Travel and Leisure is All About Italy

This month's Travel and Leisure magazine is full of information about several Italian cities, including Milan, Venice, Rome, Florence, Amalfi and even a few out of the way spots. Find out about American Ballet Theatre's newest star, Robert Bolle, and his favorite spots in his hometown, Milan. Travel and Leisure's Italy expert, Valerie Waterhouse, shares some secrets about Venice. Affordable and stylish hotels in Rome and Florence are featured, and an authentic family restaurant in San Cesareo, near Rome, is recommended.

Chocolate Covered Eggplant by the Cathedral

An Amalfi Coast specialty is chocolate covered eggplant: melanzana in salsa di cioccolato. It sounds unusual but some restaurants have been making this dessert for a century. In particular, Da Gemma in Amalfi, with its terrace set back from the main piazza, is truly an Amalfi Coast classic. You'll love the seafood and regional dishes-and the view of the Duomo. Via Fra Gerardo Sasso 11.

The Modern Traveler's Top Amalfi Coast Historical Sites

Not that you need to look for any reasons to visit the Amalfi Coast, but just in case you need some guidance, here are the Modern Traveler's top historical sites to visit on and around the Costiera Amalfitana.
1. Villa Jovis on Capri: Capri is fabled for two reasons. It is breathtakingly gorgeous and it was the playground for the less than moral Emperor Tiberius. Don't miss the ruins of his grand palace, the Villa Jovis, at the southern tip of the island. The flower-lined walk to the Villa from town is a lovely way to spend your morning and the views of the Amalfi Coast will knock your socks off.
2. Paestum(pictured): Somehow this sanctuary of ancient Greek temples was overlooked for the past 2,000 years. The 2,500 year old temples are in almost pristine condition and the rest of the archaeological site is pretty interesting too. Paestum is just a short drive from Salerno which is at the southern base of the Amalfi peninsula. Don't miss the museum!
3. Herculaneum: In less than an hour from the Amalfi Coast you can get to one of the most spectacular ancient Roman archaeological sites in the world. Far less visited than nearby Pompeii, Herculaneum is even better preserved. Be sure to take advantage of the guided tours. It's well worth the money.
4. Sant'Andrea Cathedral in Amalfi:Built in the 10th century on the ruins of an ancient temple, this cathedral is a fascinating mix of Italian and Arab architecture. The relics of Saint Andrew, martyred in 64 CE, are contained in the crypt below the cathedral. The church is right on the main piazza of Amalfi and the bells of its Moorish campanile resound throughout the town.

Mario Batali's Amalfi Coast Picks

Star chef Mario Batali knows Italian food and admits that the Amalfi Coast is his favorite foodie spot. Don't miss the alici marinate (marinated anchovies, a specialty of the region) and be sure to visit these restaurants in Positano, Amalfi and Massa Lubrense. In Amalfi he recommends da Gemma and la Caravella.
In Positano be sure to try Il Capitano, Chez Black and La Sponda at Le Sirenuse.In Massa Lubrense, out of the way and hard to find, he loves Taverna del Capitano and Quattro Passi.

The Best of the Costiera Amalfitana

The Amalfi Coast offers unlimited opportunities for experiencing the best of Italy. For day trips, head to Paestum and Capri. Be sure to visit the 13th century cathedral in Amalfi. For spectacular views don't miss Ravello, a tiny town tucked high in the mountains. Positano offers shopping, beaches and a lively nightlife. From the Amalfi Coast you are in the perfect position to visit Pompeii, Herculaneum and Naples by car or bus. Plan to spend several days in the Costiera Amalfitana-you will fall in love.