7 Best Places To Visit In Italy This Year

29.01.2024 - 01:42 / forbes.com / Lake Como

La dolce vita awaits in one of the most visited countries of the world: Italy. But when it comes to the best places to visit in Italy, travelers should know there is a lot more than just the typical tourist hot spots of Rome, Venice and the Amalfi Coast. Going beyond the traditional city limits can reveal plenty of exciting places to visit in Italy in 2024. Here are some top favorites of the best places to visit in Italy and add to your travel bucket list.

On the banks of Lake Como, this town is one of many that lines this famous lake. A summer paradise (when rates soar), the shoulder seasons of late spring and early fall are ideal times to visit for the calming views or zigzagging ferry routes that take visitors to other famous towns like Bellagio and Como, ideal for shopping and charming cafes.

While there are several famous hotels on Lake Como, including some where you can earn and redeem hotel loyalty points, nothing beats the traditional Villa d’Este resort. With recently renovated accommodations, glamorous gardens, a floating swimming pool and doting service, this is a real palace worth visiting for a taste of luxury.

Be sure to book a motor boat ride along the lake to explore many of the famous palaces and villas that line the shore. Best of all, the hotel is part of The Leading Hotels of the World, and members of its free loyalty program are eligible for free breakfast, potential room upgrades and early check-in or late checkout considerations.

Since this region of the Ligurian Sea coastline consists of five small towns (Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore), the crowds tend to be more spread out between them. But, these towns are small, and the summer months see them packed to the gills. Instead, opt for late spring or early fall when the weather is not as hot as it gets and there are more deals to enjoy.

Wander between the towns by hiking, taking the panoramic trains, driving the winding roads or even by sea. If you want to visit some of the other famous towns in the region, this can be a good home base. Portofino is a short drive away and home to the famous Hotel Splendido, A Belmond Hotel. Just take note that this hotel does not open until early June. It is part of the American Express Fine Hotels & Resorts program, and when booking through American Express with an eligible card, guests can enjoy free breakfast, room upgrades, welcome gifts and late checkout.

Other day trips include a visit to Pisa, home to its famous leaning tower, and an Italian city worth exploring on foot.

This is not a surprising addition, but instead of the traditional in-town hotel, try something on the outskirts. A free shuttle runs from Villa La Massa, a luxury resort that is in the