Crowned as one of the most beautiful countries in Europe, Italy’s charm really is endless. Evoking visions of stylish cities, scenic coastline and quaint countryside, Italy holidays are full of romance, adventure, history, culture and more… not to mention the cuisine! Quite simply, when it comes to food, the Italians are true artists, so get set to say buon appetito as we reveal how to have an unforgettable food holiday in Italy. 

Whether you want to explore romantic Rome, cruise the canals of Venice, admire the alluring Amalfi coast, or wander the famous waterfront in Florence, Italy has something spectacular to offer everyone - and foodies in particular, will rejoice at the delicious delights waiting to be discovered!

Recommended reading: The UK's Best Food & Travel Blogs of 2019

WHAT TO EAT IN ITALY...

If there’s one thing to get excited about when escaping to Italy, aside from the striking sights and scenery that is, it’s the cuisine! After all, the Italians created pizza, pasta and gelato to name but a few, and for many holidaymakers jetting off to taste their favourite dishes where they were invented is a real bucket list moment. 

No matter if you’re on a city break, summer holiday or eating your way around the country, these authentic Italian foods are not to be missed!

• Pizza margherita

• Risotto

• Tiramisu

• Cicchetti

• Porchetta

• Lasagne

• Spaghetti carbonara

• Sfogliatelle

• Gelato

• Focaccia bread

WHERE TO VISIT...

NAPLES

Visit iconic Naples and embrace the true home of pizza! That’s right, this city is where one of our favourite dishes originates from and so it’s easy to see why Neapolitans take their pizza so seriously! Baked authentically on a wood-fire oven, bite into a fresh pizza and opt for traditional flavours like Marinara or Margherita to experience pizza the way the Italians intended.

For those who favour sweet flavours, you must try Sfogliatelle, a signature sweet treat. Head to Caffe Spaccanapoli to sample the popular pastry amongst other delicacies and pair with an espresso – a blissful way to start your morning, don’t you agree? 

When you’re not trying menus at an authentic Italian restaurant or cafe, Naples has a wealth of exciting sights to entice travellers, with palaces, cathedrals and museums all peppered across the city. A holiday to Naples also places you in a prime position to catch a ferry to the idyllic island of Capri or make the most of the nearby Amalfi Coast – bellissimo!

ROME

Indulging in a sweet scoop or two of gelato is a must when visiting Rome. As you stroll the Centro Storico and pass ancient sights like the Colosseum and the Trevi Fountain, do like the Italians do and stop for a cone at one of the colourful gelato parlours.

After a day spent sightseeing and shopping, head to the colourful district of Trastevere where you’ll find a labyrinth of streets laced with inviting dining spots. Whether you’re craving a bowl of Spaghetti alla Carbonara, Lasagne or one of Italy’s many other tempting traditional pasta dishes, you’ll find what you are looking for here.

A perfect city break destination for couples and friends alike, Rome is the only city in the world to feature an independent country within it – Vatican City – and so it’s no surprise that it’s world-famous. Showcasing breath-taking buildings, awe-inspiring art, incredible cuisine and more, Rome’s enigmatic energy and atmospheric streets promise a trip to remember. You are certain to leave craving more time to discover Italy. 

FLORENCE

VENICE

A city on the water, Venice has been capturing the hearts of couples for centuries - and with good reason. With an undeniable romance, artistic wonders and iconic waterways, the intriguing location is also home to Cicchetti – a selection of bite-sized-style appetisers you simply must try. From meatballs in rich, tangy tomato sauce to spider crab and salted codfish, think of Cicchetti as the Venetian take on tapas and order a platter with a glass of wine as you soak up your surroundings.

Nearby the Grand Canal and close to historical Rialto Bridge sits a vibrant open market where you can shop in the day for fresh fruit and veg alongside the locals and stop at quaint cafes for coffee and pastries. When the sun sets in Venice, enjoy an elegant evening over an aperitivo at one of the stylish bars, before treating yourself to a delicious dinner at a reputable authentic ristorante like Osteria di Santa Marina, La Zucca or Vecio Fritolin.

Located in the northeast of Italy, Venice is just a short flight from the UK and makes for a perfect weekend getaway. Spend your time gliding by gondola along the canals, seek out ancient palaces, grab a gelato and amble through St Marks Square, shop for souvenirs, or visit the Lido – the choice is yours!

Want to discover more amazing locations? Our guide about where to travel in Italy is a must-read in this case...

Have we given you enough food for thought about doing an Italian food holiday? Explore our top hotel deals and put yourself in Europe’s foodie central!