The Best of Italy from Milan to Sicily

Think perfect countryside views, think beautiful beaches, and think ridiculous amounts of Mediterranean food; it can only be Italy! The must-see European country is hot on most people's bucket lists. And while it might be tempting to fly to one place and stay there for a few weeks, the only way to really experience this fabulous country is by picking up an Italy Car Rental and exploring at your own leisure. You can see the country in your own time, and really take in the best of Italy. Drive through small lanes of rural countryside, vast roads in metropolitan cities, cobbled streets in ancient villages and towns, and clifftop roads along Italy's gorgeous coastline.

From Milan to Sicily, here's the best of Italy:

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National Park of Abruzzo

Located two hours east of Rome, the National Park of Abruzzo is a relatively unknown region of Italy, but is one well worth exploring. Drive through the small towns of Lazio and Molise and through the mountainous landscape of the national park. The towns and the parks are still very traditional in this region, and are an important home to many unique creatures, such as the Italian wolf and the Marsican brown bear. Hike through the forest and feel completely cut off from the rest of the country and at one with nature. From here you can take a day trip to the Trabocchi coast.

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Sicily

Most of Sicily's stunning landscape can only be seen by car. Spend at least two weeks driving to vineyards and historic ruins, including Greek theaters and temples, and onto sunny beaches and volcanic mountains. Experience the true Mediterranean culture of Sicily by starting your road trip in Palermo, and discovering the region's incredible ancient history.

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The Italian Riviera

Full of glorious seaside towns, such as Cinque Terre and Portofino to name a few, the Italian Riviera is one of the most picturesque vacation destinations in Italy. Expect to try delicious regional cuisine that is unlike the rest of Italy, which can usually bought from the famous markets of the region such as the open air markets in Ventimiglia. Summer is a great time to visit if it's beaches you are looking for, although winters and autumn months can also be warm, with plenty of things to do.

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The Amalfi Coast

Rated as one of the best road trips in Europe, the Amalfi coast drive is beautiful but is not, however, for the faint-hearted. Expect to drive on 200-foot-high cliffs with drops that look straight down into the sea. To make the most of this spectacular coast line visit both the carefully positioned port towns and villages that cling to the cliffsides, as well as the lush forests and well-marked trails that are excellent for hiking. Enjoy delicious fresh seafood and extraordinary wines. The coastal roads can also get very busy during the height of summer, so visit out of season if you can.

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Milan

In just a couple of days you can enjoy the cultural and industrial powerhouse that is Milan. Famous for its fashion and design exports, the history of art and design in Milan runs deep. Home to one of Europe's biggest fair-trade complexes, the city is a thriving mix of classic Italian art and culture alongside the speed and exhilaration of modern life and bold couture fashions. Visit the Duomo, the city's central Gothic cathedral and try to catch an Italian football match if you can, the fans are extremely passionate about their sport here and it is a cultural experience you will never forget!

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Northern Sardinia

Probably the most iconic area in Sardinia, Northern Sardinia includes Italy's Emerald Coast, the snow-capped mountains of the Gennargentu National Park and central Sardinia's largely unexplored interior. With fervent traditions, the Sardinian people are both welcoming and proud of their heritage, while the region is great for outdoor adventurers and beach bums (Sardinia boasts some of the best beaches in Italy). Sheep own the land and the roads, all four million of them, so watch out and expect to stop a couple of times to giggle at them wiggling across the road.

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Tuscany

Imagine fields and fields of beautiful wineries, vineyards, olive trees, iconic villas and plenty of wine and food, and you have the inspirational Tuscany. Every town and village is picture-perfect, from Florence to Sienna, and the countryside of blissful olive groves, vineyards and wheat fields, such as the Chianti Classico region, are out of this world to drive through. Enjoy a peaceful few weeks exploring the region, making day stops in its endlessly appealing rustic wineries, medieval villages and historic cities.

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Salento Peninsula, Puglia

One of the most rural parts of Southern Italy, the Salerno Peninsula is one of the most untouched and romantic places in Italy. It may be slightly more rugged than some of the other regions on this list, but for a true sense of Italian life, real local food, and almost empty beautiful beaches, it is the only place to visit. While it is becoming more popular, and parts are being built up, you can still find old original buildings full of character and restaurants with locals in. Make sure you drive to Gallipoli for its history and 16th century architecture.

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Escape to the Best of Italy with Help from Auto Europe

When you're ready to embark on a journey through Italy's best destinations from Milan to Sicily. Get your vacation started today and give Auto Europe a call at, 1-888-223-5555, to set up your upcoming reservations for  international airfare, discount hotel accommodations, and Car-2-Europe leases with Peugeot-whatever you travel needs may be, Auto Europe is here to assist.