Italy trip | Beautiful self-drive through northern Italy

Located in Tuscany, Italy, about halfway between Livorno and Viareggio, the historic city of Pisa is known for its Leaning Tower of Pisa. However, visitors will discover that the city has much more to offer in terms of historical sights and architectural wonders. The iconic tower itself forms just one small part of Pisa's breathtaking Campo dei Miracoli. This spectacular, brilliantly white architectural ensemble comprises Pisa Cathedral, a masterpiece of Pisan Romanesque architecture, an impressive baptistery and the Campo Santo, a large, oblong Gothic monastery. Those a little further into the city will discover Renaissance-style squares full of lively cafés and bars, and vibrant street life dominated by relaxed locals rather than droves of tourists. Other highlights include the Tuttomondo graffiti artwork, some wonderful hot springs and the city's famous ice cream.

Italy, the country that has it all. From beautiful landscapes, a collection of art and architectural treasures, globally recognised museums a national passion for fantastic food and fine wines. But also olive groves, par-like lakes, volcanoes and snow-capped peaks. Dive into the clear waters of the Mediterranean Sea, visit markets with many stalls or experience the country's national parks. Enjoy Italian culture and "la dolce vita" (the good life)!

Beautiful Florence, the capital of the Tuscany region, is located in central Italy. It is a small city, but with a huge range of artistic and historical treasures. For centuries, travellers have flocked to the birthplace of the Renaissance movement to marvel at the abundance of grand masterpieces of architecture and art. Most important to any itinerary are Michelangelo's David, the awe-inspiring Botticelli works, the Uffizi (filled to the brim with pieces by Caravaggio and Da Vinci) and, of course, Brunelleschi's remarkable dome. But once these popular tourist favourites are ticked off, be sure to also take a stroll through the attractive Boboli Gardens or climb the hill to the church of San Miniato al Monte for a captivating view of this beautiful, enchanting city!

Turin, known as 'Torino' in Italian, lies on a picturesque stretch of the River Po and is surrounded by the towering peaks of the breathtakingly beautiful snow-capped Alps. This favourable location led the famous architect Le Corbusier to describe Turin as 'the city with the most beautiful natural site in the world'. Themes inextricably linked to Turin are design, innovation and, above all, delicious food! Its wide, stately boulevards, fascinating museums and elegant belle epoque cafés are the perfect place for travellers looking for a unique and authentic Italian experience, away from the hordes of tourists so often associated with Italian travel.

One of Italy's best-kept secrets, Lake Orta is also known as 'Cinderella' to locals, as it is underrated compared to its sister lakes Como and Maggiore. Entirely unjustified, as Lake Orta has a tranquil and mystical charm that has not yet been affected by mass tourism. In the lake is the small island of San Giulio, a medieval village with a beautiful old basilica.

The city of Cuneo, located in the Piedmont region of northwest Italy, is a hidden gem offering incredible sights and attractions for culture lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. The best place to begin is the historic city square, Centro Storico, home to buildings adorned with galleria arches, providing beautiful walkways lined with cafes and boutique stores. Other key sights include Piazza Galimberti, surrounded by historic architecture; the ornate church of Chiesa di Sant'Ambrogio; and the Museo Diocesano Cuneo - San Sebastiano, a gallery housing religious works. Outdoor lovers, meanwhile, can cycle and hike in Parco Fluviale Gesso e Stura or - for more of a challenge - try the peak of Colle Fauniera, which is reached after negotiating the tough Colle dei Morti (Pass of the Dead).

Santa Margherita Ligure, one of the most famous tourist resorts in Liguria, is considered the Pearl of Tigullio. This beautiful fishing village has a handful of historical sights worth seeing, but the main draw is its natural beauty and world-class amenities. The Basilica di Santa Margherita d'Antiochia is a small but opulent Baroque church that enters with dazzling gold leaf, frescoes, chandeliers and stained glass. Next door is the Villa Durazzo with royal flats, an art gallery and an Italian-style garden. See the seaside castle - built to defend against pirates - before strolling along the promenade past colourful buildings, gelato parlours, eateries and bars. Finally, Piazza Mazzini and the old town lie just behind the port, where you can see the mix of heritage and modern life.

'Piedmont' is a medieval Latin word that roughly translates to "at the foot of the mountains". This is obviously a very appropriate title for a region surrounded on three sides by the Alps, including the impressive snow-capped peaks of Monviso and Monte Rosa. Known for its excellent truffles, chocolate, risotto rice and wine, Piedmont is the food lover's dream with countless gastronomic spots to delight culinary enthusiasts with all kinds of tasty treats. The region offers perhaps one of the most picturesque landscapes in Italy with its beautiful vineyards, peaceful rice fields, intriguing medieval castles and green rolling hills.

Stretching along Italy's beautiful west coast, from the Umbrian border to the Ligurian Sea, Tuscany embodies the archetypal romantic image of Italy. For centuries, this exquisite wine region has had a magnetic effect on travellers attracted to the picturesque farms, endless olive groves and vineyards, painted churches and quaint towns that cling to the hills. Despite its reputation for pastoral bliss, the region has some impressive urban treasures to offer, including Siena with its sprawling Piazza del Campo; Lucca with its ancient walls; and, of course, Pisa with its famous leaning tower. However, nothing can match the endless cultural delights of Florence, where adventurers can get lost for days amid Renaissance artworks and countless architectural masterpieces. Tuscany offers a phenomenal combination of excellent wine culture, modern and historic city delights and breathtaking landscapes.

Located in the beautiful region of Liguria, the Italian Riviera is a crescent-shaped stretch of picturesque Mediterranean coastline with turquoise bays meeting rugged cliffs dotted with colourful coastal villages. The beauty of the region attracts visitors from all over the world. Enjoy panoramic views, relax and swim on picturesque beaches and sample local Italian Riviera cuisine. Don't miss this chance to explore the fishing villages of Cinque Terre, comprising the five incredibly picturesque villages of Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore; all of which fall within the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Cinque Terre National Park. Other highlights include the coastal town of Portovenere and the glitzy seaside resort of Portofino, with its designer boutiques and picturesque harbour. Other activities include hiking, fishing, shopping, kayaking and wine tasting.

Liguria is an idyllic seaside resort area sheltered by mountains and spread along Italy's northern coast. The region acts as a perfect introduction to Italy for land-based travellers coming from France and is known for its spectacular beaches, superb cuisine and alluring natural setting. Visitors will find well-developed centres like Riviera di Ponente and San Remo along the coast boasting numerous excellent hotels, spas and restaurants. For a quieter experience, head to the serene mountainous areas of vineyards and olive groves and several pretty, quaint fishing villages. Driving a few kilometres inland will reward travellers with alluringly un-touristy medieval towns. Significant cities creating the major drawcards of the region include Genoa, an enormous ancient port with an intriguing old town centre and a vibrant modern dockside district. Finale Ligure is the place for outdoor sports.

La Morra is a picturesque hilltop town with stunning views of the rolling vineyards, villages, castles and towers of the famous Langhe wine region, Piedmont in northern Italy. A stroll through La Morra will take you back in time with beautiful historical sights flanking its cobbled streets, such as the Church of San Sebastiano, the Torre Campanaria di La Morra and the Church of San Martino. Lovers of Italian cuisine can indulge in the city's many cafés, bars and restaurants. Nearby, you will find picturesque villages such as Annunziata, Berri, Rivalta and Santa Maria. The famous Barolo is also located near La Morra.

Gardone Riviera is located in the province of Brescia, in the Lombardy region of Italy, on the western shore of Lake Garda. Filled with luxury villas, belle-epoque hotels and beautifully maintained gardens, Gardone is a popular lakeside destination. Visitors can look forward to exploring the historic centre of Gardone Sopra with its quaint chapel, historic piazza and cobbled streets. The town serves as an excellent base to explore the picturesque surroundings, including a network of hiking trails; and San Michele, a picturesque mountain village. Don't miss a visit to the Heller Garden and Il Vittoriale degli Italiani, as well as boat trips on the lake.

On the picturesque Brescian shore of Lake Garda, the elegant town of Salò is brimming with historical charm. Its narrow streets and alleys reveal a rich history, from the Roman foundation to Venetian and Austrian rule. The town's historic centre unfolds along the shores of a picturesque inlet and offers stunning views from the panoramic lakeside promenade. Main sights include the Palazzo della Magnifica Patria and the late Gothic cathedral Santa Maria Annunziata, which houses precious works of art. Above it towers Mount San Bartolomeo, accessible via a panoramic path that leads to a picturesque church and breathtaking views of the lake. Salò's vibrant cultural scene, combined with its excellent restaurants, shops and weekly market, makes it a lively hub for visitors. The surrounding hills and Mediterranean vegetation, criss-crossed by hiking and cycling trails, offer endless opportunities for outdoor exploration and relaxation.