A colossal arena in Rome where fearless gladiators once fought for pride, glory and freedom. A refined indulgence in authentic Italian pizza, at the very place of its birth. A trip to an ancient civilization, perfectly preserved through time.

When planning a trip to Italy, these classically Italian experiences are a must! Need more ideas on where to go? Here are top five destinations in Italy that you need to include in your itinerary.

colosseum-rome-italy

The Colosseum in Rome, Italy.

1. Rome

What’s a trip to Rome without visiting the awe-inspiring Colosseum and staring in wonder at the 2,000-year-old Pantheon, right? Don’t miss seeing Michelangelo’s famed frescoes at the Sistine Chapel, or exploring the intriguing ruins of the Roman Forum.

Complement your experience with a stay at Fendi Private Suites, a stone’s throw away from iconic landmarks such as the Trevi Fountain and the Spanish Steps. Another five-star luxury accommodation is Rome Cavalieri Waldorf Astoria, which features paintings from local Italian artists.

If you prefer to enjoy local cuisine in a classy ambiance, then Le Jardin de Russie at Hotel de Russie is perfect for satisfying your taste for Italian gourmet cuisine and for a luxurious environment.

venice-italy

Venice is a city of over 100 islands brought together by countless stone paved canals and bridges.

2. Venice

Get lost in the masterful montage that is Venice, a World Heritage Site and a city of over 100 islands brought together by countless stone paved canals and bridges. Bask in the historical richness of Piazza San Marco and visit St. Mark’s Basilica – an achievement of aesthetic opulence boasting golden Byzantine mosaics and the world-renowned Campanile bell tower.

No trip to Venice is complete without the classic gondola ride navigating its iconic water canals. Spend a lazy afternoon enjoying gourmet delicacies at Caffè Florian – a three-century-old café visited by luminaries such as Charles Dickens and Marcel Proust.

Surround yourself with art at the luxury Aman Venice hotel, featuring features frescoed interiors and Rococo works of art. Stay at its spacious and sumptuously furnished Alcova Tiepola Suite, or enjoy superior Grand Canal views at one of its Maddalena Stanza rooms.

pompeii-italy

The ruins in Pompeii remain carefully preserved, almost seemingly frozen in time.

3. Pompeii

Go back in time to the glory days of ancient Pompeii, with a private tour of its well-preserved historical ruins at the foot of Mount Vesuvius.

Led by an experienced archaeologist, the private Pompeii tour will take you to explore excavated ruins of Roman streets and baths, houses and temples, and fountains and theaters, while you get in-depth insight into the lives of Pompeii’s citizens.

After an eventful day uncovering the secrets of Pompeii, relax and rejuvenate at the Grand Hotel Angiolieri in Sorrento, Italy. Featuring overlooking views of the Gulf of Naples and Mount Vesuvius, a stay at this luxury hotel is the perfect climax to your Pompeii adventure.

naples-italy

The colorful city of Naples is known as the place where modern pizza originated.

4. Naples

Lying close to the ancient town of Pompeii is the city of Naples, another important Italian hub of art and architecture and widely renowned as the place where modern pizza originated. One of the city’s highlights is the Duomo di San Gennaro (Naples Cathedral), decorated with fourth-century mosaics and frescoes and paintings from noted Italian artists.

The extravagant Royal Palace of Naples in Piazza Plebiscito another city jewel, with decors, tapestries, paintings and frescoes from the Spanish and Bourbon eras. Another important landmark is Castel Nuovo, an imposing 13th-century castle housing a plethora of Neapolitan paintings and Roman ruins.

As Naples is close to Mt. Vesuvius, a private excursion to the only active volcano in continental Europe is a popular activity for the daring and adventurous.

Wondering where to stay in Naples? The five-star Grand Hotel Vesuvio has been treating celebrities and travelers to spectacular sea front views of Naples since 1882. If you prefer to stay in the heart of Naples, then the timeless elegance and five-star service of Grand Hotel Parkers are perfect for you.

amalfi-coast

Perhaps the best way to appreciate the unique landscape of Amalfi Coast is through a private helicopter excursion.

5. Amalfi

Rugged, picturesque and simply beautiful, Amalfi Coast attracts tourists from all over the world to its stunning beaches and quaint fishing villages. Its distinctly steep and looming landscape makes for a lovely backdrop, especially during the golden hours of sunset.

With its sensational blue waters, it is no wonder luxury yacht cruises are a popular way of exploring Amalfi’s coastline, with stopovers in nearby Naples and Pompeii. But perhaps the best way to enjoy unhindered views of Amalfi Coast’s unique terrain is from above, through a private helicopter excursion.

Sitting on the highest point of Capri, Caesar Augustus resort undoubtedly offers the most beautiful views of the sea, while Casa Angelina takes Mediterranean interiors to new heights of luxury.

Said to be the first five-star luxury hotel in the Sorrento Peninsula of Amalfi Coast, Grand Hotel Cocumella boasts spacious, light and elegantly furnished rooms and suites. The hotel is also home to the ketch Vera, an exclusive ancient ship that guests can book to sail in the Bay of Naples or along the Amalfi Coast.

Want to experience the best of Italy?  

What’s your idea of an escape to Italy? Dream it, and we’ll create it. Get in touch with the Jetex Experience team at experience@jetex.com or call us at +971 4 212 4088.