Italy in Our Hearts: Why We Can’t Wait to Get Back Once The World Has Healed

COVID-19 has had a devastating effect on Italy, and as a travel editor that has personally spent a good amount of time touring the country, like my colleagues, I'm heartbroken. But I keep coming back to my happy memories of Italy: walking through historic sights like the Roman Colosseum, eating Cacio e Pepe while overlooking the Amalfi Coast, and taking a boat tour around Capri. And so, while we wait for the country and the rest of the world to heal, we at Oyster want to share why we can't wait to get back to Italy.


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Lake Garda in Northern Italy is stunning and a favorite (particularly for summer travel) destination, thanks to its mountain backdrop, restaurants serving top-notch seafood, and historic landmarks.

For one of the most striking panoramic views of Florence, including its medieval Ponte Vecchio ("Old Bridge"), head to Piazzale Michelangelo.

One of the hippest, most design-conscious hotels in Capri, J.K. Place Capri, offers a stunning view of the island from its outdoor lounge.

The Duomo, or Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, is one of the most impressive sights in Florence. The 13th-century structure allows for visitors to climb 463 steps to see the frescoes up close.

Finished in 1762, Rome's Trevi Fountain is the largest Baroque fountain in the city and a must-stop for most tourists. Visitors typically make a wish and throw a coin using their right hand over their left shoulder into the fountain.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the ancient Roman city of Pompeii was buried by the 79 A.D. eruption of Mount Vesuvius. Because the ash and pumice were so thick, the city was largely preserved underneath it.

No trip to Venice, Italy is complete without a ride on their famous gondolas -- which are used more for joyrides than actual transportation.

Arguably the best way to see the sophisticated island of Capri, off the Sorrento Peninsula, is by boat. Book a boat tour and don't miss sailing under the famous Faraglioni -- three towering rock formations that jut out from the sea.

Due west of Naples, the island of Sardinia is home to some stellar sandy beaches, thanks to its 1,150 miles of coastline. The small, sandy cove by the Grand Hotel Corallaro is an attractive option on the island's northern coast.

Located near the town of Siena, Castello delle Quattro Torra is a charming family-run bed and breakfast. It occupies a medieval castle and has only three rooms, including an apartment and a two-story tower room.

The region is well-known and well-loved for its vineyards producing delicious wine varietals such as Chianti. Travelers can stay at one of the many agriturismos for a farmhouse stay, many of which have their own vineyards, such as Agriturismo Fattoria Lavacchio.

Tuscany is also a popular for its thermal hot springs, located in public spaces and at high-end spa resorts. One of the most iconic luxury spa resorts is Fonteverde Tuscan Resort & Spa.

Close to the Sistine Chapel in Vatican City is St. Peter's Basilica, which is home to another work by Michelangelo, "La Pieta" statue portraying Mary holding Jesus.

The best art museum in Florence, Italy is the Uffizi Gallery, which is located next to the Arno River. It's home to many prominent works, including Botticelli's "Birth of Venus" and "Annunciation" by Leonardo da Vinci.

Fans of Michelangelo and Renaissance artwork should head to the Gallery of the Academy of Florence to see the masterpiece sculpture of "David" in person.

We'd argue a trip to the local pastry shop, cafe, or even train station market stall for cannolis, strudel, and pignoli cookies is a requirement for Italy tourists.

Restaurants display their tasty dishes outside to entice passersby; this Rome eatery is showcasing pizza, pasta, fresh bread, antipasto, and an Aperol spritz. Don't skip the seafood pasta in the Amalfi Coast, gelato in Rome, and Italian wine wherever you are.

A highlight of most Italy hotels and bed-and-breakfasts are the (typically free) breakfast buffets served each morning. Expect lots of tasty pastries and sweets such as chocolate croissants and apple tarts, plus other continental items and strong espresso.

Whether packing a picnic for the park or stocking your apartment-style hotel room with food, head to the country's ubiquitous markets for fresh veggies and fruit like tomatoes, artichokes, and lemons.

to the gondola drivers -- or gondoliers -- in Venice…

and the bakers at shops such as Pugi in Florence…

and those selling cute souvenirs to tourists…

and of course, the chefs serving up heavenly pasta. We can't wait to see you all again.


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