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All Seasons

S01e01 the queen of make-believe.

• April 6, 1992
• PBS Kids Sprout

It looks like rain. But Min has decided to become the Queen Of Make-Believe. Suddenly, it looks like lots of fun! With Barney leading his Friends on a romp of games, songs and activities. They put on a pretend tea-party, build a robot with boxes, they even create some special ""stretching exercises"" for the imagination. Pretending, make-believing or imagining- children learn it's always called fun.

S01E02 My Family's Just Right for Me

• April 7, 1992

It's the eve of ""Family Night"" at school. A super time for Barney & Friends to celebrate all those wonderful folks (and even pets!) at home. With paintings, books, songs, and dances. There's just one glitch to the gala; Kathy's not sure her ""small"" family measures up. It's just her Mom, her grandmother and herself. But after Barney gets through with his fun and games, the children realize that a family is defined by love, not by size.

S01E03 Playing It Safe

• April 8, 1992

Barney and his friends learn some fun lessons about ""playing it safe."" The kids create cardboard-box cars to teach the rules about seatbelt use and crossing the street safely. To teach Baby Bop about strangers, a classroom version of Little Red Riding Hood is performed. Great music and special lyrics help reinforce the safety lessons. When Barney stumbles on a toy, the children learn that safety begins at home!

S01E04 Hop to It!

• April 9, 1992

When Tina and Luci are playing basketball, Tina is disappointed when she can't play as well as her older sister or the other big kids. Barney stops by to show Tina all the great things she can do with exercise. Barney and the kids play games and sing songs about exercise and find out how fun it is to learn about their bodies. With new found energy and confidence, Tina ends up playing basketball as well as the others.

S01E05 Eat, Drink and Be Healthy!

• April 10, 1992

Barney and his friends discover they have plenty of ""food for thought"" as they learn about nutrition. Discovering the four food groups and the importance of eating healthy snacks allows Barney, Baby Bop and their friends to have fun together. An imaginative rhyming story tells about the perils of being a picky eater. A friend of Barney's sings a humorous song about meals that would ""bug"" most diners. Special songs and lyrics reinforce the lesson that eating healthy foods is the right thing to do.

S01E06 Four Seasons Day

• April 13, 1992

Talk about the weather! The kids do much more than that as Barney squeezes all four seasons into one rollicking make-believe holiday. You won't believe how much fun you can have celebrating the wind, rain, and the snow. There's a barrel-full of songs about Spring's showers, Summer's warmth, Fall's leaves, and Winter's chill.

S01E07 The Treasure of Rainbow Bend

• April 14, 1992

After the kids and Barney enjoy reading a scary pirate book, the book's character, Rainbow Beard, appears and gives them a treasure map of their own to solve. In order to find the treasure, the group must learn a variety of songs and games about colors and shapes. When they finally find the treasure the kids get a big surprise and learn a valuable lesson about sharing with others.

S01E08 Going Places!

• April 15, 1992

After Luci and Tina leave for a plane trip to their grandmother's house, the other kids wish they could travel too. Barney drops by and takes them for a trip on ""Barney Airlines, Destination: Imagination City!"" Once in ""Imagination City,"" the group envisions a variety of sights to see and all the many fun ways of getting there: a car, a camel, a hot air balloon, and even just by walking.

S01E09 Caring Means Sharing

• April 16, 1992

Barney is a very large dinosaur--but there may not be enough of him to go around when Min and Kathy quarrel over whose turn it is to play with their big purple pal. Coming from a big family, Min is tired of sharing--but joins her friends in an exploration of ways to share fun and work. Baby Bop learns a lesson about being greedy; a puppet show of ""The Little Red Hen"" teaches that rewards and responsibilities are linked. And Barney has a magic gift for Min to help change her mind about sharing!

S01E10 Down on Barney's Farm

• April 17, 1992

The kid's learn and draw pictures of farm animals, but Shawn is unhappy with his drawing when no one knows what it is. Barney pops in to cheer him up and show the children an imaginary farm firsthand. Barney's friend, Farmer Henderson, shows the kids all types of farm animals and Barney teaches Shawn that the beauty of classroom art is in the eye of the beholder!

S01E11 What's That Shadow?

• April 20, 1992

A sudden thunderstorm chases the kids into the classroom, where they are frightened by the rain, thunder and lightning. Barney arrives and tells them how to use positive thoughts to change their fears into fun. The kids make silly monster artwork, and then pretend they are funny, friendly monsters. Barney also helps Shawn overcome his fear of dogs when he meets Min's canine friend, Molly.

S01E12 Happy Birthday, Barney!

• April 21, 1992

It's Barney birthday and everyone is excited about throwing him the best party ever, using classroom materials and their imagination! Barney teaches his friends about birthday customs around the world and that receiving gifts is not the most important part of birthdays.

S01E13 Alphabet Soup!

• April 22, 1992

When Barney arrives to play with his friends, Derek, plays ""alphabet fun"" by spelling a ""mystery word"" a letter at a time. The group plays games and sings songs related to each letter of the mystery word. Rhyming words, making alphabet soup, walking through the alphabet, and seeing how, many letters they can make with their bodies, gives the children many chances to play with letters and words. Children learn that having fun with letters and words and learning the alphabet are the first steps to reading.

S01E14 Our Earth, Our Home

• April 23, 1992

The school's ""Earth Week"" has Barney and his friends all abuzz about things they can do to protect the earth. Through fun-filled songs, the children learn the importance of recycling... how to make new things out of old...how to conserve water, air and land clean. The children form a ""trashcan"" band performing a silly symphony song and do a skit about Johny Appleseed. Sharing and caring for the earth become a ""fun thing"" to do.

S01E15 Let's Help Mother Goose!

• April 24, 1992

Mother Goose needs help! A bookworm has eaten the pages from her book of nursery rhymes, and Barney & Friends must help her remember the missing rhymes! Songs, dances, puzzles and puppets showcase more than 20 favorite rhymes...and Barney's friends learn how much fun a book can be!

S01E16 Be a Friend

• April 27, 1992

Barney finds Tosha, a new girl at school, lonely and without friends. He introduces her to Michael, Derek, and Kathy. Together, they learn why doing things with friends is much more fun than being alone. At the same time, Derek and Michael must learn the true meaning of friendship and sharing when they cannot agree on who should get possession of a picture they made together.

S01E17 I Just Love Bugs!

• April 28, 1992

Barney & Friends are really ""going buggy"" as they discover the world of bugs and insects around us. Tina gains confidence being a girl who likes bugs. Michael shares a story about ants and teaches his friends about good work habits. Stories and songs introduce other bugs and insects...and a surprising visitor ""drops in"" on Little Miss Muffet, to teach a lesson about accepting others who are different.

S01E18 When I Grow Up...

• April 29, 1992

Getting big is a big responsibility--and Shawn and the other kids are worried about doing a grown-up job. Barney guides his friends through the many careers there are to choose from, and shows how many jobs are linked to activities children are already familiar with. The children discover all jobs are important and begin to learn the concept of

S01E19 1-2-3-4-5 Senses!

• April 30, 1992

Luci introduces her new friend, Patty (who is visually impaired), to Barney, Michael, Tina and Kathy. Patty comments that a beautiful day can be experienced through more of one's senses than just sight. Michael's class is studying the five senses, which leads to fun songs and activities related to each of them. Perhaps most important, Patty shows the group that a child with blindness can do many things for him/herself and play right along with the others. Patty teaches the kids a rhyme and its corresponding hand movements...and she reads a story to Kathy, using braille.

S01E20 Practice Makes Music

• May 1, 1992

Michael is scheduled to play a cello solo at the school concert in a few days and he is nervous about playing in front of all those people. Barney invites his friend Greg Murray to teach the kids about music and help Michael learn that ""practice makes perfect."" Barney and his friends learn to identify musical instruments and their sounds and appreciate all the different varieties of music.

S01E21 Hi, Neighbor!

• May 4, 1992

Barney & Friends are in the mood for an adventure--and they have one, when they all help Baby Bop learn more about neighborhoods! Imagination makes the journey magical with role-playing, an ""invisible dog"" chase, a scary visit to Dinosaur Days, and trips to make-believe versions of neighborhood points of interest! Even an ordinary neighborhood is filled with fun, songs, and surprises when it's explored ""Barney-style.""

S01E22 A Camping We Will Go!

• May 5, 1992

Barney's friends wish to camp in the woods and Barney makes there wish come true. While there they meet woodland creatures like a raccoon and a kookaburra. Lucy also tells them a scary story wish isn't really scary but truly funny. They make smores. They finally go home.

S01E23 A Splash Party, Please

• May 6, 1992

The kids have planned a picnic and Barney's invited. After enjoying some healthy fare, the kids have fun with bubbles. Baby Bop arrives and a ""Splash Party"" ensues, incorporating all sorts of water activities. The kids show they know their manners by being polite and curtious to one another.

S01E24 Carnival of Numbers

• May 7, 1992

Someone (i don't remember who) needs to learn how to count. Barney makes a carnival of numbers on the playground. They play limbo, throw a football through the tire swing, bowl, and have a pretend ride. The ticket person is Lucy. They each get 5 tickets.(i think) At the end the person knows how to count.

S01E25 A World of Music

• May 8, 1992

The kids wish they could travel to other countries to see them firsthand. Barney & Friends use their imagination to travel to Scotland, Israel, Africa, China and Mexico, where hosts expose them to different songs, costumes, and customs. The kids hear music played on interesting instruments and learn new dance steps. They also learn that several of their favorite songs have roots in other lands.

S01E26 Doctor Barney is Here!

• May 11, 1992

An upcoming trip to the Doctor has Kathy feeling blue. Abig dose of purple is just what she needs. Barney and friends to the rescue. They get her laughing with some zany songs then lead her through make believe visit too the Doctor. The check up includes receiving a shot.This shows kids that it is not so bad when you know about them before hand. The kds sing and dance their way through Barneys famous "" feel good rules"" to keep those young bodies strong . Who says health has to be boring? Not Barney!

S01E27 Oh, What a Day!

• May 12, 1992

Tina is having a dismal day. The greatest misfortune came when her kitten ran out the door. Barney helps turn things around by making rhythm instruments, dancing, amd drawing faces. But is Tina up against a wall of frustration?

S01E28 Home Sweet Homes

• May 13, 1992

Barney lectures on animals' homes based on children's pictures. The children also draw pictures of different houses for people.

S01E29 Hola, Mexico!

• May 14, 1992

Luci tells everyone about her grandfather, whose birthday had been a few days back. Barney recommends that everyone hold a fiesta. Everyone gets in on the fiesta music, and they are surprised to see a folk dancer.

S01E30 Everyone is Special

• May 15, 1992

Tina doesn't think she is special in anyway. Barney points out a special talent in all of his friends. He says he has a special surprise for everyone that will show them someone special, It is a mirror. Barney wasn't lying when he said it would show them someone special!

S02E01 Falling for Autumn!

• September 27, 1993

Barney and friends have fun celebrating Fall and preparing for a school "Fall Festival."

S02E02 Grandparents Are Grand!

• September 28, 1993

When Derek's granddad and Kathy's nana visit the school, Barney and the kids learn how grandparents are special people.

S02E03 May I Help You?

• September 29, 1993

The kids take Barney and Baby Bop through a pretend day at school.

S02E04 Red, Blue, and Circles, Too!

• September 30, 1993

Barney and friends explore shapes and colors.

S02E05 Honk! Honk! A Goose on the Loose!

• October 1, 1993

After Mother Goose's goose Clarence goes missing, it's up to Barney and the kids to help her find him.

S02E06 Hoo's in the Forest?

• October 4, 1993

Barney takes his friends to a forest and teaches them about different animals.

S02E07 I Can Do That!

• October 5, 1993

Barney, Baby Bop, and the kids show off things that they can do.

S02E08 Grown-Ups for a Day!

• October 6, 1993

Barney and his friends explore different careers through pretend play.

S02E09 Picture This!

• October 7, 1993

Barney and the kids have fun with art. Author Tomie DePaola visits.

S02E10 Look at Me, I'm Three!

• October 8, 1993

Baby Bop celebrates her third birthday and Barney throws a birthday party for her with things that do with the number three.

S02E11 The Exercise Circus

• October 11, 1993

Tina's ready to play in a big way after getting her cast removed, and the kids suggest staging a playground circus. Michael, the Ringmaster, introduces Barney, the Balancing Dinosaur; Derek, the Juggler and the Tightrope Twins, Terrific Tina and Magnificent Min. Special Guest Joe Scruggs sings the song that really sets off the silliness, but, in the end the kids learn that exercise is good for your body and can still be lots of fun. Barney also reminds us that hugging is an exercise that's good for the heart!

S02E12 My Favorite Things

• October 12, 1993

When Kathy and the others bring teddy bears to school, Barney and the kids have fun with some of their favorite things.

S02E13 The Dentist Makes Me Smile

• October 13, 1993

After Shawn shows his loose tooth, Barney and the kids learn all about teeth and dental hygiene.

S02E14 Stop, Look and Be Safe!

• October 14, 1993

Barney and friends learn about different safety rules including ones about crossing streets and playing on the playground.

S02E15 An Adventure in Make-Believe

• October 15, 1993

BJ needs to save a princess in a make believe jungle. Barney and the kids show him how to use his imagination.

S02E16 The Alphabet Zoo

• October 18, 1993

Using letters from A to Z, Barney and his friends set up an "Animal Alphabet Zoo."

S02E17 Having Tens of Fun!

• October 19, 1993

The kids are in for ""tens of fun"" when Barney's friend, Mr. Tenagain, visits. His passion for all ""things 10"" leads to the reading of ""Ten, Nine, Eight"" and an account of Mr. Tenagain's trip to the moon. Snack time generates some antics in the kitchen, and a delightful picnic - visited by some rather unusual ants! Finally, Mr. Tenagain leaves surprise instructions on the ""nicest way to count to 10.""

S02E18 A Very Special Delivery

• October 20, 1993

While waiting for Tosha's mother to arrive with a special surprise, Barney and the kids learn about what makes everyone special. Singer Ella Jenkins visits and shares some songs with the group.

S03E01 Shawn and the Beanstalk

• February 19, 1995

S03E02 If the Shoe Fits...

• February 25, 1995

S03E03 Room for Everyone

• March 1, 1995

S03E04 I Can Be a Firefighter!

• March 2, 1995

S03E05 Shopping for a Surprise!

• January 5, 1995

S03E06 Anyway You Slice It

• June 7, 1995

S03E07 Twice Is Nice!

• June 8, 1995

S03E08 On the Move

• June 9, 1995

S03E09 A Welcome Home

• June 12, 1995

S03E10 Classical Cleanup

• June 13, 1995

S03E11 Our Furry Feathered Fishy Friends

• July 24, 1995

S03E12 Gone Fishing!

• July 25, 1995

S03E13 At Home with Animals

• July 26, 1995

S03E14 It's Raining, It's Pouring…

• July 27, 1995

S03E15 Camera Safari

• July 28, 1995

S03E16 Who's Who on the Choo-Choo?

• October 2, 1995

S03E17 Are We There Yet?

• October 3, 1995

S03E18 Ship Ahoy!

• October 4, 1995

S03E19 Hats Off to B.J.!

• October 5, 1995

S03E20 Up We Go!

• October 6, 1995

S04E01 First Day of School

• November 3, 1997

S04E02 Is Everybody Happy?

• November 4, 1997

S04E03 Pennies, Nickels, Dimes

• November 5, 1997

S04E04 We've Got Rhythm!

• November 6, 1997

S04E05 Tick Tock Clocks!

• November 7, 1997

S04E06 Waiting for Mr. MacRooney

• November 10, 1997

S04E07 Let's Build Together

• November 11, 1997

S04E08 It's Tradition

• November 12, 1997

S04E09 A Picture of Health

• November 13, 1997

S04E10 Play Ball!

• November 14, 1997

Barney introduces the kids to his Vend-O-Ball Machine. He tells them they can press any of the yellow buttons because they dispense various types of balls, but nobody is to press the red button on the bottom, because it has a problem. The kids take turns pressing the buttons and learn about different ball activities such as bowling and golf. Scooter, curious what will happen if one presses the bottom button, asks Baby Bop to do so, and it dispenses so many balls, all the kids come to clean up, and Scooter apologizes for causing the chaos.

S04E11 A Different Kind of Mystery

• November 17, 1997

S04E12 Going on a Bear Hunt

• November 18, 1997

S04E13 Let's Eat!

• November 19, 1997

S04E14 Tree-Mendous Trees

• November 20, 1997

Curtis is embarrassed to be dressed like a tree for a school play. Barney assures him that it's a terrific role and hopes Curtis will feel the same way when he learns more about trees. Barney and the children learn about trees' need for water and sunlight. They also learn that trees remain healthy even when the leaves change color and drop off in the Fall. The Adventure Screen shows many different types of trees in different environments. The children are surprised to discover how many of their favorite foods and products come from trees. This leads to a discussion of a lumberjack's job, and Barney tells the fantastic tale of Paul Bunyan. Scooter and Miss Etta tell the children that trees are often homes for different animals. Barney reminds the children that everyone should help save trees by recycling. In the end, Curtis has an entirely new outlook about his role in the play.

S04E15 Good, Clean Fun!

• November 21, 1997

S04E16 Easy, Breezy Day!

• November 24, 1997

S04E17 All Mixed Up

• November 25, 1997

S04E18 Oh, Brother! She's My Sister

• November 26, 1997

S04E19 Once a Pond a Time

• November 27, 1997

S04E20 E-I-E-I-O

• November 28, 1997

S05E01 Books Are Fun!

• November 2, 1998

S05E02 Trading Places

• November 3, 1998

S05E03 Safety First!

• November 4, 1998

S05E04 Circle of Friends

• November 5, 1998

S05E05 The One and Only You

• November 6, 1998

S05E06 Barney's Band

• November 9, 1998

S05E07 Try It, You'll Like It!

• November 10, 1998

S05E08 Colors All Around

• November 11, 1998

S05E09 Howdy, Friends!

• November 12, 1998

S05E10 Seven Days a Week

• November 13, 1998

S05E11 Hidden Treasures

• November 16, 1998

S05E12 A Royal Welcome

• November 17, 1998

S05E13 Sweet as Honey

• November 18, 1998

S05E14 First Things First!

• November 19, 1998

S05E15 Aunt Rachel Is Here!

• November 20, 1998

S05E16 It's a Rainy Day!

• November 23, 1998

S05E17 Easy Does It!

• November 24, 1998

S05E18 What's in a Name?

• November 25, 1998

S05E19 A Very Special Mouse

• November 26, 1998

S05E20 A Package of Friendship

• November 27, 1998

S06E01 Stick with Imagination!

• October 1, 1999

S06E02 Itty Bitty Bugs

• November 2, 1999

S06E03 Grandparents Are Grand (2)

• November 3, 1999

S06E04 Snack Time!

• November 4, 1999

S06E05 A Sunny, Snowy Day

• January 3, 2007

S06E06 You've Got To Have Art

• November 8, 1999

S06E07 Five Kinds of Fun!

• November 9, 1999

After learning about ""Explorers"" in school, the kids want to explore their own world. Barney shows them how to use their ""five senses"" to do the job.

S06E08 Count Me In!

• January 10, 2007

S06E09 Who's Who at the Zoo

• November 11, 1999

S06E10 Birthday Olé

• January 26, 2007

Barney's treehouse is the site for Robert's Mexican-themed birthday party. The piñata proves to be the highlight of the kids' fiesta.

S06E11 Excellent Exercise!

• April 3, 2000

Barney and his friends learn how to exercise well.

S06E12 Brushing Up on Teeth

• April 4, 2000

S06E13 A Little Mother Goose

• April 5, 2000

S06E14 Good Job!

• April 6, 2000

The kids think about growing up for jobs in their futures. They even pretend to be dancers, chefs, bus drivers and sailors.

S06E15 It's Home to Me

• April 7, 2000

S06E16 How Does Your Garden Grow?

• February 11, 2007

Barney shows off his green thumb in a show about gardening, in which the kids harvest their crop from the garden in their playground.

S06E17 You Can Do It!

• April 11, 2000

The kids find out that learning something new takes practice. Keesha, Stephen, and Jeff help Barney teach Baby Bop to jump rope.

S06E18 Here Comes the Firetruck!

• April 12, 2000

The kids learn about the rules of fire safety and also get to see how the controls work in the cab of a fire truck.

S06E19 Ready, Set, Go!

• April 13, 2000

S06E20 You Are Special!

• April 14, 2000

S07E01 All Aboard!

• September 2, 2002

S07E02 Up, Down, and Around!

• September 3, 2002

S07E03 Tea-riffic Manners

• September 4, 2002

S07E04 Puppy Love

• September 5, 2002

Barney and his friends help Mr. Boyd prepare his dog Bingo for a trip to the veterinarian for a check-up, but he's hiding in the tool shed. Everyone learns lessons about caring for dogs as they help Mr. Boyd search for Bingo. Meanwhile, BJ is searching for his missing baseball, which he suspects was buried by Bingo. Other visitors to the park include Miss Duffy, a sight-impaired friend of Barney's who introduces the children to her guide dog, Kellie. A visit from Mr. Steele and his multitude of Chihuahuas prompts Barney to show the kids about a wide variety of dogs.

S07E05 Bunches of Boxes

• September 6, 2002

S07E06 Stop! Go!

• September 9, 2002

S07E07 Red, Yellow, and Blue!

• September 10, 2002

Singing and dancing their way through a color-filled day of learning, Barney and friends search for red, yellow, and blue objects to complete their color collection.

S07E08 Play for Exercise!

• September 11, 2002

S07E09 Come Blow Your Horn!

• September 12, 2002

Simon Willats plays trombone!

S07E10 A New Friend

• September 13, 2002

S07E11 Numbers! Numbers!

• January 1, 1992

S07E12 This Way In! This Way Out!

• September 27, 2002

S07E13 Spring Into Fun!

• October 4, 2002

S07E14 Play It Safe!

• October 11, 2002

Barney reminds Baby Bop that bandages are for real injuries; safety rules for playgrounds.

S07E15 Three Lines, Three Corners

• October 18, 2002

From a chalk hopscotch board made of triangles, the kids explore the shapes around them. The triangle gets the most exposure, from rooftops to paper hats.

S07E16 A Parade of Bikes

• October 25, 2002

S07E17 It's a Happy Day!

• November 1, 2002

S07E18 My Family and Me

• January 2, 1992

S07E19 Splish! Splash!

• November 15, 2002

S07E20 B.J.'s Really Cool House

• November 22, 2002

Barney, Baby Bop and the kids discuss the different rooms in a house while B.J. makes a house of his own. In the process, everyone learns what parts of a house are important.

S08E01 A Fountain of Fun

• September 15, 2003

S08E02 On Again, Off Again

• September 16, 2003

Barney, Baby Bop and the children learn about on and off.

S08E03 Sharing Is Caring!

• September 17, 2003

S08E04 Here Kitty, Kitty

• September 18, 2003

S08E05 Once Upon a Fairy Tale

• September 19, 2003

S08E06 It's Hot! It's Cold!

• September 26, 2003

S08E07 A Perfectly Purple Day

• October 3, 2003

S08E08 Day and Night

• October 10, 2003

S08E09 Play Piano with Me!

• October 17, 2003

S08E10 A Picture of Friendship

• October 24, 2003

S08E11 A-Counting We Will Go!

• February 17, 2004

S08E12 A Little Big Day

• March 12, 2004

Barney tells Baby Bop and the children that things, both big and little, matter.

S08E13 A World of Friends

• May 5, 2004

S08E14 Who's Your Neighbor?

• May 6, 2004

S08E15 Squares, Squares Everywhere

• May 7, 2004

S08E16 Let's Go for a Ride

• May 10, 2004

S08E17 That Makes Me Mad!

• May 11, 2004

S08E18 It's Your Birthday, Barney!

• May 12, 2004

S08E19 It's Showtime!

• May 13, 2004

S08E20 At Home in the Park

• May 14, 2004

S09E01 Everybody's Got Feelings

• September 6, 2004

Little people have big feelings, as Barney relates. He gets his friends to make masks of faces. Barney helps B.J. and Baby Bop with their mad feelings. Shot on location is the song Colors Make Me Happy.

S09E02 Caring Hearts

• September 7, 2004

In their school project, the kids attach hearts with names of people they care about, on a bare tree. Barney helps the kids get a wide view of all the people who care about them. Their friends-and-family tree ""blooms"" considerably.

S09E03 Let's Make Music!

• September 8, 2004

Barney tells the kids how rhythm is instrumental to music. It inspires the kids to start a marching band.

S09E04 Movin' Along

• September 9, 2004

Barney steps in as the Simon of a Simon Says game. It starts everyone dancing and moving about. Midway through, Barney narrates a dramatization of The Tortoise and the Hare.

S09E05 Let Your Creativity Fly!

• September 10, 2004

Laura, David, and Miguel find Barney's paper airplane–and set their imaginations on one goal: building a pretend airplane.

S09E06 Imagine That!

• September 13, 2004

S09E07 All About Me

• September 14, 2004

S09E08 My Baby Brother

• September 15, 2004

S09E09 Keep On Truckin'

• September 16, 2004

S09E10 I'm A Builder

• September 17, 2004

S09E11 Coming On Strong

• May 2, 2005

Jackson, Miguel, Rachel, and ""Dr. Whitney"" play check-up to see how they have grown. Barney shares with them ways to help their bodies grow stronger and healthier. One way is to exercise.

S09E12 Let's Play Games!

• May 3, 2005

B.J. pulls out a huge pile of balls and other things for playing games. But he needs friends to help him decide what game to play.

S09E13 You Can Count On Me

• May 4, 2005

Kami, Rachel, and Nick go on Barney's number hunt. As Barney shows different number cards, the kids use their senses to find the real objects.

S09E14 A Wonderful World of Colors and Shapes

• May 5, 2005

S09E15 Easy as ABC

• May 6, 2005

S09E16 Look What I Can Do!

• May 9, 2005

S09E17 Making A Move!

• May 10, 2005

S09E18 Home, Safe Home

• May 11, 2005

S09E19 On the Road Again!

• May 12, 2005

S09E20 My Friends, The Doctor and Dentist

• May 13, 2005

S10E01 Welcome, Cousin Riff: Special Skills

• January 3, 2002

S10E02 Airplanes; Boats

• September 19, 2006

S10E03 Butterflies; Bugs

• September 20, 2006

S10E04 Shapes; Colors

• September 21, 2006

S10E05 Seeing; Hearing

• September 22, 2006

S10E06 Glad to Be Me; Arts

• September 25, 2006

S10E07 Movement; BJ's Snack Attack

• September 26, 2006

S10E08 Counting; Letters

• September 27, 2006

S10E09 Pets; Vets

• September 28, 2006

S10E10 Winter; Summer

• September 29, 2006

S10E11 Caring and Rhythm

• October 2, 2006

It's Barney's birthday and everyone gives him gifts. Baby Bop practices for the marching band.

S10E12 Playing Games; Fun with Reading

• October 3, 2006

S10E13 Making Mistakes; Separation

• October 4, 2006

S10E14 Days of the Week; Sharing

• October 5, 2006

S10E15 Rabbits; Ducks and Fish

• October 6, 2006

S10E16 Mother Goose; Fairy Tales

• October 9, 2006

S10E17 Things I Can Do; Differences

• October 10, 2006

Baby Bop isn't satisfied with the things she can do. Barney helps a wheel-chair bound child.

S10E18 Singing; Dancing

• October 11, 2006

S10E19 Neighborhood; Careers

• October 12, 2006

S10E20 China; Kenya

• October 13, 2006

S11E01 Pistachio / Full Team Ahead

• November 17, 2007

S11E02 The Magic Words / Litterbot

• September 18, 2007

S11E03 Bop 'til You Drop / The Sleepless Sleepover

• September 17, 2007

S11E04 Little Red Rockin' Hood / The Whole Truth

• September 20, 2007

S11E05 The Wind and the Sun / The Nature of Things

• September 21, 2007

S11E06 The New Kid / Grandpa's Visit

• September 24, 2007

S11E07 The Big Garden / Listen!

• September 25, 2007

S11E08 Lost and Found / Pot Full of Sunshine

• September 26, 2007

S11E09 Trail Boss Barney / Get Happy!

• September 27, 2007

S11E10 For the Fun of It / Starlight, Star Bright

• September 28, 2007

S11E11 Big As Barney / No, No, No!

• October 1, 2007

S11E12 The Emperor's Contest / Beethoven's Hear!

• October 2, 2007

S11E13 Guess Who? / Sweet Treats

• October 3, 2007

S11E14 Best in Show / The Chase

• October 4, 2007

S11E15 Dream Big / That's What a Mommy Is

• October 5, 2007

S11E16 The Shrinking Blankey / The Awful Tooth

• October 8, 2007

Baby Bop thinks her blankey is getting smaller, but it is she who is getting bigger; Riff fears going to the dentist to get his sore tooth checked.

S11E17 The Blame Game / What's Your Name?

• October 9, 2007

S11E18 The Magic Caboose / BJ the Great

• October 10, 2007

S11E19 Gift of the Dinos / A Visit to Santa

• October 11, 2007

S11E20 Riff's Musical Zoo / The Princess and the Frog

• October 12, 2007

S12E01 Way to Go!: A Travel Adventure

• September 15, 2008

Daniel explains to Barney, Baby Bop, BJ, and the kids how he and his family will use different modes of transportation on their cruise vacation. With a little imagination, Barney, Baby Bop, BJ, and the kids use boxes to build some cars, a plane, a bus, and a cruise ship.

S12E02 The Misbegotten Moon, A Space Adventure

• September 16, 2008

Baby Bop sees a half-moon & thinks the moon is broken. Barney takes her to see the Man in the Moon.

S12E03 The Sword In The Sandbox, A Storybook Adventure

• September 17, 2008

Daniel wants to jump rope with some older children but is afraid he is too little to do it right.

S12E04 Riff to the Rescue!: A Wild West Adventure

• September 18, 2008

Ready Set Play

S12E05 Lights! Camera! Action!: A Movie Adventure

• September 19, 2008

Songs from the Park

S12E06 To Catch A Thief, A Mystery Adventure

• September 22, 2008

S12E07 The Magic Lamp a Travel Adventure

• September 23, 2008

S12E08 The Amazing Captain Pickles, a Hero Adventure

• September 24, 2008

Barney helps BJ learn the importance of honesty when BJ tells everyone he can leap over the moon.

S12E09 A Game for Everyone: A Sports Adventure

• September 25, 2008

Barney sets up a sports day in the park. Baby Bop encourages a special needs child to join the fun.

S12E10 The Reluctant Dragon, a Fairy Tale Adventure

• September 26, 2008

S13E01 Bienvenido, Barney: Mexico

• April 4, 1992

Baby Bop's friend Monty the butterfly passes through the park with a flock of friends on their way to Mexico. When Monty gets left behind by his insect friends and family, Barney takes everyone on a visit to Mexico, where Baby Bop will say good-bye to her butterfly friend.

S13E02 Big Brother Rusty: China

• September 8, 2009

arney's excited to find out that Rusty's family is adopting a new baby girl from China; however, Rusty's not sure if he's going to be a good brother, and he doesn't know much about China. Barney shows Rusty and the others some info China on the computer and BJ and Baby Bop talk about siblings. Through Barney's Travel Book, Barney takes Rusty, BJ and Baby Bop on an adventure to China where he can learn more about his new sister's heritage. When they get there, the people are celebrating Chinese New Year. From lion dances and talented performers to tasty treats and puppet shows, the celebration never runs out of fun. By the time he returns to the park, Rusty excitedly meets his new baby sister, named Mei Ling, and realizes he will be the best big brother ever!

S13E03 Ahora Mismo!: Spain

• September 9, 2009

Ben is late to the park and is disappointed to realize he missed his chance at riding a real pony. He has waited his whole life for this, and now it looks as if he’s missed his opportunity. Luckily, Barney takes him to Spain where they meet Regalo, a dancing horse with Riff and Baby Bop. Ben and Barney return to the park just in time for Ben to ride the pony after all! Ben is thrilled to ride a horse and learned an important lesson about patience and waiting.

S13E04 Venice, Anyone?: Italy

• September 10, 2009

Emma is stuck with a school project and can't play soccer with Joshua. Having to interview her parents and get info about an interesting ancestor, she is frustrated with the assignment. Barney helps her discover that her ancestors were from Venice, Italy. Using his Travel Book, Barney takes Josh, Emma, and Riff to Venice. He gives his friends a gondola ride as well as telling them about famous explorer Marco Polo. Barney's friend Anna Maria tells Emma that she knew her great grandfather and takes her to his shop, where they try on masks and make some of their own. Emma learns that if she makes the mask in parts, she'll get it done. Barney reminds her of this lesson, so she will do the same for her school project.

S13E05 Sweeter Than Candy: Greece

• September 11, 2009

Barney, Baby Bop and BJ are helping the kids get ready for a school play. Barney tells everyone that putting on shows began in Greece. Of course, the little dinos and kids want to visit the country, so off they go! While there, they meet some Greek friends and decide to put on a play in an amphitheatre. Barney knows a great story that originated in Greece called “King Midas.” By the end of the day, everyone has learned that wanting too much is not a good thing, especially BJ!

S13E06 The Music Box: Switzerland

• September 14, 2009

The kids are having a yard sale, getting rid of old toys, books and clothes. Kioko shows up holding a prized possession-a music box from Switzerland. By accident, Ben includes the music box in a cardboard box of yard sale items-and the music box is sold! Kioko is sad and Ben wants to make things right, so he and Barney travel to Switzerland in search of a replacement gift. While there, they sample Swiss food, customs and games-but no music box! Luckily when Ben returns the music box is returned!

S13E07 The Good Egg: Kenya

When the kids find a mysterious, colorful egg in the park, Barney takes them on a trip to Kenya to try to find out what kind of animal could have laid the egg. While in Kenya, they meet Ayira who introduces them to many people, cultures and animals of Kenya!

S13E08 A Bird of a Different Feather: Hawaii

• September 16, 2009

What started out as a day of play, suddenly turns into a search for a "Bird of Paradise" that Tracy needs for her school project. Ben tells her that it's a rare bird, and they are only found in Hawaii. Barney then takes the kids to Hawaii, using his Travel Book. There they learn different words, how to make leis and even a hula dance. In the end everyone finds out that the "Bird of Paradise" is actually a flower, not a bird.

S13E09 Bonjour Barney!: France

• September 17, 2009

Emma wants to paint an award-winning painting for the "Art In The Park Show," but she is just isn't satisfied with her artwork. Barney takes her to France to learn how to paint from his friend Pierre. While there, they learn about France and how to "paint by following your heart!"

S13E10 Home Sweet Earth: The Rainforest

• September 18, 2009

It's Earth Day, a great time for everyone to learn how to help take care of our world, but Ben is wasting paper while BJ isn't too concerned about cutting down a tree to make room for a new playground. After a trip to the rainforest and a meeting with Mother Nature, everyone learns the importance of taking care of our world. As Earth Day comes to an end, Barney reminds us all that taking good care of our Earth is the natural thing to do…for the people we love.

S14E01 Gift of the Dinos and Winter

• October 4, 2010

Gift of the Dinos: At Christmastime, BJ dreams of getting a brand new baseball glove, while Riff hopes for brand new drumsticks. Barney reminds them both that Christmas is about more than just getting gifts. Winter: Baby Bop waits for the first snowfall of the year!

S14E02 Riff's Musical Zoo and Boats

• October 5, 2010

Riff's Musical Zoo: After Tracy's Mom can't take the kids to the zoo, Riff uses stuffed animals and musical instruments to mimic animals sounds to create a "musical zoo"! Boats BJ and Riff build a make-believe boat for Baby Bop to ride.

S14E03 The Magic Caboose and Arts

• October 6, 2010

The Magical Caboose: Barney and the kids board the caboose and use their imagination to go to different places. They visit Egypt, Tahiti, and India. Arts: Barney introduces his friends to many different kinds of art.

S14E04 Movement and Separation

• October 7, 2010

Movement: Coach Baby Bop and BJ help Barney prepare for the sack race. Separation: Baby Bop misses BJ and Riff, when they go off on a camping trip.

S14E05 Pistachio and BJ's Snack Attack

• October 8, 2010

Pistachio: BJ, Baby Bop, and Riff think that Barney is eating too many pistachio but he can't stop eating them. BJ's Snack Attack: After BJ eats too many treats, he dreams a world of only sweet treats.

S14E06 Bop 'til You Drop and Sharing

• October 11, 2010

Bop 'til You Drop: Barney steps in when Baby Bop gets a little too pushy and bossy with her friends after losing her pink balloon. Sharing: After Riff breaks BJ's scooter, he sells his old stuff to buy a new one!

S14E07 Little Red Rockin' Hood and Differences

• October 12, 2010

Little Red Rockin' Hood: Barney, Baby Bop, BJ, Riff, and the kids tell the story of how a country singer and Rock-N-Roll wolf blended their music together and created Country Rock! Differences: When the kids leave a wheelchair kid out of the fun, Barney decides to let him know that sometimes he feels the same way too.

S14E08 Butterflies and The Nature of Things

• February 15, 2002

Butterflies: Barney, Baby Bop, and Riff help Baby Bop find her butterfly Monty. The Nature of Things: After Rachel litters in the park, she has a dream about how the litter affects animal homes.

S14E09 China and Welcome, Cousin Riff

• October 14, 2010

China: BJ's Chinese Pen Pal visits the park! Welcome, Cousin Riff: Barney informs Baby Bop and BJ that their cousin Riff has moved into town!

S14E10 Rabbits and Listen!

• October 15, 2010

Rabbits: Detective BJ helps Baby Bop figure out which animal is eating her snacks Listen!: When the kids hear a mysterious noise in the park, Detective Riff is on the case!

S14E11 The Big Garden and Get Happy!

• February 26, 2002

The Big Garden: Barney and his friends harvest crops in their garden! Get Happy!: After Olivia is sad, Riff invents a device to make her happy again!

S14E12 Big as Barney and The Chase

• October 19, 2010

Big as Barney: After seeing how Barney helps many people, Ryan wishes he could be more like Barney. When he pretends to be more like Barney, Barney teaches him that he can help people by just being himself. The Chase: After the kids fight over wanting to do the same thing, Barney tells them a Native American story that teaches to be yourself and not follow the crowd.

S14E13 Playing Games and No, No, No!

• October 20, 2010

Playing Games: Barney teaches Baby Bop to follow the rules of the game. No, No, No!: After Baby Bop gets fustrated by hearing "No!" all the time, Barney tells Baby Bop the story of Cinderella

S14E14 The Emperor's Contest and The Whole Truth

• October 21, 2010

The Emperor's Contest: After Ryan thinks of cheating during a fishing contest, Barney tells him a story about how a boy became emperor for being honest. The Whole Truth: BJ takes credit for Sarah's picture, thinking his friends would like him better if he was a great artist. Barney teaches him that his friends like him for who he is.

S14E15 Seeing and Beethoven's Hear!

• October 22, 2010

Seeing: Baby Bop is playing hide-and-seek with an elephant! Beethoven's Hear: After Riff wonders if he would still like music if he was deaf, Barney introduces one of the best deaf musician of all time - Beethoven.

S14E16 Best in Show and Ducks and Fish

• February 1, 2003

Best in Show: Susan lets BJ enter her dog Pilgrim in a dog show! Ducks and Fish: Riff care for some duck eggs!

S14E17 The Shrinking Blankey and Things I Can Do

• October 26, 2010

The Shrinking Blankey: Baby Bop is worried that she is outgrowing her blankey. Things I Can Do: Barney and his friends show off things they can do!

S14E18 Mother Goose and Fun with Reading

• October 27, 2010

Mother Goose: Characters from The Land of Mother Goose come to the caboose in search for their lost things. Fun with Reading: After BJ gets an injury while playing Captain Pickles, Barney and the kids have fun with books. They even write their own story!

S14E19 The Blame Game and Airplanes

• July 1, 2002

The Blame Game: After Marcos accidently breaks Melanie's project, he's afraid that she would not be his friend anymore. Barney teaches him that good friends are always honest to each other! Airplanes: BJ has fun with his toy airplane. But when Riff's curiousity causes him to mess up BJ's toy, can BJ put it back together?

S14E20 The New Kid and The Princess and the Frog

• November 2, 2010

The New Kid: After Riff makes friends with new kid Noah, BJ becomes jealous and thinks he is not Riff's friend anymore. Barney teaches him that you can always keep your old friendships and make new ones too. The Princess and the Frog: After Baby Bop promises Ryan to watch his pet frog, Barney tells her the story of "The Princess and the Frog" to remind her to always keep her promises.

Additional Specials

Special 0x1 barney colorful world live.

Barney™ has your ticket to adventure as he brings the magic of his colorful stage show to video. Join the purple dino-star and his co-stars, Baby Bop™ and BJ™, as they visit exciting places and make new friends, including a tap-dancing monkey, an ice-skating polar bear and a starfish who sings rock and roll! Imagine flying to a rain forest, dancing with penguins in the Arctic, and exploring the colorful world under the sea. Sing and dance along with Barney on a magical, musical trip around our colorful world! Approx. Run Time: 189 minutes (including bonus features)

SPECIAL 0x2 Barney Now I Know My ABCs

• July 13, 2004

Kids everywhere flock to Barney for fun, dancing, and learning, which makes him the perfect accompaniment for your child as he or she begins to learn to read and spell. Baby Bop is so excited to be able to write her name, and the kids are planning an art show of all the brightest hues, using their imaginations to learn about shapes and colors. Baby Bop is keeping everyone guessing as to what she will draw that's shaped like a rectangle: it's soft, yellow, and friendly for sure! songs included on the DVD are "Mister Sun," "Alphabet Soup," "Mix a Color," and of course, "I Love You!"

SPECIAL 0x3 Barney Red Yellow and Blue

Barney and his friends from the Backyard Gang learn about colors in this episode from the popular series. Sarah, Mario, and Tony separate things into piles of red, yellow, and blue. When they realize they don't have enough yellow things, Miss Jo gives them the picture she painted of a yellow flower. Meanwhile, Sarah adds to the collection with some crepe paper flowers.

SPECIAL 0x4 Barney Songs from the Park

• January 7, 2003

Barneys new park is a great place to play! and its a great place to sing & dance. Barney & his friends can always find something to sing about - from picnics to playgrounds to parrades. So tune up & tune in for a musical tour of barneys park - its something to sing about!

SPECIAL 0x5 Barney's Dino Dancin' Tunes

• May 15, 2001

SPECIAL 0x6 Barney's Musical Scrapbook

• May 6, 1997

SPECIAL 0x7 Barney's Numbers! Numbers!

• August 5, 2003

SPECIAL 0x8 Barney's Beach Party

• April 30, 2002

Barney and friends take a fun-filled and educational trip to Hawaii. Sail-boating, kite-flying, shell-hunting, learning to build sandcastles, and an underwater ride in a submarine are all a part of this exciting day on the beach. Children will also learn about marine life, health and safety tips, and they'll be taught how to hula dance. Of course, singing plays a big role in this day at the beach. Barney and friends sing 14 songs including, "Rain, Rain, Go Away," "Colors All Around," "If I Lived Under The Sea," "Barney's Hula Dance," and many more.

SPECIAL 0x9 Barney's Let's Go To The Farm

• May 1, 2005

Come join Barney, Baby Bop and BJ as they take their friends on a fun-filled adventure to a farm. Everyone's favorite big purple dinosaur takes his little friends on an exciting trip to the farm. Barney, Baby Bop, and BJ go exploring to see what farm life is all about. They learn all about the fresh seasonal produce the farmers grow, and even get to play with baby animals! Homemade ice cream, summer sunshine, and a chance to explore the barn make this one spectacular day, and to top it off, Barney and friends sing no less than 17 fabulous songs that kids will love to sing along with.

SPECIAL 0x10 Barney's Land of make believe

• August 30, 2005

The imagination runs wild when Barney and his friends BJ and Baby Bop travel to the Land of Make Believe. There, they encounter a little storybook princess with a big problem: she can't find her way back to her kingdom! The friendly purple dinosaur and his pals undertake to help her, and along the way they meet a beautiful mermaid, swim with the dolphins, and get to know a magician. But as much fun as they are having, the poor Princess still has to make it home, and Barney and his friends must find their way back as well. Will all the new friends be able to make it to their respective destinations? The possibilities are limited only by the imagination!

SPECIAL 0x11 Barney's Fun on Wheels

• September 22, 2009

Barney the big purple dinosaur and his new friend Pop Wheely have a blast teaching their fun-loving pals BJ and Baby Bop about bikes, buses, boats, and other things that "go" in this collection of transportation-themed episodes.

SPECIAL 0x12 Barney's Animal ABCs

• March 4, 2008

Barney and his animal pals team up to teach youngsters how fun learning the alphabet can be with this collection of sing-a-long, educational activities.

SPECIAL 0x13 Barney's Read with me dance with me

• April 8, 2003

Barney's friends are holding a book drive in the park, and every time they open a book, a new tale begins! Reading helps their imaginations grow and inspires the kids to build a make-believe rocket, put on a circus and create their own books. Happy Dancing' Feet: When the dinos' old friend Min dances onto the scene, Barney and the kids show off their talents, moving and grooving to jazz, hip-hop and country music. Bj's favorite is the dino-dance! And even though he thinks ballet is for girls, Bj finally agrees to dance with Baby Bop. They are 'tutu" cute, and Bj discovers that all kinds of dancing are fun.

SPECIAL 0x14 Barney's Marvellous manners

• March 1, 2004

Barney and chums learn all about minding their manners and how to be polite.

SPECIAL 0x15 Barney's Movin' and Groovin'

• March 9, 2004

Barney and his friends are movin’ and groovin’ to the beat of the music! As they learn about rhythm and create their own musical instruments, Barney leads the band with a rat-a-tat-tat and a rooty-toot-toot. And they discover there are lots of ways to get a move on as they do the Baby Bop Hop and the Dino Dance. Then, after wiggling through a game of Simon says, they’re off to the races. Barney’s friends discover the fun of movement while making beautiful music together!

SPECIAL 0x16 Barney's Adventure Bus

Hop aboard and get ready for the ride of your life as bus driver Barney takes the whole gang to some of their favorite imaginary destinations. First stop, a castle just for Brett where he can rule in the land of make believe. Then, it's back on the bus and on to Barney's Purple Pepperoni Pizzeria. Then, after a rootin', tootin' ride into the Old West for Keesha, followed by a stop at the circus for Baby Bop, it's BJ's turn for adventure. And with a little help from Barney, he soon becomes a one-man, or rather one-dino band. So climb on board and grab a seat. It's mile after mile of fun on Barney's Adventure Bus.

SPECIAL 0x17 Come On Over to Barney's House

• August 15, 2000

See Barney's House for the first time ever and share the fun with a houseful of his guests. At Barney's house, imagination can make anything happen at any time. That's why BJ, Baby Bop and some of their young friends are treated to surprising inventions, rock n roll singing birds, a web-surfing mouse, storybook visitors, and much more!

SPECIAL 0x18 Be My Valentine, Love Barney

• February 14, 2000

It's Valentine's Day and the kids are making valentine boxes. A mysterious card arrives in Barney's valentine box, which he explains is from the Queen of Hearts. With a little imagination, Barney and his friends head off to visit her castle. They meet the Queen of Hearts and explore the castle. From making cookies and watching butterflies to making silly rhymes, there's fun in every corner. There's even a surprise Valentine's Day party organized by the Queen of Hearts, where B.J. and Baby Bop meet up with the others. The group gets dressed up nicely and they have loads of fun. Barney and the kids give a card they made to the Queen of Hearts, which she enjoys. Back at the Treehouse, Barney gives the kids Valentines cards.

SPECIAL 0x19 We Love Our Family

• July 3, 2018

All we need is love from our family and friends – and, of course, Barney! Discover the joys and laughter that moms, grandparents and cousins can bring in this collection full of unforgettable moments of warmth and togetherness the whole family will cherish!

SPECIAL 0x20 Easy as ABC

Special 0x21 let's make music.

• September 5, 2006

SPECIAL 0x22 Lets Go To The Zoo

• August 28, 2001

SPECIAL 0x23 Jungle Friends

• September 15, 2009

Grab your safari hat and get ready for a one-of-a-kind musical jungle adventure! Join your best friends, Barney, BJ™ , and Baby Bop™ as they laugh, dance, and sing through an enchanted rainforest and learn about all of the amazing plants, animals, and insects that call the rainforest their home. Watch and learn as kids play with monkeys, collect butterflies, and search for the legendary Higgledy Piggledy Pear Tree in this super-dee-duper™ tale of friendship and fun!

SPECIAL 0x24 Happy Mad Silly Sad

• December 16, 2003

Love makes Barney's world go 'round, and the huggable dinosaur encourages his friends to express and understand their emotions in healthy ways. From creating masks to decorating a "Friends & Family Tree" with hearts, Barney uses fun songs and games to help his friends get in touch with their feelings. And he reminds them than manners, sharing and taking turns are great ways to show you care about others. It's always a happy day of fun and learning when you spend it with Barney and his friends.

SPECIAL 0x25 Songs From the Park

Special 0x26 super singing circus.

• May 16, 2000

SPECIAL 0x27 Round and Round We Go

• August 27, 2002

SPECIAL 0x28 Come on over to Barney's house

Special 0x29 barney's night before christmas.

• September 28, 1999

Join Barney and his friends as they are greeted as special guests at Santa's toy workshop.

SPECIAL 0x30 A Counting We Will Go

• September 14, 2010

Two, four, six, eight, Barney wants to celebrate! While playing a game of Hide and Seek in the park, Baby Bop realizes that she can't be the one to count to ten because she doesn't know how - so Barney and the kids jump right in to help her.

SPECIAL 0x31 Shapes and Colors All Around

• February 8, 2011

SPECIAL 0x32 Sing and Dance with Barney

• January 12, 1999

The kids get a mysterious invitation for a party and later find out it was from Barney. He plans a sing-along for all his friends.

SPECIAL 0x33 123 Learn

• July 12, 2011

SPECIAL 0x34 Barney's Best Fairy Tales

• November 9, 2010

SPECIAL 0x35 I Can Do It

• May 17, 2011

SPECIAL 0x36 Barney's Mother Goose Collection

• March 15, 2011

Come along with Barney™, Baby Bop™ and BJ™ on a magical and music-filled journey into the land of Mother Goose. Join the fun and sing along as classic nursery rhymes like Hickory Dickory Dock, Humpty Dumpty, London Bridge and more come to life!

SPECIAL 0x37 Barney's Big World Adventure: The Movie

• January 1, 2011

SPECIAL 0x39 Barney Can You Sing That Song

• December 13, 2005

It's time to play Barney's Musical Game Show, with your host, Barney the purple dinosaur. Join Barney, Baby Bop, BJ, and a fixed audience, as they sing, dance, learn, and see if they can sing those songs!

SPECIAL 0x40 It's Time for Counting

• January 13, 1998

SPECIAL 0x41 Barney In Outer Space

• March 17, 1998

SPECIAL 0x78 Barney Hi I'm Riff

• May 6, 2008

SPECIAL 0x79 Camp WannaRunnaRound

• July 8, 1997

After a forest ranger visits the school, Stephen decides he wants to become one too, but there's one big problem: Stephen has never visited a forest before. With a little imagination, Barney whisks Stephen and his friends, Hannah, Kim, and Chip, to Camp WannaRunnaRound for a hiking, camping, Super-Dee-Duper adventure!

SPECIAL 0x80 Waiting for Santa

• January 6, 1990

Barney and the kids travel to the North Pole to assure new-friend Derek that his name is on Santa's good list. They frolic on ice, play in the snow, and learn that giving things to others is what Christmas is all about.

SPECIAL 0x81 Pajama Party

• October 30, 2001

Put on your PJs and brush your teeth, because it's time to go to a pajama party hosted by one of your best friends! So cuddle up close and get ready for a night full of musical memories courtesy of Barney the Dinosaur. There's pizza, popcorn and plent of your all-time favorite songs. You'll sing the night away as you enjoy moments from classic Barney videos. And some special friends might just drop by, too ... like Riders in the Sky and BJ and Baby Bop. So be sure to invite all your pals and don't forget to grab you teddy bear, Barney's Pajama Party is about to begin.

SPECIAL 0x82 All About Opposites

• July 10, 2012

There's non-stop fun as Barney and his friends learn all about opposites! Everyone helps Baby Bop understand concepts like up & down, in & out and high & low. Hey Diddle Diddle, the kids see that they can be big or little, but it's what's inside that counts! Then join in as Barney and his friends have a cool time on a hot day in a pretend winter-summer wonderland learning about hot and cold! There's always Tee-rrific teaching and fun when big dinos and small friends are around!

SPECIAL 0x83 Barney's Super Singing Circus

Barney's Super-dee-duper Singing Circus has arrived! And it's got everything children want to see: a marching band, a carful of silly clowns, a flying squirrel on a trapeze, prancing ponies, a lion tamer, whistling wiener-dogs, a strongman that can lift Ringmaster Barney high over his head and more.

SPECIAL 0x84 Barney Book Fair

• July 14, 2009

Barney’s friends are holding a book drive in the park, and every time they open a book, a new tale begins! Reading helps their imaginations grow and inspires them to build a make-believe rocket, put on a circus, and create their own books!

SPECIAL 0x85 Let's Go to the Beach

• March 2, 2014

Barney, BJ, and Baby Bop take a trip to the seaside. The dinosaur friends have fun on the sandy shores as they fly kites, windsurf, and take a ride in a sailboat.

SPECIAL 0x86 Barney Lets Go on Vacation

• May 19, 2009

Pack your bags with Barney for a vacation filled with musical adventure. The trip turns into a singing and dancing celebration of the differences and similarities between cultures.

SPECIAL 0x87 Good Day, Good Night

Special 0x88 walk around the block with barney.

• May 4, 1999

It's another fun-filled day as Barney and the children make visits to some of the local businesses including Cannoli's Bakery, Bouffant's Barber Shop, Miss Marigold's Flower Shop, the PB&J Cafe, and Green's Grocery. They meet many different people and discover the places which make up a neighborhood. With Barney, children will learn that the people who live next door can be more than just neighbors, they can be friends. Meanwhile, BJ and Baby Bop wait for a surprise from Deborah the delivery lady.

SPECIAL 0x89 What A World We Share

• March 9, 1999

After Stella the Storyteller leaves her suitcase in the tree house, Barney and the kids travel to France, Canada, and Mexico to find her. Meanwhile, Baby Bop and BJ fight over who gets to use the box.

SPECIAL 0x90 Barney's Once Upon A Time

• November 5, 1996

While visiting the show, Stella the Storyteller's suitcase of props explodes, and Barney and the kids help repack it. But while giving assistance, they also use the props to tell classic stories: Rumpelstiltskin, Rapunzel, and more. This enjoyable installment in the Barney library may very likely be the place some child viewers will hear these stories for the first time.

SPECIAL 0x91 Let's Go To The Fire House

• March 13, 2007

The movie starts out with firefighters being summoned to help a woman whose foot is stuck. But when they get her inside the ambulance, Chief Arnett realizes that their mascot/rescue dog Scout has disappeared. A few days later, Barney and his friends honor the courage and caring of these everyday heroes. The adventure begins in the park, as Barney helps the children imagine what they'll be when they grow up. BJ finds a dog (who is really Scout, the missing rescue dog), and while Barney tries to explain that the dog may have a home, BJ doesn't want to listen to Barney's advice. A smoke alarm goes off in the caboose, and firefighters rush to the park. Fortunately, it's a false alarm, caused by one of Riff's inventions. Baby Bop wants to know, "What makes a hero?" and BJ is surprised to learn that "his" dog may be the firehouse mascot and a working rescue dog. After an action-packed visit to the firehouse, Baby Bop understands what being a hero means - and she's found one more hero to honor....her big brother, BJ.

SPECIAL 0x92 Let's Play School

• July 27, 1999

After hearing all sorts of fun the children have in school, Baby Bop wishes she could go to school too. So, with a little imagination, Barney creates a school just for Baby Bop and it is full of surprises!

SPECIAL 0x93 A Very Merry Christmas

• October 11, 2011

Barney and the children are decorating the caboose for Christmas. Barney explains the concept of "Snowflake Buddies", in which one chooses a paper snowflake, and gives the person who's name is written on the snowflake a gift. Baby Bop then arrives with a long Christmas wish-list, so Barney and the children explain to her that Christmas is also about giving. Later, the group decides to write Christmas cards to their friends, as well as Santa Claus. After this, they play out the story of "The Nutcracker".

SPECIAL 0x94 Barney's Musical Castle

• March 6, 2001

A magical sign leads Barney and his friends to an enchanted forest. Along the way, they find a lost crown that belongs to the king. Following the sign to the castle, Barney and his friends return the crown to the king. Filming Location: Rosemont Theatre- Rosemont, Illinois

SPECIAL 0x95 Barney Songs

• November 7, 1995

Barney Songs is a Barney Clip Show released on November 7, 1995. It is a clip show of Season 3 episodes

SPECIAL 0x96 Barney's Big Surprise

• May 19, 1998

Barney's Big Surprise! was Barney's first national stage show tour and his third stage show overall (following Barney in Concert, and Barney Live! In New York City). It toured in the United States, Canada, Mexico, and the United Kingdom originally from 1996. It was also performed in Asia in 2004, in Argentina in 2006, and in Brazil in 2007. Filmed at Lawrence Joel Veterans Memorial Colisseum- Winston-Salem, North Carolina

SPECIAL 0x97 Barney's Halloween Party

• August 18, 1998

It’s Halloween and Barney and the kids are decorating the gym for an exciting party at the school. From Indian corn to smiling jack-o-lanterns, the gym is aglow with the colors of fall. Meanwhile, BJ and Baby Bop are putting the final touches on their costumes as they get ready for a fun-filled night of trick-or-treating. Finally, evening arrives, the party begins, and the trick-or-treaters set out to search for goodies. Unfortunately, after a full night of trying, BJ comes up just a bit empty-handed. But when he and Baby Bop return to school, they soon find out that their friends have plenty of goodies and surprises waiting for them. Sometimes, the best treats at Halloween are good friends.

SPECIAL 0x98 Barney's Christmas Star

• October 22, 2002

Barney and pals search for a missing Christmas tree's star

SPECIAL 0x99 More Barney Songs

• December 28, 1999

BJ and Baby Bop help Barney clean out his messy closet. While cleaning, they find lots of certain things that remind them of the fun times they shared with all their friends.

SPECIAL 0x100 Imagination Island

• April 24, 1994

Barney and pals are stranded on Imagination Island after a storm ruins their ship

SPECIAL 0x101 1-2-3-4 Seasons

• August 6, 1996

BJ experiences all four seasons in one day

SPECIAL 0x102 Barney's Sharing Is Caring

Celebrate a day of giving with Barney! A toy drive inspires Barney and his friends to donate their old toys and learn the joy of sharing. Through magical storytelling and super-Dino surprises, Barney helps his gang discover that generosity brings a smile to everyone’s face. Baby Bop™, BJ™, and the rest of your pals can't wait for you to take part in the warm-hearted fun. You'll have a ball as you learn that friendship and sharing go hand in hand!

SPECIAL 0x103 Barney's Furry Friends

• July 27, 2010

Join Barney and his friends for some tail-wagging adventures, as they have a purr-fectly wonderful time with pets! Learn how to care for your favorite furry friends, from helpful guide dogs to stunning show dogs and all different kinds of cats. You're sure to have a doggone good time with Baby Bop™, BJ™ and everyone's favorite fun-loving dinosaur, Barney!

SPECIAL 0x104 Barney's Top 20 Countdown

• March 10, 2009

Barney sings twenty of his favorite songs with an audience.

SPECIAL 0x105 Happy Birthday Barney

• January 4, 2014

Every day with Barney is fun -- but today is stuuu-pendously special: it's Barney's birthday! His friends decide to throw a party and BJ and Baby Bop arrive with party supplies to help prepare for the festivities. Jackson is inspired by their assortment of handmade presents and hurries home in search of a very "special" gift for Barney. While waiting for his return, they play party games, sing songs and open presents

SPECIAL 0x106 Barney Christmas Time

• January 12, 2008

Christmas With Barney

SPECIAL 0x107 Celebrating Around the World

• January 29, 2008

SPECIAL 0x108 Fun And Games

• May 21, 1996

Barney brings out his Game Machine for an afternoon of fun. But when the machine is empty; Barney, Baby Bop, BJ, and the kids look for toys and games to put into it. After the machine is filled with games, the kids turn the crank and out comes one big gameboard filled with fun and surprises!

SPECIAL 0x109 Barney Safety

• April 11, 1995

Barney and the kids talk about safety rules, relating them to past memories. From fire and bike safety to being safe at home, Barney and friends cover it all. They also recap their visit from Firefighter Frank.

SPECIAL 0x110 Please And Thank You

• January 5, 2010

When Baby Bop™ forgets to say "please” and "thank you", Barney realizes it’s time for a lesson on how magic words can make other people feel good inside. As Baby Bop daydreams about a world without good manners, she realizes that being polite is not only important but it’s easy to do after all.

SPECIAL 0x111 Let The Games Begin

• May 19, 2006

BJ`s favourite way of getting exercise is by playing sports and games, so he leads the group in a day full of fun and games. When Baby Bop is a bit shy about trying new games, Barney and his friends encourage her to try something new - and she has a tee-rrific time! Getting exercise is serious business, but it can also be 'fun and games' when you share the day with Barney

SPECIAL 0x112 Moovin' and Groovin'

Barney and the kids form a marching band and learn the delights of making music!

SPECIAL 0x113 Barney's Magical Musical Adventure

• January 27, 1993

Barney's friends are playing in Derek's backyard building a sand castle. When they wish they could visit a real castle Barney appears and takes them to a magical forest. They meet a friendly elf named Twynkle who likes to play games and make new friends. She shows them the road to the castle where they ride pretend horses and meet a real king! After taking care of the castle while the king goes fishing the kids are made princes and princesses of the kingdom.

SPECIAL 0x114 A Super Dee Duper Day

• July 15, 2014

hile in the park, Ben shows Emma a brand new toy remote-controlled helicopter he got. While showing her how it works, Barney arrives. Shortly after, Ben's toy helicopter gets out of control and it breaks. Ben claims that there is nothing more fun than flying his toy helicopter. While thinking of fun things to do, Barney brings up the time they had a Sports Day in the Park (A Game for Everyone: A Sports Adventure). Then they talk about their favorite games/toys they like to play, and Barney says that his favorite toy to play with is a ball, and tells the story of how many of the balls disappeared in the park (To Catch a Thief: A Mystery Adventure). In the end, Ben finds out there are more fun things to do than play with his toy helicopter

SPECIAL 0x115 Egg-Cellent Adventures

• March 2, 2010

Baskets full of egg-citement abound when Mother Goose, a nest full of eggs, and a mysterious, carrot-eating visitor bring super-Dino adventures to the whole family. Hop along for the super-dee-duper adventures with Barney and his friends!

SPECIAL 0x116 Dino's In The Park

• February 16, 2016

As Barney goes on a number hunt in the park, Riff plays detective looking for a mysterious sound. Baby Bop discovers rainbows, while Riff raises money to replace BJ's broken scooter.

SPECIAL 0x117 Story Time With Barney

• January 21, 2014

With some help of fairy tale stories, Barney and the kids learn important lessons like patience, honesty, and perseverance.

SPECIAL 0x118 Let's Go To The Doctor

• November 6, 2012

It's check-up time! Barney teaches that doctors and dentists are our friends and shows how pediatricians, dentists and veterinarians keep people and animals healthy and strong!

SPECIAL 0x119 Let's Go To The Fair

• March 1, 2005

UK Release of Let's Make Music

SPECIAL 0x120 Let's Go To The Moon

• January 8, 2013

Barney encourages Riff to always reach for the stars, even when his homemade spaceship doesn’t reach Mars; Baby Bop learns about Mr. Moon’s important job lighting the night for the world, and BJ sees he’s special just the way he is – astronaut or not. Barney and his friends discover that the sky is not the limit when you use your imagination!

SPECIAL 0x121 Barney's Rhyme Time Rhythm

• December 31, 2005

Ever wonder where Mother Goose lives? Barney, BJ,, Baby Bop and the children embark on a whimsical journey to The Land of Mother Goose where all their favorite rhymes come to magical life.

SPECIAL 0x122 Dance With Barney

• May 21, 2013

Join Barney and learn many different kinds of dancing, from hip-hop to ballet to folk dance and more!

SPECIAL 0x123 Most Huggable Moments

• September 17, 2013

Come along for the most huggable, lovable, and memorable moments with Barney and his friends as they share, learn, and grow together.

SPECIAL 0x124 You Can Be Anything

• February 19, 2002

What do you want to be when you grow up? Join Barney and his friends as they look through Barney's costume shop and try on a few jobs for size. Just imagine and you can be ANYTHING!

SPECIAL 0x125 Barney's Talent Show

• March 26, 1996

Barney and the kids put on a talent show, with a big one performing a number of songs with others or solo, and some of the kids getting their moment in the spotlight as well!

SPECIAL 0x126 Rock With Barney

• January 27, 1992

Adam's mother takes the Backyard Gang and Barney (still a stuffed toy doll) to the studio where she works. While there, Barney and the Backyard Gang tour the studio on their own, while producing their own show. From a cereal commercial set and a puppet show and the six little ducks and teddy bears and the US flag and an island paradise and a make up place to a jungle, the show is filmed along with many props in the studio. With the power of imagination and some movie magic, anything is possible when Barney's around.

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20 Travel Books about Italy to Read Before You Go

• Pinterest 17

These captivating books on Italy are a must-read before your trip. Non-fiction Italian travel books include the classic Rick Steeves travel guide alongside books about the Italian language and food you’ll encounter during your vacation as well.

Planning a trip to Italy? Or perhaps you just want to explore Italy from home as part of a homeschool geography, history, or cultural study.

These non-fiction books on Italy cover a broad range of fascinating topics that bring the Italian vistas right to your front door.

When I’m reading up before a big trip, I always start with a few classic travel guides to get a better sense of the area I’ll be visiting and the landmarks I want to add to my itinerary.

But then I like to dig a little deeper with books about the language, history, food, and culture so that I’m better prepared for the people I’ll meet and the experiences I’ll encounter.

Though you might be able to find locals who can speak a bit of English, if it is your first International trip , the right thing to do is to pick up a few Italian phrases before you go.

Familiarizing yourself with an Italian phrase book and reading a little about all the amazing food you’ll find in the pasta and pizza restaurants will help you to order more easily and be sure you get what you love.

I’ve also included a few Italian travelogues if you prefer a first-hand account of Tuscany vs. a more detailed guide book or history book.

If you’ll be traveling as a family, you’ll definitely want to check out this list of books about Italy for kids . They are perfect for using in a homeschool curriculum or simply to prepare your children before a family vacation.

But if non-fiction books aren’t your thing, don’t miss this list of fiction books about Italy that would fun to take on the plane!

20 Travel Books About Italy to Read Before You Go

Planning a trip to Italy? Be sure to pick up a few of these fantastic travel books about Italy so you can have the best trip ever.

Rick Steves Italy

Now more than ever, you can count on Rick Steves to tell you what you really need to know when traveling through Italy. From the Mediterranean to the Alps, from fine art to fine pasta, experience it all with Rick Steves! 

DK Eyewitness Italy

From erupting volcanoes to magnificent coastal scenery, this breathtaking country is rich in natural beauty. And with more UNESCO World Heritage Sites than anywhere else on Earth, there is no better place to experience the glories of European art and architecture.

Of course, Italy is not only a sumptuous feast for the eyes; famous for some of the world’s finest food and wine, the country’s vibrant gastronomic traditions differ from one town to the next.

Our newly updated guide brings Italy to life, transporting you there like no other travel guide does with expert-led insights, trusted travel advice, detailed breakdowns of all the must-see sights, photographs on practically every page, and our hand-drawn illustrations which place you inside the country’s iconic buildings and neighborhoods. 

Frommer's Italy

With helpful advice and honest recommendations from Frommer’s expert authors, you’ll walk among the ancient ruins of Pompeii, float along the canals of Venice, appreciate Renaissance masterworks in Florence, explore off-the-beaten-path Puglia and live la dolce vita in Rome―as well as discover timeless wonders such as the vineyards of Tuscany and cliff-top towns perched along the Amalfi Coast.

Easy Italian Phrase Book

We at Lingo Mastery have developed Easy Italian Phrase Book: Over 1500 Common Phrases for Everyday Use and Travel for you, our favorite language-learner, so that you may find the best expressions for common usage in Italy and communicate with your Italian friends, colleagues and client without any issue!

Italian Neighbors

In this deliciously seductive account of an Italian neighborhood with a statue of the Virgin at one end of the street, a derelict bottle factory at the other, and a wealth of exotic flora and fauna in between, acclaimed novelist Tim Parks celebrates ten years of living with his wife, Rita, in Verona, Italy.

Via Colombre, the main street in a village just outside Verona, offers an exemplary hodgepodge of all that is new and old in the bel paese, a point of collision between invading suburbia and diehard peasant tradition in a sometimes madcap, sometimes romantic always mixed-up world of creeping vines, stuccoed walls, shotguns, security cameras, hypochondria, and expensive sports cars.

Tim Parks is anything but a gentleman in Verona. With an Italian-born wife, an Italian made family, and a whole Italian condominium bubbling around him, he collects a gallery full of splendid characters who initiate us into all the foibles and delights of life in provincial Italy.

More than a travel book, Italian Neighbors is a sparkling, witty, beautifully observed tale of how the most curious people and places gradually assume the familiarity of home. Italian Neighbors is a rare work that manages to be both a portrait and an invitation for everyone who has ever dreamed about Italy.

Italian Ways: On and Off the Rails from Milan to Palermo

Parks begins as any traveler might: "A train is a train is a train, isn’t it?" But soon he turns his novelist’s eye to the details, and as he journeys through majestic Milano Centrale station or on the newest high-speed rail line, he delivers a uniquely insightful portrait of Italy.

Through memorable encounters with ordinary Italians―conductors and ticket collectors, priests and prostitutes, scholars and lovers, gypsies and immigrants―Parks captures what makes Italian life distinctive: an obsession with speed but an acceptance of slower, older ways; a blind eye toward brutal architecture amid grand monuments; and an undying love of a good argument and the perfect cappuccino.

Italian Ways also explores how trains helped build Italy and how their development reflects Italians’ sense of themselves from Garibaldi to Mussolini to Berlusconi and beyond. Most of all, Italian Ways is an entertaining attempt to capture the essence of modern Italy. As Parks writes, "To see the country by train is to consider the crux of the essential Italian dilemma: Is Italy part of the modern world, or not?"

La Bella Figura: A Field Guide to the Italian Mind

You won’t need luggage for this hypothetical and hilarious trip into the hearts and minds of Beppe Severgnini’s fellow Italians.

In fact, Beppe would prefer if you left behind the baggage his crafty and elegant countrymen have smuggled into your subconscious.

To get to his Italia, you’ll need to forget about your idealized notions of Italy.

Although La Bella Figura will take you to legendary cities and scenic regions, your real destinations are the places where Italians are at their best, worst, and most authentic.

Cocktail Italiano: The Definitive Guide to Aperitivo

“Aperitivo” or “Apero” is an integral part of Italian lifestyle—it is the daily ritual of meeting late afternoon or early evening for a cocktail and a few nibbles. As a renowned expert on food styling and entertaining, and currently restoring a castle in Tuscany, Annette Joseph is an experienced, authentic guide to la dolce vita of Italy.

With chapters on twelve major cities along the Italian Riviera (including San Remo, Genova, Portofino, and Santa Margarita), each will feature unique cocktail recipes as well as regional appetizers traditionally served with cocktails, often as a beachside ritual.

You’ll also find sidebars offering detailed info about local distilleries, celebrity barmen, cultural idiosyncrasies of bar life, famous hotels, and much more.

How to Be Italian

What does it mean to be Italian?

Is it pausing to enjoy an aperitivo or gelato? A passeggiata down a laneway steeped in history? An August spent tanning at the beach?

This book is a celebration of the Italian lifestyle – an education in drinking to savour the moment, travelling indulgently, and cherishing food and culture.

A lesson in the dolce far niente: the sweetness of doing nothing. We may not all live in the bel paese, but anyone can learn from the rich tapestry of life on the boot.

Let's Eat Italy!

From the same team that created Let’s Eat France! comes this celebration of Italian food in the form of an oversized, obsessively complete, visual feast of a book.

With a mix of gastronomy, food science, history, cultural references, legend, lore, charts, graphs, photos, and illustrations, every one of the 400 pages in Let’s Eat Italy! is an alluring and amusing journey into Italian food.

Italian Street Food

This is not just another Italian cookbook filled with pizza and pasta recipes.

Italian Street Food takes you behind the piazzas, down the back streets and into the tiny bars and cafes to bring you traditional, local recipes that are rarely seen outside of Italy. Delve inside to discover the secret dishes from Italy’s hidden laneways and learn about the little-known recipes of this world cuisine.

Learn how to make authentic polpettine, arancini, piadine, cannoli, and crostoli, and perfect your gelato-making skills with authentic Italian flavours such as lemon ricotta, peach and basil, and panettone flavour. With beautiful stories and photography throughout, Italian Street Food brings an old and much-loved cuisine into a whole new light.

Made in Italy

Richly painted maiolica ceramics from Tuscany. Supple Florentine leather. The cameos of Naples and the Amalfi Coast. Parmigiano-Reggiano, the king of cheeses. Jaw-dropping glass from the island of Murano.

MADE IN ITALY takes you on a complete tour of the dazzling artisanal legacy of Italy, uncovering off-the-beaten-path destinations and one-of-a-kind, hidden workshops where everything from leather bags to gilded frames are turned out completely by hand, piece by piece.

100 Places in Italy Every Woman Should Go

Susan is your fun-loving, savvy-traveler girlfriend whispering in your ear, inspiring you to make your Italian dream vacation come true. Go along with her as she leads you up and down the boot to discover this extraordinary country where Venus (Vixen Goddess of Love and Beauty) and The Madonna (Nurturing Mother of Compassion) reign side-by-side. These pages, curated with passion, humor, and expert female tips, are guaranteed to lift you out of the flood of online information and make your travel planning easy and pleasurable.

Discover masterpieces of art that glorify womanly curves, join a cooking class taught by revered grandmas, shop for artisan treasures, ski the Dolomites, or paint a Tuscan landscape. Make your trip a string of Golden Days by pairing your experience with the very best restaurant nearby, so sensual delights harmonize and you simply bask in the glow of bell’Italia.

The Agony and the Ecstasy: A Biographical Novel of Michelangelo

His time—the turbulent Renaissance, the years of poisoning princes, warring Popes, and the all-powerful de'Medici family…

His loves—the frail and lovely daughter of Lorenzo de'Medici, the ardent mistress of Marco Aldovrandi, and his last love, his greatest love—the beautiful, unhappy Vittoria Colonna...

His genius—a God-driven fury from which he wrested brilliant work that made a grasp for heaven unmatched in half a millennium...His name—Michelangelo Buonarroti.

Creator of the David, painter of the ceiling in the Sistine Chapel, architect of the dome of St. Peter's, Michelangelo lives once more in the tempestuous, powerful pages of Irving Stone's towering triumph.

A masterpiece in its own right, this biographical novel offers a compelling portrait of one of the greatest artists the world has ever known.

Brunelleschi's Dome

On August 19, 1418, a competition concerning Florence's magnificent new cathedral, Santa Maria del Fiore was announced:

"Whoever desires to make any model or design for the vaulting of the main Dome....shall do so before the end of the month of September."

The proposed dome was regarded far and wide as all but impossible to build: not only would it be enormous, but its original and sacrosanct design shunned the flying buttresses that supported cathedrals all over Europe. The dome would literally need to be erected over thin air.

Of the many plans submitted, one stood out--a daring and unorthodox solution to vaulting what is still the largest dome in the world. It was offered not by a master mason or carpenter, but by a goldsmith and clockmaker named Filippo Brunelleschi, then forty-one, who would dedicate the next twenty-eight years to solving the puzzles of the dome's construction. In the process, he reinvented the field of architecture.

Eat Pray Love

In her early thirties, Elizabeth Gilbert had everything a modern American woman was supposed to want—husband, country home, successful career—but instead of feeling happy and fulfilled, she was consumed by panic and confusion.

This wise and rapturous book is the story of how she left behind all these outward marks of success, and set out to explore three different aspects of her nature, against the backdrop of three different cultures: pleasure in Italy, devotion in India, and on the Indonesian island of Bali, a balance between worldly enjoyment and divine transcendence.

Italian Glamour

The essence of Italian style through fashion and costume in the 20th century in a handsome volume that captures the evolution of Italian fashion’s biggest brands.

The fashion archive of Enrico Quinto and Paolo Tinarelli has been painstakingly assembled over the last twenty years and traces the international evolution of costume from the mid-19th century to the present day.

Gray Malin: Italy

Gray Malin turns his unique photographic eye to the coasts, beaches, and landscapes of Italy. From the sparkling blue waters of the Amalfi Coast to the dramatic coastal scenery of Cinque Terre, Gray Malin: Italy captures and celebrates in photographs many of the country’s most famous and beloved destinations.

Frances Mayes Always Italy

The world's favorite expert on la dolce vita, Under the Tuscan Sun author Frances Mayes guides readers through Italy's iconic regions, in a book replete with lavish National Geographic images.

This lush guide, featuring more than 350 glorious photographs from National Geographic, showcases the best Italy has to offer from the perspective of two women who have spent their lives reveling in its unique joys. 

Glam Italia! How To Travel Italy

Discover stress-free, cost-saving secrets for planning the ultimate Italian getaway.Is a trip to Italy on your bucket list but out of your budget? Does preparing for international travel leave you feeling anxious? Do you worry about falling into a tourist trap? Italian travel guide and blogger Corinna Cooke has years of experience creating private vacations throughout every corner of the country. And now she’s here to share her insider tips so you can make the most of your time abroad.

Travel Tips

If you’re planning your trip to Italy, don’t miss taking a Naples to Pompeii day trip !

And definitely consider these hidden gems in Puglia . Finding things off the beaten path ensures a wonderful time.

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13 Travel Books to Read Before Your Next Trip to Italy

By Matt Ortile

Since you’re reading this article on Condé Nast Traveler , you’re likely someone who believes in the transportive power of good writing—and of travel books in particular. Whether it’s a vividly-rendered novel, or a well-researched deep dive into the history, subculture, or food of a place, a good travel-y read can easily inspire your next trip.

As the cold weather starts to creep into many parts of the world, many of us here at Traveler have Italy on the brain, dreaming of Amalfi 's crystalline waters, of melting gelato in Rome , of the warm Tuscan sun . Are you dreaming of la dolce vita too? Here’s a short list of books set in Italy that’ll motivate you to, well, book a trip. (Get it?)

Few places in the world invoke as much swooning and intense wanderlust as Italy , and this list of books features stories of various stripes: gripping thrillers, fascinating and readable histories, romantic true stories of love and loss, and unputdownable page-turners that’ll get you through a long layover . There’s something here for everyone, and a good handful of these titles have been adapted into movies (and one TV show), which underscores the point that these are some lush, cinematic, and extremely vibey books.

Read on to pick some travel books to add to your bedside table—and your overpacked suitcase .

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

The Marriage Portrait by Maggie O’Farrell

What it’s about: This captivating novel, set in the 16th-century, spins a story inspired by a little-known daughter of the Medici family, Lucrezia, who was wedded to a duke as part of a political marriage and, just a year after the wedding, was found dead. Inspired by Lucrezia’s titular marriage portrait, Maggie O’Farrell (no stranger to fictionalizing historical trivia ) writes in prose both lavish and readable, daring you to put down this strange and delicious book. With plenty of narrative twists and palazzo intrigue, this book will drop you into the middle of Renaissance Florence and never let you go.

The mood it’s giving: Running through an Italian palace in a very heavy gown, weighing you down like you're in a nightmare—in the best way possible

The book’s first line: “Lucrezia is taking her seat at the long dining table, which is polished to a watery gleam and spread with dishes, inverted cups, a woven circlet of fir.”

The Medici: Power, Money, and Ambition in the Italian Renaissance by Paul Strathern

What it’s about: For a more factual understanding of the influential family that shaped the Italian Renaissance, you can’t go wrong with this 464-page tome. This evocative and masterful account of the dramatic history of the Medicis also covers their patronage of the day’s greatest minds (Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, and Galileo, among others), offering context and knowledge upon which you can draw during your next visit to Florence and greater Tuscany.

The mood it’s giving: The thrill and shock of Succession , but Florentine and, you know, real

The book’s first line: “It is Sunday 26 April 1478 in Florence, and the church bells ring out from the towers above the rooftops of the city. Lorenzo the Magnificent, accompanied by his circle of favourites, is making his way through the colorful crowds towards the cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore.”

A Room with a View by E. M. Forster

What it’s about: This beloved classic of English literature, a satire of English society in the Edwardian era first published in 1908, opens at a hotel in Florence, Italy: Charlotte Bartlett and her cousin Lucy Honeychurch are positively incensed that their rooms face a drab courtyard (how dreadful!). Another guest and his son offer to switch accommodations with theirs—and what follows is a series of semi-fortunate events that will make you want to book a room with a view of the Arno and get into some Italian hijinks yourself. (The Merchant Ivory film adaptation is also stellar, starring Helena Bonham Carter and Maggie Smith.)

The mood it’s giving: That moment where Kim Kardashian is crying because she lost her diamond earring in the ocean in Bora Bora and her sister Kourtney telling her, “Kim, there’s people that are dying”—but in Florence

The book’s first line: “‘The Signora had no business to do it,” said Miss Bartlett, “no business at all. She promised us south rooms with a view close together, instead of which here are north rooms, looking into a courtyard, and a long way apart.”

Sex and Vanity by Kevin Kwan

What it’s about: For a contemporary take on the set-up introduced by A Room with a View , pick up Kevin Kwan’s delightfully frothy Sex and Vanity . The protagonists are named Lucie and Charlotte as well, and Kwan’s latest novel Forster-ly satirizes the uber-rich Asian and Asian American diaspora that the author has long lampooned in his Crazy Rich trilogy of books. Only time will tell though, if sex and vanity are as timeless as a room with a view—but as far as cotton-candy vacation reads go, you can do far worse than bringing this paperback onto a chartered yacht.

The mood it’s giving: Crazy Rich Asians decadence goes to Capri (and the Hamptons)

The book’s first line: “[an email with the subject line: la dolce vita] Lucie!!! I’m sooooo happy you’re coming to my wedding in Capri!”

Madison Flager

Garrick Ramirez

Federica Bocco

CNT Editors

Beautiful Ruins by Jess Walter

What it’s about: There are many ways to do Italy on a budget, and there are just as many (if not more) ways to do it extravagantly. Perhaps that’s why our collective cultural imagination so often links the fantasy of the Italian Riviera with how the rich and famous behave—and behave badly. All that to say, Jess Walter’s Beautiful Ruins is a sweeping and swooning book that brilliantly dissects the power plays and petty dramas of our contemporary demigods (Hollywood stars), as well as the Italian seaside villages that everyone can access, even if it means swimming to get there.

The mood it’s giving: That one series of unbelievably glamorous photos of Paul Newman at the Venice Film Festival in 1963

The book’s first sentence: “The dying actress arrived in his village the only way one could come directly—in a boat that motored into the cove, lurched past the rock jetty, and bumped against the end of the pier.”

The Land Where Lemons Grow: The Story of Italy and Its Citrus Fruit by Helena Attlee

What it’s about: Fancy a visit to a marmalade kitchen in Sicily? To bergamot groves in Calabria? To lemon houses by the banks of Lago di Garda? You’ll get all that and more in this sumptuous and sensual history of citrus throughout the Italian peninsula. Helena Attlee blends her deep knowledge of the country with insightful gastronomical observations—and recipes!—to make an immensely readable and giftable volume that’s as fragrant as a helping of delizia al limone on a terrace in Amalfi.

The mood it’s giving: As sharp and sparkling, tart and satisfying as a limoncello spritz

The book’s first line: “At dawn, I lifted a corner of the curtain in the stuffy couchette and realized we had already crossed the border. We were somewhere near Ventimiglia on the Italian Riviera, and there were lemons growing beside the station platform, their dark leaves and bright fruit set against a backdrop of nothing but sea.”

The Talented Mr. Ripley by Patricia Highsmith

What it’s about: We can’t talk about la dolce vita without bringing up The Talented Mr. Ripley , the novel wherein young Tom Ripley goes to Italy and falls in love with the indulgent, carefree lifestyle of Dickie Greenleaf (and, in some readings, Greenleaf himself)—so much so that he kills the young heir and assumes his identity. The 1999 film adaptation is better known for depicting the sunny sprezzatura of a Mediterranean holiday, but in all formats, the story is always rife with tension and monied decadence.

The mood it’s giving: Chic knit polos and swim trunks wet with saltwater that may or may not be stained with blood

The book’s first line: “Tom glanced behind him and saw the man coming out of the Green Cage, heading his way. Tom walked faster. There was no doubt the man was after him.”

Under the Tuscan Sun: At Home in Italy by Frances Mayes

What it’s about: Yet another go-to-Italy-and-change-your-life classic, Frances Mayes’s memoir truly changed the game. I wouldn’t be surprised if this book—and the 2003 film adaptation —are responsible for a sizable chunk of Italy’s GDP. But yes, this story has surely inspired many non-Italians to visit the cypress-studded Tuscan countryside, hoping to come upon a rundown villa in need of restoration and love, just as Mayes does in this travel writing classic.

The mood it’s giving: A leisurely walk through a Tuscan farmer’s market, where you come upon the most sweet-tart tomato you’ve ever had, its sun-bright juice coating your lips

The book’s first line: “‘What are you growing here?’ The upholsterer lugs an armchair up the walkway to the house but his quick eyes are on the land.”

From Scratch: A Memoir of Love, Sicily, and Finding Hom e by Tembi Locke

What it’s about: If Under the Tuscan Sun is an easy-going drive through the Italian heartland, then From Scratch is a journey of highs and lows along the hilly and rugged terrain of Sicily. Actor and writer Tembi Locke’s memoir tells her personal history of falling in love with her Italian husband, building a life together in Los Angeles, grieving him after his death due to cancer, and rebuilding her life with their daughter in Sicily. The book is heartfelt and Locke’s language is generous and graceful. If you’d rather binge the story on your screen, there’s a 2022 Netflix adaptation too. Either way, both will leave you weeping into your tub of gelato.

The mood it’s giving: Making eye contact with the love of your life, being reminded that life is bittersweet—so beautiful and so short

The book’s first line: “In Sicily, every story begins with a marriage or a death. In my case, it’s both.”

The Truffle Underground: A Tale of Mystery, Mayhem, and Manipulation in the Shadowy Market of the World's Most Expensive Fungus by Ryan Jacobs

What it’s about: Have you ever tasted a truffle? I mean, a true truffle that bursts with the flavor of Italian terroir? If you have, then you’ll relate to the author Ryan Jacobs when he describes tasting a white truffle: He felt transported, “momentarily, into an alternate universe, a place where flavor mattered more than truth and virtue.” And it’s true that pursuit of flavor stomps out virtue, as Jacobs reports it in this deep investigative dive into the industry and sub-world of truffles—where rival truffle hunters poison each other’s truffle-hunting dogs, where hunters carrying rifles protect their hunting grounds from spies, where counterfeits dupe even the most well-trained experts. Read this book, and you’ll understand why your dinner of tagliatelle al tartufo costs 50 euros.

The mood it’s giving: A crime documentary, but about truffles! I really can’t sell this book any better than the facts can

The book’s first line: “Threads of fungus swirl through the heat and dark of the rocky soil. They spend years twisting, extending, contorting, in perpetual search of nutrients to bring back to their host tree.”

The Lying Life of Adults by Elena Ferrante

What it’s about: Ask anyone about good books and Italian culture, and the name Elena Ferrante is bound to come up. The pseudonymous writer’s four novels—known as the Neapolitan Quartet, beginning with the epidemic My Brilliant Friend —seemed to be everywhere in the last decade in the English-speaking world, due in no small part to the genius translation work of Ann Goldstein from the original Italian. Their collaboration shines once again in The Lying Life of Adults , a novel set in Naples (where else?) that depicts “Naples of the heights, which wears a mask of refinement, and Naples of the depths, a place of excess and vulgarity,” as narrated by a 14-year-old girl named Giovanna.

The mood it’s giving: The most observant and clear-eyed diary entries of an insightful young girl in Napoli

The book’s first sentence: “Two years before leaving home my father said to my mother that I was very ugly. The sentence was uttered under his breath, in the apartment that my parents, newly married, had bought at the top of Via San Giacomo dei Capri, in Rione Alto.”

In Other Words by Jhumpa Lahiri

What it’s about: On its surface, Jhumpa Lahiri’s In Other Words is a series of short essays and reflections about the task of learning Italian. But once you crack open this elegant volume, you’ll see it’s so much more: Lahiri first wrote the book in Italian (to all the better master the language), and the English translation was provided by Ann Goldstein (yes, who translates Ferrante as well); more unusual, both the Italian and the English stand side by side in the book, on opposite pages. Reading how Lahiri’s fluency and confidence with Italian flourishes alongside the evolving English translation is enough inspiration for anyone to at least pick up a tourist phrasebook for Italian. Dov’è la libreria?

The mood it’s giving: Drinking in the mystique and genius of your most brilliant friend from your first year of college whom you met in that Italian 101 class

The book’s first sentence: “Voglio attraversare un piccolo lago. È veramente piccolo, eppure l’altra sponda mi sembra troppo distante, oltre le mie capacità. | I want to cross a small lake. It really is small, and yet the other shore seems too far away, beyond my abilities.”

Call Me By Your Name by André Aciman

What it’s about: It’s now a tale as old as time: An eloquent and cerebral narrator recalls the time how he, as a young man in the 1980s, stayed at his family’s home in Northern Italy and was drawn to the graduate student his parents took under their wing for the summer—and how their mutual attraction led to a profound exploration of desire, intimacy, and what it means to lose it all. Of course, the 2017 film adaptation is better known for its atmospheric cinematography (think sun-baked peaches, glimmering Lombardian lakes, the worn-in grandeur of Villa Albergoni in Moscazzano) but the source material is better at conveying the intense limerence of young romance, the kind that a scenic Italian backdrop renders all the more heady and bittersweet.

The mood it’s giving: Summer, somewhere in Northern Italy, cascading melodies on the piano floating out from the villa’s windows and out onto the pomegranate orchard

The book’s first sentence: “‘ Later! ’ The word, the voice, the attitude. I’d never heard anyone use ‘later’ to say goodbye before. It sounded harsh, curt, and dismissive, spoken with the veiled indifference of people who may not care to see or hear from you again.”

Recommended

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Italy Travel Guide

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35 Best Travel Guide Books for Italy to Read

Hey there, fellow traveler! This expertly curated selection of the best Italy travel books will help you navigate the country’s breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and delicious cuisine.

Even in this digital age, there’s something magical about turning the pages of an Italy guidebook . It’s more than just collecting facts and figures – it’s about savoring the anticipation, picturing yourself in the most beautiful places, and preparing for the Italian journey of a lifetime .

This post contains affiliate links. When you buy something through one of the links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no additional cost to you.

Top Picks: Best Travel Books for Your Italian Adventure

Rick Steves Italy

A thorough, immersive guide for Italian travel , recommended for its blend of iconic sights and hidden gems.

The Rough Guide to Italy

Discover abundant off-the-beaten-path recommendations . The perfect guide for travelers who want to delve deeper into Italy’s hidden corners .

DK Eyewitness Italy

Rich in historical context and stunning visuals.

It enables travelers to appreciate Italy’s rich history and culture on a deeper level.

Keep reading to uncover the rich tapestry of Italy’s unique regions, sample its delectable cuisine, and bask in its timeless architecture, all from the comfort of your home.

The list of Italian travel guidebooks below is structured into two main sections :

• All-Encompassing Italian Travel Books
• Area-Specific Travel Guides

Each book will be reviewed based on a brief description, pros and cons, and the type of audience it’s most suitable for. Let’s start exploring!

Recommended Reading : Discover our detailed guide on the 21 Safest Cities in Italy for Travelers & Expats.

All-Encompassing Best Travel Guidebooks

1. rick steves italy travel guide.

Rick Steves Italy is an invaluable travel companion for anyone venturing into Italy’s breathtaking landscapes and vibrant cities. Rick’s guide is packed with comprehensive, up-to-date information for planning an unforgettable multi-week trip to Italy.

It introduces readers to top sights and hidden gems , from iconic architectural wonders like the Colosseum and Michelangelo’s David to cozy corner trattorias serving delicious Italian cuisine.

• Offers strategic advice on maximizing time and budget .
• Provides candid insights to beat crowds, skip lines, and avoid tourist traps.
• Suggests the best places to eat, sleep, and experience “ il dolce far niente .”
• Contains self-guided walking tours of lively neighborhoods and museums.
• Equips travelers with vital trip-planning tools.
• Includes detailed maps , including a fold-out map for on-the-go exploration.
• Lightweight design with over 1,000 pages, making it portable without compromising content.
• A considerable amount of information could be overwhelming for some readers.
• The “bible-thin” pages might be fragile and prone to tearing.

Suitable for:

Rick Steves Italy is ideal for seasoned travelers and those new to Italy, particularly those looking to immerse themselves in local culture. It’s also perfect for anyone planning a long trip and needing an in-depth guide to the country’s many offerings.

The book’s inclusion of COVID-related travel info makes it especially relevant in the current travel landscape.

Recommended Reading : Master essential Italian phrases for travel with our 135 basic phrases and PDF cheat sheet.

2. DK Eyewitness Italy (Travel Guide)

The DK Eyewitness Italy (Travel Guide) is a comprehensive and immersive tool that transports you to the beauty of Italy – from its breathtaking natural landscapes and UNESCO World Heritage Sites to the variety of its gastronomic traditions.

It uncovers the depth and diversity of Italy , presenting not just the acclaimed sights but also the hidden gems in this splendid country. With a beautiful blend of expert insights, practical advice, vivid photographs, and hand-drawn illustrations, this guide is an all-inclusive ticket to a memorable Italian journey .

• Offers a fully illustrated guide on top experiences and hidden gems.
• Includes accessible itineraries to optimize your daily exploration.
• Provides honest and expert advice on safety, timings, preparations, and cost savings.
• Features color-coded chapters covering every part of Italy.
• Gives practical tips on the best dining, shopping, and accommodation places.
• Contains detailed maps and walking routes for easy navigation.
• Overwhelming information could be daunting for some readers.
• The large scope of coverage may not suit travelers focusing on a specific region.

The DK Eyewitness Italy (Travel Guide) is an ideal pick for both seasoned and first-time visitors to Italy seeking a comprehensive overview of the country’s landmarks and hidden gems.

The guide’s practical advice and detailed itineraries make it a valuable resource for individuals looking for a well-planned, immersive experience. Also, art enthusiasts , nature lovers , and food connoisseurs will find this guide particularly enriching.

Seeking the perfect tribute to Italy? Check out our article 75 Italian Gifts for Italy Lovers: Best Gift Ideas for the ultimate gift guide.

3. Lonely Planet’s Italy (Travel Guide)

Italy is such an amazing place, and as one of the most in-depth guides available, Lonely Planet’s Italy offers an extensive exploration of Italy’s rich tapestry.

From traversing the beautiful ruins of Pompeii and enjoying a Tuscan wine tour to uncovering the picturesque Italian Riviera’s hidden gems, this book is your reliable travel buddy . It’s packed with the best and lesser-known experiences, making your Italian adventure unforgettable.

• Provides tailored itineraries catering to personal interests and needs.
• Delivers enriching local insights into history, culture, landscapes, and politics.
• Presents a visually inspiring collection of the top amazing experiences.
• Highlights regional dishes and drinks for an ultimate gastronomic journey.
• It gives insider tips to save time and money and avoid tourist traps.
• Offers planning tools for solo, LGBTQIA, family, and accessible travel.
• Features colorful maps and images throughout the guide.
• Includes essential language phrases and helpful travel tips.
• The extensive coverage might be too much for travelers focusing on a specific region.
• The size and weight may make it less portable.

Lonely Planet’s Italy is perfect for any traveler, whether a seasoned adventurer or a first-time visitor. Its well-rounded and inclusive approach also makes it suitable for solo, LGBTQIA, and family travelers and those seeking accessible travel advice.

If you’re a food lover or a history buff, this guide is advantageous, given its focus on regional cuisines and historical insights.

4. Glam Italia! How To Travel Italy: Secrets To Glamorous Travel

Penned by Italian travel guide and blogger Corinna Cooke, Glam Italia! How To Travel Italy is a comprehensive guide aimed at helping you design a personalized, memorable, and affordable vacation in Italy.

The book is packed with insider tips , from appreciating Italy’s art, cuisine, and landscapes, to navigating its fashion scene.

The author’s step-by-step methods for trip planning, regional cuisine, wine lists, the best time to visit (peak season and off-season), and cost-effective flight booking tips are thoughtfully designed to enhance your Italian journey. Whether planning to travel lavishly or on a budget, this guide offers priceless advice to enjoy Italy like a local.

• Provides detailed, step-by-step methods for planning your trip.
• Includes comprehensive lists of regional cuisines and wines.
• Offers practical advice on flight booking to save money.
• Gives precautionary tips for safe and healthy travel.
• Emphasizes local advice for a genuine Italian experience.
• As the book was published in 2018, some information might be outdated.
• While enjoyable, the cultural immersion aspects may not suit readers seeking strictly logistical advice.

Glam Italia! How To Travel Italy is perfect for anyone who dreams of an Italian vacation , whether they’re first-time travelers or experienced explorers.

The book’s emphasis on experiencing Italy as a local and its cost-saving tips make it a fitting choice for those traveling on a budget and individuals seeking an authentic, immersive cultural experience.

5. Frommer’s Italy (Complete Guide)

The completely revamped Frommer’s Italy , a trusted name in travel, serves as a thorough and opinionated guide for your Italian escapade. It provides well-researched , valuable information for walking through the ancient ruins of Pompeii, cruising the Venice canals, admiring Renaissance masterpieces in Florence, or exploring less-traveled places like Puglia.

Suggested Reading : Discover the best Pompeii tours from Rome – 20 curated day trips to step back in time.

The guide makes you appreciate the la dolce vita in Rome and uncovers timeless marvels like Tuscan vineyards and the cliff-edge towns of the Amalfi Coast.

• Includes full-color photographs and handy maps , with a removable fold-out map for ease of use.
• It contains meticulously crafted itineraries to optimize your trip planning.
• Provides intriguing cultural insights into Italy’s history, cuisine, and traditions.
• Honest reviews with a star rating system for a quick understanding of what’s worth your time and money.
• Offers up-to-date practical information such as transportation details, useful websites, and healthcare options.
• Comes with budget-planning tools, including precise pricing and money-saving tips for travelers on a wide range of budgets.
• Being an opinionated guide, it might only align with some readers’ tastes or preferences.
• Comprehensive and detailed, it might be overwhelming for travelers seeking a brief, casual overview.

Frommer’s Italy (Complete Guide) is ideal for travelers seeking a comprehensive, culturally rich guide to Italy . Whether you’re an avid history buff, a food enthusiast, or a leisure traveler looking to soak up Italy’s landscapes and cities, this guide provides comprehensive coverage.

Thanks to its wide range of money-saving tips and diverse itinerary options, it’s perfect for budget-conscious travelers and those seeking luxury.

6. Fodor’s Essential Italy (Full-color Travel Guide)

Fodor’s Essential Italy is a detailed travel guide crafted with love and expertise by local travel connoisseurs . This comprehensive guide aims to transform your journey, whether visiting the historic Colosseum, shopping in Milan’s designer boutiques, or hiking through the picturesque Cinque Terre.

Packed with over 78 detailed maps , a free pull-out map, and vibrant photographs, this guide ensures your Italian adventure is as smooth and fulfilling as possible.

Suggested Reading : Discover the top 10 shopping destinations in Italy : your Italy shopping guide, from luxury fashion to artisanal crafts.

• Features an illustrated guide to the best experiences Italy has to offer.
• Includes multiple well-organized itineraries to maximize your time effectively.
• Offers over 78 detailed maps and a complimentary pull-out map to assist in confident navigation.
• It contains stunning color photos throughout to inspire your travels.
• Presents reliable recommendations from locals on attractions, dining, accommodation, nightlife, shopping, and more.
• Provides photo-rich features on topics like “The Best Ancient Sites in Rome,” “Italy’s Best Beaches,” and more.
• Gives practical trip-planning tools and tips , including the best times to visit and how to save time and money.
• Offers historical and cultural insights into the local people, arts, architecture, and more.
• Special features on landmarks like “T he Sistine Chapel ” and “ Cruising the Grand Cana l.”
• Includes Italian language primers to help you with essential phrases and useful words.
• This guide might be too detailed and extensive for someone seeking a brief overview.
• Those who prefer minimalist design find the guide visually overwhelming.

Fodor’s Essential Italy is a perfect companion for travelers seeking a detailed, locally-informed guide to Italy. It is ideal for history buffs, adventure seekers, food enthusiasts, and cultural explorers. It’s especially beneficial for first-time visitors to Italy , assisting them with language, navigation, and insider recommendations.

7. Italy in Your Pocket!

Italy in Your Pocket! is a compact guide that promises to uncover the myriad of Italy’s rich history and vibrant culture. This pocket guide will ensure you won’t miss the charming villages, stunning mountains, bustling cities, or serene countryside.

More than just a tool to navigate Italy’s well-known tourist spots, this guide aims to immerse you in the authentic Italian lifestyle .

Authored by someone who has considered Italy their second home for over two decades, this book is your ticket to uncovering the essence of Italy that locals hold dear.

Suggested Reading : Discover the enchantment of Christmas in Italy with our guide, featuring prime locations and cherished customs.

• Highlights the beautiful contrast between Italy’s rural and urban life.
• Guides on how to avoid tourist crowds and experience the real Italy.
• Reveals off-the-beaten-path outdoor activities, accommodations, and attractions.
• Offers insight into traditional Italian events , customs, and yearly gatherings.
• Provides helpful tips on safety, interacting with locals, and integration into Italian society.
• It may not provide enough detail for travelers looking for a comprehensive guide.
• Readers already familiar with Italy may not find a lot of new information.

Italy in Your Pocket! is an ideal companion for travelers looking to experience Italy beyond the typical tourist perspective. It is perfect for adventure-seekers , cultural explorers, and individuals desiring to mingle with the locals and blend seamlessly into Italian life.

Those who appreciate the convenience and seek a compact, easy-to-carry guide will find this book especially useful.

8. The Rough Guide to Italy

The Rough Guide to Italy is a comprehensive and practical guide to discovering authentic Italy, including hidden gems and renowned hotspots.

Replete with an easy-to-follow, color-coded layout, this guide helps you effortlessly plan your trip from pre-departure to your journey’s end.

It covers regions from Rome and Lazio to Sicily and Sardinia, offering structured lists of all sights and lesser-known treasures. This guide was updated post-COVID-19 and comes with a free eBook for easy accessibility.

• Extensive regional coverage and clear structure within each chapter for easy navigation.
• Recommendations are suitable for all types of travelers, whether seeking adventures in Sicily or family activities in Tuscany.
• Provides practical travel tips , including pre-departure information, tips for traveling with children, sports and outdoor activities, festivals, culture, etiquette, and more.
• Time-saving itineraries and detailed routes showcase the richness and diversity of Italy.
• Offers insights into getting around like a local, with tips on beating crowds, saving time and money , and finding the best local spots.
• Full-color photography and color-coded mapping for visual appeal and easy orientation.
• It may overwhelm first-time travelers due to its comprehensive nature.
• Some travelers might prefer a more focused guide tailored to specific cities or regions.

The Rough Guide to Italy is ideal for first-time and seasoned travelers seeking a comprehensive understanding of Italy’s diverse regions.

Its detailed and wide-ranging content makes it an excellent resource for those with varied interests, such as food and drink, festivals, outdoor activities, and cultural exploration. Furthermore, this guide benefits travelers who appreciate planning their trip in detail with time-saving itineraries and expert recommendations.

9. Michelin Green Guide Wine Trails of Italy: Travel Guide

The Michelin Green Guide Wine Trails of Italy offers a fascinating tour through Italy’s wine regions . This guide covers 125 driving tours that take you to Italy’s renowned wineries, charming towns, villages, and captivating countryside.

It introduces you to the art of Italian wine-making , tasting, and serving. It encourages you to delve into Italy’s rich history, culture, and, unquestionably, its delectable wines.

Suggested Reading : For wine lovers in Bologna, don’t miss the Best Wine Tours & Tastings .

• Provides 125 driving tours offering a comprehensive exploration of Italy’s wine regions.
• The book offers insights into Italian wine : its creation, tasting, and the art of serving it.
• Uses a star-rating system for points of interest, facilitating decision-making.
• Features well-researched recommendations for accommodation and dining options .
• Encourages discovery of Italy’s history, culture, and, of course, its wines.
• It might not appeal to readers who are not interested in wine.
• It could be overwhelming for those seeking a less comprehensive guide.

The Michelin Green Guide Wine Trails of Italy is perfect for wine connoisseurs and enthusiasts, individuals interested in Italian culture and history, and anyone looking for an immersive, off-the-beaten-path exploration of Italy’s wineries and vineyards.

This guide will also appeal to those who enjoy self-guided driving tours and exploring new cuisines and dining experiences.

10. ITALY Made Easy for Seniors: An Alternative to the Escorted Tour

Authored by Bob Kaufman, the president of National Travel Vacations for 30 years, ITALY Made Easy for Seniors dispels the misconceptions that hinder seniors from experiencing Italy’s charm.

This handy guide includes comprehensive itineraries , covering not just Rome, Florence, and Venice but also hidden gems like Sicily, Puglia, Cinque Terre, and The Lakes.

Suggested Reading : Experience Tour Rome by Golf Cart – Uncover the city’s charm through the best private tours.

With tips specifically designed for seniors , like avoiding hilly areas for accommodation, the book also proves to be an insightful companion for first-time visitors and repeat travelers.

• Covers all major cities beyond Rome, Florence, and Venice.
• Provides practical tips specifically designed for seniors.
• Informs readers about convenient accommodation options.
• Includes “ short and sweet ” historical facts, eliminating the need to carry heavy history books.
• It doesn’t include many color pictures, which might be expected in a travel guide.
• It might not be as relevant to younger travelers or those seeking more adventurous itineraries.

Italy Made Easy for Seniors is ideal for senior citizens looking to explore Italy, particularly those making their first, second, or third trip. It’s also beneficial for anyone looking for a cost-effective and well-planned travel guide to Italy , even if they’re not seniors.

This book is a must-have for anyone yearning to delve into the enchanting Italian culture without worrying about breaking the bank or getting lost in complex planning.

11. Italy: The Best Places to See by Rail (An Alternative to the Escorted Tour)

Bob Kaufman’s Italy The Best Places to See by Rail is the ultimate guide for those who yearn for a freestyle yet well-planned journey through Italy without the confines of an escorted tour.

Leveraging his 30 years of experience running National Travel Vacations, Inc., Kaufman presents a refreshing alternative to traditional tours with his cost-effective way to travel by train in Italy .

This book empowers travelers to chart their unique path with five main itineraries covering Rome, Florence, Venice, the Lakes District, and Sicily, along with the Bernina Express over the Alps option.

The book also includes specific details for day trips from various cities and a dedicated chapter on hotel options near train stations for convenience. It is a comprehensive planning tool with relevant website references to secure rail and attraction tickets, helping save time and resources.

• Offers a flexible, budget-friendly alternative to costly and strict escorted tours.
• Presents easy-to-follow, comprehensive itineraries for exploring Italy.
• It provides an accessible format with larger and bolder text, making it easier for seniors to read.
• Includes essential details such as hotel choices near train stations, tourist attraction ticket purchasing, and recommended restaurants.
• Packed with valuable insights derived from almost thirty trips to Italy by the author.
• It might not be suitable for those who prefer the structure and convenience of escorted tours.
• Requires more individual planning and decision-making compared to pre-arranged tours.

Italy The Best Places to See by Rail is ideal for younger travelers who prefer setting their pace, waking up, eating when they want, and spending as much time as they wish on each site.

It benefits those hesitant about driving in a foreign country or feeling confined by escorted tours. With its handy tips and detailed itineraries, this book ensures a rewarding Italian vacation without breaking the bank.

Dive into Italy: Area-Specific Travel Guides

1. rick steves rome travel guide.

Rick Steves Rome Travel Guide offers a timely, comprehensive resource for travelers navigating the Eternal City. As a trusted source, Rick Steves shares strategic advice on making the most of Rome—from exploring ancient ruins and the Vatican City to experiencing local culture.

The guide includes top sights and hidden gems, valuable tips to dodge tourist traps, best places to eat, sleep, and live “ il dolce far niente ” (the sweet doing nothing).

It offers self-guided walking tours of vibrant neighborhoods and renowned sights, such as Piazza Navona, detailed maps, a helpful packing list, an Italian phrase book, and historical insights. Also included are resources for COVID-related travel information, ensuring a seamless journey.

2. Rick Steves Florence & Tuscany Travel Guide

Rick Steves Florence & Tuscany Travel Guide is your quintessential handbook for immersing yourself in the cultural heart of Italy . This fully updated guide steers you through Florence and Tuscany, sharing top sights from the Uffizi Gallery to the Duomo and hidden gems like a centuries-old perfumery.

Suggested Reading : Unleash Tuscany’s splendor with our selection of the best Vespa tours from Florence .

You’ll learn to integrate with the local culture, from strolling morning markets to sipping robust wines with locals. Rick’s strategic advice will help you optimize your time and money , navigate crowds, and find the best places to dine, sleep, and relax.

The book also includes self-guided walking tours, detailed maps , and driving tours through Tuscany’s wine country.

3. Rick Steves Venice Travel Guide

Your trusted guide, Rick Steves, invites you to glide through the canals and wander down cobblestone alleys in his latest book, Rick Steves Venice Travel Guide .

You’ll learn to maximize your time and budget effectively by offering a fully updated and extensive guide for spending a week or more in Venice.

The guide covers top sights and hidden treasures from St. Mark’s Basilica to the charming city of Padua , along with strategic advice to beat the crowds and avoid tourist traps.

Discover how to connect with local culture , the best places to eat and sleep, and even enjoy self-guided walking tours.

The book features detailed neighborhood maps and a fold-out city map, with complete and current information on the city’s districts and side trips.

4. The Rough Guide to Italian Lakes

Discover the enthralling beauty of the Italian Lakes with Rough Guide’s comprehensive guidebook. This guidebook offers the most relevant and current suggestions for what to see , what to skip, and those hidden treasures that await you.

Traverse Lombard’s vineyards, get adventurous on Lake Garda or marvel at the 600-year-old Duomo in Milan.

Inside, you’ll find color maps and pictures, highlights, itineraries, and insider tips to navigate the Italian lakes like a local, bypassing crowded areas and saving time and money.

Expect enriching cultural insights and extensive coverage of regions including Lake Como, Lake Maggiore, Lake Garda, Milan, Verona, and more.

5. Fodor’s The Amalfi Coast, Capri & Naples (Full-color Travel Guide)

Unleash the charm of Southern Italy with Fodor’s insightful guide to The Amalfi Coast, Capri & Naples . Whether you’re planning to drive along the Amalfi Coast, explore Pompeii’s ruins, or savor authentic pizza in Naples, this guide has got you covered.

It’s brimming with maps, local expert recommendations , beautiful color photos, and valuable trip-planning tools.

The guide features multiple itineraries for effective time management, over 15 detailed maps for confident navigation, and honest suggestions on the best sights, eateries, hotels, outdoor activities, nightlife, shopping, and more.

Delve deeper into the local culture with historical insights and special features on the Amalfi Drive , Capri by boat, and the ancient city of Pompeii.

6. Puglia Travel Guide: Are You Ready to Visit Southern Italy?

If you’re yearning for an extraordinary exploration of Southern Italy, Puglia Travel Guide: Are You Ready to Visit Southern Italy? has got you covered.

This guide, penned by a native Apulian and passionate traveler, Francesco, serves as your comprehensive companion for discovering the hidden marvels of Puglia.

The book outlines the top five unmissable historic sites and over 50 spectacular beaches, from tourist hotspots to untouched natural locales, and introduces you to unique local cuisines .

Packed with more than 200 vibrant full-color photos, this guide makes planning your unforgettable Puglian adventure a breeze.

For those exploring Southern Italy, another honorable book mention goes to Lonely Planet Southern Italy , an excellent guidebook that unveils the vibrant and diverse region of Southern Italy.

Immerse Yourself Deeper in Italy: Beyond Travel Guides

If you wish to dive even deeper into the heart of Italy beyond the fantastic sights and delightful cuisines, we recommend looking at our curated list of prominent Italian best books .

These esteemed works offer profound insights into Italy’s intricate culture and society, weaving tales of love, family, politics, and the very fabric of human nature. This enriching list is in our “ 17 Best Italian Books: Explore Italy’s Rich Culture ” article.

Reading these masterpieces will enhance your understanding and appreciation of Italy before and during your journey. The books mentioned in the article are:

• Elena Ferrante – L’amica geniale ( My Brilliant Friend )
• Andrea Camilleri – La forma dell’acqua ( The Shape of Water )
• Italo Calvino – Il sentiero dei nidi di ragno (The Path to the Nest of Spiders)
• Carlo Levi – Cristo si è fermato a Eboli ( Christ Stopped at Eboli )
• Alessandro Baricco – Seta ( Silk )
• Paolo Giordano – La solitudine dei numeri primi ( The Solitude of Prime Numbers )
• Umberto Eco – Il nome della rosa ( The Name of the Rose )
• Elsa Morante – La storia ( History )
• Primo Levi – Se questo è un uomo ( If This Is a Man )
• Roberto Saviano – Gomorra ( Gomorrah )
• Niccolò Ammaniti – Io non ho paura ( I’m Not Scared )
• Italo Svevo – La coscienza di Zeno ( Zeno’s Conscience )
• Dante Alighieri – La Divina Commedia ( The Divine Comedy )
• Giovanni Verga – I Malavoglia (The House by the Medlar Tree)
• Giovanni Boccaccio – Il Decameron ( The Decameron )
• Luigi Pirandello – Il fu Mattia Pascal ( The Late Mattia Pascal )
• Alessandro Manzoni – I Promessi Sposi ( The Betrothed )
• Beppe Severgnini – La Bella Figura : A Field Guide to the Italian Mind

Best Travel Guide Books for Italy: Final Thoughts

We’ve come a long way on our literary journey across Italy! We’ve delved into general guides about the country as a whole and honed in on the specifics of its mesmerizing regions. Remember, each travel guide provides a different perspective and unique insights – just like Italy, each book has its personality and charm.

I hope this guide to the best Italy travel books proves helpful in preparing for your Italian adventure, whether you’re planning to bring one of these great books along on your trip or just reading in advance to immerse yourself in the beauty and culture of this beautiful country.

After all, these books are about more than just sightseeing – they’re about living and experiencing ‘La Dolce Vita,’ the sweet life, the Italian way. – Until our next Italian journey, Arrivederci!

Recommended Reading : 23 Best Italian Grammar Books to Master the Language

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Olive Christine

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10 Best Travel Books For Italy

Italy is a fascinating country with a rich cultural heritage, breathtaking natural landscapes, and world-famous art and architecture. From the historic cities of Rome, Florence, and Venice to the picturesque coastlines of Amalfi and Cinque Terre, Italy has something to offer every traveler. Whether you’re planning a trip to Italy or simply looking to learn more about this beautiful country, here are the 10 best travel books for Italy that you should add to your reading list.

1. Italian Days by Barbara Grizzuti Harrison

Barbara Grizzuti Harrison’s Italian Days is a classic travel memoir that captures the essence of Italy’s people, culture, and landscapes. The book is divided into four seasons, each representing a different aspect of Italy’s character. From the romance of spring in Venice to the sun-drenched beaches of the Amalfi Coast in summer, Harrison’s vivid prose will transport you to Italy and make you fall in love with its charm and beauty. With her insightful observations and sharp wit, Harrison paints a picture of Italy that is both timeless and contemporary.

2. Invisible Cities by Italo Calvino

Italo Calvino’s Invisible Cities is a surreal masterpiece that blends fantasy and reality to create a mesmerizing portrait of Venice. The book is structured as a series of conversations between the explorer Marco Polo and the emperor Kublai Khan, with each chapter describing a different imaginary city. Calvino’s writing is poetic and dreamlike, and his vision of Venice will leave you spellbound. Invisible Cities is a book that will inspire you to explore Venice and discover its hidden treasures.

3. Under the Tuscan Sun by Frances Mayes

Frances Mayes’s Under the Tuscan Sun is a memoir that chronicles her move to Tuscany and her efforts to renovate an old villa in the countryside. The book is a celebration of the simple pleasures of life, from cooking with fresh ingredients to enjoying the beauty of the natural world. Mayes’s descriptions of Tuscany’s landscapes and culture are vivid and evocative, and her enthusiasm for the region is infectious. Under the Tuscan Sun is a book that will inspire you to slow down, savor life’s simple pleasures, and appreciate the beauty of the world around you.

4. The Agony and the Ecstasy by Irving Stone

The Agony and the Ecstasy is a biographical novel that tells the story of Michelangelo’s life and work. The book takes the reader on a journey through the Renaissance, from Florence to Rome, and offers a fascinating glimpse into the creative mind of one of history’s greatest artists. Stone’s meticulous research and vivid descriptions bring Michelangelo and his world to life. The Agony and the Ecstasy is a book that will inspire you to appreciate the art and architecture of Italy’s great cities, and to see the world through the eyes of a true genius.

5. A Room with a View by E.M. Forster

E.M. Forster’s A Room with a View is a classic novel set in turn-of-the-century Florence. The book tells the story of Lucy Honeychurch, a young Englishwoman who falls in love with an unconventional young man while traveling in Italy. Forster’s writing is witty and insightful, and his descriptions of Florence’s architecture and culture are beautifully rendered. A Room with a View is a book that will transport you to a bygone era and make you fall in love with Florence’s timeless beauty.

6. Italian Neighbors by Tim Parks

Italian Neighbors is a memoir by Tim Parks that offers a humorous and insightful portrait of Italian life. The book describes Parks’s experiences living in a small town near Verona and his interactions with his Italian neighbors, who are both charming and maddening at the same time. Parks’s observations about Italian culture and daily life are astute and often hilarious. By reading “Italian Neighbors,” you’ll gain a profound comprehension of Italian society’s intricacies and peculiarities, and admire its distinctive personality.

7. The Leopard by Giuseppe Tomasi di Lampedusa

The Leopard is a historical novel set in Sicily during the 19th century. The book tells the story of the decline of the aristocracy and the rise of the middle class in a changing Italy. Tomasi di Lampedusa’s writing is elegant and lyrical, and his descriptions of Sicily’s landscapes and people are breathtaking. The Leopard is a book that will transport you to another time and place, and make you appreciate the rich history and culture of Italy’s southern regions.

8. Eating Rome by Elizabeth Minchilli

Eating Rome is a culinary travelogue by Elizabeth Minchilli that explores the city’s rich food culture. The book is organized by neighborhoods, with each chapter focusing on a different area of Rome and its culinary specialties. Minchilli’s writing is informative and engaging, and her descriptions of Rome’s food scene will make your mouth water. “Eating Rome” motivates readers to discover Rome’s cuisine, from markets and trattorias to gelaterias, and experience the authentic tastes.

9. In Other Words by Jhumpa Lahiri

In Other Words is a memoir by Pulitzer Prize-winning author Jhumpa Lahiri about her love affair with the Italian language. Lahiri’s book recounts her move to Rome, learning its language, and the challenges she faced mastering its subtleties.In Other Words is a meditation on the joys and challenges of learning a new language, and a tribute to the beauty and complexity of Italian culture. The book will inspire you to learn Italian and explore Italy’s rich literary heritage.

10. City of Falling Angels by John Berendt

City of Falling Angels is a non-fiction book by John Berendt that chronicles the aftermath of the fire that destroyed Venice’s Fenice Opera House in 1996. The book is a portrait of the city and its people, and an exploration of the forces that shape its culture and history. Berendt’s writing is engaging and insightful, and his descriptions of Venice’s architecture and art are fascinating. The book “City of Falling Angels” enhances appreciation for Venice’s character and its cultural preservation challenges.

Italy is a country that has inspired countless writers, artists, and travelers over the centuries. From the ancient ruins of Rome to the rolling hills of Tuscany and the canals of Venice, Italy offers a wealth of cultural, historical, and natural attractions. The 10 best travel books for Italy listed above are a diverse and engaging selection of works that capture the essence of Italy’s people, landscapes, and culture. Whether you’re planning a trip to Italy or simply looking to explore the country through literature, these books are sure to inspire and delight you.

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30 of The Best Travel Books For Italy

Are you planning a trip to Italy? Looking for the best travel books for Italy?

Perfect!  If you have read any of my Italy posts you will know I am a huge fan of Rick Steve's books. It is the best guidebook for Italy out there. However, I am not going to be biased in this post.  There are so many other great Italy travel books we are going to explore.

One reason why I highly recommend getting an Italy travel guidebook is that it will help you know what the highlights of each area are and specific tips and tricks to help you navigate the area.  I also love that there are food recommendations.

In this post, I am going to list the best Italy travel books for the most popular places to visit in Italy.  I will also give a recommendation for the overall best Italy travel guide if you are visiting lots of locations.  

These travel books for Italy will make your vacation so much better, I promise! 

Let's explore your options for the best travel books for Italy and get you planning for your trip!

If you would like to save this information for later be sure to Pin this to Pinterest! 

This post may contain affiliate links that will give me a commission at no additional charge to you.

Best Travel Books for Italy (The Entire Country)

If you are planning on visiting more than one city in Italy, I recommend getting an Italy guidebook that will cover the entire country. 

On our last trip to Italy, we went to the following cities:

• Amalfi Coast and Pompeii

Rick Steves – Travel Books for Italy

We wanted a book that would guide us throughout our trip.  We decided to go with Rick Steve's Italy book and thought it was amazing. 

One thing I liked about this book is that there are insider tips to help you skip long lines.  There are also amazing food recommendations. 

We tried to pick out food on our own and it was terrible.  When we opened our book and took Rick Steve's advice we were blown away with his recommendations.  Overall, this is the best travel book for Italy. 

Fodor's Travel Guide

The Fodor's Guide is full of pictures and maps.  If you are a visual person this book may be a better option. 

However, this guide is not as in-depth as Rick Steve's book.  It does highlight some sights, restaurants, and hotels but it is more of an overview of each area .

If you want a very visual Italy travel book this is for you. 

Best Italy Travel Books for Venice

If you are planning on visiting a specific city and then journeying somewhere else in Europe an individual travel book for Italy that specializes in a certain area is a better option for you. 

Venice Italy Travel Guidebooks

Venice is an amazing place!  From the singing Gondoliers to the narrow alleyways, Venice is an amazing adventure.  What I love about guidebooks is that a detailed explanation is given so that you know exactly what to expect.  

If exploring the top sites in Venice is a priority make sure to do your homework and plan ahead.  I recommend reading your travel book for Italy before you actually go on vacation. You will also want to consider a day trip to Burano  and Murano.

Below are the best Italian travel books for Venice. These Venice Italy guidebooks are great options! 

Best Italy Travel Books for Milan

Milan, the capital of fashion, is located very close to the lake country.  Lake Como is one of the most popular spots to visit.  An Italy travel guide for Milian is very helpful because you will most likely venture out of the city for day trips from Milian. 

Plan Ahead with Italian Travel Books

Milan has many beautiful buildings and sites to see but did you know that you need to get tickets to the “Last Supper” months in advance?  

These Italy guidebooks help you navigate and plan ahead for some of the top attractions in the city. If Milan is your destination these Italy travel books will be your go-to!

Best Italy Travel Books for Cinque Terre

There are five towns included in the area known as Cinque Terre. Cinque Terre is a rugged coastline on the Italian Riviera and consists of five beautiful hillside towns: Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore.

An Italy travel guide for this region is helpful to plan out where you want to spend most of your time as you explore the area. 

Best Italy Travel Guide to Plan Cinque Terre

As you plan your trip to this area of Italy, knowing exactly what each town is known for and how long you should plan to spend at each stop is essential.  These Italy guidebooks will help you plan your adventure with ease.

Best Italy Travel Books for Florence

Florence and Tuscany offer a variety of art, food and wine, and history.  If you are looking for broad experience, getting a general Italy guidebook for “ Things to do in Florence ” is a good option.  

These travel books for Italy will help you navigate Florence with ease! 

Florence Italy Guidebook

If you have studied art, Florence provides the opportunity for a deeper experience, and you may want a Florence, Italy guidebook on specific art that you will find in the area.  

For more general questions about where to stay and what to eat, a traditional Italy tour book is a great idea.  

Best Italy Travel Books for Rome

Rome is probably the most visited city in Italy.  There is history, religion, and architecture.   Getting the best Italy travel book is very helpful in Rome! It is absolutely a huge city! The maps alone in these Italian travel books are super beneficial! 

Best Travel Books for Italy with Audio Tours

One advantage to the Rick Steve books is that audio tours come with them.  You can put in your headset and listen to tours that are included with your book purchase.  

This is very helpful in Rome as there are ruins such as the Colosseum and Roman Forum.  Having a guide is essential in knowing what exactly you are seeing. 

My vote for the best guidebook for Italy in Rome is Rick Steves because of the audio tours. 

These are the best guidebooks for Rome! 

Best Italy Travel Books for Naples, Amalfi Coast, and Southern Italy

I am not an author of a Italian guidebook but one thing I know is that you do not want to drive along the Amalfi Coast unless you are a “living on the edge” type of person or have a death wish! J/K  The Amalfi Italy guidebooks will help you know what transportation is best and how to book it! 

Know Before You Go

This area of Italy is one of the most beautiful parts.  You will not be disappointed.  Reading up on this area you will find that there are ruins such as Pompeii and Herculaneum.  As well as beaches in Positano.  Knowing where to go and how to get there is extremely helpful in this area because the roads tend to be a little more dangerous.

There are also many day trips from Naples that are amazing. Capri and Ischia are some of the best! There are many travel books for Italy for this part of the country. 

There are parts of Naples that are dangerous as well.  I don't think your Italy guidebooks are going to tell you that. Be careful and aware of your surroundings! 

Best Italy Travel Books for Sicily

If you are planning on visiting Sicily, I would recommend getting a book specifically for this area.  Sicily is a little different than other areas of Italy. 

Italian Guidebook

As I read my Italy guidebook, it says that petty crime is more prevalent.  If I hadn't read that I would have never known.  I highly recommend a Sicily Italy travel guidebook so you can stay safe and enjoy the beautiful areas of this part of Italy. 

Italian Language Phrase Books

Are you nervous about not speaking the language?  Getting a phrasebook can be very helpful.  Even if it is only to read certain street signs or say a friendly hello.

Italian Travel Books

If you have time before your trip, I recommend going to the library and getting some audio-Italian language lessons.  

Phrasebooks come in handy when you need to catch an Uber or order food.

Best Italy Travel Books for Transportation

There are a few ways to get around Italy.  We decided to do a combination of train travel as well as renting a car and completing a road trip.  This allowed us to see more of Italy than train travel alone. 

Cruise 

A Mediterranean cruise would allow for lots of coastal stops but also allow you to see the major cities such as Venice and Rome.

Italy Road Trip

We drove from Northern Italy down to Southern Italy but did not want to take the time to drive back so we flew from Naples to Venice.  This was a great way for us to be able to see and do more with our time in Italy!  

Planning out your transportation is a great idea! Here are a few Italy travel book recommendations for transportation.  

Are you Ready to Get a Italy Travel Book for Your Trip?

If you are a planner like me you will love reading and doing all the research. These are the best Italy travel books on the market.  I know you will love exploring all the pages!

Make an Itinerary 

Make an itinerary for what cities interest you most.  This is your next step.  If you want a little help I have a free complete Italy guide with itineraries for nine cities, hotel recommendations , food recommendations, and some helpful travel tips. As helpful as my guide is I still recommend getting an additional guidebook! 

Plan Your Trip

Plan Plan Plan!  Now that you have some solid recommendations go purchase one of the best Italy travel books and start reading!  This will help you narrow down what interests you most.  You will not be disappointed with Italy! Have so much fun!

Is Planning Overwhelming?

If this is all overwhelming, I recently partnered with a Tour Guide Company called TravelStride that will plan your entire trip for you! If that sounds nice you can look through all of the tours they offer.

If you do not want your entire trip planned for you but would still like to do tours in each area Viator has some amazing options! 

Travel Italy

If you have   one week in Italy   it is possible to visit lots of cities.  We started in  Venice one of the most romantic Italian cities . A   Romantic Venice   getaway was perfect.  Then headed to   Florence ,  Pisa and Lucca , and   Siena .  After visiting Tuscany we headed to   Gaeta , Naples ,   Capri , the   Amalfi Coast , and   Pompeii .

If you are looking for another   reason to visit Italy   or some great  Safety Travel Tips for Italy,  be sure to check out my other posts.

Facebook Community

If you have any questions be sure to join my   Facebook Travel Community     This great community can help answer any questions you may have about your upcoming trips. Plus, I try to add any great deals or promotions that companies send me!

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74 Comments

Such great info! I’d love to go to Italy. It’s always been in the back of my mind, but I started thinking about it even more when I had an exchange student from Italy on my speech team last year. Hopefully, I’ll get there someday!

I love reading books about the areas that we will betraveling too. It is great to learn about local customs.

I agree! I don’t want to do something wrong!

I’m mostly a Rick Steves travel guide person when it comes to Europe but I also have delved into Lonely Planet on occasion. I personally just love reading about and traveling to Italy.

I am huge Rick Steves. I love detail!

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What a great idea. I used to love going to Barnes and Noble before a trip and browsing the travel books. Love it!

I love Barnes and Noble too!

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Our family loves the Lonely Planet books as they have some great ones for children too. I’ll be saving this post to come back to when we visit Italy someday. Thanks for the recommendations!

Oh good. I need to get a few lonely planet books.

These are some great books. Personally, I am a Rick Steves fan. I love following his FB page too.

I am a huge fan! His books and tours are so helpful!

I enjoy Rick Steve’s books too. Before our trip to Italy my grandson and I bought a book of common phrases in Italian and downloaded a language app. It was fun to learn a bit of Italian.

That is awesome. We did that when we went to Germany.

Great list of books! Italy has been on my bucket list for a long time! I’m excited to buy a few of these! Thank you!

Oh good! I hope to be really prepared the next time I go!

I get so excited when it’s time to buy a travel book and start planning a trip! I usually scan a variety of books at the local bookstore, but then usually go with Rick Steves when going to Europe. We often use Lonely Planet for travel to Central and South America. They are great for identifying smaller not-to-miss places, like the best place for ice cream, best place for music, etc.

That is awesome! Finding the hidden gems!

This is an awesome resource! Hoping to get to Italy sometime in the next few years. I love books by Rick Steves and think he makes great recommendations!

His food recommendations are amazing!

Thanks for sharing! I love reading books about places I want to visit before going.

It makes it so much better for me to know what there is to do in each place.

So many great travel book suggestions. I’ve yet to visit there but definitely on my list.

It is a great country. I plan to go back few more times!

What a great post! Such useful information and I agree, Rick’s books are great!

They are great! Thanks!

What a comprehensive list! Let the planning and dreaming begin!

Exactly, a great place to start when planning trip to Italy.

Great list of books! I will know everything there is to know about Italy!

I think my favorite part from Rick Steves is food recommendations. Amazing!

Great ideas! My son and daughter-in-law are planning to go to Italy in May. I will share this with them. I love the photos! Thanks for the great book reviews!

May is a perfect time to go to Italy! We went a few years ago! So beautiful!

Venice is my favorite city in Italy. I want to spend a month there when I retire.

I know I want to spend a month in Italy too!

These trip planning books seem like they’d make planning a trip to Italy a lot less overwhelming. Thanks for sharing!

It makes the trip so much easier!

I would love to go to Northern Italy. I love how these books are broken down into smaller regions!

If I was visiting just one city, I think it would be better to just get that book.

Thank you for the suggestions. I would love to travel to Italy, and when I do, I will surely get one of these books. Thanks for the recommendations.

They are super helpful!

I have never heard of Rick Steves books… but I definitly have a small collection of Lonely Planet books for various locations! I love travel books and may have a small addiction LOL. We are hoping to go back to Italy someday, as the kids have only been to Hubby’s hometown, and need to see some of the larger cities.

Rick Steves is master of Europe. He gives great advice.

These are really excellent sources of information!

What a great list of resources. A jam packed post for sure. Thanks for the information.

Good place to start planning a trip,

Good to know what travel books are worth it!

What a great, comprehensive list of travel books for Italy! I would love to page through all of them! 🙂

Me too! I am the ultimate planner!

Thanks for this great list of resources for traveling to Italy! I’m bookmarking this post so I can refer back when I finally get to book that dream trip of mine!

oh good! yes I hope you get to go soon!

I am a consummate planner when we travel. Have never thought about guidebooks. I may just have to add them to my repertoire.

It was very useful in Europe!

I’ve spent quite a bit of time over the distancing reading and researching Italy – cannot wait to travel there in the future!

I love how you include transportation. I have no plans to travel right now. Thank you for the information.

A transportation plan is important!

These are great books to use when I finally get to travel to Italy someday! Thanks for putting this together!

Hopefully, it helps!

What great tips! I can’t wait to be able to get to Europe again!

I know me too! I am planning an epic trip!

This is such a good idea – if you can’t actually travel yet, it makes sense to read about the places you plan to go!

Exactly, to me that is the fun part!

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So many great gift ideas. My daughter is dying to get to Italy, so I need to mark some of these as Christmas and/or gifts before we plan a trip.

Italy is wonderful. I am excited to go back.

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26 Wonderful Books About Italy To Take You There

This post may contain affiliate links that earn us a commission at no extra cost to you.

Travel across Europe with the best books about Italy, including books about Italian history, culture, travel, and language.

Spark that Italian wanderlust to Sicily, Tuscany, Naples, Florence, and Rome with the best novels about Italy, Italian and ex-pat memoirs, books set in Italy, and nonfiction Italy culture books.

It’s also no secret that Italy runs in our blood. Both of our families are from Sicily and parts of southern and eastern Italy. Whenever we land in this gorgeous country, we feel as though we are home.

If you have ever read Frances Mayes’ Italy travel books, especially about Tuscany, she evokes all of the feels and chills that reverberate in our bones.

We covet visits to Marsala, Menfi, Noto, the Amalfi Coast, Chianti, Venice, Palermo, and San Gimignano. Bike riding along the fortress walls of Lucca is one of our all-time favorite memories.

So, whether you are traveling to Italy or are hoping to spark your wanderlust, what are the best books about Italy to read right now?

Below, find fiction and nonfiction Italy books for adults and teens across famous cities and regions. Explore translated literature and a few classics too.

We update our book lists frequently, so please don’t hesitate to comment with your favorites too. Let’s get started!

If you love these Italy books, don’t miss the best Italian films to take you there .

Grab your top Italy books here:

• Audible Plus : From Amazon, listen to Amazon Originals, podcasts, and audiobooks. They add new titles every week.
• Book of the Month : Get the month’s hottest new and upcoming titles from Book of the Month. You might snag an early release or debut author. Along with selecting a book a month, find terrific add-ons, both trendy and lesser-known titles.
• Amazon Prime Video – Stream thousands of ad-free movies and TV series on demand with Prime Video.
• Express VPN – Using Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) allows you to view movies worldwide – and they help keep your information safe. Our writers couldn’t have such diverse film reviews without using a VPN.

Table of Contents

Best Nonfiction Books About Italy

By Jeremy Paterson with additions from Christine

Gomorrah by Roberto Saviano

Translated into English by Virginia Jewiss

The Camorra is one of the oldest and most far-reaching criminal organizations in Italy.

Through their powers of intimidation and their frequent use of extreme violence, they manage to spread their influence into the worlds of drugs, high fashion, construction, and toxic waste disposal.

Their negative impact can be felt all along the Neapolitan coast, especially in the city of Naples, the hometown of author Roberto Saviano.

With this internationally celebrated literary achievement and one of the best books on Italian history according to many, Saviano recounts the decline of Naples under the “control” of the Camorra.

Saviano witnesses his first murder victim as a teenager, and the Camorra severely beats his father for attempting to assist a man they had left in the street to die.

More than just a memoir and one of the many books about Italian history, Gomorrah utilizes a mixture of prose and news-reporting style.

His work is hailed as part of the literary wave of the “New Italian Epic.”

Read Gomorrah : Amazon | Goodreads

Italian Ways: On and Off the Rails from Milan to Palermo by Tim Parks

Author Tim Parks’ Italian travelog did not begin intentionally. As with some of the best Italy travel books, it started off as notes taken while writing another book.

But from these observations, Parks finds that he has begun a commentary on something both important and essential to Italian culture: the trains.

Through his interactions with people – while taking trains from Verona to Milan and Rome to Palermo – Parks deepens his understanding of just how the country works, even with some glaring contradictions.

Some train routes are announced with an impressive list of destinations, though they will more often than not be canceled.

An automated system will advise everyone to spread out in order to make boarding easier, though there will be just one passenger on the platform.

As Italy is a commuting culture, Parks argues that it is easy to see the Italian train system as symbolic of the country itself; and he asks, is Italy part of the modern world, or not?

This is one of the more darkly amusing books about Italy on this list.

If trains fascinate you, check out our books set on trains reading list too.

Read Italian Ways : Amazon | Goodreads

In Other Words by Jhumpa Lahiri

Translated into English by Ann Goldstein

If you’ve ever wondered what it might be like to dive right into another culture and learn a new language through total immersion, reading In Other Words will give you some insight.

Because this is exactly what Pulitzer Prize-winning author Jhumpa Lahiri does, moving with her family in 2012 to Rome in order to better connect with a language she has been in love with since just after college.

Lahiri decides to devote herself to Italian; she stops reading books in her native English, stops writing in English, and eventually gives up speaking in English.

She lays bare her struggles mastering the language in this autobiographical work, especially as her inner artist attempts to literally find a new voice.

Some would say Lahiri succeeds – she writes the book in Italian, after all.

In Other Words is one of the more relatable Italian culture books. Lahiri’s alienation and the obstacles she faces represent many of the trials that emigrants experience.

Read In Other Words : Amazon | Goodreads

La Bella Figura: A Field Guide to the Italian Mind by Beppe Severgnini

Translated into English by Giles Watson

Everyone has an idea of what Italy and Italians are like: often suave, romantic, either dashing or beautiful, and full of passion with a quick retort for anyone looking for an argument.

This image often comes as part of the package of what non-Italians think Italy is like.

Author Beppe Severgnini’s humorous examination of the Italian psyche is one of the best books about Italy with which to take a journey into finding out how much of it is true.

The answer, from Severgnini’s point of view, appears to be that sometimes it is and sometimes it isn’t. However, no matter which way you swing, it will be intense.

From interpretations of what a red light at a junction really means (not “stop,” surely), to how much beauty can distract you from a bad deal, to where you can find the best coffee and pizza, you’ll be swept up in the vibrancy of the locations.

Read La Bella Figura : Amazon | Goodreads

More Nonfiction Italy Books From Christine

Midnight In Sicily: On Art, Food, History, Travel and la Cosa Nostra by Peter Robb

Having lived in southern Italy for over 14 years, Peter Robb contrasts the island’s stunning beauty against its corrupt politics.

Specifically, Robb address Cosa Nostra, the Mafia, and their relation with the government and religious institutions.

Always in the backdrop – and sometimes the forefront – this violent network permeates every aspect of Sicilian life.

If you think the Mafia is just another “business” or have watched The Sopranos and The Godfather , Robb’s account will discuss the true nature of the Mafia’s crimes, eliminating that Hollywood glamour.

For books about Italian history and politics, specifically of Sicily post-war, Midnight In Sicily is a solid start. Read Midnight In Sicily: Amazon | Goodreads

Trieste And The Meaning Of Nowhere by Jan Morris

Find a gorgeous meditation and homage to the Italian city of Trieste in Jan Morris’s Trieste And The Meaning Of Nowhere.

The tiny port and the seaside city remain unknown to many. However, to travel writer and Welsh historian Jan Morris, it’s one of her favorite places – and she had traveled all over the world.

Encounter a lyrical and captivating travelogue about Trieste. Learn about its role in history – especially during the Cold War – and then over time, its dwindling glory.

For short and solemn but deeply touching and atmospheric books about Italy, Trieste And The Meaning Of Nowhere won’t disappoint.

Read Trieste And The Meaning Of Nowhere: Amazon | Goodreads

Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert

Eat, Pray, Love is one of the most cliché recommendations for books set in Italy, and people either love it or loathe it.

After going through a divorce, Gilbert needs to escape and start over. She decides to jet set off to Italy, India, and Indonesia to literally eat, pray, and love.

Only one-third of the book takes place in Italy when Gilbert heads out to taste test her way through Rome and Naples.

Throughout her travels, Gilbert learns how to be still, meditate, find and love herself, and love romantically – once again.

A thought-provoking travel memoir , a small portion of Gilbert lives within many of us. For Italy books, Eat, Pray, Love is more about finding yourself amongst a beautiful landscape and new culture.

After heading to Rome with Gilbert, explore these Indonesian books and books set in India to travel there next. Read Eat, Pray, Love: Amazon | Goodreads | More Information

Under The Tuscan Sun by Frances Mayes

One of our other favorite nonfiction ex-pat books about Italy, Frances Mayes’ Under The Tuscan Sun will remind you a lot of Gilbert taking an extended Italian holiday.

A beautiful memoir and Italian travel guide, Mayes paints a vivid picture of Tuscan life as an ex-pat and part-time Italian resident.

On a whim, Mayes decides to restore an old villa, Bramasole, in the Tuscan countryside of Cortona.

She evokes the true ambiance of Italy through her poetic writing about food, friends, and community.

Perfect for armchair travelers, watch as Mayes also moves on from divorce and throws her talents into writing, renovation, and love.

Mayes writes some of the best Italy travel books from an American perspective. The movie is fantastic too.

If you wish to read more about eating and drinking across Italy, don’t miss these wine novels and memoirs . Read Under The Tuscan Sun: Amazon | Goodreads

More Books About Italian Culture & Food From Frances Mayes

Best Novels About Italy

Call Me By Your Name by André Aciman

Reminiscing about his times as a teenager in the early 1980s, narrator Elio recalls one particular summer when American doctoral student Oliver comes to stay with him and his parents in their house in Italy.

At first unsure of how to interact with Oliver, Elio finds him standoffish. However, the two gradually realize that a romance is blossoming between them.

Over the weeks, they spend more time in each other’s company, gradually becoming more vulnerable with each other.

As Elio is on the cusp of a new period of his life, this experience will change him and his perceptions of love and intimacy forever.

Call Me By Your Name is one of the most well-known queer novels about Italy.

Anyone who has felt the adrenaline and thrill of a new and previously unseen or unconsidered romantic attachment will have much to relate to and enjoy here.

Read Call Me By Your Name : Amazon | Goodreads

Clash of Civilizations Over an Elevator in Piazza Vittorio by Amara Lakhous

In one residential building in Rome, the status quo is about to be destroyed; someone has been murdered.

The body turns out to be one of the tenants – an unpopular character known as The Gladiator – found dead in the building’s elevator.

Naturally, the police need to interview the other inhabitants of the building, and so we are introduced to the eclectic and colorful community of immigrants who live there.

Each one takes their turn answering police questions, some with extremely vibrant language.

The author presents the reader with a kaleidoscopic snapshot of the diversity of the average Italian mini-community.

As has been consistent throughout the history of Italy, books like this comedic satire highlight just how diverse this melting pot country can be (just as the pleasingly elaborate title suggests).

If you’re looking for books about Italy where the characters feel developed and nuanced, this is the novel for you.

Explore more contemporary and Ancient Rome books . Read Clash of Civilizations Over an Elevator in Piazza Vittorio : Amazon | Goodreads

The Shape of Water by Andrea Camilleri

Translated into English by Stephen Sartarelli

For anyone who likes to be introduced to a culture through its crime novels, Andrea Camilleri writes some of the best crime books about Italy.

The Shape of Water is the first in his Inspector Montalbano series, which is set predominantly in Sicily.

Inspector Salvo Montalbano is a streetwise detective with no time for liars or criminals but who will do whatever it takes to right a wrong.

In his first book, he shows up on the scene after an engineer’s death is ruled to be from natural causes. But Montalbano isn’t so sure that’s the case.

As he investigates the man’s death, we are drawn into the corruption and underbelly of Sicily and Italian politics.

The Inspector Montalbano series will not only transport you to Italy, but they are also some of the best fiction books about Italian culture and politics – especially Sicily.

Read The Shape of Water : Amazon | Goodreads

More novels about Italy from Christine

Trieste by Daša Drndić

Translated into English by Ellen Elias-Bursać

In Northeastern Italy, Haya Tedeschi hasn’t seen her son in over 62 years. As she awaits their reunion, Haya reflects on her Catholicized Jewish family’s experiences.

An SS officer is the father of her son, and the German authorities took him as part of Himmler’s Lebensborn project.

Throughout the novel, readers learn more about the concentration camps of Trieste and the massacre of Italian Jews.

For historical fiction novels about Italy during WW2, Trieste is a moving and well-researched account of the atrocities of war.

Through every photograph, document, and piece of testimony Haya retrieves, readers gain powerful insight into the Nazi occupation of northern Italy.

Daša Drndić was a Croatian and award-winning writer. Uncover even more WWII historical fiction .

Find Belladonna by Daša Drndić on our Croatian reading list .

Read Trieste: Amazon | Goodreads

My Brilliant Friend by Elena Ferrante

One of the most popular books set in Italy, My Brilliant Friend is also an HBO TV show , and Italian author Elena Ferrante’s first book in the Neapolitan Novels series.

Armchair travelers head to Naples in the 1950s where Lila’s and Elena’s friendship and lives evolve in a story that spans over 60 years.

We meet the two women in elementary school, at 10 years old, and watch them transform into wives, mothers, figureheads, and friends.

In a slow-burn yet captivating story, readers learn more about working-class Naples and one feisty and complicated friendship.

For books about Italian culture and life, Ferrante is famous her relentless and hypnotic stories.

Explore even more fascinating books about best friends and friendship . Read My Brilliant Friend: Amazon | Goodreads

Whereabouts by Jhumpa Lahiri

For transcendent and intuitive translated Italian literature, Whereabouts by one of our favorite authors, Jhumpa Lahiri, is a must.

Thought-provoking and meditative , book clubs and deep thinkers will appreciate this one. Plus, you can read Whereabouts in a few hours.

The novel takes place in an unnamed, small town that is most likely set somewhere in Italy.

Through the everyday vignettes and “whereabouts” of an average yet depressed and sullen woman, Lahiri shares our universal insecurities, feelings of isolation, and faults that make us deeply human.

How can such a seemingly ordinary book be so extraordinary?

If you love Italy books with gripping plots, though, you might want to pass here.

Personally, we will live more fully, love more deeply, and pay closer attention to the happiness and sorrow around us having read Whereabouts .

Read Whereabouts: Amazon | Goodreads | Read More

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The Star-Crossed Sisters of Tuscany by Lori Nelson Spielman

One of the best books set in Italy that is also perfect for book club, travel to Ravello, Venice, and Trespiano in The Star-Crossed Sisters of Tuscany .

Italy oozes off of the pages, and you’ll wish you had a sage and eccentric Aunt Poppy in your life. We couldn’t possibly love this inspiring and beautiful novel more.

Beginning in Brooklyn, New York , Emilia lives a safe life working in the family bakery with her cat Jaws.

Yet something is off, and it’s not just the family curse that says second-born daughters are destined to never have lasting love.

Her grandmother – who has raised her – treats Emilia with disdain, and her sister uses her as a doormat.

When their estranged Aunt Poppy invites Emilia and cousin Lucy – another second daughter – to travel across Italy for her birthday, they jump on the opportunity, especially since Poppy promises she can break the curse.

However, Poppy is dying from cancer and has another agenda: reunite with the love of her life that she was separated from with the construction of the Berlin Wall.

Can they break the curse, and will family secrets destroy these already shaky relationships? There are secrets and pain they all must overcome.

The Star-Crossed Sisters of Tuscany is also a story perfect for romance lovers and those wishing to step out of their comfort zone.

Novels about Italy and Italian life don’t get any more devour-worthy than this.

Read The Star-Crossed Sisters of Tuscany: Amazon | Goodreads

Sex and Vanity by Kevin Kwan

A 2020 book release by the author of Crazy Rich Asians , Kwan entrances readers with the beautiful and wealthy island of Capri. We just eat up island books .

One of the most fun books set in Italy and NYC, you’ll head to the shores of the Amalfi Coast for a steamy romance and one compromising situation.

Sex and Vanity is a modern-day A Room With A View.

Lucie meets George Zao during a fancy wedding weekend. George is Chinese-born and raised in Australia while Lucie is a Churchill, making them an unlikely and ‘socially’ unacceptable match.

At first, Lucie cannot tolerate George until she finds herself in his warm embrace.

Years later and back in NYC, Lucie is engaged to Cecil, a pompous and new money douche bag.

When George moves to New York for work, though, Lucie must decide who she really loves, including herself. Read Sex and Vanity: Amazon | Goodreads | Book Information

Beautiful Ruins by Jess Walter

A novel set along the Italian coast, Beautiful Ruins is another one of those Italy books that people either love or don’t.

In 1962, a young innkeeper experiences love at first sight as he spies an American actress coming into land via boat.

The caveat is that she is dying.

Over the course of 50 years, readers watch as the story begins with an older Italian man in search of the mysterious actress. Read Beautiful Ruins: Amazon | Goodreads

Angels & Demons by Dan Brown

Beginning at CERN in Switzerland, Robert Langdon examines a symbol seared into one of their dead physicists, proof of the existence of the Illuminati. Why have they returned?

To take revenge on the Catholic Church, of course. And where better than the Vatican?

The Illuminati have set a bomb hidden deep within Vatican City that Langdon must find and disable before all of history is lost.

Angels & Demons is the first in the Robert Langdon series and is one of the most thrilling and fast-paced books about Italy on this list.

In the fourth book in the series, Inferno – a novel set in Florence, Italy – Robert Langdon wakes up in an Italian hospital with an assassin trailing him.

If CERN intrigues you, travel further into Switzerland with these books . Read Angels & Demons: Amazon | Goodreads

Under A Dancing Star by Laura Wood

For YA novels about Italy and summer vacations, travel to the Italian countryside with Bea.

It’s England in the 1930s, and while Bea’s parents worry about her marriage potential, she’d rather be studying natural history.

Bea’s entire worldview becomes much larger as she heads off to Italy where unbeknownst to her parents, she’s about to join a bohemian artist retreat with her uncle and his fiancé.

When Bea meets Ben, she must decide if she wants a casual summer fling. He’s arrogant but also cute. The catch, of course, is that this romance cannot lead to falling in love.

Inspired by Shakespeare’s Much Ado About Nothing , Under A Dancing Star is a fluffier romance with occasional political context. Read Under A Dancing Star: Amazon | Goodreads

The Glassblower Of Murano by Marina Fiorato

If you crave historical books about Italy and European history, head to Venice in Fiorato’s The Glassblower Of Murano .

It’s 1681 where glassblowing and Venetian mirrors are everything.

In an effort to protect his daughter, the most renowned glassblower, Corradino Manin, discloses his trade secrets to Louis XIV of France.

Flash forward to the present day where Leonora Manin runs off to Italy, linking herself to one deceptive past. Read The Glassblower Of Murano: Amazon | Goodreads

Love and Gelato by Jenna Evans Welch

Another one of the best light and fluffy books set in Italy, don’t skip Love and Gelato .

For YA armchair travelers, especially, Jenna Evans Welch creates the sweetest stories abroad.

Lina is spending her summer in Tuscany.

She’s trying to better understand her estranged father – her mother’s dying wish. Lina is, of course, not happy with this forced vacation until she starts reading her mother’s Italian journal.

Lina learns more about her family than she ever could have imagined while discovering some Italian romance of her own.

Find even more of Jenna Evan Welch’s books on our books set in Greece and Ireland books reading lists. Read Love and Gelato: Amazon | Goodreads

The Juliet Club by Suzanne Harper

One of the lesser-known YA books about Italy, The Juliet Club promises to transport readers to Verona, Italy.

Kate Sanderson is studying Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet in Verona as well as volunteering for the Juliet Club, answering love letters sent from around the world.

Attending a seminar with other Americans and Italians, Kate finds herself drawn into the romance of her setting. Read The Juliet Club: Amazon | Goodreads

Classic Italy Books

Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare

One of the most famous classic novels about Italy, everyone knows the tragic story of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet .

Set in Verona and Mantua, the Montagues and the Capulets are feuding enemies. Yet, their children fall in love.

Juliet is arranged to marry another man; so, she and Romeo plan to wed in secret. When Romeo kills Juliet’s cousin in a street fight, he is banished from the kingdom, ruining their plans.

As Romeo tries to make it back before it’s too late, Juliet hatches an ill-thought-out scheme of her own. Unfortunately, everything goes terribly wrong. Read Romeo and Juliet: Amazon | Goodreads

A Room With A View by E.M. Forster

If you are looking for books set in Florence, Italy, try the classic A Room With A View .

First published in 1908, uptight Lucy visits her cousin Charlotte in Florence.

Lucy is a product of Edwardian England, which is infamous for its structure and rigidity. Florence opens Lucy’s eyes and heart to the world, but when George kisses her, she is dragged back home.

Now with a stuffy fiancé, Cecil Vyse, Lucy has to determine who and what she really wants. Read A Room With A View: Amazon | Goodreads

A Farewell To Arms by Ernest Hemingway

A Farewell To Arms  is one of the many historical fiction books about Italy that portrays war.

In 1918, as an ambulance corps volunteer, Hemingway chronicles wartime along with its effects on friendship and love.

Adapted into a play, film, and mini-series, this is a well-known World War I love story. Read A Farewell To Arms: Amazon | Goodreads

Catch-22 by Joseph Heller

Set on an island off of Italy, Pianosa during World War 2, bombardier Yossarian cannot believe that people he doesn’t even know wish to kill him.

And even more so, he is terrified that his own army is going to kill him before the enemy does. They just keep increasing his missions. 

Hence, Yossarian wants to leave the military, which feels impossible.

Finding himself in a Catch-22, Yossarian can’t claim he’s mentally unwell to quit the army because doing so proves exactly the opposite. Only a sane person would think of a way out.

Catch-22 is one of those classic books about Italy and war that most American high schoolers or college students have read.

Explore the all-time best books about World War 2 . Read Catch-22: Amazon | Goodreads

Save These Books About Italian History, Culture, & Life For Later:

Grab your favorite Italy books to take you there here:

Thank you to TUL contributor, Jeremy Paterson

Jeremy (pronouns: any) is an autistic writer, hobbyist, and movie buff, as long as that movie is Labyrinth . Since leaving the corporate world behind in 2018, he has read more books than he thought possible. True to his British upbringing, his first instinct in any given situation is to put the kettle on.

What books set in Italy do you love? How about books about Italian culture?

Have you been to Italy, and if so, what areas do you love?

Who are your favorite travel writers, and what Italy travel books are musts?

And, what are your absolute favorite novels about Italy? Which nonfiction books about Italy have enhanced your trip and taught you more? Let us know in the comments.

Travel With These European Book Lists:

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Christine Frascarelli

Christine (she/her) is the owner, lead editor, and tipsy book sommelier of The Uncorked Librarian LLC, an online literary publication showcasing books and movies to inspire travel and home to the famed Uncorked Reading Challenge.

With a BA in English & History from Smith College, an MLIS from USF-Tampa, and a U.S. Fulbright Fellowship in Christine's back pocket, there isn't a bookstore, library, or winery that can hide from her. Christine loves brewery yoga, adopting all of the kitties, and a glass of oaked Chardonnay. Charcuterie is her favorite food group.

19 Comments

I’m trying to find the title and author of a novel I read a few years ago set in Perugia. A man, American I think, visits Perugia and becomes entranced by a painting (I think it might be the artist Perugino but I may have mis remembered) and stays in Perugia for best part of a year. Does anyone know this book I’m seeking?

Hi Penny, I’m not sure which book this is, but maybe one of our readers will recognize it.

Hello, wondering why no one recommends Beneath a Scarlet Sky by Mark Sullivan… world war 2, set in Milan, follows a bit of the life ( 14-mid 20s) of a young man. It has it all, suspense, romance, treachery, civil upheaval. It is based on a real person, and it’s hard to believe a person could could survive what these people did during the war!! A book that truly leaves you wrung out, and thinking about it long after you are done. Can’t wait to read some of your recommendations! Thank you!

Thanks so much for sharing!

@Cel Erickson, That’s an excellent book.

Happy to share some titles that I loved, since I can’t seem to get enough of books set in Italy ! NIVES by Sacha Naspini….a widow in a small Tuscan town learns intriguing things about herself. Seems she enjoys the company of her hen with a crippled foot more than that of her late husband ! MEETING IN POSITANO by Goliarda Sapienza….because I’ll read just about anything set in Positano ! WOMEN IN SUNLIGHT by Frances Mayes….this one spoke to me since it’s the story of ladies of “a certain age” who find adventure and romance in Tuscany. THE CITY OF FALLING ANGELS by John Berendt….mainly the story of the 1996 fire that destroyed the historic Fenice Opera House in Venice. Berendt is the author of MIDNIGHT IN THE GARDEN OF GOOD AND EVIL. I learned so much about interesting people who lived in Venice at one time, especially Percy Bysche Shelley, Ezra Pound, and Cole Porter. The book is like a love poem to Venice.

Not about Italy, but…..be sure to read IN THE SANCTUARY OF OUTCASTS by Neil White. No hints here…just trust me on this one !!!!!! Curious ?? Good !!

Thanks so, so much for sharing this great list with mini-summaries! We appreciate it, and I am sure that our readers do too!

The enchanted april is great, and old novel from the 50s but paints a beautiful picture of italy, and Miss Garnets Angel, set in Venice, a quiet start leads to the most engaging and beautiful story, it made me book a trip to Venice

We’ll have to check these out. Thank you so much for the Italy book recommendations. We appreciate it!

I would add The Enchanted April by Elizabeth Von Arnim to the classics section!

Yes, I’ve heard that’s a good one, too! Thank you so much for the Italy book recommendation.

UNDER THE TUSCAN SUN!!!! I, too, have only watched the movie, and I’ve watched it A MILLION TIMES. My best friend and I have watched that so much, we can recite parts of it from memory. I really need to read the actual book one of these days — maybe I’m afraid I won’t love it nearly as much as the movie?? The movie is a bit of inspiration for my newest novel, so I suppose I should read the book at some point, haha.

Great list of books!! I need to get back to Italy. I visited after college with some friends, staying in Florence and traveling around to Pisa and Padua (which I only went to because seeing the Scrovegni Chapel was on my bucket list). I loved Italy, but I didn’t get to explore it all as much as I would have liked. Mr Tart and I are planning to go there sometime in the next decade, haha. We both have Italian ancestry, so we’d love to see where our families are from.

The book for Under The Tuscan Sun wasn’t quite as engaging as the movie. But, the movie also added a ‘movie-ish’ plot, which I totally understand. I cannot wait to hear about your newest novel. Is it the rom-com you’ve been working on?

We are dying to go back to Italy, too. I took a genealogy course for grad school, which was so neat and eye-opening (and addicting). I’d love to visit the places my family is from, too.

We loved Florence and exploring its nearby towns. We didn’t do the tourist things, like the Uffizi, which I sorta regret — the lines were 4-hours long and we didn’t plan ahead. I don’t regret making the choice not to go (I’d rather bike ride Lucca’s walls vs waiting in line all day), but I will definitely plan better in the future. We dipped into Pisa just to see the tower, but I am sure that there is so much more to see.

I have to read Sex and Vanity but when I do, I need to be able to go on a literary date in Italy and NYC!? I love the sound of the book. Enemies to lover theme kind of? I also always go for love triangle themes. I never tire of that! Maybe I secretly want 2 guys after me? No, reality is I’ll take just one guy after me. Please. That’s all I ask for.? I loooved Under the Tuscan Sun. So beautiful! Okay, confession, I didn’t actually read it. I loved the movie! There’s something about Diane Lane. She’s perfection. I read Beautiful Ruins years ago and loved that one. Totally captivated and hooked by that one. Maybe it dragged a bit towards the end? I can’t remember anymore but I know I loved it. Love and Gelato sounds so cute. We did nothing but eat TONS of gelato while in Italy. I can’t wait to go back again one day. My high school English teacher totally tainted Romeo and Juliet for me. I liked it but he harped on how unbelievable it was how no adults who knew of their plan tried to knock some sense into them. Suspend your disbelief, Mr. Friedman! Therefore, I’m more of a Midsummer Night’s Dream and Twelfth Night fan. But The Juliet Club sounds awesome! Such a great list. I need to read more books set in Italy. It’s such a great backdrop for a captivating story.

Yesss! Literary date to Capri! That would be grand! Sex and Vanity is sort of enemies to lovers expect that the guy always liked her. Sex and Vanity is also a retelling of A Room With A View.

I both read Under the Tuscan and watched the movie. I kinda liked the movie better? I have another one of Frances Mayes’s books on my shelf that I need to read.

Yessss, I read Beautiful Ruins SO LONG AGO, and I thought it dragged too? People LOVED IT. Maybe one day, when I have time, I will re-read it.

Love & Gelato is super sweet, and she has a new book coming out this fall set in Santorini. I have a copy, and I cannot wait!

AHAHA, I love skeptics of Romeo and Juliet. That would have made it more fun for me.

Thanks so, so much for checking out TUL Italy reading list. Let’s go!

I really enjoyed A Farewell to Arms when I read it back in high school!! It was one of my first introductions to Hemingway, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I see quite a few classics here that I have on my TBR as well, like Catch-22 and A Room with a View. Love and Gelato has always sounded intriguing to me as well; it’s probably about time that I pick it up. I love the sound of Under a Dancing Star as well!! This is such a great roundup of reads, Christine xx

I had a feeling that you’d enjoy A Farewell to Arms! . Catch-22 is such a classic — I haven’t read it in a while, but I read it a few times for HS and college. Love & Gelato is super sweet and a quick YA read. She has a new one coming out this fall set in Santorini. I already have a copy, and I cannot wait! Thanks so much, Macey!

Thank you for sharing this list! I’m reading Love & Gelato now, can’t wait to finish it!

Love & Gelato is such a sweet book! I hope you are enjoying it!

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Best 10 travel books about Italy

Rick Steves Italy – From the Mediterranean to the Alps, from fine art to fine pasta, experience Italy with Rick Steves!

Lonely Planet Italy – Lonely Planet’s Italy is your passport to the most relevant, up-to-date advice on what to see and skip, and what hidden discoveries await you

Glam Italia! How To Travel Italy: Secrets To Glamorous Travel (On A Not So Glamorous Budget) – Discover stress-free, cost-saving secrets for planning the ultimate Italian getaway

Italy The Best Places to See by Rail: An alternative to the escorted tour – Use this book for planning, and take it along with you and a good tour book of Italy and you will not be disappointed with your vacation.

Finding Love in Positano : The BRAND NEW escapist, romantic read from author Lucy Coleman – ‘A scintillating holiday read.

Under the Tuscan Sun: At Home in Italy – “This beautifully written memoir about taking chances, living in Italy, loving a house and, always, the pleasures of food, would make a perfect gift for a loved one. But it’s so delicious, read it first yourself.”—USA Today

Four Seasons in Rome : On Twins, Insomnia, and the Biggest Funeral in the History of the World

Essentials of Classic Italian Cooking – Essentials of Italian Cooking is a culinary bible for anyone looking to master the art of Italian cooking

Easy Italian Phrase Book : Over 1500 Common Phrases For Everyday Use And Travel

Kids’ Travel Guide – Italy : The fun way to discover Italy – especially for kids

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13 Best Italy Travel Guide Books

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• 13 Best Italy Travel Guide…

Italy has so much history, art, and culture that naturally attract travelers. The enchanting peninsula isn’t the largest European country. But, it offers diverse and rich things to see and do. Each city and region have something different to offer. From preserved treasures, ancient towns like Pompeii, to its beautiful coastline and beaches. For the best authentic experiences, we cannot recommend you enough to plan first. And travel books about Italy are your best option for travel preparation. Guidebooks help you get the best insight into destinations you want to visit. Plus, you’ll get plenty of information for planning.

How To Choose The Best Travel Books about Italy

When you decide to visit Italy, you first need to read travel guides to learn more about the country. However, it can be difficult to find the best travel guides for Italy since there are so many options available. Before you purchase one, here are a few things to help you choose your own.

Check the published date

When buying the best travel books for Italy or any other country, you need to make sure you get new and updated information about the country. So, it’s important to check the published date. If you buy the old version of guidebooks, the information may be outdated.

Guidebook format

Many publishers offer travel books about Italy in two versions: printed and digital. Consider buying both printed and e-book for your next trip. You can take notes on the printed version – plus, it makes a great coffee table book – while the e-book can be used on the go.

Check the author bio

To have the best experience while traveling, only equip yourself with first-hand information. We recommend choosing local-based and experienced authors and writers. For example, if you want to visit villages in Italy , it’s best to buy a travel book from someone who came from that village or at least has spent a significant local living there as a local.

What is the best way to tour Italy for the first time?

You should mix relaxation and sightseeing in your itinerary for the best experience. Generally, you can combine the sights of Rome and while staying at hotels in Florence with a more relaxed ambiance. Tuscany or Venice are also great choices. Get a travel guide for Venice Italy to get an unforgettable experience in Venice.

How many days is enough for Italy?

Generally, you would need about ten days to explore Italy. Though you’ll need much more time to discover and enjoy a complete Italy experience. But, you still be able to cover many of the top sights.

How do I organize my trip to Italy?

If you only have 3-5 days, choose only one destination. It could be a city or region. For 10 days trip, you can cover 1-3 places, either the north, central, or south of Italy. You can set aside two weeks? If so, you could explore 3-4 places in the south and north.

Italy Travel Guide Essential Tips For First-timers in Italy

Planning on traveling to Italy for the first time can be overwhelming if you don’t know where to start. Italy Travel Guide Essential Tips For First-timers in Italy is what you need. Find out how to enjoy Italy’s beauty to the fullest with this guidebook. The book has 11 chapters, which 5 of them cover the cities and regions. They include Rome, Florence and Tuscany, Venice, Milan and Lombardy, and Sicily. Unlike other best travel books for Italy, the author even devoted a chapter to the best Italian beaches. Not to forget some of the less-traveled ones.

The chapter starts with the History of Italy. Here, you can get brief information about the Roman Empire. Another chapter covers how to plan a trip to Italy. There is so much information you can get, like the best time to visit which place. Get the most of your visit by learning some Italian phrases to help you get around.

We think The Cultural Tips: Not To Do in Italy and Travel Tips sections are the best sections. If you plan to eat and drink in Italy, you’ll find some helpful sections. These include How to Order Coffee, How to Choose a Restaurants, and Drinking Wine in Italy. Also, there’s a chapter on What to Do When Things Go Wrong and Airport Tricks that you’ll find very supportive and useful. All these trips and tricks will complete your arsenal to explore Italy.

Foodie, beach-goers, first-time travelers, backpacker, family, and group travelers

Michelin Green Guide Italy

Create your memorable journey to Italy with Michelin Green Guide Italy . It’s one of the travel guides for Italy that will give you depth descriptions of the locations and sites, whether you’re visiting Italy’s must-see cities or outdoor activities.

Do you prefer wine regions and gourmet destinations? Historic cathedrals, castles, and Roman ruins? Wandering around the sunny Sicilian villages? Or, hunting postcard-perfect photos in Lakes Region? This book gives travelers the most reliable recommendation on where to go, where to eat, and where to stay. There’s also a section about activities for kids. You’ll also get information on how to get there and what to see and do.

Get some practical A to Z information that will help your trip, from embassies, pharmacies, and public holidays. It also provides maps and pictures. Getting to know more about Italy will make the best of your trips. You can get some insights from the book about Italian history. Besides, there’s brief information about Italy today, nature, plus art and culture.

Family travelers, photographers, backpackers, adventurers

The Rough Guide to Italy

The Rough Gu i de to Italy gives everything you need to know when planning a trip to Italy. The book includes extensive lists of must-see sights, practical advice, even an off-the-beaten-track. Plus, it provides insights on what to see and do, how to get around, and things not to miss. Besides, there’s an itinerary section that helps tailor your own schedule. With excellent reviews, you’ll discover the recommended restaurants, shops, and hotels. The full-color maps and photos will inspire your places to visit.

The book has four main chapters in the table of contents. They include Introduction, Basics, The Guide, and Contexts. The Introduction provides information all travelers would need. You’ll find itineraries, where to go, when to go, and author picks. Meanwhile, the Basics cover practical information and pre-departure tips. Getting there, getting around, festivals and travel essentials are among the topics.

Next, The Guide Chapter is divided into 17 cities and regions. It covers Rome and Lazio, Umbria, Sicily, Lombardi and the Lakes, Tuscany, Sardinia, and more. Also, you’ll find highlights, brief history, maps, and more information on each city and region. Contexts give you information about the history, Italian art, and useful language. Plus, recommended books and films. Make the most of your time in Italy! Whether you plan to experience the Piazza San Marco in Venice, enjoy the spectacular Amalfi Coast, or explore the collections of art in Florence. Did you know that there are great gay-friendly hotels in Florence ?

You’ll get an e-book for every paperback purchase. All these make this book one of the best travel books for Italy as well as a travel guide for Venice Italy.

All type of travelers, such as adventurers, city slickers travelers, solo travelers

Italy The Best Places to See by Rail

If you’re interested in exploring Italy via Rail, Italy The Best Places to See by Rail is your best choice. The book is perfect for solo or group travelers who don’t want to join the fixed scheduled tours through travel agencies. Or, travelers who don’t want to drive in a foreign country. If you want or spend as much as time you want on each sight, this book helps planning your own itinerary.

This entertaining travel guide includes five major itineraries. They are Venice, Rome, the Lake District (Como, Maggiore, and Lugano). Besides, it also covers Sicily, the Amalfi Coast, and over the Alps on the world-famous Bernina Express. The author also provides a chapter about hotels near the stations. So, you only need to walk less than 15 minutes to your hotel. There’s also a guide on how to choose each hotel along the way based on your budget.

You’ll also find websites on how to obtain your rail and attraction tickets on this easy-to-read guide book. It helps save your time and money on the internet. Other information, such as recommended restaurants and places of interest are provided. Including tables and maps. This book really helps travelers to have a stress-free trip around Italy on its superb rail system. Making it also the best travel guide for Venice Italy and travel books about Italy.

Independent travelers, adventurers, group or family travelers

Rick Steves Venice, 16th Edition

Make the most of your vacation in Venice with Rick Steves Venice . It’s the perfect choice for a travel guide for Venice Italy. This updated version provides new restaurant reviews and city walks. Either you’re exploring the great city for a week or more, the book offers comprehensive coverage. Find top sights and hidden gems, such as the Rialto Bridge, the charming city of Padua, or St. Mark’s Basilica. Also, don’t miss exploring the canals and wandering down the cobblestone alleys as you soak up the culture, art, and history of Venice.

The book also includes the best places to eat and sleep. Besides, you can use the self-guided walking tours of museums and Grand Canal Cruise tours. Traveling with your best friends? You’ll also find some useful info about the best nightlife and places to relax in Venice.

The Italian survival phrases help you connect with local people and get to know their culture. The book also provides a historical overview and recommended reading. You’ll like the useful packing list given in the book. What’s more, the detailed maps and fold-out city map will help you get the most of your time. Get this guide in paperback or digital version.

Party-goers, family or group travelers, and backpackers

Lonely Planet Italy’s Best Trips

Lonely Planet Italy’s Best Trips is one of the most useful travel guides for Italy, especially, if you’re planning for a road trip to Italy whether to explore somewhere new or places you’ve been before. The book features 40 amazing road trips in Northern Italy, Central Italy, and Southern Italy. These road trips include Grand Tours and World Heritage Wonders. Plus, you’ll have up-to-date expert advice on the destinations you’ll visit along the way.

Embrace the majesty of the Dolomites or enjoy the Tuscan landscape and stop by on the dazzling Amalfi Coast. Jump in the car, turn on the music or one of the best audiobooks , and hit the road with your trusted travel companion! The book includes insider tips to get around like a local. Other information is included, like places to eat, sleep, sightseeing with honest reviews. To start your road trip, there’s a section on Road Trip Essentials. It provides plenty of information, from how to hire a car, insurance, road conditions, to fuel and parking.

While you’re on the road, you can always use the features like Stretch Your Legs and Detours. The gorgeous color photos throughout the book help pick your interests and needs. On top of that, it has easy-to-read and full-color route maps, which is important for your road trip. It provides detailed directions for exploring Italy accessible by car.

Family or group travelers, adventurers, photographers, frequent wanderers

DK Eyewitness Venice & the Veneto

With so much to see and experience in Venice, you’ll need the best travel guide for Venice Italy. Planning to wander around the magical maze of Venice canals? Or, exploring through majestic mountains and sampling delicious cuisine? Experience all Venice has to offer with DK Eyewitness Venice & the Veneto . Not only does it offer a watery oasis, but the book also includes more places you should visit. The alpine forests and verdant hills in the Dolomites, the third-largest Roman Arena, and the beautiful scenery of Lake Garda are among the others.

This book is divided into three major sections; Discover, Experience, and Need to Know. There’s everything you need to know about the Vento region. It includes excellent walking tour suggested itineraries. So, you can create your own itinerary that suits your likes. If you have limited time, take the suggested itineraries given. Learn more about the history of the region in its section Brief History.

Each section of the city in the Experience chapter is completely updated with places to see and things to do. Besides, it covers the opening times and website. Plus, you’ll find recommendations for hotels and places to eat. The Venice map is very helpful for exploring Venice and Veneto. Besides, it provides bus and water taxi maps. Other information includes bus and train services. Useful telephone numbers and a street map of Venice and Murano are included. Also, you’ll have the DK Eyewitness special, the virtual 3D map! You can get this guide in paperback and digital versions on Kindle.

Couples, group or family travelers, photographers, foodies

Kids’ Travel Guide Italy

Are you traveling with your family to Italy? Or, moving to live in the country temporarily? Kids’ Travel Guide Italy is not only interesting but also a fun way of learning. Specially designed for children, they may not realize they’re learning while reading at the same time. Also, the book helps to keep your children occupied while traveling. There are plenty of fun activities for kids to do. With this book, even children get to prepare what to bring before traveling.

The table of contents makes finding anything about Italy easier and faster. The book includes a section about places you should visit and why they’re famous. It guides your children to walk through the famous Grand Canal Venice and the magnificent piazzas and basilicas. And your children will love discussing pizza, gelato, and spaghetti!

Furthermore, the book provides history, flags and symbols, culture, plus geography. It also provides some popular Italian words and phrases. It will help you and your children interact with local people. One of the best travel books about Italy for children, it’s available in Kindle edition. The e-book is perfect if you’re flying with luggage restrictions. But, if you prefer a more interactive experience, you can get the paperback edition.

Family travelers, long-term travelers, temporary residences

Fodor’s Essential Italy 2020

Fodor’s Essential Italy 2020 is recognized as one of the best travel books for Italy. It’s something you need to create the perfect adventure and experience the country. This guidebook provides information and explanations about culture and history. It also helps enrich your travel. Find which cities or regions you’re looking for with the color-coded category icons and two-column text. This book covers Venice, Lake Como, Pisa, Tuscany, Vatican City, Rome, and more.

This book also includes customizable itineraries for various trip lengths. And it provides info for the best walking tours. Known for accuracy and attention to detail, you’ll find top recommendations and exclusive tips from the locals. Its section of ‘best of lists’ provides the best things to do and see. Plus, there are expert recommendations on hotels and restaurants. What’s more, you’ll find some practical tools and tips for getting around as well as basic Italian phrases, a calendar of events, and festivals.

There’s even a section to guide you on what to read and watch before your trip! We love the beautiful color photos and features throughout. It includes features on hiking the Cinque Terre and Sistine Chapel. With more than 70 detailed maps and a free pull-out map, it’s definitely one of the best travel guides for Italy.

Adventurers, photographers, and backpackers

Frommer’s Italy 2020

Whether you’re planning for a family trip or special food and wine trip, Frommer’s Italy 2020 is one of the best travel books for Italy you can have. Its chapter of suggested itineraries gives you the most helpful day-by-day info to plan something that suits your interests and schedules. You’ll get helpful advice from Frommer’s authors themselves. Do you prefer walking among the ancient ruins of Pompeii? Or, exploring off-the-beaten-path Puglia? What about floating along the canals of Venice? Whichever you prefer, this one of the travel guides for Italy is brilliant to help planning your trip.

You’ll find up-to-date guide Italy destinations. These include honest recommendations on where to eat, where to stay, and what to do in each place. Besides, the book also provides cultural information. So, you’ll understand the history, traditions, and cuisine of Italy better. What’s more, there’s some helpful accurate information of websites, transportation, and telephone numbers.

The book divides cities and regions into each section. You’ll find Bologna & Emilia-Romana, Genoa & Cinque Terre, Venice, Tuscany, and more. Milan and Rome, Italy’s fashion capitals are also covered. On top of that, it provides one chapter about the maps and a handy pull-out map. Get the travel books about Italy both in paperback and e-book on Kindle for your Italy’s best authentic experience!

Any type of travelers, including business travelers and fashionistas

Rick Steves Italy 2020

Are you planning your first trip to Italy? Rick Steves Italy 2020 should be your top choice of travel guides for Italy. It gives references and guides for those unfamiliar with the country. The book provides updated information on some best places. It covers Milan, Florence, Tuscany, Naples, Pompeii, and Venice, making it also the best choice for your travel guide for Venice Italy. Experience Italy, from the Colosseum, the Mediterranean to the Alps, or discover the relaxed rhythms of sunny Cinque Terre.

Even before you leave, you’ll find so many useful things in the book. What to pack, currency to use, city history, and customs are examples. Plan your trip to the max with everything you need to know about Italy in this book. These include places to stay and see, how to book and use transportation, and how to avoid tourist traps. We love that the book helps travelers figuring out the transportation system. Plus, it has a chapter with a planned three-week trip from Milan to Rome using public transportation.

Make your trip easier and connect with the locals by learning some Italian common phrases. The book also provides information on the opening times and days closed for major sites. Plus, there’s a section on historical overview. Detailed maps, including a fold-out map, are very helpful. You can rip it out and fold it in your pocket for handy reference.

Backpackers, family, or group travelers

DK Eyewitness Italy 2020

You’ll find this guide to be useful in making your trip across Italy easy. Whether you want to explore the ancient ruins of Pompeii, cruise down Venice’s Grand Canal, soak in the sunny Capri, it’s one of the best travel books about Italy that has everything covered. Finding the best gelato or enjoying the lavish foodie culture? You’ll find the book is organized into three major sections: Discover, Experience, and Need to Know.

Discover provides brief introductions to the history and architecture of the country. Experience is divided into three main sections of twenty different towns and regions. First, Central Italy (like Rome, Lazio, and Florence). Second, Northern Italy (including Milan and Venice). And third is Southern Italy (Sicily, Sardinia, Naples, and more). Each region, city, or town comes with a brief history and some highlights. There is information like places to see, insider tips, suggested places to eat. Plus, many sections have detailed maps. The last one, Need to Know, gives you expert advice and practical information about getting around and a few Italian phrases.

You’ll also find a selection of itineraries to help planning your trip, so you can enjoy the best of Italy. Whether you’re staying for a few days or few weeks, this travel guide makes sure you experience all Italy has to offer. What’s more, DK Eyewitness Italy 2020 provides lots of color photos. Also, maps and illustrations. It’s perfect for those who want to get places and sights visually. And it includes plenty of those 3D photos of cathedrals and historic buildings that you’ll love.

Good planner travelers, backpacker, photographers, and foodie travelers

Lonely Planet Italy

Lonely Planet Italy is one of the must-have travel books about Italy for independent travelers, who long for the best way to discover this country. It’s also perfect for those planning a trip to Italy, but unsure where to go. You’ll get everything you need. Enjoy the adventures and hidden gems from the information and recommendation in this book.

The book gives you up-to-date info on what to see and skip. Sample the varieties of olive and wine in Tuscany, toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain in Rome, or wander through streets in Pompeii. Anywhere you want to go, such as Rome, Naples, Sicily, Sardinia, and the Dolomites, this book covers them.

Get the best place for you to sleep, eat, sightsee, and more from honest reviews that meet all budgets. The book includes itineraries to help you set up your trip to your personal interests. Or finding cultural insights, like art, history, and customs? We also love the photos throughout the book. Plus, the pull-out Rome map and hundreds of other colored maps that really helpful. This is why Lonely Planet Italy sits on top of our list of the best travel books for Italy.

Backpackers, adventurers, solo travelers

Author:  Julie Wharton

As a solo traveler, I have discovered the freedom and adventure that comes from exploring the world on your own terms. With a backpack on my back and a thirst for new experiences, I have journeyed to some of the most remote and fascinating destinations on the planet. As a travel blogger, I share my stories and insights with fellow solo travelers who are looking to break free from the constraints of group tours and package deals. Whether you're a seasoned backpacker or a first-time adventurer, my blog is dedicated to helping you plan your solo travels with confidence and ease. From tips on finding the best hostels to recommendations for off-the-beaten-path destinations, I provide a wealth of information that will help you make the most of your solo journey. And with a passion for photography and storytelling, I bring each destination to life through vivid imagery and captivating narratives. So if you're ready to embark on an adventure of a lifetime, join me on my journey and let's discover the world together.

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Travel Books About Italy

Below you will find a running list of travel books about Italy. This list does not include travel guides. Instead, the books you will find in this list are mostly literary, first-person accounts of travelers through Italy.

The article has two sections. The first is “Our Picks,” which lists our top five favorite travel books about Italy. After that, you’ll find an alphabetized list of all travel books about Italy we’ve come across.

While we are primarily interested in first-person, non-fiction travel narratives, the list has a few works of fiction and romans-à-clef that have a strong autobiographical bent (noted below). It also lists older travel books.

It is difficult to keep lists like these updated, so please email us or let us know if we’re missing anything in the comments section. Before reaching out to us, please note that we do not include guidebooks or self-published memoirs/travelogues here unless they are notable or of a high literary merit.

Don’t forget to see our other lists of travel books .

• Desiring Italy: Women Writers Celebrate the Passions of a Country and Culture – Susan Cahill (1997)

For centuries Italy has been many things to many people. In this brilliant anthology and traveler’s companion, twenty-eight women writers reveal why the land that is the heart and soul of European civilization is so appealing. As they tell their stories–in fiction, memoir, and essay–of coming to understand Italy, they explore the complexity of their passions for it, mingling affection and ecstasy with intellectual curiosity. Organized geographically–from northern Italy to Rome and on to the south, Desiring Italy offers an enchanting journey for readers and travelers.

• Four Seasons in Rome – Anthony Doerr (2007)

Exquisitely observed, Four Seasons in Rome describes Doerr’s varied adventures in one of the most enchanting cities in the world. He reads Pliny, Dante, and Keats — the chroniclers of Rome who came before him—and visits the piazzas, temples, and ancient cisterns they describe. He attends the vigil of a dying Pope John Paul II and takes his twins to the Pantheon in December to wait for snow to fall through the oculus. He and his family are embraced by the butchers, grocers, and bakers of the neighborhood, whose clamor of stories and idiosyncratic child-rearing advice is as compelling as the city itself. This intimate and revelatory book is a celebration of Rome, a wondrous look at new parenthood, and a fascinating story of a writer’s craft—the process by which he transforms what he sees and experiences into sentences.

• Naples ’44 – Norman Lewis (1978)

As a young intelligence officer stationed in Naples following its liberation from Nazi forces, Norman Lewis recorded the lives of a proud and vibrant people forced to survive on prostitution, thievery, and a desperate belief in miracles and cures. The most popular of Lewis’s twenty-seven books, Naples ’44 is a landmark poetic study of the agony of wartime occupation and its ability to bring out the worst, and often the best, in human nature. In prose both heartrending and comic, Lewis describes an era of disillusionment, escapism, and hysteria in which the Allied occupiers mete out justice unfairly and fail to provide basic necessities to the populace while Neapolitan citizens accuse each other of being Nazi spies, women offer their bodies to the same Allied soldiers whose supplies they steal for sale on the black market, and angry young men organize militias to oppose “temporary” foreign rule. Yet over the chaotic din, Lewis sings intimately of the essential dignity of the Neapolitan people, whose traditions of civility, courage, and generosity of spirit shine through daily. This essential World War II book is as timely a read as ever.

• Trieste and the Meaning of Nowhere – Jan Morris (2001)

Trieste. This history-drenched city on the Adriatic has always tantalized Jan Morris with its moodiness and changeability. After visiting Trieste for more than half a century, she has come to see it as a touchstone for her interests and preoccupations: cities, seas, empires. It has even come to reflect her own life in its loves, disillusionments, and memories. Her meditation on Trieste is characteristically layered with history and glows with stories of famous visitors from James Joyce to Sigmund Freud.

• Venice (also The World of Venice ) – Jan Morris (1960)

Often hailed as one of the best travel books ever written, Venice is neither a guide nor a history book, but a beautifully written immersion in Venetian life and character, set against the background of the city’s past. Analysing the particular temperament of Venetians, as well as its waterways, its architecture, its bridges, its tourists, its curiosities, its smells, sounds, lights and colours, there is scarcely a corner of Venice that Jan Morris has not investigated and brought vividly to life.

• Watermark – Joseph Brodsky (1992)

In this brief, intense, gem-like book, equal parts extended autobiographical essay and prose poem, Brodsky turns his eye to the seductive and enigmatic city of Venice. A mosaic of 48 short chapters―each recalling a specific episode from one of his many visits there (Brodsky spent his winters in Venice for nearly 20 years)― Watermark associatively and brilliantly evokes one city’s architectural and atmospheric character. In doing so, the book also reveals a subject―and an author―readers have never before seen.

Other Travel Books About Italy

• A Pilgrimage to Eternity – Timothy Egan (2019)
• A Room with a View – E. M. Forster (fiction) (1908)
• A Season with Verona – Tim Parks (2002)
• A Small Place in Italy – Eric Newby (2011)
• A Traveller in Italy – H. V. Morton (1964)
• A Traveller in Rome – H. B. Morton (1957)
• An Italian Affair – Laura Fraser (2001)
• Bella Tuscany: The Sweet Life in Italy – Frances Mayes (1999)
• Christ Stopped at Eboli – Carlo Levi (1947)
• Death in Venice – Thomas Mann (fiction) (1912)
• Eat, Pray, Love – Elizabeth Gilbert (2006)
• Eating Up Italy: Voyages on a Vespa – Matthew Fort (2006)
• Every Day in Tuscany: Seasons of Italian Life – Frances Mayes (2010)
• Extra Virgin – Annie Hawes (2001)
• In Sicily – Norman Lewis (2000)
• Incontinent on the Continent: My Mother, Her Walker, and Our Grand Tour of Italy – Jane Christmas (2009)
• Italian Days – Barbara Grizzuti Harrison (1989)
• Italian Hours – Henry James (1909)
• Italian Neighbors – Tim Parks (1992)
• Italian Ways: On and Off the Rails from Milan to Palermo – Tim Parks (2013)
• La Bella Figura: A Field Guide to the Italian Mind – Beppe Severgnini (2006)
• La Bella Lingua: My Love Affair with Italian – Dianne Hales (2009)
• Love & War in the Apennines – Eric Newby (2010) ( Listen to the podcast )
• Midnight in Sicily – Peter Robb (1998)
• Music, Men, and Manners in France and Italy – Charles Burney (1770)
• My Renaissance: A Widow’s Healing Pilgrimage to Tuscany – Rose Marie Curteman (2002)
• No Vulgar Hotel: The Desire and Pursuit of Venice – Judith Martin (2007)
• Pasta, Pane, Vino: Deep Travels Through Italy’s Food Culture – Matt Goulding (2018)
• Pictures from Italy – Charles Dickens (1846)
• See You in the Piazza – Frances Mayes (2019)
• Seven Seasons in Siena – Robert Rodi (2011)
• The Aspern Papers – Henry James (fiction) (1888)
• The City of Falling Angels – John Berendt (2005)
• The Honoured Society: The Sicilian Mafia Observed – Norman Lewis (1964)
• The Land Where Lemons Grow: The Story of Italy and its Citrus Fruit – Helena Attlee (2014)
• The Law – Roger Vailland (fiction) (1957)
• The Last Supper: A Summer in Italy – Rachel Cusk (2009)
• The Long Walk Home: An Escape in Wartime Italy – Peter Medd & Frank Simms (1951)
• The Shakespeare Guide to Italy: Retracing the Bard’s Unknown Travels – Richard Paul Roe (2011)
• The Stones of Florence – Mary McCarthy (1956)
• The World of Venice (also Venice )- Jan Morris (1960)
• Travelers’ Tales Italy – edited by Anne Calcagno (2001)
• Travels Through France and Italy – Tobias Smollett (1766)
• Under the Tuscan Sun – Frances Mayes (1996)
• Venice Observed – Mary McCarthy (1963)
• Vroom By The Sea – Peter Moore (2009)
• Vroom With A View – Peter Moore (2005)
• War in Val D’Orcia: An Italian War Diary, 1943-1944 – Iris Origo (1947)
• When in Rome: A Journal of Life in Vatican City – Robert Hutchinson (1998)
• Where Angels Fear to Tread – E. M. Forster (fiction)(1905)

Please email us or let us know in the comments section below if we’re missing any travel books about Italy.

If you’re interested in purchasing any of the books listed here, please consider supporting your local independent bookstore or using our affiliate links below. At no extra cost to you, Travel Writing World will receive a small commission if you purchase an item using our affiliate links.

Buy on Amazon or Buy Used: Abebooks.co.uk or Better World Books USA

Last Updated on 28 November 2021 by Travel Writing World

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Travel Writing World

With an emphasis on travel books and long-form travel literature, host Jeremy Bassetti talks with the world’s most inspiring travel writers about their work and about the business and craft of travel writing in this award-winning podcast and website. In addition to the podcast, the site also features travel writer profiles, book reviews, and articles.

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You’re missing two books on your Italy list: Vroom with a View and Vroom by the Sea both by Peter Moore which describe his travels through Italy on a Vespa. I’ve read these books so many times and still enjoy them. Light hearted and entertaining, they don’t take themselves too seriously.

Thanks, Ron. You’re right. Thanks for the suggestions.

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How to Book Italy's Orient Express La Dolce Vita Train

F or more than a century, the Orient Express has captured travelers' imaginations as a grand European hotel on rails, shuttling high society from Paris to Istanbul since 1883. The luxury train became the stuff of legend (as the "spies' express" ) and pop culture, be it in Bram Stoker's Dracula or Agatha Christie's Murder on the Orient Express , while setting the standard for elevated transcontinental travel.

Sadly, the luxury of slow travel couldn't compete with high-speed rail and budget flights, reports The Guardian , prompting the final run of the original Orient Express line in 2009.

That is, until more recently. In the past several years, the legendary locomotive experience has witnessed a rebirth thanks to luxury hospitality brands that are breathing new life into the iconic rail journeys-including the forthcoming La Dolce Vita Orient Express in Italy, a joint venture of French hotel firm Accor and real-estate investment company Arsenale, together with Italy's Trenitalia Gruppo Ferrovie dello Stato Italiane and Treni Turistici Italiani .

Starting in spring 2025, La Dolce Vita Orient Express will bring passengers to regions throughout Italy on itineraries that run between two and three days. There are nine itineraries to choose from (depending on the time of the year):

• Venice and Portofino
• Venice and Siena
• The Italian Trans-Siberian: Matera and Palena
• Rome to Montalcino
• Rome to Monferrato
• Southern Italy: Maratea and Palermo
• Palermo to Rome
• Sicily and the Mediterranean

Travelers can choose between 12 deluxe cabins and 18 suites, with prices starting at $3,800 per person for a deluxe cabin and at $5,100 per person for a suite.

As for the concept for the new La Dolce Vita Orient Express train, "The train pays tribute to the years of La Dolce Vita, a fantastic period of history, [and] to the artistic and cultural fervor of Italy in the 1960s," according to a press release. Dimorestudio dreamed up the midcentury-inspired design aboard the train's renovated carriages-think pops of terra-cotta paint, tongue-and-groove ceilings, and brass accents galore. Dining aboard La Dolce Vita trains will be a sophisticated affair as well: Travelers will enjoy exclusive recipes created by master Italian chefs who use local ingredients, while sipping award-winning Italian wine. There will, of course, also be a lounge and bar, as well as entertainment, "all boldly celebrating the art, design, and creativity of the 1960s and 1970s," the release stated.

Upon departure from Italy's Rome Ostiense station, La Dolce Vita passengers will have access to their own lounge and a "relaxing pre-boarding experience."

The trains will cross about 10,000 miles of railway lines, 4,400 of which are not electrified and are historic routes traversing less-frequented parts of the countryside. Passengers will get their share of landscape gazing (alpine mountains and sandy southern beaches) and of metropolitan centers like Venice and Rome. "We are thrilled to officially open the doors to a new era of travel with La Dolce Vita Orient Express. This endeavor embodies the essence of exquisite exploration, where sophistication meets adventure," Orient Express CEO Gilda Perez-Alvarado said in a press statement.

Not to be confused with the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express , which is currently owned by Belmond, part of LVMH, and runs from London to Venice, La Dolce Vita Orient Express is the latest incarnation of the original train line.

How to book La Dolce Vita Orient Express

Starting on April 2, 2024, travelers in the United States and Canada can call (833) 661-3080 to book their journey with La Dolce Vita Orient Express. And as of April 24, 2024, bookings will be available online on the La Dolce Vita website .

This story was originally published in December 2021; it was updated on March 19, 2024, to include current information.