Once you have tipped your toe in the water Italy will take hold of your heart and you will want to return time and time again. Having immigrated to the United Kingdom from South Africa we were so lucky to be so close to Italy and we started to enjoy vacations in Italy from 2002. Although Brendan is Scottish his heart is definitely Italian, he started to learn the language, we cooked Italian food at home and there was not a year that went by that we did not return to Italy (and if we were lucky sometimes more than once a year). In 2013 we made Italy our permanent home.
When we plan itineraries for first time visitors to Italy they generally want to hit all the hotspots, Rome, Tuscany and Venice – our second time travelers usually want a new adventure. What you will need to consider is the type of vacation you would like to experience – is it the Italian beaches you crave? Would you like to stray off the beaten track or path? Do you want to experience a new region to appreciate a variety of food or wine or do you want to base you next trip on a theme, like wine, hikes or art? No matter what you choose, here are some options for second time trips to Bella Italia.
Amalfi
The Amalfi Coast has something for everyone, this UNESCO World Heritage location is visited by almost 5 million people every year. So, if you want to be part of the hustle and bustle of Sorrento or Positano, or enjoy a more relaxed town like Ravello you will need to do your homework and choose your location carefully. Naples is the main hub and is easily accessible by plane or train no matter where you are traveling from. The local transport system which is made up of public buses, ferries, trains or local taxis are very efficient.
Yes, you will hear about the crowds, the prices, the traffic but if you plan wisely your time in the Amalfi Coast will be spectacular. Popular locations include Amalfi, one of the largest towns; Sorrento, fabulous for is accessibility to surrounding towns: Positano, known for its beauty, magnificent views and lovely sandy beach; Praiano is great to visit as it is located between Sorrento and Positano and known for its magnificent sunsets. Ravello is quieter and perched up on the cliffs overlooking the sea, giving you the opportunity to enjoy the beautiful gardens and opulent villas. Whilst visiting the Amalfi Coast you will also have the option to visit Naples, Pompeii, Capri or Ischia.
Sicily
Sicily is the largest of the Italians islands, separated from the Continent by the Strait of Messina and surrounded by the Ionian, the Tyrrhenian and the Mediterranean Seas. Nature seems to have endowed all its wonders to this land. Beautiful beaches both pebbled and sandy, transparent seas hugged by rugged volcanic coastlines, spectacular nature, regional parks and an abundance of nature reserves, rolling hills, unusual trees and exotic plants. You will be fascinated by the Hellenic, Roman, Byzantine, Arab and Norman influences and archaeological sites to appreciate. Let’s not forget the Sicilian traditional flavors and dishes, don’t leave without trying brioche con granita (for breakfast) arancini, pasta alla norma and granita.
Puglia
If you don’t know where Puglia is it can easily be identified on the map, as it runs down the east coast of the country from the Gargano Peninsula all the way into the “heel of the boot”. Puglia borders the Adriatic Sea and the Ionian Sea, and in the south, it kisses the Gulf of Taranto and the Strait of Otranto. For a second visit to Italy, Puglia is perfect, it offers a stunning coastlines, picturesque towns and villages, quaint countryside, a slower pace of life and, of course, the very unusual trulli (cone shaped dewllings).
I wouldn’t spend less than a week in Puglia but 10 days would be perfect. You have some many locations to choose from, popular ones include, Bari. This is one of the locations you can fly into and it is a good to use as a base to explore other towns like Lecce, Alberobello, Matera and Foggia in the north of the region. Puglia offers beautiful architecture, history, beaches and rustic food.
Italian Riviera
The Italian Riviera can be found in the region of Liguria just south of the French and Italian border. The Italian Riviera starts in the Province of La Spezia giving you access to Portovenere, Lerici and the Cinque Terre and ends at the French border. It offers a captivating mix of history, pristine beaches, panoramic views, colorful seaside villages, medieval hamlets, lush vegetation and mouth-watering cuisine. Over the years artists, celebrities, writers and royalty have enjoyed the charm of the Italian Riviera. There is so much to enjoy in and around the area, fishing, hiking, cycling and water sports are just a few and you will be pleased to know they have both excellent hotels and restaurants.
If you are looking for La Dolce Vita you will find it here.
Lake Como
Lake Como is not far from Milan and is one of Italy’s most famous and most popular destinations. It can be found in the north of Italy in Lombardy and it is the third largest lake after Garda and Maggiore. It used to be one of the most romantic locations in Italy, frequented by the rich and famous, visited by honeymooners and many travelers celebrating special milestones. It has now evolved and is now enjoyed by all travelers, families both young and old and has become a popular destination for multi-generational families.
Lake Como is breathtakingly beautiful and is at the foot of the Alps offering magnificent landscapes, wonderful views, access to beautiful villas and many historical residences. Whether you are looking to relax or something more adventurous you will find it here.
Cinque Terre
If you have ever seen a picture of one of the towns in the Cinque Terre you will never forget it. The visual alone will inspire you to want to visit Italy or at least visit one of the towns given the opportunity. The Cinque Terre (the Italian translation is ‘Five Lands’) are mostly referred to as the ‘Five Towns’. Located in the north of Italy these five villages are part of the southern part of the Italian Riviera in Liguria.
An ancient system of footpaths (and now rail) connect the five villages, Riomaggiore, Manarole, Corniglia, Vernazza and Monterosso. Each of the villages has something different to offer. In Riamaggiore you will find historical churches and castles, Manarola offers a festive piazza and wonderful restaurants selling their catch of the day. Corniglia does not disappoint with one of the most beautiful lookout points and a refreshing cove to enjoy. Vernazza is the only town with two small beaches and often an excellent location for lunch, the restaurants are fabulous (make a reservation to avoid disappointment). Monterosso is the biggest village and also has the largest sandy beach.
Themed trips
If you are not sure about your next location in Italy, then perhaps by theming your trip with help to give you some guidance. Here are some options:
- Cuisine
- Wine
- Art
- Yoga
- Music
- Cycling
- Photography
- Fashion
We’d love your comments. Which of these would be your favorite? What would you do differently? What did we miss?
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If you don’t have time to plan your next vacation, need help finding family friendly hotels, tours and activities or just want an hour or two consulting then we are here to help. We can brainstorm destination ideas with you, work with you to design a custom itinerary or simply book a resort, villa or hotel stay for your family. Follow this link and we’ll set up a time to call you and let you know how we might help or advise you on what to do next.
