Rome

• Between the Vatican, ancient Roman ruins and the modern metropolis, Rome will require at least a week to see the city properly.
  
  

Venice

• Every corner of Venice has mystique. Photo by Richard Carriero
  
  Venice has the deserved reputation as Europe's most expensive city. But with its canals, bridges, narrow streets, plazas and countless churches, Venice must be seen.
  
  

Sicily

• Sicily is packed with ruins and countryside. Photo by Richard Carriero
  
  Sicily, a sun-washed Mediterranean island at the center of the ancient world, may enjoy the most multicultural heritage in the world. It's best appreciated by car.
  
  

Tuscany

• Tuscany may be the most picturesque Italian region; the countless farms and vineyards comprise a mecca for bikers and backpackers.
  
  

Italian Riviera

• San Remo, Cinque Terra and Genoa are Italy's glitzy counterpart to Cannes and Monaco--a region best visited not on a budget.