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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 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 – FICTION
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!
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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.
CLICK HERE TO READ MORE – A GUIDE TO VISITING FLORENCE ITALY
BEST BOOKS ABOUT ITALY NON-FICTION
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.
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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.
CLICK HERE TO READ MORE – TOP TIPS TO KNOW WHEN VISITING ITALY
BEST GUIDE BOOKS ABOUT TRAVEL IN ITALY
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
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!
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Books about Italy for Kids: Theodore’s Italian Adventure (Theodore Travel Series)
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.
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Author: Tracy
Over the last 50 years I have lived and worked in 7 countries on 4 continents and travelled to many more. I enjoy exploring and learning about new places and meeting people on my travels. History, reading, photography, nature and wildlife are my interests and I am ALWAYS researching and planning my next trip (preferably by train)
With a lifetime of travel experience, and a network of friends all over the world, I share genuine insider guides, recommended best book lists and train journey inspiration to help YOU travel authentically to some of the most beautiful places on earth.
Come and join me as I travel the world one country (and train journey) at a time!
This post may contain compensated links. Please read our disclaimer for additional information.
This post has inspired me to look up some of these books. It’s true that your experience of a country or city can be so much richer if you find a biography or piece of fiction that you can relate to… Great blog Tracy!
Thanks Louise!