Arguably one of the best-loved cuisines on the planet, Italy’s foodie influences have spread far and wide – and it’s easy to see why. Cascading ribbons of pasta tangled around rich ragù sauces, uber-thin pizzas with bubbling cheese and the scent of freshly brewed Italian coffee are truly hard to top. And when it comes to pud, you’ll be just as spoilt, with wobbly panna cottas and tempting tiramisus at the top of the dessert board.

It’s chilled wines aplenty in this flourishing grape-growing region, with ever-popular Prosecco stealing top spot. Classic cocktails such as the Negroni and Aperol Spritz are close runners up.

Must-try dishes

Bruschetta

Bread topped with garlic and olive oil

Served as a starter, crispy bread is rubbed with garlic, sprinkled with salt and drizzled with olive oil. Variations include the addition of chopped tomatoes, basil or cheese.

Pizza Margherita

Pizza topped with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil

Without a doubt the most famous dish in Italy (if not the world!), the basic but tasty Margherita pizza is a classic combination of mozzarella, tomato and basil on top of a thin, crispy base. Its colours are said to depict those of the Italian flag.

Tagliatelle al Ragu

Pasta with meat ragù sauce

Contrary to popular belief, a traditional Italian ‘spag bol’ is actually made with tagliatelle, not spaghetti. As another dish that’s known across the globe, expect a rich meat sauce entwined around thin, flat strands of pasta.

Gelato

Rich, velvety ice cream

Literally meaning ‘to freeze’, gelato is a silky soft ice cream-style desert made from milk, cream and sugar and served by the scoop. You’ll be amazed by the range of flavours on offer, with everything from zingy lemon to a classic, creamy vanilla.

Tiramisu

Coffee-flavoured layered dessert

The origins of this iconic pud are unclear, but the name ‘tiramisu’ actually directly translates as ‘pick me up’! This ladyfinger layered, coffee-based desert has many variations, with some including liqueur or even a fruity/nutty panettone.

Divine drinks of Italy

Espresso

Strong shot of coffee

When it comes to coffee, the Italians really know their beans, and drinking espresso has become a real custom of Italy. Expect funny looks if you order lattes or cappuccinos when it’s not the morning, though – drinking milky coffee later in the day is a bit of a no-no round these parts! Try asking for an espresso macchiato with a small shot of milk.

Prosecco

Sparkling white wine

Pop, fizz, clink, this bubbly beverage has never been as popular! Made from the Glera grape native to Italy’s Veneto area, this trendy tipple comes in semi sparkling and still, as well as the fizzy version we know and love.

Chianti, Bardolino and Amarone

World-class red wines

You haven’t had the full Italian experience until you’ve tried some of its incredible red wines. Full-bodied Chianti is a dry wine that’s perfect with food, while Bardolino is much lighter - it’s a firm favourite around here as it’s made in the Veneto region. Meanwhile, Amarone is made from partially dried grapes, giving it an incredibly unique finish.

Limoncello

Lemon based alcoholic liqueur

Hello yellow! A delicious balance of sweet and sour, this luscious lemon-flavoured liqueur is often served after evening meals. It’s primarily produced in the regions of Sorrento, Amalfi and the Gulf of Naples.