ITALY

  • Capital: Rome
  • Form of government: Republic
  • Area: 301,340 km2
  • Religion: Catholics
  • Phone number: +39
  • Language: Italian
  • Time difference: -1
  • Population: 60,317,116 (2020)
  • Currency: Euro (Eur)

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Roma’s largest airport is Leonardo da Vinci-Fiumicino, and Milan’s Malpensa. Finnair offers flights from Helsinki to Milan and Rome several days a week. The low-cost airline Ryanair offers flights from Tampere and Lappeenranta to Bergamo in Milan. From Helsinki, Norwegian provides access to Rome’s Fiumicino.

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Italy has good train connections to all neighboring countries. Direct connections can be found e.g. To Paris, Barcelona, Prague and Zagreb.

 

embajada

Embassy of Finland, Rome Address: Via Lisbona 3, 00198 Roma – Tel. + 39-06-852 231 Email: sanomat.roo@formin.fi – Website: www.finland.it

  • Travel bulletin from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs: A fairly safe tourist destination. Watch out for pickpockets. Demonstrations may occur. You should avoid places where people gather. Read more
View of  Rome from Castel Sant'Angelo, Italy.

Rome (Capital)

 

The eternal city of Rome is one of the most significant metropolitan areas in Europe. It pampers visitors with gastronomy, a rich cultural heritage and picturesque views from the seven hills guarding the city. The city has appr. 2,8 million people, and the whole metropolitan area has over 4 million residents. It lies in the Lazio region of central Italy, on the Tiber river.

Rome

Rome is a one-of-a-kind travel destination where you can walk the same streets as ancient emperors, admire Renaissance masterpieces, and savor the best of Italian cuisine. The city blends historic grandeur with vibrant modern life in a way that’s truly unmatched.

Main Attractions:

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Colosseum

This ancient amphitheater is one of the most iconic relics of antiquity, a symbol of Italy, and one of the most visited sites on the Apennine Peninsula. Built between 72 and 80 AD, it was originally known as the Amphitheatrum Flavium. With a capacity of 50,000–80,000 spectators, it is the largest ever built. It also appears on Italy’s five-cent euro coin. Highlights include a museum dedicated to the god Eros and the vast network of underground gladiator tunnels.

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Roman Forum

The Roman Forum was the vibrant heart of ancient Rome, where the fate of the empire was decided. The ruins of temples, basilicas, and triumphal arches tell the story of its former glory, when emperors, senators, and citizens gathered in this central arena. Today, it is an open-air museum offering a window into the height of Roman civilization.

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Vatican & St. Peter’s Basilica

The Vatican is the world’s smallest independent state, but the most influential center of the Catholic Church. Its symbol is the monumental St. Peter’s Basilica, whose dome offers sweeping views over Rome. The museum complex includes the Sistine Chapel and masterpieces by Michelangelo, Raphael, and others. This is a sacred, aesthetic, and historic experience all in one.

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Trevi Fountain

One of Rome’s most photographed landmarks, the Trevi Fountain is a baroque masterpiece. At its center, the sea god Oceanus commands sea creatures, and the white marble glows beautifully in the evening light. Legend says throwing a coin over your left shoulder with your right hand guarantees a return to Rome – millions of visitors do it each year.

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Pantheon

The Pantheon is one of the best-preserved ancient temples in the world and a structural marvel. Its massive dome and central oculus remain architectural wonders. Originally built to honor all gods, it was later converted into a church and is now a resting place for notable Italians, including the artist Raphael. The interior impresses with its silence and scale.

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Spanish Steps & Piazza di Spagna

The Spanish Steps link the Trinità dei Monti church to the Piazza di Spagna below and are one of Rome’s most iconic gathering spots. In spring, they are adorned with colorful flowers, and the square is surrounded by Rome’s most elegant fashion boutiques. At the base, the Barcaccia Fountain completes this timeless setting.

Things: to Do in the Area:

  • Walking tour in Trastevere: An authentic and atmospheric neighborhood full of restaurants and local life.
  • Museums & galleries: Visit the Capitoline Museums, MAXXI, and the Borghese Gallery.
  • Shopping on Via del Corso & Via Condotti: From high street chains to luxury fashion houses.
  • Food experiences: Try Roman pasta dishes like cacio e pepe, artisan gelato, and local wines.
  • Picnic in Villa Borghese Park: A green oasis in the heart of the city.

Practical Tips:

  • Best time to visit: April–June and September–October to avoid crowds and extreme heat.
  • Getting around: Metro, buses, and trams are available, but walking is the best way to explore the center.
  • Airports: Fiumicino (FCO) and Ciampino (CIA).
  • Tourist cards: The Roma Pass includes public transport and access to many major attractions.

Sicily

Sicily is the largest island in the Mediterranean and a unique blend of history, culture, and volcanic nature. Greek temples, Arab-influenced architecture, and baroque cities reflect a rich past, while Mount Etna serves as a powerful reminder of nature’s force.

Main Attractions:

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Mount Etna

Etna is the highest active volcano in Europe and Sicily’s most impressive natural wonder. Rising over 3,300 meters, its slopes are lined with hiking trails and a cable car that offers breathtaking views across the island. The erupting volcano is both a scientific marvel and a sacred symbol for locals.

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Taormina

Taormina is a hilltop town offering stunning views of Mount Etna and the Ionian Sea. Its most famous site is the ancient Greek theatre, which still hosts concerts and festivals. With charming alleys and a historical atmosphere, Taormina attracts visitors year-round.

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Palermo

Palermo, the capital of Sicily, is a multicultural melting pot where Arab, Norman, and Baroque architecture coexist. The city is known for its bustling markets, magnificent churches, and unique street food. Here, history, religion, and art are closely intertwined.

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Agrigento & the Valley of the temples

Agrigento is home to the Valley of the Temples, one of the best-preserved ancient Greek archaeological sites. This UNESCO World Heritage Site features grand columns and ruins, including the Temple of Concordia. It offers a journey back to ancient Mediterranean civilization in the heart of the Sicilian landscape.

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Syracuse

Syracuse was once one of the most important cities in the Mediterranean. On the historic island of Ortigia, visitors will find the Temple of Apollo and the Fountain of Arethusa. Ancient ruins, Renaissance architecture, and the sea create a setting where past and present coexist harmoniously.

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Cefalú

Cefalù is a picturesque seaside town that combines medieval architecture with a relaxed coastal vibe. Its narrow streets, Norman cathedral, and sandy beach make it a popular destination. The town strikes a perfect balance between culture and leisure.

Things: to Do in the Area:

  • Water Activities: Sailing, paddleboarding, and kayaking on both lakes.
  • Hiking & Cycling: Scenic trails in the mountains and along the shores, such as the Sentiero del Ponale.
  • Ferry Cruises: Boat connections between villages for easy and scenic travel.
  • Wine Tours: Visit nearby wine regions like Bardolino and Franciacorta near Lake Garda.
  • Spas & Wellness: Especially in Sirmione, known for its thermal springs and spa facilities.

Practical Tips:

  • Best time to visit: May to September. Spring and autumn are quieter with mild weather.
  • Getting around: A rental car is recommended, though ferry services between villages are efficient.
  • Accommodation: Options range from luxury villas to family-run hotels and campgrounds.

Lake Garda & Lake Como

Located in Northern Italy, Milan is a hub of fashion, design, and business that also holds a rich historical and cultural heritage. Here, you can blend architecture, art, high fashion, and football into a truly unique travel experience.

Main Attractions:

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Sirmione

Located on the southern tip of Lake Garda, Sirmione is a spa town known for its Roman ruins and the striking Scaliger Castle. Narrow alleys, thermal springs, and lakeside promenades make it one of the region’s most visited spots. Sirmione blends history, indulgence, and lakeside charm.

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Limone sul Garda

One of Lake Garda’s most picturesque villages, Limone sul Garda features colorful houses clinging to steep slopes and the scent of lemon groves along the coast. The village’s name comes from its historic lemon houses – limonaie – which can still be visited today. The atmosphere is peaceful and authentically Italian.

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Malcesine

Malcesine captivates with its medieval charm and dramatic setting at the foot of Monte Baldo on Lake Garda’s shoreline. A cable car takes visitors to the mountain summit for breathtaking lake views. The town center is perfect for strolling through cobblestone streets and exploring the Scaliger Castle perched above the lake.

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Como (Town)

Como is a sophisticated cultural hub on the shore of Lake Como. The town blends Roman history, impressive cathedrals, and modern boutiques. It’s ideal for combining a city break with nature by the lake. From Como’s harbor, you can take boat trips to various lakeside villages.

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Bellagio

Often called the “pearl of Lake Como,” Bellagio is perched at the tip of a promontory, with steep cobbled streets winding through colorful buildings and flower gardens down to the water. Visitors can enjoy watersports or simply relax at a lakeside café and take in the view.

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Villa Carlotta & Villa del Balbianello

These historic villas showcase Lake Como’s aristocratic charm. Villa Carlotta is known for its art collections and blooming gardens, while Villa del Balbianello – featured in films like Casino Royale – offers cinematic beauty and serenity with panoramic lake views.

Things: to Do in the Area:

  • Water Activities: Sailing, paddleboarding, and kayaking on both lakes.
  • Hiking & Cycling: Scenic trails in the mountains and along the shores, such as the Sentiero del Ponale.
  • Ferry Cruises: Boat connections between villages for easy and scenic travel.
  • Wine Tours: Visit nearby wine regions like Bardolino and Franciacorta near Lake Garda.
  • Spas & Wellness: Especially in Sirmione, known for its thermal springs and spa facilities.

Practical Tips:

  • Best time to visit: May to September. Spring and autumn are quieter with mild weather.
  • Getting around: A rental car is recommended, though ferry services between villages are efficient.
  • Accommodation: Options range from luxury villas to family-run hotels and campgrounds.

Milan

Northern Italy’s lake region is renowned for its peaceful scenery, lush mountains, crystal-clear waters, and elegant atmosphere. Lake Garda and Lake Como are popular holiday destinations for both Italians and international travelers. They offer an ideal combination of relaxation, outdoor activities, and cultural experiences.

Main Attractions:

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Duomo di Milano

Milan’s Gothic cathedral is the city’s most iconic landmark and one of the largest churches in Europe. Construction lasted over 600 years, and its façade features more than 3,000 statues. The rooftop terrace offers stunning views over Milan’s skyline, reaching as far as the Alps. The Duomo symbolizes faith, art, and architectural ambition.

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Galleria Vittorio Emanuele Ⅱ

One of the world’s oldest shopping arcades and a gem of Milanese architecture, the Galleria connects the Duomo and La Scala opera house. Beneath its glass roof are luxury boutiques, historic cafés, and mosaic floors. It’s the beating heart of Milan – for both shoppers and culture lovers.

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Sforza Castle (Castello Sforzesco)

This former Renaissance residence of dukes now houses several museums and galleries. Its courtyards, connecting towers, and historic artifacts tell the story of Milan’s military and artistic past. The castle marks the entrance to Parco Sempione – a green oasis in the city.

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The Last Supper

Leonardo da Vinci’s iconic fresco is housed in the convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie and is one of the most famous artworks in history. The painting captures the moment before Jesus’ betrayal, with remarkable emotion and detail. Tickets must be reserved months in advance.

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Brera Art District

Brera is a bohemian and charming neighborhood where narrow streets, an art academy, and galleries create a unique atmosphere. It’s the perfect place to enjoy fine art and Italian café culture. The Pinacoteca di Brera is one of Italy’s most important art museums.

Things: to Do in the Area:

  • Shopping: Explore the fashion district Quadrilatero della Moda, Via Montenapoleone, and Corso Buenos Aires.
  • Museums & Art: Visit Museo del Novecento, Triennale di Milano, and the Pinacoteca di Brera.
  • Football: Catch an AC Milan or Inter Milan match at the legendary San Siro Stadium.
  • Navigli District: A trendy canal area filled with nightlife, vintage shops, and eateries.

Practical Tips:

  • Best time to visit: March–May and September–October offer pleasant weather and plenty of events.
  • Getting around: Milan has an extensive metro and tram network; the city center is best explored on foot.
  • Airports: Milan Malpensa (MXP) and Linate (LIN) serve the city.
  • Day Trips: Consider visiting Lake Como, Bergamo, or Monza.

Amalfi

Southern Italy’s Amalfi Coast is one of the world’s most stunning coastal routes, where dramatic cliffs, colorful villages, and the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean create an unforgettable landscape. Nearby Naples is a historic and vibrant city, known as the birthplace of pizza and a cradle of culture.

Main Attractions:

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Positano

Positano is the iconic village of the Amalfi Coast, where pastel-colored houses climb steep cliffs toward the sky. Its charming alleys, beachside cafés, and boutique shops create a postcard-worthy setting. The village is also renowned for its stylish beach fashion and breathtaking sea views.

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Ravello

Perched high above the sea, Ravello is known for its tranquil atmosphere and cultural events. The gardens of Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone offer vistas that have inspired artists and composers for centuries. Music festivals and historic architecture make Ravello a unique destination.

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Amalfi

Once a powerful maritime republic in the Middle Ages, Amalfi is now a lively seaside town. Its most famous landmark is the Amalfi Cathedral (Duomo di Amalfi), a medieval church that dominates the central square. The bustling harbor area invites visitors to explore its history, quaint shopping streets, and the local specialty – limoncello.

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Capri

Capri is a luxurious island destination, where rugged cliffs rise from the turquoise sea. The island’s famous Blue Grotto (Grotta Azzurra) enchants with its glowing light, and Monte Solaro offers panoramic views from Naples to Amalfi. Capri’s streets, boutiques, and stone terraces reflect its exclusive yet laid-back spirit.

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Naples

Naples is the cultural capital of Southern Italy, pulsing with life and history. The city is famed for its world-class pizza, baroque churches, and UNESCO-listed historic center. The Archaeological Museum, San Gennaro’s Catacombs, and the vibrant local lifestyle make Naples a bold and authentic experience.

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Pompeii & Mount Vesuvius

Pompeii is a unique archaeological site where streets and buildings were preserved under volcanic ash after the AD 79 eruption. Visitors can walk in the footsteps of ancient Romans and admire mosaics and temples. Towering behind is Mount Vesuvius – still active – offering hiking trails and sweeping views across Campania.

Things: to Do in the Area:

  • Boat Tours and Island Cruises: Circle Capri or take a private boat along the Amalfi Coast.
  • Hiking Trails: The Path of the Gods (Sentiero degli Dei) offers stunning sea views.
  • Neapolitan Cuisine: Taste authentic pizza, sfogliatella pastries, and fresh seafood.
  • Historic Museums: Explore the Naples Archaeological Museum and Pompeii excavations.
  • Shopping and Markets: Limoncello, handmade sandals, ceramics, and local crafts.

Practical Tips:

  • Best time to visit: May–June and September offer the best weather without the crowds.
  • Getting around: Ferries, minibuses, and walking are ideal. Driving can be challenging.
  • Connections: Naples is the gateway to the region via train and air. Spend a few days there before heading to the coast.
  • Accommodation: Positano and Capri are more expensive; Ravello and Minori offer quieter, more affordable options.

Florence

Florence is a celebration of art, history, and architecture. The city gave birth to the Renaissance, and its streets tell the story of Michelangelo, Da Vinci, and Botticelli. The atmospheric old town, stone bridges, and terracotta rooftops form an unforgettable skyline.

Main Attractions:

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Duomo

Florence’s Cathedral is a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture and the crown of the city’s skyline. Designed by Filippo Brunelleschi, the dome was a marvel of engineering in its time and still dominates the city’s rooftops. The façade, made of marble and adorned with intricate details, is a true symbol of Florence – spiritual, aesthetic, and historic.

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Uffizi Gallery

The Uffizi is one of the most esteemed art museums in the world and the cultural heart of Florence. It houses works by the greatest Renaissance masters, including Botticelli’s The Birth of Venus, early works by Da Vinci, and Caravaggio’s dramatic compositions. The Uffizi offers a time-travel experience through the evolution of art within a historic palace.

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Ponte Vecchio

Ponte Vecchio is the oldest bridge in Florence and a unique landmark still home to goldsmiths and jewelry shops. Spanning the Arno River, it survived World War II bombings, unlike other city bridges. It’s both a practical crossing and a romantic sight where history walks step by step.

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Palazzo Vecchio & Piazza della Signoria

Palazzo Vecchio serves as Florence’s city hall and a historic museum. Its robust tower overlooks Piazza della Signoria, the city’s political center for centuries. The square’s statues – including a replica of Michelangelo’s David – give it the feel of an open-air gallery. This area is the city’s heart and historical stage.

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Pitti Palace & Boboli Gardens

Once home to the Medici family, the Pitti Palace’s baroque halls showcase art, fashion, and royal splendor. Behind it stretch the Boboli Gardens, where fountains, statues, and landscaped paths invite peaceful exploration. Together, they offer a tranquil escape in the midst of Florence’s energy.

Things: to Do in the Area:

  • Art Tours and Museums: Visit the Accademia Gallery, Bargello Museum, and Pitti Palace.
  • Wine Tastings and Cooking Classes: Discover Tuscan cuisine and Chianti wines.
  • Walking Tour in Oltrarno: Explore this bohemian district full of local workshops and galleries.
  • Markets: Browse the San Lorenzo Market for leather goods and local delicacies.
  • Day Trips: Take excursions to Siena, Pisa, San Gimignano, and Arezzo.

Practical Tips:

  • Best time to visit: April–June and September–October. Avoid the peak summer heat.
  • Getting around: Renting a car is the best option, especially for exploring smaller villages.
  • Airports: Catania and Palermo airports serve different parts of the island.

More information about Italy

Beautiful view of traditional Gondola on famous Canal Grande with Rialto Bridge at sunset in Venice, Italy with retro vintage Instagram style filter and lens flare effect.

Grand Canal

 

With a network of 177 canals and 409 bridges, the city of Venice, built on a lagoon and an archipelago of 117 islands, is uniquely labyrinthine and the largest car-free urban area in Europe. Transportation within the city is still mainly on water or foot. Traffic with vaporetti water buses and water taxes offer visitors an extraordinary chance to feel the Italian urban pulse by the waterway. The city center, Mestre-Carpenedo, is the heart of mainland Venice and has several bus routes and one tramway line. Notable canal attractions are e.g. Ca’ Loredan (City Hall of Venice), Caffè Florian, the Doge’s Palace and Piazza San Marco.

Sunset view of Leaning Tower of Pisa and Cathedral, Tuscany, Italy

Leaning Tower of Pisa

Address: Piazza del Duomo, 56126 Pisa PI, Italy

 

This remarkable bell tower made of white marble is famous for its quirky posture. The story of why the building is somewhat tilted spans 199 years. Construction of the tower began in 1173, but due to the soil, the tower began to sink after the construction work had progressed to the second floor in 1178. In 1272 construction resumed. In an effort to compensate for the tilt, the engineers built the upper floors with one side taller than the other. Because of this, the tower is actually curved. After centuries of labor, the bell-chamber was finally added in 1372. After renovation work in 2008, the tower is again stable and open for tourists.

Rome, Italy - July 20, 2018: The vault and dome over the Sistine chapel of the Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica

Sistine Chapel

Address: 00120 Vatican City

 

Situated in the Apostolic Palace in the picturesque papal area of the Vatican City, the Sistine Chapel is an artwork per se and one of the most important religious landmarks in the world.

It has several breathtaking frescos. The most remarkable one is in the ceiling. It was handcrafted by the famous Italian Renaissance artist Michelangelo. The altar wall painting, The Last Judgement, is also made by him. If a visitor must choose one religious attraction in Italy, this is it.

Cathedral of St Peters. St. Peter's Basilica, Vaticano, Italy, Rome

St. Peter’s Basilica (UNESCO 1984)

Address: Piazza San Pietro, 00120 Città del Vaticano, Vatican City

 

The Vatican City, one of the most sacred places in Christendom, attests to a great history and a formidable spiritual venture. A unique collection of artistic and architectural masterpieces lie within the boundaries of this small state. At its centre is St Peter’s Basilica, with its double colonnade and a circular piazza in front and bordered by palaces and gardens. The basilica, erected over the tomb of St Peter the Apostle, is the largest religious building in the world, the fruit of the combined genius of Bramante, Raphael, Michelangelo, Bernini and Maderno.

Image of Grand Canal in Venice, with Santa Maria della Salute Basilica in the background.

Venice

 

Venice is an extraordinary city of bridges and canals, and well known for its beautiful architecture. The city lies in the marshy Venetian Lagoon, stretching along the shoreline in northeastern Italy. It is the administrative center of the Veneto region and it houses appr. 265,000 residents. With a network of 177 canals and 409 bridges, the city, built on a lagoon and an archipelago of 117 islands, is uniquely labyrinthine and the largest car-free urban area in Europe.