Italy is one of the most visited countries in Europe. The majority of visitors tend to gravitate towards famous locations such as Rome, Florence, and Venice, but there are far more places to add to your itinerary. The country has a mix of history, art, good food, and beautiful nature and the combination of these tends to change depending on the region you’re visiting. 2019 is a special year to visit Italy and here are five reasons why.

• Italy’s National Year of Slow Tourism

Choosing Italy holidays is a smart choice to make whatever year it is but this year is a special year for the country. 2019 offers the perfect opportunity to do something other than the predictable and explore places in Italy that are rich in history and culture. Heritage railway lines are being reactivated, thousands of hiking and biking trails are being promoted, and artistic and historical treasure is being opened up to the public across the country. 

• Free Entry Days in Italian Museums

For several years, there has been a special initiative that guaranteed free entry to more than 480 Italian state museums, galleries, monuments, parks, gardens, and archaeological sites on the first Sunday of the month. Until now the number of entry days was just 12, but for 2019 the number is being increased to 20. 

• 500^th Anniversary of Leonardo da Vinci’s Death

2019 sees a very special anniversary, and some incredible events are being organised in Leonardo’s home country. For example, there’s an exhibition of original drawings in Milan between 16^th May and 18^th August. A permanent display of 13 of his drawings is being opened in Turin. 

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• Matera – European Capital of Culture

Matera is located in the Southern Italian region of Basilicata and this year it’s Europe’s Capital of Culture, together with Plovdiv in Bulgaria. The opening ceremony took place on 19^th January, and there’s a whole year of cultural events planned. Matera is worthy of a visit for another reason, and that’s Sassi. A designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, it dates back more than 7000 years. It’s famous for the cave dwellings and rock churches connected by streets, archways, and stairways dug out of the rocks of a steep gorge. 

• Hiking Along the Cinque Terre

The Cinque Terre is a destination that has been popular for many years. It’s a beautiful coastal region of Italy that’s spectacular. The name refers to five villages, all of which are unique and connected by a network of trails. If you’re not that keen on hiking, there’s a local train that connects all five villages as well as the local ferry system. There are no resorts, only B&Bs, apartments, and small hotels and the pace is laid back. Fishing, farming, and tourism are the only industries in this area, and if you love seafood, you’ll think you’re in heaven. For one of the most beautiful coastlines in the world, you have to include Cinque Terre in your bucket list.