5 Epic Reasons to Rediscover Italy

Thinking of where to go for your next European getaway? Here’s why Italy should be on top of your list!

When thinking of ancient ruins, dramatic mountain ranges, and world-class cuisine, countries like Greece, Switzerland, and France often come to mind. Yet Italy brings all of these experiences together, offering rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and unforgettable flavors — all without the need to splurge.

Here are five reasons Italy deserves a spot on your travel list.

1) Marvel at its unique architecture

Valley of Temples. Photo credit: Ministero Del Turismo

Italy is a treasure trove of architectural wonders, from ancient ruins to ornate cathedrals. If you're looking for a truly eclectic mix, Sicily stands out.

With influences from ancient Greek and Roman civilizations to Arab-Norman and Baroque styles, Sicily’s buildings reflect its rich and layered history. This vibrant blend comes from centuries of rule by the Greeks, Romans, Arabs, and the Byzantine Empire, each leaving their mark.

In fact, there are seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites on the island itself! Here are some must-sees:

Villa Romana del Casale. Photo credit: L'Acqua e la Pietra via Facebook

Firstly, the Valley of Temples in Agrigento — one of the largest archaeological sites in the world, which features preserved Greek temples from sixth century B.C. Next, Villa Romana del Casale in Piazza Armerina has an impressive collection of Roman mosaics scattered on its walls and floors. 

Palermo Cathedral. Photo credit: Ministero Del Turismo

Then, there’s Arab-Norman Palermo, and the Cathedral Churches of Cefalù and Monreale. They consist of nine different landmarks like the Palermo Cathedral — a notable showcase of Arab, Norman, and Byzantine styles blending together in detailed structure and mosaics. 

Church of San Benedetto. Photo credit: Sito Storico Monastero San Benedetto via Facebook

Lastly, visit the Late Baroque Towns of the Val di Noto, where you’ll see buildings of grandeur with intricate ornaments and curved architecture — for instance, the Church of San Benedetto in Catania.

2) Explore epic natural landscapes

Lake Garda. Photo credit: Stephan Schollenberger via Unsplash

Italy is more than a destination for shopping. It’s also home to breathtaking natural landscapes. Why not venture beyond the city and soak in the beauty of three iconic Italian lakes?

Start with Lake Garda, the largest lake in the country. It spans 370km2 and is surrounded by many stunning villages and mountains.

Lake Maggiore. Photo credit: Gianluca Colombi via flickr

The second largest lake is Lake Maggiore, with an epic view of the Alps. It’s famous for its deep blue waters, and you can even go island-hopping on a boat tour.

Lake Como. Photo credit: Julia Solonina via Unsplash

Finally, there’s Lake Como. It’s the third-largest lake in Italy and has a string of historic villas to visit along its shores. Or take the funicular up to the town of Brunate for panoramic views of the lake!

Scala dei Turchi. Photo credit: Valle Dei Templi

And if you find yourself in Sicily, don’t miss the chance to unwind by the sea. The island is home to some of Italy’s most stunning beaches, complete with picturesque natural formations.

Here are some iconic ones:

San Vito lo Capo (pristine white sands)

Scala dei Turchi (dramatic white cliffs)

Santa Maria del Focallo (long stretch of golden sand, surrounded by vast dunes)

3) Learn about its rich history and culture

The Colosseum. Photo credit: Gary Walker-Jones via Unsplash

Italy has history around every corner, from the ruins of ancient civilizations to the brilliance of the Renaissance.

While Greece is often celebrated for its historical landmarks like the Acropolis and the Temple of Athena, Italy offers equally impressive sites. In Rome, you’ll find iconic structures such as The Colosseum and The Pantheon, each with stories that span centuries.

The Colosseum, for instance, is the largest amphitheatre in the world. It once held over 50,000 spectators and famously hosted gladiator contests!

The Pantheon. Photo credit: @randyvanduinen via Instagram

The Temple of Athena was dedicated to the Roman gods, featuring the world’s largest unsupported concrete dome. It’s now transformed into the Church of Santa Maria, holding regular masses and religious services. 

Here’s an interesting nugget: The oculus, a circular opening at the top of the dome, is the Pantheon’s only source of natural light, with a sloped floor and drainage to manage rainwater! 

Uffizi Gallery. Photo credit: Gallerie degli Uffizi

For the more artsy travellers, Florence is home to many famous Renaissance artists like Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo. Drop by the Uffizi Gallery to find a vast collection of art pieces, sculptures and famous paintings like da Vinci's Annunciation.

4) Try authentic, delicious Italian cuisine 

Pizza Margherita. Photo credit: GIUSEPPE GRECO via Getty Images

For a taste of authentic Italian cuisine, head to cities like Naples and Treviso. Both are considered to be the birthplace of iconic dishes such as pizza and tiramisu, respectively.

In Naples, try L'antica Pizzeria da Michele. Founded in 1870, its 155-year-old history of traditional, handmade pizzas has earned it a spot on the famed Michelin guide. 

Fun fact: The restaurant only serves two types of pizza — Margherita (tomato and mozzarella) and Marinara (tomato, oregano and garlic)!

Le Beccherie in Treviso. Photo credit: @cuadernosdeviajebea2 via Instagram

Then, visit the best tiramisu shops in Treviso, as ranked by the Tiramisu World Cup Review (yes, it’s a real thing). Le Beccherie is said to be where the original tiramisu recipe was invented, while Camelia Bakery, and Gustolia were awarded Best Tiramisu of Treviso in 2022 and 2023, respectively!

Chianti wine from Tuscany. Photo credit: @borgodipietrafitta via Instagram

Wines in Italy stand out for their extensive history of winemaking, diverse native grape varieties, and distinctive flavour profiles. So, while you’re there, don’t forget to sip Italian wines straight from the regions they’re produced in.

Tuscany is well-known for its delicious red wines, especially those from the Sangiovese grape. Chianti has a fruity taste while Brunello di Montalcino has a rich, dark profile with hints of chocolate and spice — both easily available at the many wineries across the region.

Drying pasta in Gragnano. Photo credit: Consorzio di Tutela della Pasta di Gragnano

Of course, you can't visit Italy without trying its iconic pasta. Nicknamed the City of Pasta, Gragnano became famous in the 1700s for its “white gold”, or as we know it, macaroni. 

It has a long tradition of dried pasta-making thanks to its advantageous climate conditions and location between the mountains and the sea. Unlike usual pastas, Gragnano’s is made from durum wheat and spring water from the mountains, so it guarantees a good consistency and high-quality flavour! 

5) Admire its local craftsmanship and artisanship

Photo credit: Original Murano Glass via Facebook

Many people may not know this, but Italy is home to plenty of impressive local crafts, all deeply rooted in culture and history. 

One of its most unique products is Murano glass, produced in Murano — a Venetian island with a glassmaking tradition dating back to the 13th century. Back then, glassmakers had to relocate from Venice to Murano due to fears about fires from kilns. 

Photo credit: Original Murano Glass via Facebook

After centuries of honing the craft, the result is a beautiful, vibrant creation of glassblowing — ranging from items like jewellery to tableware, and even chandeliers! Pieces are also affordable, with necklaces and earrings costing around S$20 to S$30.

Photo credit: Musei App Perugia

Besides glass, Italy also boasts an incredible tradition of textile weaving. The capital city of the Umbria region, Perugia, is known for “Perugian Tablecloths” — significantly used as altar cloths in churches throughout central Italy.

These textiles feature intricate and unique designs, and are even used in the works of famed artists like Simone Martini and Giotto!

Photo credit: Villa in Umbria

On top of that, Deruta city in Umbria is also famous for its hand-painted ceramics, notably the majolica. It’s a type of white, tin-based earthenware with detailed patterns and vivid colours, originating from the Renaissance period.

The Deruta artisans keep the tradition alive by blending ancient techniques with modern designs, making each ceramic one of a kind. From mugs to table sets, and wall plates, you can grab a souvenir or two back home — with prices starting from S$15 to S$20, depending on the size!

Fly to Italy for a budget-friendly getaway in Europe!

The Colosseum. Photo credit: Spencer Davis via Unsplash

Whether you're admiring stunning architecture in Sicily, stepping back in time in Rome, or enjoying authentic pizza in its birthplace, Naples — Italy is a destination that truly has it all. Compared to other popular European getaways like France, Switzerland, and the UK, its lower living costs and efficient travel infrastructure make it easier to enjoy high-quality stays, meals, and cultural experiences without the hefty price tag often associated with Western European.

And, to make your trip even more affordable, here are some deals exclusively for UOB Cardmembers:

Qatar Airways: Enjoy up to 10% off flights until 30 September 2025.

EVA Air: Save up to 5% on flights until 31 December 2025.

Agoda: Take 12% off your accommodation bookings until 31 August 2025.

McArthurGlen Designer Outlets: Get up to 20% off shopping and shuttle bus packages until 31 December 2025.

Rentalcar.com: UOB Visa Cardmembers enjoy 10% discount on car rental bookings until 1 April 2026.

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