Start by reading books about Italy. If you have never been to Italy, books about Italian history, cuisine and artwork are essential. Take a trip to your local library as a starting point. Many libraries carry books and DVDs about Italian culture.
Study the basics of Italian geography. Italy is a narrow country bordered by France, Switzerland, Austria and Slovenia. It is bordered by three bodies of water--the Adriatic Sea, the Ionian Sea and the Mediterranean Sea. To the north, you will find the Italian Alps. Greece and the island of Sicily are located to the south. The cities of Venice and Milan are the northern part of Italy. In the middle of the country, you will find the cities of Bologna, Florence and Rome. Further south lies Naples, Pompeii and the world famous scenic Amalfi coast. Knowledge of Italian geography is essential when planning any trip.
Decide which places and cities you would like to see. Venice, in the northeastern corner of the country, is famed for its canals, art and historic churches, such as St. Mark's Basilica in the center of the city. Verona, slightly to the west of Venice, has a perfectly preserved ancient Roman amphitheater where opera festivals are held each year. Milan, also to the north, is the center of Italian commerce and fashion. Florence was the center of the Renaissance and houses thousands of works of art as well as world-renowned Catholic churches. Rome is more than 2,000 years old and home to both well-conserved Roman ruins and the independent Catholic state of Vatican City. Naples and the Amalfi coast offer classic southern Italian cuisine and swimming in crystal-clear waters off towns filled with lemon groves.
Make your arrangements. Once you have decided where you want to go, create an itinerary. Book flights and hotels. Investigate transportation options. Look up restaurants in the cities where you would like to travel. Find out information about attractions. Many Italian attractions, such as the Vatican Museum, have websites with information about prices, daily operating schedules and nearby transportation options.
