Italy (officially Italian Republic / Italian "Repubblica Italiana", short form "Italia") is a parliamentary republic in southern Europe. Its capital is the world famous Rome. The Italian territory is mostly a part of the Apennine peninsula, surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea as well as the Po valley and the Southern part of the Alps. Its neighboring countries are France, Switzerland, Austria and Slovenia. The two small states, Vatican City and San Marino, are completely enclosed by the Italian territory. In addition to the large islands of Sicily and Sardinia, there are other smaller groups of islands that are upstream of the Italian boots.
Italians have a lot to offer when it comes to their kitchen, mentality, but also when it comes to landscapes. Long sandy beaches, cliffs, natural harbors and small islands encourage you for a stopover. The most famous two large Mediterranean islands are Sicily and Sardinia. But also here you will find hidden coves and seclusion away from the hustle and bustle.
In the west and north of Sicily, slightly smaller but equally interesting, are the islands Lipari and Egadi situated. There are also numerous small islands around Sardinia. It is worth mentioning the island of Sant'Antioco, which is connected through a bridge with Sardinia. San Pietro with its white sandy beaches and the archipelago of La Maddalena are also worht mentioning.
At the coast of Lazio, you can find the Pontine Islands, an archipelago consisting of six islands. The Campania archipelago can be discovered on the Tyrrhenian Sea. The Island of Capri is especially recommended for those who like it sophisticated. More to the north you can find the well known island of Elba, which is part of the archipelago Toscano.
The Tremiti Islands are one of the only Italian islands being located in the Adriatic Sea. The Pelagie Islands, including Lampedusa and the island of Pantelleria, are placed in the south of Sicily and not that far away from Tunisia. Geologically they are already part of Africa.
