No. 10. BOLOGNA:
Nicknamed "La Feta Bologna" (fat Bologna), it is known as one of the most famous culinary cities in Italy. In Medieval time it was one of the arch-rivals of mighty Florence, and to show their might and to distance them self from Florence all houses in Medieval time were built by brick, and not by stone as in Florence. The city is also known as home of the oldest University in Europe.
Mario's pic: try Mortadella Salami sandwich, the pride of Bologna
No. 9. LUCA (Tuscany):
Established by Etruscans, developed by Romans, and forgotten during the Medieval time, it is one of the prettiest towns in Tuscany surrounded by Renaissance walls which are used for jogging and walk.
Mario's pic: visit Piazza Amfiteatro built on the base of the Roman amphitheatre, and view the circular shape of the houses.
No. 8. TAORMINA (SICILY)
Located on the Eastern shores of Sicily, it is considered as one of three oldest cities in Italy, built by the Greek settlers in 7th BC. and later developed during the time of Ancient Rome. Visit the Greek Theatre is a must.
Mario's pic: Ride to Mt. Etna, and then a cable car to the slope of the volcano with amazing view over the Eastern shore of Sicily.
No. 7. ALBEROBELLO:
A unique small town in Puglia Region in Southern Italy, facing the Adriatic Sea it is known by its Trulli Houses with unique construction of their roofs. It is worth to stay for almost a day following the endless narrow streets filled with white washed houses with traditional souvenir shops.
No. 6. SAN GIMIGNANO:
Named the most beautiful "small town" in Italy, and known by its 11 towers which could be seen from the distance. Enter the city walls, and enjoy the walk through the labyrinth of narrow streets.
Mario's pic. Wild Boar salami sandwich is a must.
No. 5. VENICE
Known as the "Floating City of Italy", could be discovered on foot or even better with Vaporetto, a kind of water tram. Do not forget to sit at Piazza San Marco and enjoy the view of basilica and Campanile listening the live Baroque music.
Mario's pic: renting a gondola for a ride through the canals is a must
No. 4. CINQUE TERRE (Ligurian Coast)
A group of five small towns (villages) nestled on the water and slopes of Ligurian Sea. Great local cuisine and Pecorino Cheese. Best time to visit from May until October.
Mario's tip: visit the village of Varnazzo is a must
No.3. VERONA:
Known as Roman Metropolis, nicknamed as "city of love" and best known by Juliet Balcony.Today is is one of the most relaxed cities in Italy and known as the capital of classic music.
Mario's pic: visit Casa di Julietta, to see famous balcony.
No. 2. SIENA (Tuscany)
Once the arch-rival of mighty Florence, which was the centre of art in 12th and 13th century, surrounded by mighty walls and towers.It is known as the home of Palio horse race which is held on the city's main square where ten Contrades race for the glory of the Tuscany.
Mario's tip: attend a four hours culinary workshop at Cucina di Lela.
No. 1. FLORENCE:
The World's Capital of Renaissance, the Cultural Capital of Italy, the "cleanest Italian dialect", the Guardian of Tuscany, and the "safest city in Italy". City of: Cosimo Medici, Michelangelo, Giotto, Leonardo da Vinci, Botticelli, Donatello, Dante, and Lorenzo de Medici.
Mario's pic: visit Prada House to see which item they created as their first entrance to fashion world