Italy 2007

Fodor's newest travel series is designed for travelers who want to travel well and spend less. With candid reviews and a fresh outlook, Fodor's upCLOSE points the way to authentic experiences that will take travelers away from the crowds and close to the culture -- without having to spend a fortune.

"Fodor's upCLOSE Italy is smart, fun, and informative. It gives you quirky, never-obvious facts about major sights, as well as the lowdown on the minor ones. It's in-the-know about what's going on. It reveals the essence of the Eternal City and Birthplace of the Renaissance and helps you get the most Italy for your travel dollar. In short, it's the best of all possible travel companions.

All the places to go, from Parma to Palermo
Castles and gardens, crumbling monasteries, and ancient ruins
Venetian glass and lace, leather, funky fashion, and marbleized paper
See the pope, or catch a frenzied Fiorentina soccer match
Seaside and mountain hikes, wine-country biking, and the best beaches
Tell-all reviews of small hotels, cozy pensions
Where to stay that's charming (and doesn't cost an arm and a leg)
Antiques-filled pensions, rooms in private homes, and farm stays
City finds: palazzi with terraces, high ceilings, and mosaic floors
Squeaky-clean hostels with sea views and home-cooked meals
The buzz on trattorias, the club and music scene, and opera
Lowdown on local specialties: hearty pasta, cheap wine, and fresh seafood
Where to find opera tickets and techno, hip-hop, and jazz joints
Best bets for gelato and pizza
Wine bars, pubs, and beer halls
When to watch (or join) the" passeggiata from a piazza cafe
Practical info, greatmaps
Airfare deals and how to get around
Tips on traveling smart and losing the crowds
Clear, easy-to-read maps