Italy has long been a dream destination for travellers seeking a perfect blend of history, culinary adventures, and stunning landscapes. From the ancient ruins of Rome to the romantic canals of Venice, the Renaissance art of Florence to the fashion-forward streets of Milan and the natural beauty of Lake Como, Italy offers a wealth of experiences waiting to be explored. 

With daily flights out of Johannesburg and Cape Town and a short layover in Amsterdam, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines is the airline of choice for South Africans travelling to the popular European country. In celebration, KLM shares five must-visit Italian cities that should be on every travel bucket list. 

Rome

Rome, the capital of Italy, is a city steeped in history and legend. From the iconic Colosseum and the ancient ruins of the Roman Forum to the grandeur of St. Peter's Basilica and the Vatican City, Rome is a treasure trove of architectural wonders and cultural heritage. Don't miss the chance to toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain and make a wish, or savor a traditional Roman pizza in one of the city's charming piazzas.

Venice

Venice is a city like no other, built on a network of canals and adorned with stunning Gothic and Renaissance architecture. Explore the narrow streets and picturesque bridges of the historic centre, take a romantic gondola ride along the Grand Canal, and visit the iconic St. Mark's Square and Basilica. Venice is also famous for its traditional Venetian cuisine, so be sure to indulge in local specialties like seafood risotto and cicchetti (small tapas-style dishes).

Florence

Florence is a city that exudes beauty and creativity at every turn. Home to some of the world's most renowned art and architecture, including Michelangelo's David and Brunelleschi's dome of the Florence Cathedral, Florence is a paradise for art lovers and history buffs alike. Tourists are encouraged to wander through the winding streets of the historic centre, visit the Uffizi Gallery to see masterpieces by Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, and Raphael, and don't forget to climb to the top of the Piazzale Michelangelo for panoramic views of the city.

Milan

Milan is Italy's bustling metropolis, known for its high-end fashion, cutting-edge design, and vibrant cultural scene. With so much to explore, visitors flock to the glamorous boutiques of the Quadrilatero della Moda (Fashion Quadrilateral), the iconic Duomo di Milano (Milan Cathedral) and the opulent La Scala opera house, and take a leisurely stroll along the fashionable Navigli canals. For a taste of natural beauty, tourists venture out to Lake Como, just a short drive from Milan, and soak in the breath-taking scenery of this picturesque lake surrounded by lush mountains.

Naples

Naples, located in the southern region of Italy, serves as the gateway to the stunning Amalfi Coast and the ancient ruins of Pompeii. Explore the historic center of Naples, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its narrow alleys, vibrant street life, and mouthwatering Neapolitan cuisine. Be sure to sample authentic pizza margherita, invented in Naples, and indulge in local delicacies like sfogliatella (a shell-shaped pastry filled with ricotta cheese). From Naples, tourists can also embark on day trips to the nearby islands of Capri and Ischia, or journey along the beautiful Amalfi Coast, with its picturesque cliffside villages and crystal-clear waters.

Italy is one of those countries that has something for everyone which makes it an incredibly popular destination for South Africans and tourists from around the world. The history the place holds is incredible and the food is some of the best in the world. Thanks to convenient connections through Amsterdam with KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, exploring this remarkable country has never been easier. If you’re looking for your sign to book that trip, this is it!

With a quick connection in Amsterdam, visiting Italy is easier than ever thanks to airlines like KLM Royal Dutch Airlines. With so much to see and do in Italy, this is definitely a destination worth visiting.