Florence, the capital of Tuscany, is one of Italy's most atmospheric and pleasant, retaining a strong resemblance to the small late-medieval center that contributed so much to the cultural and political development of Europe. Art treasures Michelange ... more

Florence, the capital of Tuscany, is one of Italy's most atmospheric and pleasant, retaining a strong resemblance to the small late-medieval center that contributed so much to the cultural and political development of Europe. Art treasures Michelangelo's David Botticelli's Birth of Venus, and Raphael's La Velata draw millions of visitors every year. Throw into the mix fabulous architecture (the Duomo with Brunelleschi's dome, Giotto's campanile, Santa Croce), fine restaurants and earthy trattorie, plus leading designer boutiques and bustling outdoor markets, and the city of the Renaissance becomes quite simply one of the world's must-see sights.  (close)

Spoleto is located in the region of Umbria, Perugia province and hosts numerous Roman ruins and medieval buildings terraced from the valley up on the hill. Among the sites worth visiting are the Roman theather, the Roman amphiteater, Ponte del Torri, ... more

Spoleto is located in the region of Umbria, Perugia province and hosts numerous Roman ruins and medieval buildings terraced from the valley up on the hill. Among the sites worth visiting are the Roman theather, the Roman amphiteater, Ponte del Torri, a 13th century aqueduct possibly built on a Roman foundation, the Duomo, and many other palazzi, churches, and other ancient structures.  (close)

Assisi is one of Italy's top sights, competing with the Colosseum, Pompeii, and Venice's canals. It boasts some of Italy's finest early Renaissance art. One of the top attractions is the remarkably preserved portico of a Roman temple on its main squa ... more

Assisi is one of Italy's top sights, competing with the Colosseum, Pompeii, and Venice's canals. It boasts some of Italy's finest early Renaissance art. One of the top attractions is the remarkably preserved portico of a Roman temple on its main square. The Basilica of San Francesco d'Assisi (St Francis) is a World Heritage Site that well worths a visit. The town is dominated by two medieval castles. The larger, called Rocca Maggiore, was built by Cardinal Albornoz (1367).  (close)

Perugia is the capital city of Umbria, central Italy, claiming to be one of the most cosmopolitan medieval cities in the world. It hosts numerous Gothic palaces and jazz cafes, as well as some one of Italy's largest state universities. It is also the ... more

Perugia is the capital city of Umbria, central Italy, claiming to be one of the most cosmopolitan medieval cities in the world. It hosts numerous Gothic palaces and jazz cafes, as well as some one of Italy's largest state universities. It is also the place to learn Italian and Italian customs, as it is home to Universita per Stranieri, the country's most prestigious of its kind. Perugina, a fine Italian chocolatier, is based here, and this is also a place to enjoy a famous European jazz festival in the summer.  (close)

Florence, the capital of Tuscany, is one of Italy's most atmospheric and pleasant, retaining a strong resemblance to the small late-medieval center that contributed so much to the cultural and political development of Europe. Art treasures Michelange ... more

Florence, the capital of Tuscany, is one of Italy's most atmospheric and pleasant, retaining a strong resemblance to the small late-medieval center that contributed so much to the cultural and political development of Europe. Art treasures Michelangelo's David Botticelli's Birth of Venus, and Raphael's La Velata draw millions of visitors every year. Throw into the mix fabulous architecture (the Duomo with Brunelleschi's dome, Giotto's campanile, Santa Croce), fine restaurants and earthy trattorie, plus leading designer boutiques and bustling outdoor markets, and the city of the Renaissance becomes quite simply one of the world's must-see sights.  (close)