Italy, with its awe-inspiring art, architecture and food, is no background actor on the world’s stage. The epicenter of the Roman Empire and the birthplace of the Renaissance, this European virtuoso practically groans under the weight of its cultural cachet.

The challenge is not so much where to go – an amazing experience is honestly assured wherever you end up – but rather how to go about it. Advice on the best things to do, from a veteran visitor to Italy, can help you turn every trip into a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

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1. Tour Rome, the epicenter of the Roman Empire

Working out the best way to spend your time in the Italian capital is a cultural conundrum. Rome is the former caput mundi (capital of the world), the epicenter of the Roman Empire, the spiritual HQ of the Christian world and the repository for over two millennia of European art and architecture. The city exudes must-see sights from every pore.

Zooming around Italy’s Eternal City on the back of a Vespa moped to sightsee at speed is one option and a great way to sample the dolce vita (good life). From the Colosseum (buy a “Full Experience” ticket to access the underground vaults), the Pantheon and the Roman Forum to Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel and the Vatican Museums, there’s history and culture at every turn.

Planning tip: There’s simply too much to cover in a single visit, so before you leave, toss a coin into the pool below the wild horses and cascading rockfalls of the Trevi Fountain to ensure a return visit to this captivating city.

2. Hit the ski slopes…

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