Italy by Car - The Ultimate Road Trip Down The Boot

Italy is a beautiful country that has captivated countless foreigners over the years. It has a charm that is uniquely Italia — modern yet gloriously and regally “old”. It is called Belpaese (Italian for beautiful country) by the locals, due to the variety of its landscapes and for having the world’s largest artistic patrimony. As of 2006, the UNESCO recognised Italy as the country with the most number of World Heritage Sites (40). Today, Italy is a highly developed country that remains the top destination for U.S. travellers.

Italy is famous for its world-class, expensive shoes — a fitting tribute to the country’s peculiar shape — a boot! Italy’s distinctive boot shape extends into the Mediterranean Sea, where together with its two main islands, Sicily and Sardinia, creates distinct bodies of water. Spring marks the beginning of high tourism season, with a combination of pilgrimage tourists visiting Rome for Easter and other tourists who simply want to take advantage of mild weather and clear skies.

When in Italy, it’s a shame to spend your vacation in only one part of the country. To devote your time solely to Florence or Rome is a wasted opportunity. One suggestion is to limit your “visit time” in common tourist spots like Rome, Florence, Pisa, and Venice. Italy has many more magnificent cities and smaller towns that is just waiting to be explored — like the mural-filled city of Orgosolo in Sardinia, the Medieval towers of Bologna, the Greek stronghold city of Syracause in Sicily, the majesty of Trento and many more! You can also try Lake Garda or Lake Orta instead of Lake Como.

Travelling to Italy can be costly especially during spring — both in terms of airfare and accommodation. Try a different route like renting a car and exploring Italy in leisure, to be able to stop when you want to, where you want to. A car rental in Italy is not too expensive. Sure, it is a little costly but you will definitely get your money’s worth. You will also have the freedom (and wheels) to visit quaint villages and ports along the Ligurian coastline including Portofino and Cinque Terre. You can also enjoy a Bologna tour, starting with an entrance to the Downtown Historical Museum, bicycle rental, and seeing Bologna crafters’ shops.

Instead of the usual hotels (that look the same in almost every country), it is good to try and be adventurous. Rent a car, toss in a map and begin your leisurely trip down the boot. Enjoy the Italian countryside as you travel from one town to the other. With this plan, you will see more of Italy than any guided tour can offer. You will also have the pleasure of lingering at places that appeal more to you than most with no tourist guides to rush you to the next destination. The ultimate Italian road trip has no definite “perfect” starting point. After all, when in Italy, do as the Italians do. Live your vacation as the adventure it truly is!