Frommer's Italy 2012 (Frommer's Color Complete)

Free full-color, foldout map

Completely updated every year

• Insider advice on avoiding the crowds as you explore some of Italy's greatest gems, from the Uffizi in Florence to the Vatican Museum in Rome, and from the ruins at Pompeii to Venice's St. Mark's basilica. Plus tips for navigating the country's lovely but less-traveled corners, like the Marches, the Dolomites, and even Sardinia.
• Where to find the absolute best seafood in Venice, the loveliest vineyards in Tuscany, the tastiest pizza in Naples, and, of course, the finest gelato that Italy has to offer.
• Insightful commentary on Italy's dazzling array of art and architectural masterpieces, from Michelangelo's statue of David to the glories of St. Peter's in Rome.
• Opinionated reviews. No bland descriptions and lukewarm recommendations. Our expert writers are passionate about their destinations--they tell it like it is in an engaging and helpful way.
• Exact prices listed for every establishment and activity--no other guides offer such detailed, candid reviews of hotels and restaurants. We include the very best, but also emphasize moderately priced choices for real people.
• User-friendly features including star ratings and special icons to point readers to great finds, excellent values, insider tips, best bets for kids, special moments, and overrated experiences.

Piazza delle Erbe & Piazza dei Signori, Verona The site of the Roman forum is now Verona’s central square, the venue for a daily market; the adjoining Piazza dei Signori was once the scene of assemblies of the medieval citizens’ council. Walking between these two beautiful squares involves a risk -- a whale bone suspended in the Arco della Costa (Arch of the Rib) will fall on anyone who has never told a lie.

St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome at dusk The incomprehensibly voluminous basilica of the Vatican is packed with incalculable riches, from the marble and gold that cover its every surface to such masterpieces as Michelangelo’s Pietà and Bernini’s Baldacchino.

Eruptions at night on the isle of Stromboli, Sicily An active but sluggish volcano emits puffs of smoke and lava all the time, and a nighttime trek to the summit provides views of fiery red lava flowing toward the sea.

Valley of the Temples, Agrigento Sicily’s most celebrated archaeological site preserves a proud group of temples from the fifth century BC, as well as houses, streets, and tombs -- all set on a ridge amid olive and almond trees and overlooking the sea.

Villa d’Este, located in Tivoli outside of Rome Whimsical grottoes, rushing flumes, and reflecting pools lace the gardens of the pleasure palace of Renaissance noble and cardinal Ippolito d’Este.