By Jessica Russo
Ahhh, Italy - the dreamlike land of cascading candy-colored houses, mountainous seascapes, medieval cities, and endless pizza, pasta, and gelato. Check out these books, movies, and songs that will give you the flutters of excitement about traveling to Italy.
Dante's Reading List
Whether you're an avid reader or you haven't picked up a book in years, you won't be able to put down these books about Italy's fascinating history, culture, and cuisine.
- Streetwise Italian Dictionary by Nicholas Albanese, Giovanni Spani, Philip Balma, and Ermanno Conti This isn't your average language dictionary; this book is filled with idioms, slang, and current expressions that Italians are using! Read this book and feel oh so in-the-know when you arrive.
- La Cucina: The Regional Cooking of Italy by The Italian Academy of Cuisine Discover the unique culinary flairs of each region in Italy. What's popular in Rome, but not in Tuscany? Learn all about the diversity of cuisine in this foodie capital country.
- A Room With a View by E.M. Foster Through reading this novel, join two women on their journey of touring Europe! Turn the pages and find love, desire, and great writing - all while being set in Florence, Italy.
- Brunelleschi's Dome: How a Renaissance Genius Reinvented Architecture by Ross King Follow the famous competition in 1418, which revolved around the making of Florence's magnificent cathedral, Santa Maria del Fiore. Discover how Brunellesci, a Renaissance genius, fought his way to building the architectural wonder we marvel at today!
Songs that'll make you feel like you're riding a gondola in Venice
Immerse yourself in romance and dance to the sounds of Italy. From energetic pop to powerful operas, hear the sounds of this spectacular country.
Andrea Bocelli - Por ti volare
Laura Pausini - Viveme
Luciano Pavarotti - O Sole Mio
Baby K - Voglio ballare con te
Movies that capture La Dolce Vita
What better way to get excited about Italy than to watch movies that make you feel like you're actually there? Take a break from packing and make some popcorn - enjoy a relaxing movie night!
Cinema Paradiso, starring Salvatore Cascio
Life is Beautiful
Under the Tuscan Sun, starring Diane Lane
