Things You Can Do In Italy Are Everything Under The Tuscan Sun

Under the Tuscan sun, for many, is the embodiment of all that is Italian. But, even wandering aimless, looking for things to do in Italy, its clear to see that off the beaten path there waits a treasure trove of natural beauty. Landscapes of sleepy hill towns and cypress trees or grandstand views over terracotta roofs to the Mediterranean Sea inspire the simple pleasures of 'la dolce vita'. But you won’t be able to experience this unless you have a U.S. Passport so be sure your passport renewal is in order.

Where Is Italy?

The boot-shaped peninsula is situated in Southern Europe and comprises several islands including Sicily and Sardinia. The climate, like the landscapes are highly diverse, depending on location. The coastal regions have mild winters and warm, dry summers. Valleys can be hot in the summer. North inland territory is humid, yet temperate. Italia's south fits the stereotypical Mediterranean climate. Higher ground sees snow in winter.

Lake Bolsena

At the heart of Italian life, in the central portion of the boot, you can see the real picture of small town living with big city life at arms reach. Celebrating the little things is seen at Lake Bolsena where nature is celebrated at harvest in the piazza with music and dance.

Italian Cuisine

Cobbled streets, faded by time and wear, an antiquated castle and blooming flowerpots on every balcony is a picture postcard of the Italian countryside. Fishermen gather and provide what will set the tables of local restaurants as "catch of the day". Local cuisine might find carciofi (artichokes) and melanzane (eggplant) with a bottle of Chianti or carafe of house red, served on the garden terrace.

Villages

Small, storybook villages dot the hillsides, looking down at grand villas with arbors, heavy-laden with wisteria blossoms. At dusk, as the lights come on,the hillsides are alive with the magic of what appears to be a fairytale dusting of twinkling stars. The natural beauty of the countryside surpasses any typical sightseeing venture.

Bisentina Island

Italian village life is tantamount to stepping back in history. Exploring the Bisentina Island by boat takes visitors to the dank cave called Malta dei Papi where heretics lived out their life sentences. Small villages, like Montefascione, have a rich history where a famous, white wine stopped a German bishop in his tracks.

Bagni Di Lucca

Near Tuscany on the River Lima is Bagni di Lucca, a spa town with thermal springs that has been visited by romantic poets such as Byron and Shelley. Bagni di Lucca as a famous market, tennis courts and an outdoor swimming pool for cooling off under the hot Tuscan sun. Thirty-miles away stands Abetone, a mecca for skiers.

The Fashion Capital

When you are looking for haute couture or haute cuisine, Italian is the way to go. Milan and Turin have also succeeded as leaders in architectural and industrial design. Milan hosts Europe's largest design fair. Italian cuisine, notable for its regional diversity, is considered to be the most popular in the world. Espresso, now, the crème de la crème, is highly important in Italian culture.

With your USA Passport in hand, the diversity of Italian history and all the limitless things to do in Italy are at your fingertips. Depending on your personal interests, the reputation of excellence in the arts, literature, architecture, fashion and cuisine offers something for everyone. The warm, friendly people are gracious hosts that make 'arrivederci' the only difficult part of the trip. Don’t delay your passports renewals so you can be on your way to Italy.