The Best Tourist Destinations to Visit Italy by Car

A road trip is an experience to have at least once in a lifetime, and Italy is certainly an ideal country to discover on the road. Visiting Italy by car allows you to discover its countless villages, marvel at every turn for spectacular views, and visit unique destinations, some far from the tourist hustle. Today, we will guide you through some of the best destinations for an unforgettable car journey, focusing particularly on Lazio, Puglia, and Sardinia, regions where we can offer our services.

Lazio by Car: Between History and Culture

• Tivoli Located just 30 kilometers from Rome, Tivoli is a city rich in history and cultural heritage, known for its Villas. The most famous is Villa d'Este, a charming Renaissance complex with its gardens and monumental fountains.
  
• Villa Adriana, located in the picturesque city of Tivoli, is an extraordinary archaeological site that narrates the grandiosity of the Roman Empire. Built by Emperor Hadrian in the 2nd century AD, this vast imperial residence is a stunning example of Roman architecture and engineering.
  
• Villa Gregoriana, hidden among the gorges and waterfalls of Tivoli, is a true natural paradise combining landscape beauty and artistic architecture. This complex of gardens and parks was created in the 19th century to preserve the area's ecosystem and to celebrate the beauty of nature. The villa also hosts the Temple of the Sibyl, an ancient building adding a touch of history and mystery to the surrounding environment.
  
• Sermoneta This picturesque medieval village is located in the province of Latina and is known for its imposing castle, the Caetani Castle. The cobblestone streets, ancient walls, and charming squares make Sermoneta a delightful place to explore. From the castle, you can admire a spectacular panoramic view of the surrounding countryside.
  
• Tarquinia Located on the Tyrrhenian coast, Tarquinia is famous for its well-preserved Etruscan archaeological sites. The painted Etruscan tombs in the Monterozzi site are one of the most important testimonies of Etruscan art. To learn about the history of this ancient civilization, the National Museum of Tarquinia is another place of interest to visit.
  
• Circeo National Park This national park extends along the Tyrrhenian Sea coast and is an ideal destination for nature lovers. It offers varied landscapes, including lagoons, sand dunes, forests, and pristine beaches. You can hike, observe migratory birds, and enjoy the crystal-clear sea of Sabaudia, the most beautiful in the region.
  
• Lakes of Bracciano and Bolsena Perfect destinations for a day trip. Lake Bracciano, located north of Rome, embraces the towns of Anguillara Sabazia, Bracciano, and Trevignano Romano. It offers clear waters and a tranquil atmosphere. Here, you can practice water sports, take a walk along the shore, or visit the picturesque village of Bracciano. Lake Bolsena, on the other hand, is the largest volcanic lake in Europe and offers sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. Its shores are dotted with charming towns like Bolsena and Montefiascone.

Puglia on the Road: The Land of Sun and Sea

• Ostuni Known as the "White City," Ostuni is one of the most fascinating destinations in Puglia. Its main feature is the historic center, with its intricate streets and traditional lime-washed houses. Explore the maze of alleys, discover Ostuni Cathedral, and enjoy the panoramic view from the top of the city. Ostuni is also famous for its delicious and authentic cuisine, with numerous restaurants offering local specialties such as orecchiette, broad beans, and wild vegetables.
  
• Polignano a Mare Located on a cliff overlooking the Adriatic Sea, Polignano a Mare is a small picturesque town with a unique atmosphere. Its winding streets and white houses overlook the crystal-clear waters, creating enchanted panoramas. One of the highlights of Polignano a Mare is the famous Lama Monachile beach, framed by high cliffs and accessible through a narrow gap between the rocks. Explore the medieval old town, visiting the Matrix Church and savoring an ice cream while enjoying the sea view.
  
• Monopoli Monopoli is a coastal city rich in history and natural beauty. Its suggestive port is an ideal place for a romantic walk along the ancient walls, admiring the colorful fishing boats and the crystal-clear waters. Monopoli Cathedral, with its Gothic facade and bell tower, is one of the city's main attractions. Don't miss the opportunity to also visit Carlo V Castle, an imposing fortress offering a panoramic view of the sea and the city.
  
• Alberobello Alberobello is a unique place in the world, famous for its trulli, conical limestone buildings. These extraordinary architectural structures have been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Walking through the streets of Alberobello, you will feel as if you have entered a fairy tale world. You can visit the Sovereign Trullo, the largest and oldest trullo in the city, which has been transformed into a museum. Discover local crafts and savor traditional Apulian cuisine in one of the many characteristic restaurants.
  
• Bari The city of Bari is the capital of Puglia and offers a fascinating combination of history, culture, and modern life. Its historic center, known as Old Bari, is a labyrinth of medieval streets, Romanesque churches, and crowded squares. The Cathedral of San Sabino and the Basilica of San Nicola, which houses the relics of Saint Nicholas of Bari, are places of great historical and religious interest. Don't miss a walk along the promenade, known as the Nazario Sauro Promenade, with its traditional fishing boats and taste one of the delicious fish dishes in the local restaurants.

Sardinia: A Stunning Italian Island

• Alghero Located on the northwest coast of Sardinia, Alghero is a city with a unique history. This town has been influenced by Catalan domination, reflected not only in its architecture but also in the spoken language. Explore the old town, surrounded by medieval walls, and lose yourself among the cobblestone streets. The city is also famous for its sandy beaches and the promontory of Capo Caccia, offering a spectacular view of the sea.
• La Maddalena Archipelago National Park Located off the northeastern coast of Sardinia, the La Maddalena National Park is a protected natural area that includes a group of islands and islets. This archipelago is famous for its crystal-clear waters, white beaches, and hidden coves. You can explore the archipelago by boat or kayak, admiring the natural beauty and snorkeling to discover the rich marine ecosystem.
• Cagliari The capital of Sardinia, Cagliari, is a city rich in history and culture. Located on the southern coast of the island, Cagliari offers a fascinating mix of ancient archaeological sites, medieval streets, and vibrant neighborhoods. Visit Cagliari Castle, a medieval fortress located on a hill offering a panoramic view of the city. Explore the Marina district, with its restaurants and bars, and admire the imposing Santa Maria Cathedral.
• Costa Smeralda The Costa Smeralda is a renowned tourist resort located on the northeastern coast of Sardinia. This area offers some of the island's most beautiful beaches, with white sand and crystal-clear waters. Enjoy the sun and the sea in locations like Spiaggia del Principe, Cala di Volpe, and Liscia Ruja. The Costa Smeralda is also famous for its exclusive resorts, golf courses, and luxury restaurants, offering an unforgettable holiday experience.
• Porto Rotondo and Porto Cervo Located in the Costa Smeralda region, Porto Rotondo and Porto Cervo are charming seaside resorts, known for the influx of international celebrities. Porto Rotondo is characterized by an elegant marina and beautiful beaches, such as Ira Beach and Sassi Beach. Porto Cervo is famous for its exclusive nightlife, high-fashion shops, and gourmet restaurants. Both resorts offer the opportunity to enjoy the luxurious lifestyle of the Costa Smeralda and admire the luxury boats and villas along the coast.