Last Updated on March 29, 2021
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Are you planning a trip to beautiful Italy? Or are you simply looking for some inspiration for your next travels?
I love reading about new places before I go. It helps gain an understanding and a sense of the culture and history. Actually seeing the places you have read about makes it even more special when you get there.
I spent a few weeks traveling Italy by train a few years ago and it was wonderful to see the works of Michelangelo I had read about in The Agony and the Ecstasy: A Biographical Novel of Michelangelo a few weeks before my trip.
Don’t limit your reading to the pages of a guide book – I have selected some of the best books about Italy including fictional and non-fictional works to peruse before your trip.
If you are thinking of a longer term stay I have included some great books written by authors who have moved to Italy to live and work.
BEST BOOKS ABOUT ITALY (OR SET IN ITALY)
A selection of the best travel, non-fiction and fiction books about Italy.
BEST BOOKS ABOUT ITALY - FICTION
Best fiction books about (or set in) Italy
The Agony and the Ecstasy: A Biographical Novel of Michelangelo
I am so glad I read this book before I visited Florence for the second time as it made it so much more enjoyable. I was able to really appreciate Michelangelo’s sculptures and the art work in the Uffizi. If you are visiting Florence this is my number one choice! A must-read in my book!
I, Mona Lisa
The story of one of the most famous women in history and certainly one of the most enigmatic. Find out about the woman who inspired the painting we know as the Mona Lisa.
BEST BOOKS ABOUT ITALY NON-FICTION
A selection of the best non-fiction books about Italy.
Living in Italy: the Real Deal - Hilarious Expat Adventures
I love reading books written by people who have taken the plunge and moved to another country! Follow the hilarious adventure of Stef and Nico when they decide with dog Sara to relocate from the Netherlands to Italy.
Not in a Tuscan Villa: During a year in Italy
Newly retired John and Nancy Petralia decide to follow their dreams to a life in Italy. It may not be everything that they had anticipated but its an adventure that only those brave enough to leave their comfort zone will ever know.
BEST GUIDE BOOKS ABOUT TRAVEL IN ITALY
A selection of the best guide books to help you plan your travel to Italy.
Rick Steves Italy 2019
I really enjoy listening to Rick Steve’s podcasts and have become a recent fan. He certainly knows his way around Europe and his guide books are up-to-date and worth investing in if you are planning to spend some precious vacation time abroad.
BEST BOOKS ABOUT ITALY FOR CHILDREN
A selection of the best books about Italy for children of all ages.
Kids' Travel Guide - Italy: The fun way to discover Italy - especially for kids
Help your kids learn all about Italy before they visit. A fun book which will keep them occupied for hours with puzzles, colouring in and fun facts this is a must-buy for that long flight!
Books about Italy for Kids: Theodore's Italian Adventure
A perfect book to introduce younger children to the delights of Italy and Italian life. Follow the adventures of Theodore as he travel through Italy.
Read more about Italy (plus more travel inspiration from my book selections)
There are lots more travel book suggestions in my complete guide to travel books from around the world (check out my global bookshelf) You will find my favourite book for lots of countries in the article including Norway, England, Australia, Canada, South Africa and France.
If you enjoy atlas-related books you will find an eclectic mix in my guide to the best atlases. Looking for travel inspiration? Check out my recommended travel books for 2021 here.
Traveling to Italy? Read about Rome, Venice, Milan and Florence in my city guides.
Related Reading
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