Summer in Italy – La Doce Vita

Are you in pursuit of La Doce Vita or the good life? I certainly am. In this pursuit, I feel that much of my doce vita comes through traveling. It could be as simple as sharing a bottle of Chianti with friends on the Spanish steps or sunning oneself on the pasture beneath Mount Etna in Sicily. Although, I have thoroughly enjoyed my travels through Italy, I must return. I know now that I only scratched the surface.

The post below features travel ideas from Monarch Airlines. I hope they whet your travel palate. Perhaps Italy is your summer destination for a taste of La Doce Vita? Enjoy! Divertiti!

Italy provides everything the traveler in Europe could want to satisfy their need for culture, sun, history and style, and of course, the exciting collision of ancient and modern. Here’s our pick of the top Italy city breaks, with a quick guide to the unmissable sites.

Milan

Known as the shopping capital of Italy, Milan will captivate you with its stunning beauty and energy. Take in the architectural wonders of the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II with its impressive variety of shops, restaurants and cafes. Filled with magnificent details and exquisite stained glass, Milan’s Duomo is the largest gothic cathedral in the world and a wonder to behold. Another extraordinary sight is Leonardo Da Vinci’s masterpiece, “The Last Supper”, located at the Convent of Santa Maria della Grazie.

Rome

With a wealth of ancient architecture, artwork and monuments, Rome is an exhilarating city to explore. Within Vatican City, St. Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel are noted for their surreal beauty and detailed artwork. For a unique view of St. Peter’s Basilica, travel to the top of Aventine Hill to the Piazza dei Cavalieri di Malta. Once you have reached the top, you will be directed to a small keyhole that offers a breathtaking view of Saint Peter’s Basilica.

The National Roman Museum, Galleria Borghese, Colosseum and Trevi Fountain are also notable landmarks to explore.

Venice

Venice delights travelers with its charming streets and romantic ambience. With numerous churches, squares and palaces, this is the perfect place to enjoy a leisurely stroll.

Saint Mark’s Square is a popular meeting place to relax at a sidewalk café and peruse numerous specialty boutiques.

Venetians specialize in a variety of seafood dishes that are sure to delight.

Consider touring the city by gondola, and enjoy shopping at the Ponte di Rialto which crosses the Grand Canal.

Verona

Well-known as the setting for Shakespeare’s endearing tale, “Romeo and Juliet”, Verona captures the very essence of romantic Italy. Visitors can visit Juliet’s balcony as well as her house and statue.

Enjoy sweeping views of Verona from the top of Lamberti Tower; the Arena di Verona and Piazza della Erbe are also fabulous places to take in the sights and sounds of Verona.

Monarch Airlines recently launched new Italy flights for 2012, and with numerous great deals available you will have the opportunity to experience more of Italy’s charms. To celebrate the launch of their new Italian flight destinations, Monarch Airlines has adorned the runway at London Gatwick Airport with 1000 square feet of beautifully detailed 3D artwork – worth a look!

***Guest post provided by Sam Baker, travel writer for Monarch Airlines, one of the best-established named in the British travel sector providing flights, holiday, hotels, and more.