What Is Italy Known For
Italy is one of the most visited tourist destinations, attracting people from all over the world. Why do people return over and over again? Here are just a few reasons why:
Richness of Italian Culture
Italy’s history as a country is relatively new (Garibaldi only unified Italy in 1861), but its culture dates back more than 3000 years. It is known for its art treasures, iconic architecture, range of music (including opera), and romantic language. Learn more: What Is Italy Known For
Varied Geography
Although Italy’s peninsula is about three-quarters the size of the state of California, the country is blessed with some 4,900 miles of coastline on the Adriatic, Ionian, Tyrrhenian, and Ligurian Seas, the Sea of Sardinia, and the Strait of Sicily. This offers visitors a choice of small towns and iconic cities, beautiful lakes, chains of mountains, coastal beaches, and inland canals. Read more: The Italian Riviera
Made in Italy Fashion
Italy has profoundly influenced styles ranging from fashion to eyewear to automobiles. Italian fashion brands (like Gucci, Fendi, Valentino, Versace, Prada, Armani, Bottega Veneta, Missoni, Etro, Dolce & Gabbana, and Zegna are popular around the globe. Read more: TV Biopic Brings Luisa Spagnoli To Life
Fast Cars and Racing
Italy is home to some of the most famous automakers, including Ferrari, Maserati, and Lamborghini. A part of the Emilia Romagna region has even been dubbed “Motor Valley” for its automakers, museums, and car and motorcycle races (including Ducati). Read more: Ferrari Movie: A ‘Made in Italy” Biopic Showcases the Motor Valley
Strength of Family Ties
Italian families tend to be close-knit. Birthdays, anniversaries, holidays, and Sundays often provide an excuse for family gatherings, usually over a big meal. Italians also tend to maintain strong ties with extended family members. Read more: At Cousins’ Reunion, Family Rediscovers Its Roots
Italian Culinary Culture
The list of Italian foods that have pervaded world culinary culture is endless: pizza (which made the UNESCO list of intangible cultural heritage), different shapes of pasta, gelato, Italian wines, PDO and PGI products like Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, Prosciutto di Parma ham, traditional balsamic vinegar from Modena and Reggio Emilia, chocolates, and desserts. Read more: 28 Italian Food Rules To Follow To Eat Like A Local
Italian Coffee Bars
One might argue whether cappuccino or espresso is Italy’s most famous brew among specialty coffees. However, the Italian tradition of coffee bars serving fresh-roasted coffee drinks has become popular worldwide. Read more: 28 Italian Food Rules To Follow To Eat Like A Local
Excellent Wines
From sparkling to still, red, white, and rose, pairing food with drink is an integral appeal of Italy’s allure for visitors. Excellent wines are produced in every one of its 20 regions, and the history of winemaking dates back to Roman times. Wine enthusiasts can shape their travel itineraries around tours, tastings, and vineyard stays in Italy. Learn more: Top Wine Tourism Destinations in Italy
Slower Pace of Life
Italians call it “La Dolce Far Niente,” or the sweetness of doing nothing. They tend to savor life slowly, whether taking an evening stroll ( passeggiata), sitting in a park, or sipping a spritz at an outdoor table. A sociologist coined the term umarell to refer to pensioners who spend their days looking and talking. Learn more: Meet The Umarell and La Dolce Far Niente book.
