Central Italy Italy

The epicenter of Roman and Etruscan history, blue mountains kiss the sky and lavish vegetations surround you as you walk on cobblestone roads. Ancient ruins, delicious gelato shops, exquisite gardens-you feel a draw towards this land that you have never known before. Central Italy is known as the "crown" of its country due to its most iconic landmarks, such as the leaning tower of Pisa, the Colosseum, and the Vatican. However, it is also known as the birthplace of many modern American dishes, such as spaghetti and pizza. Each district within Central Italy has its own distinct culture and food. From the stonehouses of Tuscany to the breathtaking castles of Le Marche, the only trouble you will find in Central Italy is what regions you want to explore!. Listen to an Italian opera at the Teatro Verdi in Pisa, gaze at the wondrous Val d'Orcia, and simply have an amazing time in Central Italy!

Sights

Boasting many UNESCO World Heritage Sites, you may be at a loss as to where to visit first. A must-see for many travelers is none other than the Eternal City, Rome. Despite its vast humidity during the summer, Rome is simply a beautiful city with so much history to offer. The Colosseum, the Pantheon, the Vatican and Sistine Chapel--human beings have occupied the area for more than 14,000 years, and the city itself has a history spanning two and a half thousand years. Because of its dense history, it may be helpful to sign yourself up for one of the many tours offered in the area in order to fully appreciate the history of Rome. Tourist guide companies like Zicasso, Rick Steves Tours, or Globus Journeys are a great way to ensure that you not only explore all the main sights but understand them as well. However, if you find yourself quite exhausted from exploring the ins and outs of Rome, take an excursion at the peaceful Lake Albano area where you can see gorgeous villas, historic towns, and Castel Gandolfo, the summer residence of the Pope. When in Rome, get to know Italy's amazing history!

Be that as it may, if you are looking for an Italian shopping experience that will give you ample taste of the delicious foods in Central Italy, visit one of the three Roman markets. Lying on the River Tiber and in the heart of Italy's fine eateries, the Mercato di Testaccio has remained for many centuries. Though an ancient trade market, the hints of its age cannot be felt as the Mercato di Testaccio is always bustling with life. With about 50 food vendors to its name, the selling of food products is quite diverse, from horse meat to juicy tomatoes. These vendors take pride in the products they sell, only making use of the freshest meats, vegetables, and fruits they can get their hands on. Many of these vendors have been around for decades, such as Cervini the fishmonger with his stall still available after 60 years or or Vanestre, seller of organic fruits and vegetables. The Mercato di Testaccio is located near the Trastevere, the Circus Maximus and the Palatine Hill. The market is open from Monday to Saturday, but be sure to get there after 8 AM. Taste and shop at the Mercato di Testaccio!

Food and Dining

Central Italy is far from scarce in having five-star restaurants in Italian cuisine. One of the top restaurants in Florence that has been given the Certificate of Excellence on TripAdvisor, however, is La Bottega del Buon Caffe. Taken over by masterchef Antonello Sardi, this Florentine restaurant claims to have reached a whole new level of fine dining. From the freshest ingredients to upbeat customer service to developed dining experience, this gourmet restaurant is but a mirror reflection of Sardi's vision and philosophy in dining. What's more, the menu of La Bottega del Buon Caffe reflects the region it inhabits by following its unique culinary culture. Some of the restaurant's meals includes creme brulee of foie gras, taglierini pasta with baby squid, sage, and red hot chili pepper, ravioli with smoked monkfish and bottarga, and amberjack and turnips. Hunker down to a slice of Florence at La Bottega del Buon Caffe!

Transportation

Getting around Central Italy is quite simple as well as diverse in its methods. While you cannot generally flag down a taxicab, taxis instead are stationed in locations like taxicab parking lots and airports. However, one can simply call a taxi by looking up taxicab services in one's area.

Nevertheless, if you want a cheaper way to go about traveling great distances in Central Italy, feel free to take the bus, such as SULGA that has posts in Fiumicino, Rome, Cesena, Ravenna, Milan, Florence, Naples and the Puglia region. SULGA as well as other companies also provide car rentals for those who would like to travel throughout Italy with leisure and privacy. Enjoy Central Italy!


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