best travel books on tuscany

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Reading for the Road: Books About Tuscany

Culture & Lifestyle | Italy | By Courtney Mundy

At  The Slow Road  we answer to many names (wanderers,  bon vivants , students of life) but first and foremost, we’re a group of dedicated travellers.

That’s why we love compiling reading lists that include those books—from novels to memoirs, and everything in between—that have really opened up our favourite regions.

In this post, we’ll round up a few of our favourite books about Tuscany , where Shelley, Stendhal and Twain all travelled to behold the astonishing light and breathtaking views and learn the secrets of a life well-lived.

Must-Read Books About Tuscany

Every Day in Tuscany, Seasons of an Italian Life

By Frances Mayes

Twenty years later, the writer of Under the Tuscan Sun is still besotted by Italy: her house, the tumbling geraniums, the people and the food—all lovingly documented in her best memoir yet. With interludes in Portofino, Assisi and Rome and a focus on Renaissance master artist Luca Signorelli.

Learn more on Amazon >> 

A Culinary Traveller in Tuscany

By Beth Elon

A Tuscany resident for 30 years, Elon presents 100 recipes from a hand-picked selection of favourite restaurants in this charming cookbook and travel guide. With 10 itineraries highlighting largely undiscovered regions of Tuscany, restaurants, trattorie, shops, wineries, olive oil producers, markets and food festivals.

Learn more on Amazon >>

Not in a Tuscan Villa 

By John and Nancy Petralla 

What happens if you decide to make a dream come true? Newly retired and looking for more than a vacation, John and Nancy Petralia intrepidly pack a few suitcases and head to the “perfect” Italian city. Part memoir, part commentary, quirky and sincere, Not in a Tuscan Villa is about having the courage to step out of your comfort zone and do something challenging in later life.

A Thousand Days in Tuscany: A Bittersweet Adventure

By Marlena de Blasi 

They had met and married on perilously short acquaintance, she an American chef and food writer, he a Venetian banker. Now they were taking another audacious leap, unstitching their ties with exquisite Venice to live in a roughly renovated stable in Tuscany. A Thousand Days in Tuscany is set in one of the most beautiful places on earth–and tucked into its fragrant corners are luscious recipes (including one for the only true bruschetta) directly from the author’s private collection.

A Vineyard in Tuscany: A Wine Lover’s Dream

By Ferenc Máté

In the hill town of Montalcino, two adventurers begin a new life together and discover the rare combination of joy and success ad they plant fifteen acres of vines, build a winery, excavate an Etruscan village, and battle volcanic fermenting vats, while learning from famous vintner neighbour Angelo Gaja the secrets of growing the best grapes and making superb, award-winning wine.

The Agony and the Ecstasy

By Irving Stone

Creator of the David, painter of the ceiling in the Sistine Chapel, architect of the dome of St. Peter’s, Michelangelo lives once more in the tempestuous, powerful pages of Irving Stone’s towering triumph. In this classic, #1 New York Time s bestselling biographical novel of Michelangelo, both the artist and the man are brought to vivid, captivating life.

War in Val D’Orcia: An Italian War Diary, 1943-1944

By Iris Origo

A classic of World War II, here in its first American edition. War in Val d’Orcia is Iris Origo’s elegantly simple chronicle of daily life at La Foce, a manor in a Tuscan no-man’s land bracketed by foreign invasion and civil war.

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Books on Tuscany – The Top 8 to Inspire Your Italian Adventure

Many travelers say their trips to Tuscany for some of the most memorable. Here at Italy Travel Secrets, we believe that nothing can add to a trip on a beautiful Italian countryside quite like books on Tuscany. 

From non-fictional rediscoveries of the Renaissance in books like Botticelli’s Secret to the iconic 1996 memoir, Under the Tuscan Sun, which inspired thousands to pick up and move to Tuscany, there are countless books that give Travelers a deeper understanding of one of the most popular regions in Italy. 

Come with us as we explore the many literary works that take place in Tuscany, from stirring page-turners to profound historical volumes.

Under the Tuscan Sun, by Frances Mayes

In Under the Tuscan Sun , which was adapted for film in 2003 , author Frances Mayes delves into the wanderlust travelers often feel during a trip to Tuscany.

Under the Tuscan Sun is all about Mayes’ journey as she takes on the restoration of an abandoned Tuscan villa. Not only does she unearth a few unexpected treasures surrounding the villa along the way, but she also finds treasure in the vibrant Tuscan countryside in which she resides. 

This iconic story delivers countless insightful anecdotes about food, romance, and cultural exploration in the Tuscan countryside. In our eyes, it’s one of the few books about Tuscany that is a must-have for any burgeoning Tuscan traveler.

Under the Tuscan Sun Frances Mayes

Read more: The Top 12 Books About Florence

The Tuscan Secret, by Angela Petch

This romantic story of family, love, and war, sets it backdrop in Rofelle, Italy. Angela Petch did a fantastic job with The Tuscan Secret , pulling from her personal experiences and a number of tales she collected from locals who survived WWII.

Not only does this book connect the struggles of the Italian resistance movement to the post-war living situations, in which resistance members strived to build families out of a place of turmoil, but it also describe the food, culture, wine, and landscape of Tuscany in breathtaking detail.

It’s one of the few books on Tuscany that will make you feel like you’ve been to Italy, even if you never have.

The Tuscan Secret Angela Petch

That Month in Tuscany, by Inglath Cooper

Several readers say That Month in Tuscany is one of the few books on Tuscany that will leave you breathless. 

The story follows Ren Sawyer, a rock star with a burning secrets, and Lizzy Harper, an everyday person whose husband ditched her on an anniversary trip they had been planning for years. Lizzy quite literally drops into Ren’s lap during a trans-Atlantic flight, not knowing it was the start of an undeniable romantic pull between them. 

The two explore the hills of Tuscany and streets of Florence, and even with nothing in common, they eventually learn they have the power to heal one another.

That Month in Tuscany Inglath Cooper

Still Life by Sarah Winman

Washington Post called Still Life by Sarah Winman, a book that feels like a “Saturday night among old friends,” and we couldn’t agree more.

The story takes place in 1944 Tuscany, when the bombs were falling around deserted villages and allied troops were advancing on enemy territory. The story’s main character, Ulysses Temper, finds himself hiding in a deserted villa’s wine cellar, where he meets Evelyn Skinner, a passionate art historian who traveled to Italy to salvage classic paintings.

Though Ulysses eventually returns home to his eccentric, pub-crawling group of friends in London, he carries his unique memories of Italy with him, and eventually returns to the Tuscan hills.

Still Life Sarah Winman

Lonely Planet Florence & Tuscany

Lonely Planet Florence & Tuscany is a guide with the most relevant and up-to-date advice regarding what to see, do, taste, and experience in Tuscany. 

This beautifully-organized guide comes with just about everything you’d need to enjoy an insightful Tuscan experience, from detailed itineraries to insider tips and more. Plus, it provides ideas for every budget!

Whether you want to hunt for truffles in the Tuscan hills, climb the Leaning Tower of Pisa , or visit the Uffizi Gallery in Florence, this guide will provide you with all the information you need and more.

Lonely Planet Florence & Tuscany Various authors

Read more: Medici Books – The 8 Best Books to Explore the Renaissance Era

Botticelli’s Secret: The Lost Drawings and Rediscovery of the Renaissance, by Joseph Luzzi

Around half a century ago, painter Sandro Botticelli, a man with a humble upbringing, created what many proceed as some of the greatest works of all time. Whether you have never been to Florence or have traveled there a million times, this engaging book about the thrilling search for buried treasure will have you sitting on the edge of your seat. 

Botticelli’s Secret: The Lost Drawings and Rediscovery of the Renaissance, is just over 200 pages, though with copiously detailed footnotes about Botticelli’s art, it’s one that you’ll have a hard time putting down.

Botticelli’s Secret: The Lost Drawings and Rediscovery of the Renaissance Joseph Luzzi

From the Markets of Tuscany: A Cookbook, by Giulia Scarpaleggia

Of course, no trip to Tuscany is complete without enjoying the world-renowned food that can only be found here. What better way to appreciate a Tuscan experience than by recreating some of your favorite dishes at home.

From the Markets of Tuscany: A Cookbook, offers a collection of traditional and seasonal recipes, as well as a detailed guide to some of the best food markets in the region. This cookbook also tells the story of farmers’ markets found in Tuscan villages and towns, presenting characteristic recipes from the places those markets lay ground. 

It is surely one of the most practical books on Tuscany, giving you a chance to immerse yourself in the legendary food.

From the Markets of Tuscany: A Cookbook Giulia Scarpaleggia

Not in a Tuscan Villa, by John Petralia and Nancy Petralia

Not In a Tuscan Villa follows John and Nancy Petralia, who decide to make their dreams come true after retiring by picking up and moving to what many call the “perfect” Italian city. However, within just a few days of their trip, it becomes an absolute nightmare. 

From trying to negotiate with Healthcare to attempting to understand Italian customs, the story paints the picture of what’s important in life and Having the courage to step outside your comfort zone and challenge yourself, even in your later years.

Not in a Tuscan Villa John Petralia and Nancy Petralia

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15 Novels Set in Tuscany to Fuel Your Wanderlust

Looking for the best novels set in Tuscany that are not ‘Under the Tuscan Sun,’ ‘A Room with a View,’ or ‘The Enchantress of Florence’? I hear you and I’m here for you.

It’s been a while since my Italian road trip to Tuscany, but it is still one of my most memorable adventures.

There are so many amazing things to do and see in Tuscany , and every corner is extremely beautiful, from the historical cities and villages to the winding roads passing alongside vineyards, olive groves, and green hills – what more do you need in life?

So if you want to be transported to one of Italy’s most beautiful regions, here are 15 must-read fiction books.

* This post may contain affiliate links from which I earn a commission (for more info, read my disclosure ). As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

* I try to keep the information on this blog as updated as possible, but I still recommend consulting the latest prices, opening hours, and other details on the official website of each site, hotel, and tour, as well as checking the updated public transport routes and timetables.

Read as many novels as you want with Kindle Unlimited (you can try it for free for 30 days) or listen to your favorite books on Audible . If you’re also considering buying one of Amazon’s tablets, read this Kindle review .

Table of Contents

Historical Fiction Books Set in Tuscany

The tuscan secret.

When Anna’s Italian-born mother passes away, she leaves her £50,000 and a bunch of old letters written in Italian.

Intrigued by these letters, she sets off to Tuscany to discover her roots, even though she wasn’t very close to her mom.

Little does she know how much she’s going to learn about her mother’s past, her part in the Italian Resistance during WWII, and Tuscany in wartime. Read reviews and get ‘The Tuscan Secret’ on Amazon.

An Italian Affair

In the late 1930s , while Alessandra is mourning the loss of her husband, she inherits an ancestral home in Tuscany. She moves there with her daughter Diana, while her son Robert stays in school in England.

As WWII starts, Alessandra’s villa becomes a refuge for the persecuted, and Robert joins the Royal Air Force. In this novel, we follow Alessandra’s family through this challenging time in history as it fights to survive the war.

Read reviews and get ‘An Italian Affair’ on Amazon.

The Tuscan Child

In 1944, pilot Hugo Langley was forced to parachute from his burning plane over Tuscany and was helped by a local young woman.

Fast forward to 1973, Hugo passes away in England, and when his estranged daughter Joanna sorts through his items, she comes across a letter addressed to a woman named Sofia from San Salvatore, Tuscany.

Intrigued, she travels to Italy to try and piece together her father’s past. Read reviews and get ‘The Tuscan Child’ on Amazon.

The Tuscan Girl

After losing her boyfriend in an accident, heartbroken Alba returns to her parents’ home in Tuscany, where she forms a lovely friendship with a 90-year-old man named Massimo.

As he tells her about the love of his life Lucia and their experiences during WWII, they help each other heal. Read reviews and get ‘The Tuscan Girl’ on Amazon.

Chick Lits and Romantic Novels Set in Tuscany

Love & gelato.

Mostly set in Florence, this novel follows teenager Lina, who after losing her mother, moves to Tuscany to fulfill her dying wish – meeting her father for the first time.

When she receives her mother’s old journal from when she was studying in Florence, Lina gets to experience the city through her mom’s eyes, learn about her past, and understand why she never knew her father.

Read reviews and get ‘Love & Gelato’ on Amazon.

You, Me, and Italy

After leaving her cheating husband, Maisie wins a trip to Tuscany.

Taking her two best friends with her to the charming Villa Marisa, this could be the perfect place to mend her broken heart and rediscover herself (and, of course, indulge in delicious food and meet a gorgeous Italian man).

Read reviews and get ‘You, Me, and Italy’ on Amazon.

All the Way to Heaven

After finding out her boyfriend is married with kids, the heartbroken Ani decides to go on an early graduation trip to Italy.

A few mishaps lead her to meet not one but two men, spend some time at a stunning Tuscan villa, learn about herself, and grow. Read reviews and get ‘All the Way to Heaven’ on Amazon.

Wedding Bells at Villa Limoncello

After having to deal with a personal tragedy and losing her job, interior designer Izzie can’t refuse to plan a wedding in a Tuscan villa.

While visiting this region forces her to face her demons and rediscover herself, you also get to enjoy the descriptions of the beautiful Italian countryside, mouthwatering food, and a gorgeous local chef named Luca.

Read reviews and get ‘Wedding Bells at Villa Limoncello’ on Amazon (or get the entire series about Villa Limoncello ).

The Temptation of Gracie

Gracie is a woman in her sixties living an ordinary life in Devon. When she decides to go on a week-long cookery course in a Tuscan castle, her worried estranged daughter and granddaughter tag along.

In Tuscany, Gracie starts revealing secrets she has been keeping for years, and the magic of Tuscany seems to bring the three women closer. Read reviews and get ‘The Temptation of Gracie’ on Amazon.

Last of the Summer Vines

Sarah is a workaholic, but when her estranged father passes away in Tuscany, she has to travel to Italy to inherit his wine farm.

But then she realizes she hasn’t inherited the entire place, and the vineyard now belongs to her gorgeous childhood friend Tomasso, who doesn’t want to sell it.

As her time in Tuscany starts to work its magic on her, will she go back to her life in London, or will she re-fall in love and move her life to Italy? Read reviews and get ‘Last of the Summer Vines’ on Amazon.

Dreaming of Tuscany

When Bee, a historical consultant, and Mimi, a famous movie star, are injured in an accident on a film set, they are offered to recover in a remote Tuscan villa.

As Bee falls in love with the place, we follow her as she also learns to cope with her injuries, forms a friendship with Mimi, and, of course, meets a handsome local man.

Read reviews and get ‘Dreaming of Tuscany’ on Amazon.

Under a Siena Sun

After being involved in a dangerous incident in a war-torn country as a doctor in Doctors Without Borders, Lucy decides to take a break and visit Siena to attend a friend’s wedding.

When she gets a new job at a local private clinic, she feels a bit uncomfortable treating her wealthy patients, until she meets tennis player David.

Should she go back to her meaningful job at Doctors Without Borders, or should she stay in Tuscany?

Read reviews and get ‘Under a Siena Sun’ on Amazon (or get the entire series called ‘Escape to Tuscany’ ).

Dreaming of Florence

English teacher Debbie has always dreamed of visiting Florence. When her job in Cambridge is at risk, and after literally bumping into a handsome doctor who happens to be from Florence, she decides to follow her heart and move to Italy.

As she finds a job and meets a lot of new people, we follow her new adventure in the city of Florence. Read reviews and get ‘Dreaming of Florence’ on Amazon.

Thrillers and Mystery Books About Tuscany

Murder in chianti.

After his wife passes away, Detective Nico Doyle moves from New York to Gravigna, her childhood village in Tuscany.

When a dead body is found near his house, he is drawn into the investigation of local detective Salvatore Perillo, and thus he begins to unravel the secrets of the village.

Read reviews and get ‘Murder in Chianti’ on Amazon (or get the entire series called ‘The Tuscan Mysteries’ ).

Death at the Duomo

When a fatal explosion outside the Duomo of Florence kills and injures both locals and tourists during a festival, investigator Caterina Falcone is paired with American agent Max Turner to find out what happened and arrest the killer.

This is the first book in the Caterina Falcone series which also includes ‘ Secret of La Specola ‘ and ‘ Revenge by the Arno .’ Read reviews and get ‘Death at the Duomo’ on Amazon.

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Can’t travel and want to transport yourself to beautiful places in Europe? Check out more romantic books set in Italy or read these novels set in Spain , Greece , or France !

Have you read any of these novels about Tuscany? Tell me in the comments and pin this post for later!

About Or Amir

Hey, I'm Or! I'm a passionate traveler with a severe coffee, chocolate, and pastry addiction (or any other carb for that matter). I'm always planning my next trip to Spain, Italy, or any other country in Europe, and my goal is to help you make the most of each destination.

2 thoughts on “15 Novels Set in Tuscany to Fuel Your Wanderlust”

Thank you so much for including Villa Limoncello in the list! I’m absolutely thrilled! Love Daisy x

Thank you for checking it out! Happy you liked this post 🙂

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Hi, I'm Or!

I'm a passionate traveler obsessed with traveling in Europe and discovering hidden gems in each place I visit. For me, it's not about ticking destinations off the bucket list but experiencing each one of them to the fullest. Read more about me and my story.

— Most Comprehensive Guidebooks on Tuscan Hill Towns — — Two Fascinating Memoirs of Traveling in Tuscany —

Scott Tiezzi Grabinger has written some of the most comprehensive English guidebooks available on small town Tuscany, places missed on a first visit to Tuscany. These small towns help return visitors discover the “real” Tuscany: people, food, markets, festivals, museums, churches, and shops.

Scott’s travel anthologies, Walking the Aqueduct and Italian Adventures , introduce you to more of the Tuscan culture through his own adventures while living in Italy. Order books through Amazon.

New 2020 Travel Anthology: Italian Adventures

Food, life and travel, — praise for "walking the aqueduct" —.

— Very informative and a must read for anyone going to the Tuscany region or interested the many activities in the region. —

— In the spirit of John Steinbeck (Travels with Charley) and Charles Kuralt (America), Grabinger has authored a book which at once recounts his experiences in Tuscany and gives the reader a rich repertoire for knowledgeably approaching the region. In this fast-paced book, we learn what to expect at meals, on the autostrada, in the shops, and at the markets. It is a great source for understanding and coping with Italian (or at least Tuscan) culture. If you are going to Tuscany, read it! —

— Just to let you know how much we enjoyed your book, my wife and I took turns reading it to   each other at our lake cabin in northern Minnesota, we broke out in laughter several times. —

— Inside Tuscany Guidebooks —

Best of cortona.

The latest guidebook on Cortona invites you to spend a couple of days in Cortona to view its excellent churches and museums and to experience the rhythm of daily life. Founded by Noah after the ark sailed up the Tiber — if you believe the legends — it sits high on a steep hill that overlooks much of Tuscany’s Valdichiana from Lake Trasimeno on the Umbrian border to the south to Civitella in the north.

READ MORE  . . .

Arezzo makes a good base for exploring the southern and central parts of Tuscany. It’s just the right size to have enough to offer in terms of culture, churches, museums, art, hotels, shopping, and fine restaurants. It is full of artistic treasures by masters such as della Robbia, Marcillat, Vasari, and Piero della Franscesca. It’s less expensive than Florence, only a 45 minute train ride away. There is a festival or market to enjoy every weekend.

Le Crete and the Val d'Orcia

This book takes you to the area of Tuscany that provides many of the pictures in calendars, coffee table books, TV shows, movies, and postcards — the cypress lined drives and roads going over hills with small towns and solitary farms. Val d’Orcia towns stand high on hills with their roccas visible for miles. Different areas produce a variety of world class wines and foods, especially the pecorino cheese from the Pienza region, Brunello di Montalcino, and Vino Nobile from Montepulciano.

Eight Tuscan Hill Towns: A Guide to the Valdichiana

Visit eight charming Valdichiana hill towns in Tuscany. The Valdichiana is a large flat valley stretching south from the Umbrian border at Lake Trasimeno near Cortona to the town of Civitella in the north. Originally a swamp, it is now the breadbasket of Italy with fruit and olive orchards, crops of grain and corn, vineyards, and grazing land for the famous chianina beef, the source of bistecca Fiorentina.

Casentino and Valtiberina

This guidebook takes you to many of the less visited sites in Central Tuscany in the valleys of the Casentino and Valtiberina. The Casentino is a heavily forested area in the mountains with natural, historical, and religious significance. The Valtiberina is near the eastern border of Tuscany with artistic significance from the Renaissance including the homes of Michelangelo and Piero della Francesca.

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10 of the best novels set in Italy – that will take you there

Elena Ferrante’s Naples, Umberto Eco’s medieval mysteries, EM Forster’s Tuscany … Italy comes alive through these great books 10 of the best novels about France

L ong before Covid-19, there were always bad things in the press about Italy: corruption, mafia, bureaucracy. But, whenever I went, life seemed to work out even so. People may be poor but they still sit in the sun, drink and chat; music and culture are a birthright; the right seems in the ascendant but on the ground it feels blessed with far-seeing idealists – it has almost four times as much land under organic cultivation as the UK, for example. For now, my remedy to the withdrawal symptoms I feel is to visit via the written word. Many writers have set books in Italy – I was sorry to leave out Martin Amis’s The Pregnant Widow (Calabria), and Ali Smith’s How to be Both (Ferrara) – but here are my top 10 romanze italiane.

The Other End of the Line by Andrea Camilleri

I can’t leave out my beloved Sicily, and of course that has to mean Inspector Montalbano. The stories are known to many in the UK from the TV adaptations, with their soaring aerial shots of Ragusa and other delectable spots in the island’s south-east, so why not spend longer in that southern sunshine with one of Andrea Camilleri’s books? An eccentric cast of characters keep things light-hearted, and there’s joy also in the detective’s food obsession: you can almost taste the red wine and fried arancini. But this is Sicily, so darkness lurks: mafia, people trafficking, drugs, racism. It’s hard to pick one novel but this one, dealing with a boatful of refugees, has the distinction of having angered rightwing leader Matteo Salvini with its pro-migrant message.

My Brilliant Friend by Elena Ferrante

It’s been done on stage and TV , but Elena Ferrante’s tale (the first in her Neapolitan tetralogy) of poverty, amici and mafiosi in 20th-century Naples is still best savoured in book form (though I appear to be alone in finding Anne Goldstein’s translation clunky). Readers might picture Lenù and Lila growing up amid narrow streets picturesquely hung with laundry, but in fact the book’s unnamed “neighbourhood” is not the historic centre but Rione Luzzatti, a blocky Fascist-era suburb beyond the main railway station. From here, readers follow the heroines as they mount expeditions through the tunnel and along the stradone to the central Mercato district, wealthy Vomero and, fatefully, the beaches of beautiful Ischia.

Call Me by Your Name by André Aciman

The 2017 Oscar-winning film by Luca Guadagnino is a reasonably accurate rendering of this tender coming-of-age novel, but to keep costs down, the director filmed in locations close to his Lombardy home – and deprived fans of some gorgeous views. The book is set on the coast near the French border – and the shimmering Ligurian Sea is almost a character in its own right. You feel the sting of hot gravel on bare legs as the young protagonists (Elio and Oliver) cycle to sun-drenched sandy coves, the shock of an ice-cold drink in a shady garden. An important setting is “Monet’s Berm” – a secluded cliff ledge claimed by Elio to be the spot from which the impressionist painted his View of Bordighera (the postcard poignantly hanging in Oliver’s study decades later).

A Room with a View by EM Forster

Forster’s 1908 novel captures the joy of escaping chilly Blighty for exuberant Italy. Ingénue Lucy Honeychurch’s experiences in Florence are (speeding Fiats and noisy Vespas apart) little-changed: the impressive Duomo with its shadowy interior, the banks of the Arno where she strolls with George Emerson. And the views are at their most glorious from hillside Fiesole, where Lucy falls on to a terrace covered with violets and into the arms of her husband to be. After a second half set mostly in Surrey, the book happily whisks us back to Florence, where a honeymooning Lucy gazes out of Pension Bertolini’s window – at a certain view.

The Birth of Venus by Sarah Dunant

Head further back to the Florence of the Medicis with this absorbing story of spirited Alessandra making her way in a city becoming “locked down” by the zeal of fundamentalist cleric Girolamo Savonarola. Dunant details the rivalries, politics and drama inside the family palazzo – in a newly wealthy neighbourhood east of the Duomo whose inhabitants can run to “torches in great iron baskets to light latecomers home”. But in the pursuit of love and art, the heroine, unusually for a young woman, also gets to roam the city in all its splendour, cruelty, summer heat and … plague.

A Farewell to Arms by Ernest Hemingway

Trieste had barely appeared on Britons’ city-break radar before this millennium, but I lived there for a time as a student, and was delighted to find this novel mostly set in the limestone hills north of the city. The dramatic first-world-war tale of the love between an American ambulance driver and a British nurse takes us from Friuli to hospital in Milan, back to the front and on to an action-movie escape via the currents of the Tagliamento River near Udine, before an emotional finale in Switzerland. That the Mussolini regime banned the book is further recommendation.

The Enchanted April by Elizabeth von Arnim

It sounds as appealing today as it did when this book was published in 1922: “To those who appreciate wistaria and sunshine. Small Italian medieval castle on the shores of the Mediterranean to be let furnished for the month of April.” The women tempted to shrug off wet and dreary Britain are older than Lucy Honeychurch, and struggling. “It would really be being unselfish to go away and be happy for a little,” says one, “because we would come back so much nicer.” Be carried along by the sensual descriptions of the castle, gardens and olive groves leading down to the sea: “The sun blazed on scarlet geraniums, bushes of them, and nasturtiums in great heaps, and marigolds so brilliant that they seemed to be burning … all outdoing each other in bright, fierce colour.”

The Name of the Rose by Umberto Eco

If you’ve driven from Turin towards the western Alps, you may have spotted an imposing mountaintop complex, the Sacra di San Michele. This was the Benedictine monastery that inspired Umberto Eco’s first novel (published in 1980 and later filmed with Sean Connery and Christian Slater), though for me it also brings to mind famous Pomposa abbey near Ferrara and a hundred other medieval piles. The bestselling writer and academic brilliantly conveys carvings and frescoes through the way they blow the mind of young novice Adso. This mix of history and mystery is a readable way in to Eco’s writings on love, learning and the search for meaning, while also evoking the ancient worlds and dramatic scenery that Italy does so well.

Acqua Alta by Donna Leon

With bodies discovered in canals, piazzas and even La Fenice opera house, the Venice of Commissario Guido Brunetti has, a bit like Inspector Morse’s Oxford, an astonishingly high rate of intriguing murders. Donna Leon’s 29 detective novels are all set in, or near, the city she lived in for decades and have a passionate fan base everywhere except Italy (they have never been translated into Italian). Lovers of La Serenissima at its less-touristy will like this story that unfolds in grim February weather, with acqua alta (floods) in the city (as happened last autumn ). With food even more important than life and death in Italy, the book opens evocatively with opera singer Flavia in her kitchen chopping onions, garlic, tomatoes and “two fat-bottomed aubergines”.

Ratking by Michael Dibdin

Umbria was being called the new Tuscany 20 years ago, but its arty, walled capital, Perugia, is still underrated, despite budget flights to San Francesco d’Assisi airport. Bestselling crime writer Dibdin transplanted himself to the city as a university English teacher in the 1980s and in this, his first Aurelio Zen novel, the Venetian detective is unexpectedly posted to the city known for “chocolates, Etruscans, that fat painter, radios and gramophones, the University for Foreigners, sportswear”. I could recommend all of Dibdin’s 11 complex, satirical and sometimes surreal Zen books, as each is set in a different part of Italy: Vendetta in wonderful Sardinia, say, or A Long Finish among the vineyards of Piedmont.

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• Italy holidays
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35 Best Travel Guide Books for Italy to Read

Hey there, fellow traveler! This expertly curated selection of the best Italy travel books will help you navigate the country’s breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and delicious cuisine.

Even in this digital age, there’s something magical about turning the pages of an Italy guidebook . It’s more than just collecting facts and figures – it’s about savoring the anticipation, picturing yourself in the most beautiful places, and preparing for the Italian journey of a lifetime .

This post contains affiliate links. When you buy something through one of the links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no additional cost to you.

Top Picks: Best Travel Books for Your Italian Adventure

Rick Steves Italy

A thorough, immersive guide for Italian travel , recommended for its blend of iconic sights and hidden gems.

The Rough Guide to Italy

Discover abundant off-the-beaten-path recommendations . The perfect guide for travelers who want to delve deeper into Italy’s hidden corners .

DK Eyewitness Italy

Rich in historical context and stunning visuals.

It enables travelers to appreciate Italy’s rich history and culture on a deeper level.

Keep reading to uncover the rich tapestry of Italy’s unique regions, sample its delectable cuisine, and bask in its timeless architecture, all from the comfort of your home.

The list of Italian travel guidebooks below is structured into two main sections :

• All-Encompassing Italian Travel Books
• Area-Specific Travel Guides

Each book will be reviewed based on a brief description, pros and cons, and the type of audience it’s most suitable for. Let’s start exploring!

Recommended Reading : Discover our detailed guide on the 21 Safest Cities in Italy for Travelers & Expats.

All-Encompassing Best Travel Guidebooks

1. rick steves italy travel guide.

Rick Steves Italy is an invaluable travel companion for anyone venturing into Italy’s breathtaking landscapes and vibrant cities. Rick’s guide is packed with comprehensive, up-to-date information for planning an unforgettable multi-week trip to Italy.

It introduces readers to top sights and hidden gems , from iconic architectural wonders like the Colosseum and Michelangelo’s David to cozy corner trattorias serving delicious Italian cuisine.

• Offers strategic advice on maximizing time and budget .
• Provides candid insights to beat crowds, skip lines, and avoid tourist traps.
• Suggests the best places to eat, sleep, and experience “ il dolce far niente .”
• Contains self-guided walking tours of lively neighborhoods and museums.
• Equips travelers with vital trip-planning tools.
• Includes detailed maps , including a fold-out map for on-the-go exploration.
• Lightweight design with over 1,000 pages, making it portable without compromising content.
• A considerable amount of information could be overwhelming for some readers.
• The “bible-thin” pages might be fragile and prone to tearing.

Suitable for:

Rick Steves Italy is ideal for seasoned travelers and those new to Italy, particularly those looking to immerse themselves in local culture. It’s also perfect for anyone planning a long trip and needing an in-depth guide to the country’s many offerings.

The book’s inclusion of COVID-related travel info makes it especially relevant in the current travel landscape.

Recommended Reading : Master essential Italian phrases for travel with our 135 basic phrases and PDF cheat sheet.

2. DK Eyewitness Italy (Travel Guide)

The DK Eyewitness Italy (Travel Guide) is a comprehensive and immersive tool that transports you to the beauty of Italy – from its breathtaking natural landscapes and UNESCO World Heritage Sites to the variety of its gastronomic traditions.

It uncovers the depth and diversity of Italy , presenting not just the acclaimed sights but also the hidden gems in this splendid country. With a beautiful blend of expert insights, practical advice, vivid photographs, and hand-drawn illustrations, this guide is an all-inclusive ticket to a memorable Italian journey .

• Offers a fully illustrated guide on top experiences and hidden gems.
• Includes accessible itineraries to optimize your daily exploration.
• Provides honest and expert advice on safety, timings, preparations, and cost savings.
• Features color-coded chapters covering every part of Italy.
• Gives practical tips on the best dining, shopping, and accommodation places.
• Contains detailed maps and walking routes for easy navigation.
• Overwhelming information could be daunting for some readers.
• The large scope of coverage may not suit travelers focusing on a specific region.

The DK Eyewitness Italy (Travel Guide) is an ideal pick for both seasoned and first-time visitors to Italy seeking a comprehensive overview of the country’s landmarks and hidden gems.

The guide’s practical advice and detailed itineraries make it a valuable resource for individuals looking for a well-planned, immersive experience. Also, art enthusiasts , nature lovers , and food connoisseurs will find this guide particularly enriching.

Seeking the perfect tribute to Italy? Check out our article 75 Italian Gifts for Italy Lovers: Best Gift Ideas for the ultimate gift guide.

3. Lonely Planet’s Italy (Travel Guide)

Italy is such an amazing place, and as one of the most in-depth guides available, Lonely Planet’s Italy offers an extensive exploration of Italy’s rich tapestry.

From traversing the beautiful ruins of Pompeii and enjoying a Tuscan wine tour to uncovering the picturesque Italian Riviera’s hidden gems, this book is your reliable travel buddy . It’s packed with the best and lesser-known experiences, making your Italian adventure unforgettable.

• Provides tailored itineraries catering to personal interests and needs.
• Delivers enriching local insights into history, culture, landscapes, and politics.
• Presents a visually inspiring collection of the top amazing experiences.
• Highlights regional dishes and drinks for an ultimate gastronomic journey.
• It gives insider tips to save time and money and avoid tourist traps.
• Offers planning tools for solo, LGBTQIA, family, and accessible travel.
• Features colorful maps and images throughout the guide.
• Includes essential language phrases and helpful travel tips.
• The extensive coverage might be too much for travelers focusing on a specific region.
• The size and weight may make it less portable.

Lonely Planet’s Italy is perfect for any traveler, whether a seasoned adventurer or a first-time visitor. Its well-rounded and inclusive approach also makes it suitable for solo, LGBTQIA, and family travelers and those seeking accessible travel advice.

If you’re a food lover or a history buff, this guide is advantageous, given its focus on regional cuisines and historical insights.

4. Glam Italia! How To Travel Italy: Secrets To Glamorous Travel

Penned by Italian travel guide and blogger Corinna Cooke, Glam Italia! How To Travel Italy is a comprehensive guide aimed at helping you design a personalized, memorable, and affordable vacation in Italy.

The book is packed with insider tips , from appreciating Italy’s art, cuisine, and landscapes, to navigating its fashion scene.

The author’s step-by-step methods for trip planning, regional cuisine, wine lists, the best time to visit (peak season and off-season), and cost-effective flight booking tips are thoughtfully designed to enhance your Italian journey. Whether planning to travel lavishly or on a budget, this guide offers priceless advice to enjoy Italy like a local.

• Provides detailed, step-by-step methods for planning your trip.
• Includes comprehensive lists of regional cuisines and wines.
• Offers practical advice on flight booking to save money.
• Gives precautionary tips for safe and healthy travel.
• Emphasizes local advice for a genuine Italian experience.
• As the book was published in 2018, some information might be outdated.
• While enjoyable, the cultural immersion aspects may not suit readers seeking strictly logistical advice.

Glam Italia! How To Travel Italy is perfect for anyone who dreams of an Italian vacation , whether they’re first-time travelers or experienced explorers.

The book’s emphasis on experiencing Italy as a local and its cost-saving tips make it a fitting choice for those traveling on a budget and individuals seeking an authentic, immersive cultural experience.

5. Frommer’s Italy (Complete Guide)

The completely revamped Frommer’s Italy , a trusted name in travel, serves as a thorough and opinionated guide for your Italian escapade. It provides well-researched , valuable information for walking through the ancient ruins of Pompeii, cruising the Venice canals, admiring Renaissance masterpieces in Florence, or exploring less-traveled places like Puglia.

Suggested Reading : Discover the best Pompeii tours from Rome – 20 curated day trips to step back in time.

The guide makes you appreciate the la dolce vita in Rome and uncovers timeless marvels like Tuscan vineyards and the cliff-edge towns of the Amalfi Coast.

• Includes full-color photographs and handy maps , with a removable fold-out map for ease of use.
• It contains meticulously crafted itineraries to optimize your trip planning.
• Provides intriguing cultural insights into Italy’s history, cuisine, and traditions.
• Honest reviews with a star rating system for a quick understanding of what’s worth your time and money.
• Offers up-to-date practical information such as transportation details, useful websites, and healthcare options.
• Comes with budget-planning tools, including precise pricing and money-saving tips for travelers on a wide range of budgets.
• Being an opinionated guide, it might only align with some readers’ tastes or preferences.
• Comprehensive and detailed, it might be overwhelming for travelers seeking a brief, casual overview.

Frommer’s Italy (Complete Guide) is ideal for travelers seeking a comprehensive, culturally rich guide to Italy . Whether you’re an avid history buff, a food enthusiast, or a leisure traveler looking to soak up Italy’s landscapes and cities, this guide provides comprehensive coverage.

Thanks to its wide range of money-saving tips and diverse itinerary options, it’s perfect for budget-conscious travelers and those seeking luxury.

6. Fodor’s Essential Italy (Full-color Travel Guide)

Fodor’s Essential Italy is a detailed travel guide crafted with love and expertise by local travel connoisseurs . This comprehensive guide aims to transform your journey, whether visiting the historic Colosseum, shopping in Milan’s designer boutiques, or hiking through the picturesque Cinque Terre.

Packed with over 78 detailed maps , a free pull-out map, and vibrant photographs, this guide ensures your Italian adventure is as smooth and fulfilling as possible.

Suggested Reading : Discover the top 10 shopping destinations in Italy : your Italy shopping guide, from luxury fashion to artisanal crafts.

• Features an illustrated guide to the best experiences Italy has to offer.
• Includes multiple well-organized itineraries to maximize your time effectively.
• Offers over 78 detailed maps and a complimentary pull-out map to assist in confident navigation.
• It contains stunning color photos throughout to inspire your travels.
• Presents reliable recommendations from locals on attractions, dining, accommodation, nightlife, shopping, and more.
• Provides photo-rich features on topics like “The Best Ancient Sites in Rome,” “Italy’s Best Beaches,” and more.
• Gives practical trip-planning tools and tips , including the best times to visit and how to save time and money.
• Offers historical and cultural insights into the local people, arts, architecture, and more.
• Special features on landmarks like “T he Sistine Chapel ” and “ Cruising the Grand Cana l.”
• Includes Italian language primers to help you with essential phrases and useful words.
• This guide might be too detailed and extensive for someone seeking a brief overview.
• Those who prefer minimalist design find the guide visually overwhelming.

Fodor’s Essential Italy is a perfect companion for travelers seeking a detailed, locally-informed guide to Italy. It is ideal for history buffs, adventure seekers, food enthusiasts, and cultural explorers. It’s especially beneficial for first-time visitors to Italy , assisting them with language, navigation, and insider recommendations.

7. Italy in Your Pocket!

Italy in Your Pocket! is a compact guide that promises to uncover the myriad of Italy’s rich history and vibrant culture. This pocket guide will ensure you won’t miss the charming villages, stunning mountains, bustling cities, or serene countryside.

More than just a tool to navigate Italy’s well-known tourist spots, this guide aims to immerse you in the authentic Italian lifestyle .

Authored by someone who has considered Italy their second home for over two decades, this book is your ticket to uncovering the essence of Italy that locals hold dear.

Suggested Reading : Discover the enchantment of Christmas in Italy with our guide, featuring prime locations and cherished customs.

• Highlights the beautiful contrast between Italy’s rural and urban life.
• Guides on how to avoid tourist crowds and experience the real Italy.
• Reveals off-the-beaten-path outdoor activities, accommodations, and attractions.
• Offers insight into traditional Italian events , customs, and yearly gatherings.
• Provides helpful tips on safety, interacting with locals, and integration into Italian society.
• It may not provide enough detail for travelers looking for a comprehensive guide.
• Readers already familiar with Italy may not find a lot of new information.

Italy in Your Pocket! is an ideal companion for travelers looking to experience Italy beyond the typical tourist perspective. It is perfect for adventure-seekers , cultural explorers, and individuals desiring to mingle with the locals and blend seamlessly into Italian life.

Those who appreciate the convenience and seek a compact, easy-to-carry guide will find this book especially useful.

8. The Rough Guide to Italy

The Rough Guide to Italy is a comprehensive and practical guide to discovering authentic Italy, including hidden gems and renowned hotspots.

Replete with an easy-to-follow, color-coded layout, this guide helps you effortlessly plan your trip from pre-departure to your journey’s end.

It covers regions from Rome and Lazio to Sicily and Sardinia, offering structured lists of all sights and lesser-known treasures. This guide was updated post-COVID-19 and comes with a free eBook for easy accessibility.

• Extensive regional coverage and clear structure within each chapter for easy navigation.
• Recommendations are suitable for all types of travelers, whether seeking adventures in Sicily or family activities in Tuscany.
• Provides practical travel tips , including pre-departure information, tips for traveling with children, sports and outdoor activities, festivals, culture, etiquette, and more.
• Time-saving itineraries and detailed routes showcase the richness and diversity of Italy.
• Offers insights into getting around like a local, with tips on beating crowds, saving time and money , and finding the best local spots.
• Full-color photography and color-coded mapping for visual appeal and easy orientation.
• It may overwhelm first-time travelers due to its comprehensive nature.
• Some travelers might prefer a more focused guide tailored to specific cities or regions.

The Rough Guide to Italy is ideal for first-time and seasoned travelers seeking a comprehensive understanding of Italy’s diverse regions.

Its detailed and wide-ranging content makes it an excellent resource for those with varied interests, such as food and drink, festivals, outdoor activities, and cultural exploration. Furthermore, this guide benefits travelers who appreciate planning their trip in detail with time-saving itineraries and expert recommendations.

9. Michelin Green Guide Wine Trails of Italy: Travel Guide

The Michelin Green Guide Wine Trails of Italy offers a fascinating tour through Italy’s wine regions . This guide covers 125 driving tours that take you to Italy’s renowned wineries, charming towns, villages, and captivating countryside.

It introduces you to the art of Italian wine-making , tasting, and serving. It encourages you to delve into Italy’s rich history, culture, and, unquestionably, its delectable wines.

Suggested Reading : For wine lovers in Bologna, don’t miss the Best Wine Tours & Tastings .

• Provides 125 driving tours offering a comprehensive exploration of Italy’s wine regions.
• The book offers insights into Italian wine : its creation, tasting, and the art of serving it.
• Uses a star-rating system for points of interest, facilitating decision-making.
• Features well-researched recommendations for accommodation and dining options .
• Encourages discovery of Italy’s history, culture, and, of course, its wines.
• It might not appeal to readers who are not interested in wine.
• It could be overwhelming for those seeking a less comprehensive guide.

The Michelin Green Guide Wine Trails of Italy is perfect for wine connoisseurs and enthusiasts, individuals interested in Italian culture and history, and anyone looking for an immersive, off-the-beaten-path exploration of Italy’s wineries and vineyards.

This guide will also appeal to those who enjoy self-guided driving tours and exploring new cuisines and dining experiences.

10. ITALY Made Easy for Seniors: An Alternative to the Escorted Tour

Authored by Bob Kaufman, the president of National Travel Vacations for 30 years, ITALY Made Easy for Seniors dispels the misconceptions that hinder seniors from experiencing Italy’s charm.

This handy guide includes comprehensive itineraries , covering not just Rome, Florence, and Venice but also hidden gems like Sicily, Puglia, Cinque Terre, and The Lakes.

Suggested Reading : Experience Tour Rome by Golf Cart – Uncover the city’s charm through the best private tours.

With tips specifically designed for seniors , like avoiding hilly areas for accommodation, the book also proves to be an insightful companion for first-time visitors and repeat travelers.

• Covers all major cities beyond Rome, Florence, and Venice.
• Provides practical tips specifically designed for seniors.
• Informs readers about convenient accommodation options.
• Includes “ short and sweet ” historical facts, eliminating the need to carry heavy history books.
• It doesn’t include many color pictures, which might be expected in a travel guide.
• It might not be as relevant to younger travelers or those seeking more adventurous itineraries.

Italy Made Easy for Seniors is ideal for senior citizens looking to explore Italy, particularly those making their first, second, or third trip. It’s also beneficial for anyone looking for a cost-effective and well-planned travel guide to Italy , even if they’re not seniors.

This book is a must-have for anyone yearning to delve into the enchanting Italian culture without worrying about breaking the bank or getting lost in complex planning.

11. Italy: The Best Places to See by Rail (An Alternative to the Escorted Tour)

Bob Kaufman’s Italy The Best Places to See by Rail is the ultimate guide for those who yearn for a freestyle yet well-planned journey through Italy without the confines of an escorted tour.

Leveraging his 30 years of experience running National Travel Vacations, Inc., Kaufman presents a refreshing alternative to traditional tours with his cost-effective way to travel by train in Italy .

This book empowers travelers to chart their unique path with five main itineraries covering Rome, Florence, Venice, the Lakes District, and Sicily, along with the Bernina Express over the Alps option.

The book also includes specific details for day trips from various cities and a dedicated chapter on hotel options near train stations for convenience. It is a comprehensive planning tool with relevant website references to secure rail and attraction tickets, helping save time and resources.

• Offers a flexible, budget-friendly alternative to costly and strict escorted tours.
• Presents easy-to-follow, comprehensive itineraries for exploring Italy.
• It provides an accessible format with larger and bolder text, making it easier for seniors to read.
• Includes essential details such as hotel choices near train stations, tourist attraction ticket purchasing, and recommended restaurants.
• Packed with valuable insights derived from almost thirty trips to Italy by the author.
• It might not be suitable for those who prefer the structure and convenience of escorted tours.
• Requires more individual planning and decision-making compared to pre-arranged tours.

Italy The Best Places to See by Rail is ideal for younger travelers who prefer setting their pace, waking up, eating when they want, and spending as much time as they wish on each site.

It benefits those hesitant about driving in a foreign country or feeling confined by escorted tours. With its handy tips and detailed itineraries, this book ensures a rewarding Italian vacation without breaking the bank.

Dive into Italy: Area-Specific Travel Guides

1. rick steves rome travel guide.

Rick Steves Rome Travel Guide offers a timely, comprehensive resource for travelers navigating the Eternal City. As a trusted source, Rick Steves shares strategic advice on making the most of Rome—from exploring ancient ruins and the Vatican City to experiencing local culture.

The guide includes top sights and hidden gems, valuable tips to dodge tourist traps, best places to eat, sleep, and live “ il dolce far niente ” (the sweet doing nothing).

It offers self-guided walking tours of vibrant neighborhoods and renowned sights, such as Piazza Navona, detailed maps, a helpful packing list, an Italian phrase book, and historical insights. Also included are resources for COVID-related travel information, ensuring a seamless journey.

2. Rick Steves Florence & Tuscany Travel Guide

Rick Steves Florence & Tuscany Travel Guide is your quintessential handbook for immersing yourself in the cultural heart of Italy . This fully updated guide steers you through Florence and Tuscany, sharing top sights from the Uffizi Gallery to the Duomo and hidden gems like a centuries-old perfumery.

Suggested Reading : Unleash Tuscany’s splendor with our selection of the best Vespa tours from Florence .

You’ll learn to integrate with the local culture, from strolling morning markets to sipping robust wines with locals. Rick’s strategic advice will help you optimize your time and money , navigate crowds, and find the best places to dine, sleep, and relax.

The book also includes self-guided walking tours, detailed maps , and driving tours through Tuscany’s wine country.

3. Rick Steves Venice Travel Guide

Your trusted guide, Rick Steves, invites you to glide through the canals and wander down cobblestone alleys in his latest book, Rick Steves Venice Travel Guide .

You’ll learn to maximize your time and budget effectively by offering a fully updated and extensive guide for spending a week or more in Venice.

The guide covers top sights and hidden treasures from St. Mark’s Basilica to the charming city of Padua , along with strategic advice to beat the crowds and avoid tourist traps.

Discover how to connect with local culture , the best places to eat and sleep, and even enjoy self-guided walking tours.

The book features detailed neighborhood maps and a fold-out city map, with complete and current information on the city’s districts and side trips.

4. The Rough Guide to Italian Lakes

Discover the enthralling beauty of the Italian Lakes with Rough Guide’s comprehensive guidebook. This guidebook offers the most relevant and current suggestions for what to see , what to skip, and those hidden treasures that await you.

Traverse Lombard’s vineyards, get adventurous on Lake Garda or marvel at the 600-year-old Duomo in Milan.

Inside, you’ll find color maps and pictures, highlights, itineraries, and insider tips to navigate the Italian lakes like a local, bypassing crowded areas and saving time and money.

Expect enriching cultural insights and extensive coverage of regions including Lake Como, Lake Maggiore, Lake Garda, Milan, Verona, and more.

5. Fodor’s The Amalfi Coast, Capri & Naples (Full-color Travel Guide)

Unleash the charm of Southern Italy with Fodor’s insightful guide to The Amalfi Coast, Capri & Naples . Whether you’re planning to drive along the Amalfi Coast, explore Pompeii’s ruins, or savor authentic pizza in Naples, this guide has got you covered.

It’s brimming with maps, local expert recommendations , beautiful color photos, and valuable trip-planning tools.

The guide features multiple itineraries for effective time management, over 15 detailed maps for confident navigation, and honest suggestions on the best sights, eateries, hotels, outdoor activities, nightlife, shopping, and more.

Delve deeper into the local culture with historical insights and special features on the Amalfi Drive , Capri by boat, and the ancient city of Pompeii.

6. Puglia Travel Guide: Are You Ready to Visit Southern Italy?

If you’re yearning for an extraordinary exploration of Southern Italy, Puglia Travel Guide: Are You Ready to Visit Southern Italy? has got you covered.

This guide, penned by a native Apulian and passionate traveler, Francesco, serves as your comprehensive companion for discovering the hidden marvels of Puglia.

The book outlines the top five unmissable historic sites and over 50 spectacular beaches, from tourist hotspots to untouched natural locales, and introduces you to unique local cuisines .

Packed with more than 200 vibrant full-color photos, this guide makes planning your unforgettable Puglian adventure a breeze.

For those exploring Southern Italy, another honorable book mention goes to Lonely Planet Southern Italy , an excellent guidebook that unveils the vibrant and diverse region of Southern Italy.

Immerse Yourself Deeper in Italy: Beyond Travel Guides

If you wish to dive even deeper into the heart of Italy beyond the fantastic sights and delightful cuisines, we recommend looking at our curated list of prominent Italian best books .

These esteemed works offer profound insights into Italy’s intricate culture and society, weaving tales of love, family, politics, and the very fabric of human nature. This enriching list is in our “ 17 Best Italian Books: Explore Italy’s Rich Culture ” article.

Reading these masterpieces will enhance your understanding and appreciation of Italy before and during your journey. The books mentioned in the article are:

• Elena Ferrante – L’amica geniale ( My Brilliant Friend )
• Andrea Camilleri – La forma dell’acqua ( The Shape of Water )
• Italo Calvino – Il sentiero dei nidi di ragno (The Path to the Nest of Spiders)
• Carlo Levi – Cristo si è fermato a Eboli ( Christ Stopped at Eboli )
• Alessandro Baricco – Seta ( Silk )
• Paolo Giordano – La solitudine dei numeri primi ( The Solitude of Prime Numbers )
• Umberto Eco – Il nome della rosa ( The Name of the Rose )
• Elsa Morante – La storia ( History )
• Primo Levi – Se questo è un uomo ( If This Is a Man )
• Roberto Saviano – Gomorra ( Gomorrah )
• Niccolò Ammaniti – Io non ho paura ( I’m Not Scared )
• Italo Svevo – La coscienza di Zeno ( Zeno’s Conscience )
• Dante Alighieri – La Divina Commedia ( The Divine Comedy )
• Giovanni Verga – I Malavoglia (The House by the Medlar Tree)
• Giovanni Boccaccio – Il Decameron ( The Decameron )
• Luigi Pirandello – Il fu Mattia Pascal ( The Late Mattia Pascal )
• Alessandro Manzoni – I Promessi Sposi ( The Betrothed )
• Beppe Severgnini – La Bella Figura : A Field Guide to the Italian Mind

Best Travel Guide Books for Italy: Final Thoughts

We’ve come a long way on our literary journey across Italy! We’ve delved into general guides about the country as a whole and honed in on the specifics of its mesmerizing regions. Remember, each travel guide provides a different perspective and unique insights – just like Italy, each book has its personality and charm.

I hope this guide to the best Italy travel books proves helpful in preparing for your Italian adventure, whether you’re planning to bring one of these great books along on your trip or just reading in advance to immerse yourself in the beauty and culture of this beautiful country.

After all, these books are about more than just sightseeing – they’re about living and experiencing ‘La Dolce Vita,’ the sweet life, the Italian way. – Until our next Italian journey, Arrivederci!

Recommended Reading : 23 Best Italian Grammar Books to Master the Language

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Planning Away

30 of The Best Travel Books For Italy

Are you planning a trip to Italy? Looking for the best travel books for Italy?

Perfect!  If you have read any of my Italy posts you will know I am a huge fan of Rick Steve's books. It is the best guidebook for Italy out there. However, I am not going to be biased in this post.  There are so many other great Italy travel books we are going to explore.

One reason why I highly recommend getting an Italy travel guidebook is that it will help you know what the highlights of each area are and specific tips and tricks to help you navigate the area.  I also love that there are food recommendations.

In this post, I am going to list the best Italy travel books for the most popular places to visit in Italy.  I will also give a recommendation for the overall best Italy travel guide if you are visiting lots of locations.  

These travel books for Italy will make your vacation so much better, I promise! 

Let's explore your options for the best travel books for Italy and get you planning for your trip!

If you would like to save this information for later be sure to Pin this to Pinterest! 

This post may contain affiliate links that will give me a commission at no additional charge to you.

Best Travel Books for Italy (The Entire Country)

If you are planning on visiting more than one city in Italy, I recommend getting an Italy guidebook that will cover the entire country. 

On our last trip to Italy, we went to the following cities:

• Amalfi Coast and Pompeii

Rick Steves – Travel Books for Italy

We wanted a book that would guide us throughout our trip.  We decided to go with Rick Steve's Italy book and thought it was amazing. 

One thing I liked about this book is that there are insider tips to help you skip long lines.  There are also amazing food recommendations. 

We tried to pick out food on our own and it was terrible.  When we opened our book and took Rick Steve's advice we were blown away with his recommendations.  Overall, this is the best travel book for Italy. 

Fodor's Travel Guide

The Fodor's Guide is full of pictures and maps.  If you are a visual person this book may be a better option. 

However, this guide is not as in-depth as Rick Steve's book.  It does highlight some sights, restaurants, and hotels but it is more of an overview of each area .

If you want a very visual Italy travel book this is for you. 

Best Italy Travel Books for Venice

If you are planning on visiting a specific city and then journeying somewhere else in Europe an individual travel book for Italy that specializes in a certain area is a better option for you. 

Venice Italy Travel Guidebooks

Venice is an amazing place!  From the singing Gondoliers to the narrow alleyways, Venice is an amazing adventure.  What I love about guidebooks is that a detailed explanation is given so that you know exactly what to expect.  

If exploring the top sites in Venice is a priority make sure to do your homework and plan ahead.  I recommend reading your travel book for Italy before you actually go on vacation. You will also want to consider a day trip to Burano  and Murano.

Below are the best Italian travel books for Venice. These Venice Italy guidebooks are great options! 

Best Italy Travel Books for Milan

Milan, the capital of fashion, is located very close to the lake country.  Lake Como is one of the most popular spots to visit.  An Italy travel guide for Milian is very helpful because you will most likely venture out of the city for day trips from Milian. 

Plan Ahead with Italian Travel Books

Milan has many beautiful buildings and sites to see but did you know that you need to get tickets to the “Last Supper” months in advance?  

These Italy guidebooks help you navigate and plan ahead for some of the top attractions in the city. If Milan is your destination these Italy travel books will be your go-to!

Best Italy Travel Books for Cinque Terre

There are five towns included in the area known as Cinque Terre. Cinque Terre is a rugged coastline on the Italian Riviera and consists of five beautiful hillside towns: Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore.

An Italy travel guide for this region is helpful to plan out where you want to spend most of your time as you explore the area. 

Best Italy Travel Guide to Plan Cinque Terre

As you plan your trip to this area of Italy, knowing exactly what each town is known for and how long you should plan to spend at each stop is essential.  These Italy guidebooks will help you plan your adventure with ease.

Best Italy Travel Books for Florence

Florence and Tuscany offer a variety of art, food and wine, and history.  If you are looking for broad experience, getting a general Italy guidebook for “ Things to do in Florence ” is a good option.  

These travel books for Italy will help you navigate Florence with ease! 

Florence Italy Guidebook

If you have studied art, Florence provides the opportunity for a deeper experience, and you may want a Florence, Italy guidebook on specific art that you will find in the area.  

For more general questions about where to stay and what to eat, a traditional Italy tour book is a great idea.  

Best Italy Travel Books for Rome

Rome is probably the most visited city in Italy.  There is history, religion, and architecture.   Getting the best Italy travel book is very helpful in Rome! It is absolutely a huge city! The maps alone in these Italian travel books are super beneficial! 

Best Travel Books for Italy with Audio Tours

One advantage to the Rick Steve books is that audio tours come with them.  You can put in your headset and listen to tours that are included with your book purchase.  

This is very helpful in Rome as there are ruins such as the Colosseum and Roman Forum.  Having a guide is essential in knowing what exactly you are seeing. 

My vote for the best guidebook for Italy in Rome is Rick Steves because of the audio tours. 

These are the best guidebooks for Rome! 

Best Italy Travel Books for Naples, Amalfi Coast, and Southern Italy

I am not an author of a Italian guidebook but one thing I know is that you do not want to drive along the Amalfi Coast unless you are a “living on the edge” type of person or have a death wish! J/K  The Amalfi Italy guidebooks will help you know what transportation is best and how to book it! 

Know Before You Go

This area of Italy is one of the most beautiful parts.  You will not be disappointed.  Reading up on this area you will find that there are ruins such as Pompeii and Herculaneum.  As well as beaches in Positano.  Knowing where to go and how to get there is extremely helpful in this area because the roads tend to be a little more dangerous.

There are also many day trips from Naples that are amazing. Capri and Ischia are some of the best! There are many travel books for Italy for this part of the country. 

There are parts of Naples that are dangerous as well.  I don't think your Italy guidebooks are going to tell you that. Be careful and aware of your surroundings! 

Best Italy Travel Books for Sicily

If you are planning on visiting Sicily, I would recommend getting a book specifically for this area.  Sicily is a little different than other areas of Italy. 

Italian Guidebook

As I read my Italy guidebook, it says that petty crime is more prevalent.  If I hadn't read that I would have never known.  I highly recommend a Sicily Italy travel guidebook so you can stay safe and enjoy the beautiful areas of this part of Italy. 

Italian Language Phrase Books

Are you nervous about not speaking the language?  Getting a phrasebook can be very helpful.  Even if it is only to read certain street signs or say a friendly hello.

Italian Travel Books

If you have time before your trip, I recommend going to the library and getting some audio-Italian language lessons.  

Phrasebooks come in handy when you need to catch an Uber or order food.

Best Italy Travel Books for Transportation

There are a few ways to get around Italy.  We decided to do a combination of train travel as well as renting a car and completing a road trip.  This allowed us to see more of Italy than train travel alone. 

Cruise 

A Mediterranean cruise would allow for lots of coastal stops but also allow you to see the major cities such as Venice and Rome.

Italy Road Trip

We drove from Northern Italy down to Southern Italy but did not want to take the time to drive back so we flew from Naples to Venice.  This was a great way for us to be able to see and do more with our time in Italy!  

Planning out your transportation is a great idea! Here are a few Italy travel book recommendations for transportation.  

Are you Ready to Get a Italy Travel Book for Your Trip?

If you are a planner like me you will love reading and doing all the research. These are the best Italy travel books on the market.  I know you will love exploring all the pages!

Make an Itinerary 

Make an itinerary for what cities interest you most.  This is your next step.  If you want a little help I have a free complete Italy guide with itineraries for nine cities, hotel recommendations , food recommendations, and some helpful travel tips. As helpful as my guide is I still recommend getting an additional guidebook! 

Plan Your Trip

Plan Plan Plan!  Now that you have some solid recommendations go purchase one of the best Italy travel books and start reading!  This will help you narrow down what interests you most.  You will not be disappointed with Italy! Have so much fun!

Is Planning Overwhelming?

If this is all overwhelming, I recently partnered with a Tour Guide Company called TravelStride that will plan your entire trip for you! If that sounds nice you can look through all of the tours they offer.

If you do not want your entire trip planned for you but would still like to do tours in each area Viator has some amazing options! 

Travel Italy

If you have   one week in Italy   it is possible to visit lots of cities.  We started in  Venice one of the most romantic Italian cities . A   Romantic Venice   getaway was perfect.  Then headed to   Florence ,  Pisa and Lucca , and   Siena .  After visiting Tuscany we headed to   Gaeta , Naples ,   Capri , the   Amalfi Coast , and   Pompeii .

If you are looking for another   reason to visit Italy   or some great  Safety Travel Tips for Italy,  be sure to check out my other posts.

Facebook Community

If you have any questions be sure to join my   Facebook Travel Community     This great community can help answer any questions you may have about your upcoming trips. Plus, I try to add any great deals or promotions that companies send me!

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74 Comments

Such great info! I’d love to go to Italy. It’s always been in the back of my mind, but I started thinking about it even more when I had an exchange student from Italy on my speech team last year. Hopefully, I’ll get there someday!

I love reading books about the areas that we will betraveling too. It is great to learn about local customs.

I agree! I don’t want to do something wrong!

I’m mostly a Rick Steves travel guide person when it comes to Europe but I also have delved into Lonely Planet on occasion. I personally just love reading about and traveling to Italy.

I am huge Rick Steves. I love detail!

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What a great idea. I used to love going to Barnes and Noble before a trip and browsing the travel books. Love it!

I love Barnes and Noble too!

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Our family loves the Lonely Planet books as they have some great ones for children too. I’ll be saving this post to come back to when we visit Italy someday. Thanks for the recommendations!

Oh good. I need to get a few lonely planet books.

These are some great books. Personally, I am a Rick Steves fan. I love following his FB page too.

I am a huge fan! His books and tours are so helpful!

I enjoy Rick Steve’s books too. Before our trip to Italy my grandson and I bought a book of common phrases in Italian and downloaded a language app. It was fun to learn a bit of Italian.

That is awesome. We did that when we went to Germany.

Great list of books! Italy has been on my bucket list for a long time! I’m excited to buy a few of these! Thank you!

Oh good! I hope to be really prepared the next time I go!

I get so excited when it’s time to buy a travel book and start planning a trip! I usually scan a variety of books at the local bookstore, but then usually go with Rick Steves when going to Europe. We often use Lonely Planet for travel to Central and South America. They are great for identifying smaller not-to-miss places, like the best place for ice cream, best place for music, etc.

That is awesome! Finding the hidden gems!

This is an awesome resource! Hoping to get to Italy sometime in the next few years. I love books by Rick Steves and think he makes great recommendations!

His food recommendations are amazing!

Thanks for sharing! I love reading books about places I want to visit before going.

It makes it so much better for me to know what there is to do in each place.

So many great travel book suggestions. I’ve yet to visit there but definitely on my list.

It is a great country. I plan to go back few more times!

What a great post! Such useful information and I agree, Rick’s books are great!

They are great! Thanks!

What a comprehensive list! Let the planning and dreaming begin!

Exactly, a great place to start when planning trip to Italy.

Great list of books! I will know everything there is to know about Italy!

I think my favorite part from Rick Steves is food recommendations. Amazing!

Great ideas! My son and daughter-in-law are planning to go to Italy in May. I will share this with them. I love the photos! Thanks for the great book reviews!

May is a perfect time to go to Italy! We went a few years ago! So beautiful!

Venice is my favorite city in Italy. I want to spend a month there when I retire.

I know I want to spend a month in Italy too!

These trip planning books seem like they’d make planning a trip to Italy a lot less overwhelming. Thanks for sharing!

It makes the trip so much easier!

I would love to go to Northern Italy. I love how these books are broken down into smaller regions!

If I was visiting just one city, I think it would be better to just get that book.

Thank you for the suggestions. I would love to travel to Italy, and when I do, I will surely get one of these books. Thanks for the recommendations.

They are super helpful!

I have never heard of Rick Steves books… but I definitly have a small collection of Lonely Planet books for various locations! I love travel books and may have a small addiction LOL. We are hoping to go back to Italy someday, as the kids have only been to Hubby’s hometown, and need to see some of the larger cities.

Rick Steves is master of Europe. He gives great advice.

These are really excellent sources of information!

What a great list of resources. A jam packed post for sure. Thanks for the information.

Good place to start planning a trip,

Good to know what travel books are worth it!

What a great, comprehensive list of travel books for Italy! I would love to page through all of them! 🙂

Me too! I am the ultimate planner!

Thanks for this great list of resources for traveling to Italy! I’m bookmarking this post so I can refer back when I finally get to book that dream trip of mine!

oh good! yes I hope you get to go soon!

I am a consummate planner when we travel. Have never thought about guidebooks. I may just have to add them to my repertoire.

It was very useful in Europe!

I’ve spent quite a bit of time over the distancing reading and researching Italy – cannot wait to travel there in the future!

I love how you include transportation. I have no plans to travel right now. Thank you for the information.

A transportation plan is important!

These are great books to use when I finally get to travel to Italy someday! Thanks for putting this together!

Hopefully, it helps!

What great tips! I can’t wait to be able to get to Europe again!

I know me too! I am planning an epic trip!

This is such a good idea – if you can’t actually travel yet, it makes sense to read about the places you plan to go!

Exactly, to me that is the fun part!

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So many great gift ideas. My daughter is dying to get to Italy, so I need to mark some of these as Christmas and/or gifts before we plan a trip.

Italy is wonderful. I am excited to go back.

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Best Places to Visit in Tuscany

J oin EuropeUpClose as we take a journey to some of the best places to visit in Tuscany. We will begin in Florence, then drive to San Gimignano with a stop at the fabulous Antinori nel Chianti Classico Winery. From San Gimignano we venture to the compelling town of Siena with its fantastic cathedral and famous horse races in the Palio. Another hour south and we’ll stop at Caparzo Winery near Montalcino before heading east to the beautiful hilltop walled city of Montepulciano.

Also read these articles on Tuscany:

• Best Tuscany Wine Tours
• Where to Stay in Tuscany
• Tuscany Holiday Planning
• Tuscany Itinerary

Visit Florence

Florence is a natural starting point to begin your journey to the best places to visit in Tuscany. Known for the imposing red-roofed Duomo and Michelangelo’s David in the Accademia, Florence is a mecca for art, food, architecture, and history. You don’t want to miss the Uffizi Museum, the Central Market, and Ponte Vecchio, the bridge across the Arno River filled with shops displaying jewelry, crafts, and other fun products.

Also, read these articles on Florence:

• Where to stay in Florence
• Best Florence Walking Tours
• Best things to do in Florence
• Best Day Trips from Florence

Florentine Bisteca

And, of course, if you are in Florence, you must try the famous Florentine Bisteca. It is often referred to as some of the best steak in the world. We were lucky to have reservations at Trattoria dall’Oste Chianineria on  Via dei Cerchi. Just a few minutes south of the Duomo, this iconic restaurant is well known for their Bisteca and other fine cuts of meat.

Florentines do like their steak rare, so be aware. You can order yours medium or medium rare, and it will most likely still come out very pink. One thing I liked about Trattoria dall’Oste Chianineria is that they brought out a hot plate along with the steak. That way, anyone who wanted their steak more done could cook it a bit more right at the table. Most of us ate it like it came, but there were a few in our party who preferred their steak more done. Sides included roasted potatoes, pasta with thinly sliced truffles, and some tasty bruschetta. For dessert, we completed our meal with a glass of Vin Santo served with tasty biscotti.

Wine Tasting and Lunch at Antinori Winery

With options of several great Antinori locations, we chose to tour the Antinori nel Chianti Classico vineyards just 20 minutes south of Florence. In a country where wine is a way of life, for twenty-six generations, the name Antinori has stood out.

We booked the special CRU Tour. This included a tour of the winery, a wine tasting of seven great wines, followed by a delicious lunch. This fully immersive experience featuring the wine-making philosophy of Marchesi Antinori following years of family tradition. Led by our outstanding sommelier, our tasting was held inside the fabulous wine cellar. Then we enjoyed lunch on the outdoor patio at the Rinuccio 1180 restaurant. This modernistic rooftop restaurant overlooks the gently rolling hills of the scenic Tuscan countryside.

Some of our favorite wines included a crisp Cervaro Della Sala Blend of Chardonnay and Grechetto and a Tignanello red blend of Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Cabernet Franc. The crowd favorite was the outstanding Brunello di Montalcino Pian Dellevigne Sangiovese. The following lunch on the beautiful outside terrance at Rinuccio made for a most pleasant day. This special vineyard among special vineyards in Tuscany is certainly worth a visit.

Explore the Hilltop Walled-Town of San Gimignano

After being totally wowed by Antinori nel Chianti Classico, we headed south to nearby San Gimignano. This was our third visit to this iconic Tuscan town – and we will be back again. No article about best places to visit in Tuscany would be complete without this idyllic town.

We stayed at the cozy Orto di Emma at Piazza delle erbe 4 . The location is conveniently in the middle of this walled city. Restaurants, spectacular views, and attractions are just a few steps away. Without any train station in town, most visitors come via personal car or with a tour group. There is a bus that comes from the closest train station (~ five miles away), but check the schedules.

Eat at Fuoriluogo Ristorante

Fuoriluogo Ristorante is a wonderful family restaurant just a two-minute walk outside the walls. In addition to having wonderful food, the service, the artwork, and the friendliness of Mauro, Davide, Enrica, Christian, and the rest of the staff are all top-notch. It’s no wonder Fuoriluogo is one of the highest-rated restaurants in San Gimignano.

Mauro was gone for important meetings with Barolo. He continues to work on the fine wines the restaurant offers to diners. In his absence, the rest of the staff did a superb job of welcoming us and making us feel so special. Our outstanding waiter, Rafael, kindly suggested a recommended menu along with wine pairings, and we were so glad we agreed to take his advice. Julie and I enjoyed a fantastic meal with just the right wines paired with each dish.

Favorites included the Wild Boar Ravioli with citrus fruits in a saffron cream sauce, and a delectable Soft Organic Egg with sausage, red peppers, and gorgovino mousse. We also both loved the pizza, some of the best I’ve ever tasted. The light, tender crust had just the right flavors to complement the fresh tomatoes, cheeses, and fresh herbs. For dessert, we could not resist the tempting tiramisu.  

In addition to the fantastic food and service, the artwork and ambiance of Fuoriluogo is superb. Davide is a wonderful artist and painted much of the beautiful artwork in the restaurant. The friendly staff, elegant but comfortable ambiance and outstanding food and drink make Fuoriluogo one of the top restaurants in San Gimignano.

Check Out Intriguing Siena

It was hard to leave San Gimignano, but we had Siena waiting for us. The charming walled city of Siena is famous for its beautiful cathedral and for the exciting Palio di Siena Horse Races held twice a year in the large central Piazza del Campo. We unfortunately just missed this exciting event. It normally takes place twice a year on July 2 and August 16 every year. Preliminary events take place the three days before the official race. Since this is a very popular event, plan early if you want to attend during the races.

Following lunch on the lovely outdoor terrace at ViVace Ristorante and Wine Bar , we walked the short 10 minutes to the beautiful gothic Siena Cathedral. This impressive structure was built between 1215 and 1267 and features artwork from artists like Michelangelo, Donatello, and Pisano. With its iconic greenish-black and white stripes, this historic icon is striking inside and out. Other great attractions in and around the cathedral include the Piccolomini Library, the Museo dell ‘Opera, Baptistery, Crypt, Oratory of San Bernardino, and Diocesan Museum of Sacred Art.

Drink Brunello Wines at Caparzo Winery in Montalcino 

With so many outstanding wineries around Montalcino, we picked Caparzo Winery to have a tasting and to explore. My new daughter-in-law became acquainted with Caparzo while watching the fun Letters to Juliet movie from 2010. There are some scenes in the movie from one of the many Caparzo winery locations in Tuscany. We thoroughly enjoyed our tour and tasting at Caparzo Winery, especially their world-famous Brunello di Montalcino. An added bonus was the spectacular scenery on our road trip from Montepulciano to Caparzo. Located in the picturesque hills of Montalcino, with fields of red poppies next to golden fields of wheat blowing in the breeze. 

Eat and Drink your Way through Montepulciano

So, after visiting the walled cities of San Gimignano and Siena, we had another walled hilltop city on our itinerary: Montepulciano. Our return to this fantastic village was equally full of great food, wines, views, history, and special people of the town. This very walkable small town is anchored by the Grand Piazza, and is famous for its Vino Nobile red wines . Another notable landmark includes the Torre di Pulcinella. This clock tower is topped by the whimsical figure of the Pulcinella, a classical comedic character. 

We also found the “underground city” of this hill town fascinating. Miles of tunnels, rooms, and cellars have been carved into the rock underneath Montepulciano, making for a fun and educational tour. We went to the popular Cantina Ercolani for a tour and wine tasting. Other popular wineries in Montepulciano include Cantucci Winery and Cantina de‘Ricci. 

Eat at L’Altro Cantuccio Ristorante

L’Altro Cantuccio Ristorante is a fabulous family-run restaurant just a few minutes’ walk from where we stayed at the lovely Montepulciano Bed & Breakfast at Via Di Gracciano. Chef Mattia Putzulu and his lovely wife, Monica, a Sommelier, have created one of the best dining experiences in Montepulciano. L’Altro Cantuccio exudes old-world charm. Modern appointments along with the historic stone, wood, and brick is the perfect blend of old and new. 

Mattia and Monica graciously hosted us for an extremely memorable evening. For starters, we enjoyed an outstanding Tuscan and Cinta Senese salami, Pecorino cheese of Pienza, and a selection of homemade fruit mostarda. Our server also brought a stuffed golden tomato held by a sculpted hand along with an excellent 100% Sangiovese wine. 

For my main course, I had the Cheek of Chianani Beef cooked for 50 hours, with spicy vegetables, citrus fruits, and dill. The beef cheek was extremely tender and flavorful. It was one of my favorite dishes during our three-week visit to Europe. My wife had the equally excellent grilled Chianani flank steak. Other enticing mains on the menu included the Lamb with ember, coconut, mint, and radish, and a crispy salt cod with artichokes and burrata cheese.

Dessert was the amazing Underworld, an artistic and decadent concoction of chocolate mushrooms, acorns, and undergrowth – a true masterpiece! Each bite brought out the intense flavors of chocolate, cream, and nuts. I would loved to have brought one back to the states to share with family and friends, but I don’t think it would travel well (plus, I would probably eat it all before our return!).

L’Altro Cantuccio has deservedly earned its reputation as one of the top restaurants in Montepulciano. Do yourself a favor, and let Mattia and Monica treat you to a fantastic dining experience in their lovely hilltop restaurant.

Discover Top Places in Tuscany For Yourself

Obviously, there are so many great places to visit in Tuscany that no one article can capture them all. Many are relatively unknown and just waiting for you to discover them. We hope by introducing you to just a few of the many options you will be inspired to come visit for yourself. Tuscany is indeed one of Italy’s treasures and should not be missed on any Italy itinerary .

Best Places to visit in Tuscany was written and photographed by Scott Kendall for EuropeUpClose. Thanks to our gracious hosts, including Fuoriluogo Ristorante and L’Altro Cantuccio. All opinions are those of the author.

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7 of the best all-inclusive experiences to book this year, from a travel planner

• As a travel planner, my clients seem to be increasingly interested in all-inclusive trips .
• Some of my favorite luxury resorts are in Costa Rica, the Maldives, and Isla Mujeres.
• Cruises, group tours, and adults-only lodgings can also come with all-inclusive options. 

As a travel planner at Marvelous Mouse Travels , I know vacations are expensive — especially if you're looking to go somewhere this summer . But all-inclusive travel is often a great way to get the most value out of a luxury experience.

I've been on several all-inclusive vacations with my family, friends, and work, and I've helped other people book them in destinations around the world .

Here are some of the best all-inclusive experiences I'm recommending to my clients this year.

Try a split-stay vacation to see the best of Costa Rica.

Costa Rica is one of the most sought-after vacations , and for good reason. It's great for both relaxation and adventure.

I recommend booking a split stay, starting at an all-inclusive resort in Guanacaste near the beach for some fun in the sun and moving to a resort near the famous Arenal Volcano for a jungle adventure.

Some of my favorite resorts in Costa Rica are the Westin Reserva Conchal and the Dreams Las Mareas. And if you're looking for an even more unique experience, check out the glorious swim-out suites with private pools at Dreams.

Baglioni Maldives is one of my favorite all-inclusive resorts.

The Maldives, a remote set of islands in the Indian Ocean, offers a plethora of resort options for couples and families, but Baglioni Maldives is my favorite.

For many in the US, getting to the islands can be daunting — there are very few direct commercial flights, and it can take almost an entire day. But it's hard to beat the country's luxury accommodations and gorgeous landscape.

The Maldives also has some of the most beautiful marine life and coveted spots for snorkeling and scuba diving.

No matter where you go, overwater bungalows are the ultimate all-inclusive splurge.

Overwater bungalows — villas standing on poles over open ocean water — are prevalent at all-inclusive resorts in destinations like the Maldives, Fiji, and Bali.

But I've also come across the luxurious accommodations at select adults-only Sandals Resorts throughout the Caribbean.

I think having a private villa on the water is the perfect way to unwind and relax.

Adults-only vacations are on the rise.

Traveling with kids can be a blast, but I also think it's important for adults to take a much-needed break on their own.

Adults-only resorts have been a total respite for me and my husband after hectic months of juggling work with our kids' school and sports schedules.

If you're looking to unwind with a partner, relax on a girls' trip, or even connect with your adult children, there are countless adults-only, all-inclusive resorts to choose from, depending on where you're looking to visit.

Some properties, including Sandals and Beaches Resorts, also offer butler service. Designated staff members can help with anything from room requests and dining reservations to cabana rentals and transportation coordination.

I upgraded to the service at my favorite adults-only spot, Le Blanc Los Cabos, and I felt totally pampered.

Isla Mujeres is pure luxury.

Isla Mujeres, a small island off the coast of Cancún, is known for its crystal-clear, turquoise water and peaceful vibe. It's also home to Playa Norte, one of the best beaches in Mexico .

Impressions Isla Mujeres by Secrets is a gorgeous all-inclusive resort on the island. It offers luxury at its finest, but with only 125 rooms, it has a boutique feel.

One of my favorite features of the resort is the waterslide that leads right into the beautiful ocean.

There are plenty of all-inclusive packages at sea.

Cruising is one of the most popular vacations , whether it's an epic adventure on a Royal Caribbean Cruise, a couples-only journey on Virgin Voyages, or a regal tour of Europe on Viking River Cruises.

Although cruises aren't traditionally considered all-inclusive, with the right booking, they can have the same feel as a luxury resort.

Most cruise bookings include food, nonalcoholic drinks, and live entertainment. If you add beverage packages and excursions in advance, your trip should be fully paid for before you depart.

Book a small-group or private tour if you're looking for adventure.

Group travel is a great way to explore new places while soaking up culture and history.

Popular destinations include Italy, Japan, Costa Rica, and Alaska, and many travel companies take care of everything for you, essentially making it all-inclusive.

I like Adventures by Disney , which offers small-group travel all over the world facilitated by seasoned guides. All the trip details are taken care of, including experiences, food, lodging, and transportation.

Additionally, Kensington Tours offers luxury private travel where every facet of the trip is meticulously planned for you.

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