Most scenic routes of Italy

Italy is a country renowned for its scenic beauty, with a diverse landscape that includes stunning coastline, picturesque countryside, and majestic mountain ranges. The best way to experience the beauty of Italy is by car, as it allows you to explore at your own pace and take in the views as you go. In this article, we will take a look at some of the most scenic driving routes in Italy, complete with maps from GarminWorldmaps to help you plan your journey.

The Amalfi Coast

The Amalfi Coast is a beautiful and iconic destination located on the southern coast of Italy. The coast stretches for about 50 km along the Tyrrhenian Sea, and is known for its dramatic cliffs, sparkling blue waters, and picturesque towns. The region is a popular tourist destination, and a scenic drive along the coast is a must-do for anyone visiting the area.

There are two primary ways to experience the Amalfi Coast by car or camper – either driving the coastal road, or taking a road trip through the interior of the region. Here is a brief guide to both options:

Coastal Road

The coastal road, also known as the Amalfi Drive, is a narrow, winding road that hugs the cliffs above the sea. It runs from Sorrento in the west to Salerno in the east, passing through towns like Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello along the way. The drive is famous for its hairpin turns, steep inclines, and breathtaking views of the sea and coastline.

Driving the coastal road can be challenging, particularly during peak tourist season, when the road can become crowded with traffic. However, the views along the way are truly spectacular, and there are plenty of opportunities to stop and take in the scenery. The towns along the route offer a variety of restaurants, cafés, and shops, making it easy to spend an entire day exploring the coast.

Interior Route

For a different perspective on the Amalfi Coast, consider taking a road trip through the region’s interior. This route takes you through the mountainous terrain that lies behind the coastal towns, offering a glimpse into the rural life and culture of the area.

The interior route is less crowded than the coastal road, and offers a more relaxed and authentic experience. You can stop in small villages and towns along the way, and explore local markets, shops, and restaurants. The interior of the region is also home to several historic sites, including ancient ruins and monasteries, that offer a glimpse into the region’s rich history.

Tips for Driving the Amalfi Coast

Whether you choose to drive the coastal road or explore the interior, there are a few things to keep in mind when driving in the Amalfi Coast:

• The roads in the region are narrow and winding, so it’s important to drive carefully and slowly.
• Parking can be difficult in the coastal towns, so it’s best to park outside of town and walk in.
• Gas stations can be hard to find along the coast, so be sure to fill up before you set out.
• Consider renting a small car or camper van, as larger vehicles can be difficult to maneuver on the narrow roads.

In conclusion, driving the Amalfi Coast by car or camper is a great way to experience the beauty and culture of this iconic Italian destination. Whether you choose to drive the coastal road or explore the interior, there are plenty of opportunities to take in the stunning scenery and immerse yourself in the local culture. So grab a map, hit the road, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure.

Tuscany

Tuscany is a region located in central Italy, known for its beautiful countryside, charming hilltop towns, and historic cities. Driving through Tuscany by car or camper is a great way to explore this region and take in its scenic beauty. Here is a guide to some of the most scenic routes in Tuscany:

Chianti Wine Route

The Chianti Wine Route is a scenic drive that takes you through the heart of Tuscany’s wine country. The route winds through the rolling hills of the Chianti region, passing through charming towns and picturesque vineyards along the way. The road is dotted with wineries, offering opportunities to taste some of the region’s most famous wines, including Chianti Classico, Brunello di Montalcino, and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano.

Val d’Orcia

The Val d’Orcia is a beautiful valley located in southern Tuscany, known for its stunning landscapes and historic hilltop towns. The drive through Val d’Orcia takes you past fields of sunflowers, cypress-lined roads, and ancient farmhouses. Some of the most beautiful towns in the region include Pienza, Montalcino, and Montepulciano.

Maremma Coast

The Maremma Coast is a beautiful stretch of coastline in southern Tuscany, known for its sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and rocky coves. The drive along the Maremma Coast takes you through small fishing villages and seaside towns, with plenty of opportunities to stop and take in the scenery. Some of the most beautiful towns along the coast include Castiglione della Pescaia and Porto Santo Stefano.

Siena to San Gimignano

The drive from Siena to San Gimignano takes you through the heart of Tuscany’s medieval hill towns. The route winds through rolling hills and past vineyards, offering stunning views of the countryside along the way. The towns of Siena and San Gimignano are both UNESCO World Heritage Sites, with historic architecture, beautiful churches, and charming streets to explore.

The Dolomites

The Dolomites are a stunning mountain range located in northeastern Italy, known for their dramatic peaks, scenic valleys, and alpine lakes. Driving through the Dolomites by car or camper is a fantastic way to experience the region’s natural beauty and explore its charming villages. Here is a guide to some of the most scenic routes in the Dolomites:

The Great Dolomites Road

The Great Dolomites Road, also known as the Strada delle Dolomiti, is a 110-kilometer stretch of road that runs through the heart of the Dolomites. The route winds through picturesque valleys, past towering peaks, and over scenic mountain passes, offering breathtaking views at every turn. Some of the highlights of the route include the Passo Pordoi, the Passo di Falzarego, and the Tre Cime di Lavaredo.

Val Gardena

Val Gardena is a beautiful valley located in the heart of the Dolomites, known for its stunning landscapes, charming villages, and world-class ski resorts. The drive through Val Gardena takes you past lush meadows, dense forests, and towering peaks, with plenty of opportunities to stop and take in the scenery. Some of the most beautiful towns in the region include Selva di Val Gardena, Santa Cristina, and Ortisei.

Cortina d’Ampezzo

Cortina d’Ampezzo is a picturesque mountain town located in the heart of the Dolomites, known for its world-class ski resorts, charming architecture, and stunning views. The drive to Cortina takes you past scenic mountain passes and through charming villages, with plenty of opportunities to stop and take in the scenery. Once you arrive in Cortina, be sure to explore the town’s historic center, with its beautiful churches, museums, and shops.

Lake Braies

Lake Braies is a stunning alpine lake located in the heart of the Dolomites, known for its crystal-clear waters and dramatic mountain scenery. The drive to Lake Braies takes you through scenic valleys and past charming villages, with plenty of opportunities to stop and take in the views. Once you arrive at the lake, be sure to take a walk around its shores and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

Tips for Driving in the Dolomites

The roads in the Dolomites can be narrow and winding, so it’s important to drive carefully and slowly.
Some of the roads in the Dolomites are steep and challenging, so it’s best to rent a car or camper with good brakes and a strong engine.
Many of the mountain passes in the Dolomites are closed in the winter, so be sure to check road conditions before setting out on a drive.
Be prepared for sudden weather changes, especially in the higher elevations.
In conclusion, driving through the Dolomites by car or camper is a fantastic way to experience this stunning region and explore its natural beauty. Whether you choose to drive the Great Dolomites Road, explore Val Gardena, visit Cortina d’Ampezzo, or see Lake Braies, there is plenty to see and do in the Dolomites. So grab a map, hit the road, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure.

The Italian Lakes

The Italian Lakes are a popular tourist destination, and for good reason. The lakes of Como, Garda, and Maggiore are surrounded by stunning scenery, including quaint towns, lush forests, and majestic mountains. A drive around the lakes will take you past charming villages, historic villas, and breathtaking views.

Sicily

Sicily is the largest island in the Mediterranean, located off the southern coast of Italy. With its stunning coastline, ancient ruins, and charming towns, Sicily is a fantastic destination for a road trip by car or camper. Here are some of the most scenic routes to explore on the island:

The Eastern Sicilian Coastline

Starting from Catania, the eastern Sicilian coastline offers a stunning drive along the Mediterranean Sea. The road takes you through charming towns such as Acireale, famous for its baroque architecture, and the fishing village of Aci Trezza, known for its natural sea stacks. Other highlights along the way include the ancient city of Taormina, with its picturesque Greek theater and stunning views of Mount Etna, and the beautiful beaches of Giardini Naxos.

The Valley of the Temples

The Valley of the Temples, located near Agrigento, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that boasts some of the best-preserved Greek ruins in the world. Driving through the valley takes you past ancient temples, including the Temple of Concordia and the Temple of Juno, which offer a glimpse into Sicily’s rich history.

Mount Etna

Mount Etna is the highest active volcano in Europe and a must-see destination in Sicily. A scenic drive to Mount Etna takes you through charming towns such as Linguaglossa and Zafferana Etnea, which are surrounded by vineyards and orchards. Once you reach the volcano, you can take a guided tour of the summit or explore the surrounding hiking trails.

The Western Sicilian Coastline

The western Sicilian coastline is a beautiful drive that takes you through picturesque towns such as Scopello, with its charming harbor and medieval watchtower, and Castellammare del Golfo, known for its stunning beaches and clear waters. The road also takes you through the Zingaro Nature Reserve, a protected area with beautiful hiking trails and secluded coves.

Tips for Driving in Sicily

• Driving in Sicily can be challenging, with narrow roads and aggressive drivers. It’s important to drive defensively and be aware of your surroundings.
• Many of the roads in Sicily are winding and steep, so it’s best to rent a car or camper with good brakes and a strong engine.
• Be prepared for traffic, especially during the summer months when many tourists visit the island.
• Be sure to carry a map or GPS device, as road signage can be unclear in some areas.

In conclusion, a road trip by car or camper is a fantastic way to explore the stunning island of Sicily. Whether you choose to drive along the eastern or western coastline, visit the Valley of the Temples or Mount Etna, there is plenty to see and do on this beautiful island. So pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in Sicily.

Italy is a country with no shortage of scenic driving routes, each offering its own unique blend of stunning landscapes, charming towns, and historic sites. Whether you’re interested in mountain vistas, seaside towns, or rolling hills, there is a route in Italy that will take your breath away. With the help of maps from GarminWorldmaps, you can plan your journey and explore this beautiful country at your own pace.