It’s no secret that Italy offers some of the best food in the world. With so many iconic destinations and eateries available, a well-planned itinerary and flexible travel schedule will allow you to see Italy properly.
To maximise your experience, the best advice is to hire a car in Italy. Blessed with a strong set of well-maintained roads, you will be led to mesmerising coastlines, snowy peaks, historic towns, and delicious restaurants.
Once you’ve done your planning and picked up the keys, it’s time to hit the road and revel in the wonderful food Italy has to offer.
1. Naples
The third-largest city in Italy, Naples can be found in the southern region of the country. A two hour drive from Rome, the Bay of Naples is one of the most picturesque spots in the entire country.
Pizza is one of the world’s most famous foods and was born in Naples. This should be the only thing you’re eating here.
If you like your pizza classical, look no further than the margherita which was named after the Queen of Italy in 1889. Wherever you go for pizza, you can expect a stone oven crust, a sumptuous tomato base, fresh mozzarella, and a chewy texture.
2. Sicily
As the largest of the Italian islands, Sicily surrounds the Ionian and Mediterranean seas. With such a unique history, comes a unique cuisine.
Once you’ve settled into a restaurant, first up on the menu should be arancini – deep fried, crispy balls of rice with a meat sauce and mozzarella cheese filling.
If this doesn’t make you hungry, why not try the pasta alla norma – a rich combination of aubergine, tomato sauce, and ricotta.
3. Tuscany
One of the largest and most loved regions in Italy, Tuscany is famed for its landscape, heritage, and culture.
For those with an appetite, the famous Tuscan steak known as biscetta alla fiorentina is cooked over blazing coals and served with roasted potatoes and beans.
If you are sticking with beef, why not try the quirky lampredotto dish – a broth-soaked panini with a cow’s fourth stomach as it’s filling.
4. Stelvio Pass
Widely regarded as one of the most famous driving roads in Europe, Stelvio Pass is perfect for those who love an alpine view, breathtaking scenery, and exciting drives.
Travellers in the north of Italy can enjoy hearty, comforting dishes to keep warm. Restaurants offer flavoursome cheeses, prosciutto, and polenta -a soft and creamy corn dish. The bratwurst stands at the summit have also become a rite of passage for visitors.
5. Amalfi Coast
The Amalfi Coast can only be described as a natural and cultural wonder and by far Italy’s most scenic stretch of coastline.
If you’re looking for a break from pizza, the seafood scialatielli is a very popular dish in the area. Chefs use a long, square-sided spaghetti and the freshest fish straight from the water.
For those fascinated with Roman history and delicacies, you must try their ancient ndunderi – a gnocchi-based pasta which is served with tomato sauce, light walnut pesto and sautéed mushrooms.
6. Verona
Located near Venice, the historical flair of Verona is steeped with charm. Known infamously for being the backdrop of Romeo and Juliet, if you are looking to avoid tragedy, the flavoursome rissoto al tastasal is served with melt in your mouth grounded pork and lots of crushed pepper
If you are feeling brave, the horse-based dish known as bistecca di cavallo, dates back to the 5th century. Once seared, it is doused in a punchy tomato sauce, olive oil and chilli.
The Bottom Line
You can’t go wrong with dining out in Italy. These are just a few hot spots this amazing country has to offer.