57 days in Italy, Province of Barcelona & Island of Malta Itinerary

One of the most developed and prosperous regions in the country, the Province of Barcelona is located in the center of Catalonia. Nestled between the Mediterranean Sea and the Pyrenees, it offers a broad range of tourist attractions and places to visit, from modern cities with distinguished cultural heritage to some of Europe’s most popular beaches. Its countryside, somewhat conquered by commercial interests, boasts Michelin-starred restaurants, award-winning vineyards, and trendy spas. In its urban centers, expect hundreds of historic sites, as well as numerous museums, galleries, bars, cafes, and shops.

As the largest island in the country, Island of Malta is a center for Mediterranean discovery, luxurious relaxation, historical exploration, and buzzing European nightlife. Surrounded by ancient temples and old cities, the island almost feels like an archaeological site that's been converted into a prime vacation spot. Tourists flock here for the aquamarine waters of the Mediterranean Sea, but you don't have to spend all your time on the beach. With a plethora of activities for any type of traveler, you may find yourself exploring a national museum, admiring the collections of boats and yachts in the bays, or people-watching in one of the many bustling squares.

Italy is a land of high fashion, fine art, exquisite architecture, luxury sports cars, outstanding cuisine--and an insatiable taste for "la dolce vita." It's also home to the greatest number of World Heritage Sites in the world, making it an ideal place for your next holiday. The country boasts a varied landscape of mountain ranges, alpine lakes, and coastal towns, so it's no wonder travelers often refer to it as the bel paese (beautiful country). With so many places to visit, visitors often have a difficult time planning their itinerary. The smaller villages each feature a distinct character and a blend of architecture, art, and cuisine. In the country, you'll find countless archeological sites dating back to Roman times and beyond. The country's cities and seaside resorts are cosmopolitan powerhouses with museums, galleries, restaurants, shops, open-air markets, and pedestrian-friendly historic areas.

A favorite vacation spot for more than a century, Lake Como was once an exclusive retreat for local aristocrats and wealthy people. It is not only one of Europe's most beautiful lakes, but also one of the deepest at more than 400 m (1,300 ft). Surrounded by elegant villas, the lake has become a popular holiday destination for tourists because of its range of attractions, from landscapes, wildlife, and spas, to activities like sailing, windsurfing, and kite-surfing. The area has been an inspiration for artists since Roman times. English poet Percy Bysshe Shelley wrote, "This lake exceeds anything I ever beheld in beauty…It is long and narrow and has the appearance of a mighty river winding among the mountains and the forests."

Known for its landscapes, traditions, and history, Tuscany possesses an unparalleled artistic legacy that continues to influence world culture. Regarded as the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance, the region boasts a lengthy list of attractions, including world-class museums, art galleries, and archeological sites. With a distinct culture and a very strong linguistic identity, this region is sometimes referred to as a nation within a nation. A land of picture-postcard areas, Tuscany contains plenty of places to visit on your holiday, with seven World Heritage Sites, including the historic town centers of Florence and Siena. With more than 120 protected nature preserves, Tuscany is not only a land of culture and historic monuments, but also a great place to discover and enjoy the Italian outdoors. Take it slowly here (as the locals do), and give yourself plenty of time to get to know the local culture and cuisine of Tuscany's medieval towns and ancient villages.