Giotto, Brunelleschi, Botticelli and Michelangelo made their marks of genius here. This cradle of the Renaissance owes its UNESCO status to the overwhelming influence the city and its museums, churches, architecture and artworks have had on Europe and, ultimately, the world. Vestiges of this enlightened period are everywhere today – at the Uffizi gallery, the Palazzos Pitta and Vecchio and throughout the city streets.

Porto Santo Stefano, located on the Tuscan coast of Italy, has a history that dates back to ancient times. The town was originally established by the Etruscans, an ancient civilization that thrived in the region from around the 9th century BCE to the 1st century BCE. The town's name is attributed to Saint Stephen, and its history is richly entwined with maritime activities, including its role as a vital port during the Spanish dominion of the region. Despite having a storied past, today it has evolved into a picturesque fishing village, which is both aesthetic and appealing. The historic core features narrow streets, colorful houses, and a lively waterfront adorned with fishing boats. The imposing Spanish Fortress, built in the 17th century, stands as a testament to the town's strategic importance. Today, Porto Santo Stefano blends its historical charm with a vibrant seaside atmosphere, offering visitors the chance to explore its cultural heritage, indulge in fresh seafood, and relax on its scenic beaches while embracing the essence of Italy's coastal beauty.

Olbia shines like a gem on the glorious Sardinian coastline. It's one of the Italian island's most picturesque seaside towns – think cobblestone piazzas, local markets, and 18th-century churches, flanked by pastel-colored buildings and underscored by a cheerful atmosphere wherever you go. The town is often overlooked as visitors head north to the heart-meltingly beautiful Costa Smeralda, Sardinia's de facto millionaire's playground. However, unlike some of the Med's other celeb hotspots, those who venture to the Emerald Coast will be pleasantly surprised by the accessibility to the public beaches – which is the case across the whole island. Olbia's Mediterranean waters are beautifully clear and home to hidden coves; exploring by boat gives visitors another perspective, not to mention a chance to discover beautiful white sand beaches accessible only from the sea. Sardinia has more sheep than people, so it remains relatively quiet, even during high season. To get away from it all and experience the genuine authenticity of the island, head up into the hills for a change of scene: green-carpeted mountains, flourishing trees laden with fruit and wildflowers as far as the eye can see. Once you've feasted your eyes, feast your tastebuds and stop for a spot of local food and wine – Su Porcheddu (roast suckling pig) is one of the island's specialties, along with Pane Carasau, a wafer-thin light bread and the foundation to any Sardinian meal. Washed down with a glass of local Vermentino and Cannonau wine.

There is no shortage of beautiful, historical places in Sicily, but Trapani, on the island's west coast, seems to have it all.Once the port for the Elymian settlement of Eryx, the city became a Carthaginian naval base in 260 BCE before the Romans took it over in 241 BCE. It thrived through the Middle Ages, and much of the medieval old city remains intact. Discover the historic center with its narrow alleys, small shops, and cozy trattorias. Once you've worked up an appetite, find a shady terrace and sample the morning-fresh seafood washed down with a glass of local Marsala wine. The area is one of the most important coastal wetlands, providing sanctuary to many migratory birds. Head to the salt flats at the Riserva Naturale Saline di Trapani e Paceco, just three miles from the port, where white pyramids of salt and pink flamingos create a colorful, striking scene.Of course, no trip to Sicily would be complete without a dip in the sea; surrounded by turquoise waters, pristine sands, and rugged coastline, Trapani's beaches are a delight for sun worshipers.

There's far more to this lively port city than its location as a gateway to the Amalfi Coast. The Centro Storico – one of the region's best-preserved medieval centers – is an atmospheric maze of cobbled streets and alleys, dotted with trattorias offering authentic Neapolitan cuisine to a mostly local clientele. The city's Duomo has breathtakingly ornate interiors, rich with intricate mosaics and vivid frescos, while up above the city, the 6th-century Castello di Arechi offers spectacular views across the rooftops to the Gulf beyond. Quite why Salerno remains under the radar is a mystery.