Savor "la dolce vita" - the sweet life - with an Italy vacation.

Stay in a magnificent Tuscan villa or home, living out your dreams in the Florentine Hills with easy access to the art and culture of "the cradle of the Renaissance." Revel in the sprawling vineyards, olive groves and forests in Chianti. Discover the Gothic treasures of Siena, or stay inside the walls of San Gimignano, known as the "city of beautiful towers."

Have an inspired adventure in Cortona, the breathtaking hillside town made famous by the movie "Under the Tuscan Sun." Or choose Arezzo as your vacation home base, perfect for touring both Tuscany and Umbria. The Maremma is a choice locale for accessing the sea and venturing along to Rome, Ostia Antica and Lazio.

In the Veneto region, travelers will find Venice to be one of the most romantic and mysterious cities on earth, whether sipping coffee in St. Mark's Square, admiring the richness of the Doge's Palace or visiting the famed villages of Murano and Burano.

Beyond Venice, the birthplace of Western civilization awaits. Rome, the "Eternal City" is a mecca of art, culture, faith and romance. From the diverse architecture and rich art, ancient monuments, exquisite views, tantalizing trattorias and lively nightlife - a stay in Rome offers a feast for all senses.

Eat...

Trattoria da Pietro (Piazza della Cure). Referred to as "the ultimate Italian family restaurant," and considering how serious the Italians are about their food, that's saying a lot. Expect to sample some of the best fare Tuscany has to offer.

Osteria da Giovanni (Rome). This gem, tucked away between Vatican City and Trastevere, offers big portions and intense flavors for remarkably little cost. The menu here is limited, but what is available is always cooked to perfection.

Play...

Palio de Siena. More than 50,000 people pour into the Piazza del Campo to witness neighborhoods battle for bragging rights in this famous horse race, held every July 2 and August 16.

Treno Natura (Siena). From spring to fall, explore the countryside on a steam-powered train. This relaxing trip on the "Nature Train" begins and ends in Siena with stops in Asciano and Monte Antico.

Gira d'Italia. The Giro is a three-week road bicycle stage race throughout Italy - the second most important stage race besides the Tour de France - held in May or early June. Pick a stage, a location, then sit back and watch some of the best riders in the world.

Explore...

St. Mark's Basilica (Venice). This is the most famous Venice church and a stunning example of Byzantine architecture. Inside the walls (and floor) are covered with mosaics. Entry to the church itself is free.

Colosseum (Rome). When in Rome, one must visit the Colosseum. The scene of many ancient gladiatorial battles once seated 55,000 - an ancient venue that has become the inspiration for many modern sports stadiums. Hours change depending on the season. Admission is about EUR10.

Doge's Palace (Venice). This landmark served as the senate house, administrative center, hall of justice and prison until the fall of the Venetian Republic in 1797. Now it serves as the most popular tourist attraction in Venice, a masterpiece on many vacationers' must-see lists.

Shop...

Via dei Tornabuoni (Florence). Much like Milan, the world's fashion capital, Florence is a focal point for high-end leather goods and trendy boutiques. And this elite shopping district is the best of the best, housing such names as Armani, Salvatore Ferragamo and Gucci's flagship store.

Mercerie (Venice). Along this compilation of narrow streets linking St. Mark's Square and the Rialto, you can find just about anything, from the latest designer fashions to antique books.

This is provided for informational purposes only. Endless Vacation Rentals does not endorse any of the resort activities, guides, vendors or service providers described. It is the individual’s responsibility to investigate the safety and suitability of any activity, and the credentials and fitness of any guide, vendor or service provider. Endless Vacation Rentals expressly denies any liability for engaging in any activity, and for using any guide, vendor or services provider, that may be mentioned or described in any Endless Vacation Rentals advertisement or publication. Additional fees and restrictions may apply to any activity or service.