9 of the best holiday destinations in Italy for 2024

With a rich cultural heritage, fine cuisine and a Mediterranean climate, southern Europe’s global tourist hotspot, Italy, gives dull summer holidays the boot – literally.

Famed for its romantic allure, dynamic mountain regions in the north meet idyllic islands in the south, plus there are mainland cities brimming with echoes of the past. Charming Positano fuses days spent sunbathing with sightseeing, fashion capital Milan boasts a wealth of delights for every season, and the olive groves and vineyards of the Tuscan countryside offer visitors a chance to live in the hills as the Romans did.

Whether a food lover, artist or history buff, feast your eyes (and stomach) on iconic landmarks and ancient architecture while enjoying a slice of authentic pizza on glamorous seaside shores.

Read more on Italy travel:

• Milan city guide: Best things to do and where to stay in Italy’s northern powerhouse
• Best hotels in Rome: See the Italian capital in style
• Italy travel guide: Everything you need to know before you go

Rome

Best for: History buffs

 is home to art masterpieces, ancient mythology and, the smallest country in the world. The passionate Italian capital is littered with ancient ruins, Roman villas, haunting temples and 13 heritage landmarks, including the and the Pantheon. Within the walls of the historic centre, a Unesco World Heritage Site, indulging on streetside carbonara, tiramisu and fried artichokes to refuel from long days of sightseeing comes highly advised, after all, when in ...