Places to visit in Italy

Expect to be bombarded with remnants of the Roman Empire and the power and superiority that went with it. You’ll find many great places to visit in Rome, but don’t forget to take some time out with an espresso and indulge in some people watching. Step out of the city into the world’s Roman Catholic hub and residence of the Pope – Vatican City – and spend a day marvelling at some of the most breathtaking art and architecture known to man. Rome is a highlight of any InterRail trip through Italy – be assured you’ll want to return! More things to do in Rome

Visit Lake Garda, which provides a dazzling backdrop for those wanting a taste of Italian outdoor life in one of the many campsites scattered around the Brecia Riviera. Lay back among the lush citrus groves and olive trees with a good bottle of Prosecco and a tasty Italian picnic. You also have 8000 kilometres of gorgeous Mediterranean coastline to pick from, where you’re likely to find immaculately groomed Italians swanning up and down the promenade. Plus Italy has its fair share of island treats – choose from Sardinia, Capri and Stromboli.

Join the Italians in what they do best – socialising. Milan (Milano) is a great place for letting your hair down and painting the city red, white and green. If you want to start the night with a bit of class and culture, grab a ticket for an opera at the Teatro alla Scala, before checking out the bars along the winding streets of Brera. Another popular night-spot is Rimini, on Italy’s east coast rail line between Venice and Ancona. Party hard on the beach front at Lungomare Augusto, where you have a great choice of bars and discos.

Check out the Dolomites mountain range in the north east of Italy, where you can get some piste-action through the winter months and when things warm up join a hike or try mountain climbing. Italy is also known for its tectonic activity with Sicily being home to one of the world’s most temperamental volcanoes. Mount Etna lies conspicuously on the eastern side of the island (take a discounted ferry over), with a range of hiking tours offered around the volcano – for those days Etna isn't chucking out smoke and volcanic ash!

Lose yourself in Venice (Venezia) enchanting maze of canals. As one of the most romantic places on the planet it promises to charm even the most hardened soul. It’s a popular tourist destination, so dodge peak times to avoid feeling like an olive stuffed in a jar. If intricate and inspiring art is your bag, Florence (Firenze) – birthplace of the Renaissance – is bound to hit the spot. The whole city is lavishly adorned with palaces, museums, galleries and other artistic gems, sending your imagination on a stroll through Medieval Italy.