Unforgettable artwork, heavenly villages, island paradises, dream cities...there are so many reasons to visit Italy that deciding where to go and what to do can be a bit overwhelming. Fodorand#39;s Essential Italyandamp;#160;takes the guesswork out of choosing the perfect Italian experiences by compiling the top choices chosen by Fodorandamp;rsquo;s army of Italy-based writers. Expanded Coverage:andamp;#160; A major benefit of the long-running best-seller, Fodorandamp;rsquo;s Italy, was a bequest to Fodorandamp;rsquo;s Essential Italyandamp;#160;from its cornucopia of restaurant, hotel, nightlife, shops, and attractions reviews, all curated and newly honed to spice up this Essential edition. Illustrated Features: andamp;#160;Hundreds of lively images throughout the guide add momentum to the enchantments found throughout Italy. The visual impact of these photos is doubly enhanced by ten in-depth, magazine-style articles highlighting Italyandamp;rsquo;s top attractions, including Romeandamp;rsquo;s imperial ruins; Baroloandamp;rsquo;s wine country; Veniceandamp;rsquo;s Grand Canal; Fashionista Milan; a Whoandamp;rsquo;s Who of Renaissance Art in Florence; the Sistine Chapel Ceiling; the frescoes at the Basilica of St. Francis; villas by the great Palladio; and more. Indispensable Trip Planning Tools: andamp;#160;The major attractions of the big threeandamp;mdash;Rome, Venice, and Florenceandamp;mdash;are given at-a-glance treatment, alongside top itineraries, Best Bets for restaurants and lodging, and what to do whether on your own or with the kids. Our user-friendly andquot;Experienceandquot; chapter helps in planning for the most memorable trip, cueing you in to Top Attractions, Top Experiences, Italy Today, Whatand#39;s New, and a multitude of other information. Easy-to-scan recommendations run the gamut from alfresco dining in Venice to the art treasures of Florence; how to trek the Cinque Terre; and where to find the best beaches along the Amalfi Coast. Discerning Recommendations: andamp;#160;Fodorandamp;rsquo;s Essential Italy offers savvy advice and recommendations from local writers to help travelers make the most of their time. Fodorandamp;rsquo;s Choice designates our best picks, from hotels to nightlife. andamp;ldquo;Word of Mouthandamp;rdquo; quotes from fellow travelers provide valuable insights. TripAdvisor Reviews:andamp;#160; Our expertsandamp;rsquo; hotel selections are reinforced by the latest customer feedback from TripAdvisor. Travelers can book their Italy stay with confidence, as only the best properties make the cut. On-the-Go Map: Handy take-along companion maps of Rome and Venice give travelers essential information about top attractions, walking tours, and nearby dining so they can travel with confidence.