Signora Sheila

Wherever you go in Italy, it seems love is in the air! From Venice and its gondola rides to Verona and Romeo and Juliet, Italy is known as one of the most romantic destinations in the world. And especially on Valentine’s Day, Italy almost seems made for love! But Italy isn’t just for lovers. There’s something for everyone!

Something for everyone to love!

1. A fascinating trail of history

Italy is a treasure trove for historians. But did you know that it has 55 UNESCO World Heritage sites, tied with China for the most in the world? History buffs can trace the path of time, from the Etruscan civilization, through the Magna Grecia and the Roman Empire, on into the Middle Ages and beyond.

2. A bountiful feast for creative souls

Italy is so rich in Renaissance era treasures of literature, philosophy, art, architecture, and science – that creative and intellectual souls will find inspiration galore! Artists, scholars, and musicians can feast to their hearts’ content in Italy’s countless museums, galleries, and churches.

3. Unlimited adventures for athletes and hikers

From endless sun-drenched beaches to quaint Alpine villages and hilltop medieval towns – Italy delights the athletic heart! With skiing and rock climbing, water sports, soccer, cycling, and even Formula One – Italy offers a sporting bonanza for even the most adventurous!

4. An endless odyssey for tourists

Sightseers can explore to their heart’s content! From Rome to Pisa, Venice, Florence, the Amalfi Coast, Sicily, and back to Rome again. Stopping in every historic city and picturesque village along the way. With sights such as snow-capped Alpine peaks, silvery sun-drenched beaches, and artistic cities – Italy is sure to satisfy any traveler’s wanderlust!

5. An unending banquet for gourmets

Food and wine connoisseurs can literally pull up to a veritable feast. In this land of slow food and fine wines, you won’t go hungry! Banquet tables overflow with delicious cuisine and sweet shops abound. All topped off with, in my opinion, the best coffee in the world! It’s all so good, you might need to diet after your trip!

6. Fun for even the young and young at heart!

Italians love bambini, and are not shy about showing it. Expect people to gush over your children and to touch and kiss them, or even pick them up. Italians have a long-standing love affair with bambini; they simply dote on them.

So it’s not surprising that you’ll find kid-friendly tourist attractions. For starters, what kid wouldn’t love Italy’s sun-drenched sandy beaches? But if you don’t want to spend your entire vacation on the beach, there are plenty of fun and educational things for kids to do!

Interactive childrens’ and kid-friendly museums that are interactive. A marine museum with life-size galleon ships, a marine aquarium, amusement parks, gondola rides, a Pinocchio park, and even a gladiator training school!

Yes, love is in the air – and there’s something for everyone to love. But perhaps never more so than on Valentine’s Day! Romantic Italy just seems made for it! Couples walking arm-in-arm down cobblestone streets. Romantic dinners on outdoor terraces. And the ubiquitous boxes of Perugina’s famous Baci, or chocolate kisses. Each bacio wrapped in its own multilingual love note!

Simple and heart-warming things

But for me, it’s the simple, homey things that warm my heart the most. When I think of Italy, they come to mind.

• Blossoming olive trees and red-leafed vineyards in the crisp fall air.
• Freshly baked pizza, frothy cappuccinos, and hot red peppers drying in the sun.
• Chubby-cheeked babies who “never eat.”
• Old people dozing in the shade of a summer afternoon.
• Open-air markets, mom-and-pop shops, and hot fresh bread delivered right to your door.
• And friendly neighbors, always ready with a cup of espresso or a helping hand.

Oh yes, love is in the air! And in the food, the places, and the smiles on people’s faces! But now before you go, take a quick Italian lesson with this Baci video: Maestro!

Happy San Valentino from Italy!

📷 Image credits: wine; vatican museum; others are mine