Naples

The Italian city of Naples is the capital of the south and easily the most-visited city south of Rome, but it's still much less touristed than any of the northern cities. Why? Naples is, as some people say, Italy intensified - so it can be like sensory overload. Those who love Italy, however, tend to love Naples. It's where pizza was born, which makes it a pilgrimage site of sorts for foodies the world over.

Naples' location in Italy makes it an ideal base from which to explore the nearby Amalfi Coast and also the amazing ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum. So after you've soaked up the history and food of Naples, make time for a few day trips to nearby sights and cities that will help round out your southern Italian experience.