A themed vacation adds an exciting twist to travel. It infuses your journey with purpose and a deeper connection to the destination. Few places suit this approach better than Italy, where centuries of culture and history offer endless opportunities for discovery.
King Vittorio Emanuele II was the first king of unified Italy. Ascending the throne in 1861, he played a central role in unifying the states and regions that now form the modern Italian Republic.
Often referred to as one of the 'Fathers of the Fatherland,' his name is immortalized across the country in prominent squares and monuments. In this curated guide across four of Italy's most prominent cities, we explore the best of the country on a journey to discover art, cuisine, and Italian hospitality.
Along the way, travelers can enjoy elite experiences centered around wine tasting, fine art, and authentic cuisine. The 'Vittorio Tour' of Italy weaves through history and culture, starting from Milan, and then heading east to Venice before moving south to Naples, and concluding in Rome. From national monuments to world-class wine and art, every element offers travelers a well-rounded itinerary of culture and style.
Milan: Elegance in the Capital of Style
Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II stands at the heart of Milan. While it's somewhat overshadowed by Duomo di Milano next door, this architectural gem is filled with flagship boutiques, cafés, and mosaic-lined walkways. It captures the city's mix of style and substance.
Art lovers should visit Pinacoteca di Brera for Renaissance masterpieces or discover cutting-edge works at Fondazione Prada. La Scala Opera House provides a classic Milanese night out to discover some of Italy's best opera singers.
Wine bars like N'Ombra de Vin pair excellent pours with a lively atmosphere. Michelin-starred Seta and Il Luogo di Aimo e Nadia are deeply rooted in Milanese tradition, delivering cuisine that will make you express your appreciation in Italian.
Luxury hotels include the Four Seasons Hotel Milano, set in a former convent where the Penthouse Suite with a terrace suitable for alfresco dining awaits you. The tranquil Bulgari Hotel offers the Bulgari Suite, a haven of design with its private rooftop garden and expansive views.
While enjoying the cuisine and 5-star hospitality, be sure to also visit key landmarks like Arco Della Pace and Castello Sforzesco.
Venice: Grandeur Along the Canals
Venice, the famous city of canals close to the eastern border of Italy, faces the northern part of the Adriatic Sea. It has long charmed visitors with its waterways and gondolas. Directly opposite the 5-star boutique hotel Londra Palace, by the waterfront, you'll find the Monument to Vittorio Emanuele II.
It stands along Riva degli Schiavoni, about a minute away from Palazzo Ducale and the famous Campanile di San Marco tower. It offers a scenic spot to begin your exploration of Venice's rich past.
In addition to being the location of some of Venice's best-known landmarks, this part of the city is home to a vibrant market, so it is a good place to buy souvenirs.
After taking a gondola ride (or two), explore Renaissance art at Gallerie dell'Accademia or view modern masterpieces at the Peggy Guggenheim Collection. Intimate spots like Palazzo Grimani add another layer to Venice's cultural depth.
Wine experiences abound in Venice. Places like Vino Vero offer curated selections of natural wines. You'll find authentic Italian cuisine at Quadri on Piazza San Marco. For the icing on the cake, discover what makes Venetian seafood special at Antiche Carampane.
Stay at the Gritti Palace for historic grandeur. Its Hemingway Presidential Suite features canal views from 3 balconies and museum-worthy furnishings. The hotel is less than two minutes away from the imposing façade of Campo Santa Maria del Giglio.
Aman Venice provides palatial serenity in the Alcova Tiepolo Suite, with original frescoes and Grand Canal vistas.
Naples: Gateway to Mount Vesuvius & Pompeii
Naples is a city where history, culture, and indulgence meet against the dramatic backdrop of Mount Vesuvius and the Tyrrhenian Sea. The statue of Vittorio Emanuele II stands tall in Piazza Giovanni Bovio, surrounded by historic buildings and bustling piazzas.
The vibrant harbor along V. Francesco Caracciolo reflects the maritime heart of the city, where sleek yachts and traditional fishing boats share the same waters. The waterfront promenade has inviting cafés and views stretching across the bay toward Capri.
Speaking of Capri, it is perhaps one of the most alluring experiences from Naples. Departing from the harbor, travel to the island known for its elegance and beauty. The otherworldly light of the Blue Grotto is a highlight, while Capri's boutiques and eateries have the perfect setting for refined leisure.
No trip to Naples is complete without visiting the ruins of Pompeii, located just a short drive away. Walking through this ancient Roman city frozen in time offers a profound connection to history. While you're in town, be sure to visit crowd favorites like Palazzo Reale (Royal Palace of Naples) and Castel dell'Ovo (The Egg Castle).
Wine tasting in the Campania region completes the journey. The volcanic soil surrounding Vesuvius produces distinctive wines such as Lacryma Christi, celebrated for their depth and character.
Among Naples' top hotels, ROMEO Napoli stands out as a perfect blend of sleek design and elegance. Located in a Kenzo Tange-designed building, it's directly opposite Naples Port on Via Cristoforo Colombo. The hotel impresses with its glass-and-steel façade and curated contemporary art.
The hotel's rooftop features an infinity pool and bar with sweeping views of Mount Vesuvius and the Bay of Naples.
Rome: Legacy Amid Ancient Grandeur
Saving the best for last, the journey ends in Rome. The Eternal City honors Vittorio Emanuele II with Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II, the city's largest square, and the grand Vittoriano monument in Piazza Venezia.
While Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II shares common features like fountains and sculptures with other squares in the city, unlike the others, it is also a green space. Here, you'll find a variety of palm species, the ancient ruin of Trofei di Mario (Trophies of Marius), and the enigmatic Porta Magica.
Porta Magica is the only remaining gate of Villa Palombara, a grand residence occupied by mysterious alchemist Massimiliano Palombara.
The Vittoriano monument is one of the top landmarks in the city. Visitors can explore exhibits within it and ride the glass elevator to the rooftop for one of the best views in the capital of Italy. When it comes to ancient ruins, few cities can top Rome, so be sure to visit nearby favorites likes the Colosseum and the Spanish Steps.
Art lovers will enjoy nearby cultural treasures such as the Capitoline Museums and Palazzo Doria Pamphilj. Both house masterpieces spanning centuries of artistic evolution.
Rome's wine scene is world class. Sip Barolos and Brunellos at Enoteca Ferrara or Il Goccetto. La Pergola remains Rome's most acclaimed restaurant for fine dining, while Pipero Roma serves Italian cuisine with an exceptional wine list.
Top hotels include Hotel de Russie near Piazza del Popolo, where the Nijinsky Suite offers a private terrace and elegant living spaces. Portrait Roma, close to designer shopping on Via Condotti, features the Trinità dei Monti penthouse, which includes butler service and a wraparound terrace.
