Under the Tuscan sun, for many, is the embodiment of all that is Italian. But, even wandering aimless, looking for things to do in Italy, its clear to see that off the beaten path there waits a treasure trove of natural beauty. Landscapes of sleepy hill towns and cypress trees or grandstand views over terracotta roofs to the Mediterranean Sea inspire the simple pleasures of ‘la dolce vita’. But you won’t be able to experience this unless you have a U.S. Passport so be sure your passport renewal is in order.

Where Is Italy?

The ‘boot’ defines the shape of this southern European peninsula. Several islands, including the largest, Sicily and Sardinia, make up this territory. The locations that create landscapes are factors that determine the climate. High elevations of the mountains are cold and snow covered. The coastline is generally warm and dry and low-lying valleys are hot in summer. North is humid, but temperate. The quintessential Mediterranean meteorology graces southern regions.

Lake Bolsena

At the heart of Italian life, in the central portion of the boot, you can see the real picture of small town living with big city life at arms reach. Celebrating the little things is seen at Lake Bolsena where nature is celebrated at harvest in the piazza with music and dance.

Italian Cuisine

The anticipated castle, cobblestones and flowerpots decorate Italian countrysides. The charm of medieval streets winds down to the lakeside where fishermen haul in fresh, local dining in the “catch of the day” in pike, eel and perch. Italian cuisine is among the most popular, desired and emulated in homes and restaurants worldwide.

Villages

Small, storybook villages dot the hillsides, looking down at grand villas with arbors, heavy-laden with wisteria blossoms. At dusk, as the lights come on,the hillsides are alive with the magic of what appears to be a fairytale dusting of twinkling stars. The natural beauty of the countryside surpasses any typical sightseeing venture.

Bisentina Island

With your U.S. Passport, you can enjoy each unique village. Many present a private swatch of beach and diverse water activities. And each village has a story. A visit to Montefascione Inn will relay a historic event about a famous wine from a local vineyard. A German bishop was on a journey from Augsburg to Rome, when he stopped in Montefascione and after tasting the wine, never left. Be sure you have your passport renewal so you don’t miss out.

Bagni Di Lucca

Bagni di Lucca is off the beaten path near Tuscany. Twenty miles down the road is one of Tuscany’s great art cities. The Pisa or the Mediterranean coast beckons one-hour away and Florence within two. Winter snow invites skiers at Abetone, roughly 30-miles away.

The Fashion Capital

Milan is the couture capital of the world with Rome ranking fourth. Fashion sophisticates have the opportunity of seeing the clothing that graced the catwalks in Milan. In similar fashion, Italian cuisine is ranked numero uno worldwide. When in Rome, do as the Romans do. Italian menus bring their renowned specialties to the table with pasta, pizza, lasagna, gelato, tiramisu, cannoli and popular espresso’s.

The Italian lifestyle is rich in historical culture, with a reputation for being the best in many venues but you can’t enjoy without a pasport. Fashion,food, architecture, the arts or simply enjoying the view are avenues to pursue for things to do in Italy. The wanderlust that entices you to the Old World charm of Italy’s passion for the past will make you feel right at home so get your expedited passport renewal and you can be on your way.