With its clear water and white cliffs, Sansone beach is well worth the 15-minute walk down a winding track to get there.
One of the finest beaches in Tuscany, Castiglione is overlooked by colourful cliffside villas and is a Blue Flag winner.
With its soft white sand and clear turquoise waters, this stretch of Sicilian beach is perfect for sunbathing or a swim.
Surrounded by lush forestry and shaped like a half moon, this Sardinian gem is ideal for families and couples alike.
Some of the world's most famous Renaissance artworks can be seen here, including Botticelli's Birth of Venus.
No trip to Pisa is complete without taking a picture next to the Tower of Pisa, known throughout the world for its tilt.
St. Peter's Basilica in the Vatican is perhaps the world's finest example of Renaissance architecture.
A stunning example of ancient Roman architecture, the Colosseum is the biggest amphitheatre ever built.
Famous for its fashion weeks, Milan is a dream come true for fashionistas looking for a spot of designer retail therapy.
No trip to Venice is complete without a trip along the Grand Canal - go by traditional gondola or the cheaper water bus.
A region famous for its wine, wonderful views and cuisine, not to mention jewels like Florence, Pisa and Siena.
Mount Vesuvius is best known for the eruption that engulfed Pompeii. The ruins offer an insight into Roman life.
Italy's take on ice cream, often flavoured with fruit, tends to be lower in fat and less airy than other styles.
Italians eat some form of pasta with almost every meal and it comes in all kinds of flavours from creamy to tomato.
This creamy rice dish is often served as a first course in Italy. There are lots of different regional versions.
You can't beat the real deal. Legend has it the margherita was created to represent the colours of the Italian flag.
Florence has lots of choice for clubbers. Try Space Electronic for house or The Blob Club for an alternative vibe.
Milan's achingly sophisticated clubs are full of beautiful people who come to see and be seen.
Venice's nightlife, as you might expect, is a mellow, classy scene, fill of jazz clubs, DJ lounges and music cafes.
For serious party animals, the Testaccio quarter is packed with lively bars, house clubs, salsa discos and more.