts over 94 million tourists per year (according to ENIT 2018). In fact, this makes Italy the third most visited country in international tourism arrivals, with 217.7 million foreign visitors staying for at least one night and a total of 432.6 million visitors in total. But this isn’t all too surprising when you see what Italy has to offer. First of all, Italy has more UNESCO Heritage sites than any other country in the world. This country is steeped in history, meaning there are countless sights to see if you’re interested in anything from architecture to historical tours. There are 58 UNESCO sites to choose from! Secondly, Italy can have great weather. It is characterized by a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters. If you’re looking for heat, July is the hottest month with temperatures reaching up to 30C (86F). If you’d rather visit when Italy is colder, you should consider travelling in January, which is the country’s coldest month.

Where to Go?

There are many cities and towns that you might want to consider visiting in Italy. The best for you will depend entirely on factors such as whether you’re travelling alone, as a couple, with friends or with children; your budget; sights you want to see; what you want to do and much more. Here are some suggestions to get the ball rolling.

The Pontine Islands

If you’d like to spend some time on the water, why not consider the Pontine Islands? These are an archipelago in the Tyrrhenian Sea, just off the coast of Lazio region, Italy. The islands were collectively named after the largest island in the group, Ponza. With bright blue waters, cosy beach bars, stunning landscapes, an array of great seafood and much more to offer, these jewels of islands really could make for the perfect trip destination. Take some time to discover all the super yachts and catamarans for rent in Italy and you’ll be bound to find a vessel that will prove perfect for your time away.

Rome

Rome is, by far, the most popular tourist destination in Italy. Around nine million international tourists visit Rome each year, making it rank amongst the world’s most visited city destinations, including the most visited destinations in Europe. In terms of location, Rome can be found in the central portion of the Italian peninsula, on the Tiber River about 15 miles (24 km) inland from the Tyrrhenian Sea. This city has plenty to see. Some key tourist favourites include:

The Pantheon – The Pantheon is definitely one of the most recognisable Roman buildings in Rome’s city centre. Its construction began in 27 BCE under the order of Marcus Agrippa. Believe it or not, it is one of the few buildings from ancient Rome that has stayed completely intact, making it truly a sight to behold. The current temple and characteristic round dome were not built until the 2nd century, under emperor Hadrian, after Agrippa’s building was damaged by a large fire in 80 CE. It was also damaged in 110 when it was struck by lightning. If you visit, look out for the following text in bronze on the façade: ‘M.AGRIPPA.L.F.COS.TERTIUM.FECIT’. This means, ‘Marcus Agrippa, son of Lucius, third-time consul, has built this’. The Parthenon is entirely free to visit.

The Colosseum – of course, if you’re in Rome, you should take time to visit the Colosseum. This is a world-famous oval amphitheatre in the centre of the city, just east of the Roman Forum. It is the largest ancient amphitheatre ever built, so it should definitely feature on your Italian bucket list.

These are just a few initial suggestions, but hopefully, they serve as inspiration for a brilliant Italian getaway!