For those of us who dream of going to Italy - from a range of cook books, historical accounts and romance novels, this list will help you to revel in all things Italian.
Sections
4
Taste of Italy
History
Travel Guides and Stories
Essence of Italy
Taste of Italy
The wonderful Nonnas of Italy share their classic recipes in this tome.
Pasta Grannies: The Official Cookbook: The Secrets of Italy's Best Home Cooks | Hardcover
Easy Italian fare when you're dreaming of Tuscany, the Amalfi Coast or Venice.
Nigellissima: Easy Italian-Inspired Recipes: A Cookbook
When something is iconic, it's iconic for a reason. Here's your chance to discover the beauty and joy of an Aperol Spritz and perhaps a little Italian zest as well.
Spritz: Italy's Most Iconic Aperitivo Cocktail, with Recipes | Hardcover
If you haven't yet discovered ‘The Pasta Queen’ on social media, then you're in for a treat. Nadia is chic, sophisticated, passionate and incredibly funny and entertaining.
The Pasta Queen: The Art of Italian Cooking | Hardcover
An Italian cookbook of truly biblical proportions.
Eataly: Contemporary Italian Cooking | Hardcover
History
Paul Strathern's book offers a comprehensive and captivating history of Florence, exploring how the city and its people sparked the Renaissance—a cultural transformation that reshaped Western civilization between 1265 and 1642. Through the lives of f...
The Florentines: From Dante to Galileo: The Transformation of Western Civilization | eBook
One of the most beautiful parts of Italy in my opinion is the art. Some of history's most exceptional artists came from this country. Perhaps this volume will inspire you to plan that Italian holiday?
History of Italian Art, Volume II / Edition 1 | Paperback
Italian art is an essential part of the culture and as some of history's greatest artists were Italian (Da Vinci, Giotto, Michelangelo etc…). Dive into these masterpieces through this book.
History of Italian Art, Volume I / Edition 1 | Paperback
I did a course on European film at University and was utterly struck by La Dolce Vita. The sensual grace of the fountain scene! Italian films of Fellini and Rossellini are cinematic masterpieces.
A History of Italian Cinema | Paperback
I'm absolutely in love with Venice. I find one of the best ways to dive into a city (if I'm not physically there) is learning about its history.
The Venetians | Paperback
One of the most fascinating Italian families. Their story of intrigue, political power and immense fortune is a fascinating look into parts of Italian history.
The Borgias: Power and Fortune | Paperback
Yet another fascinating family. Scandal and power and money. This family was incredibly well connected as they had members who were a Pope and married into European royalty.
The Medici | Paperback
Travel Guides and Stories
The author of Under the Tuscan Sun writes a guide to Italy, and it's full of wonderous decadence. Perhaps it's time to plan that trip?
Frances Mayes Always Italy | Hardcover
From learning Italian to eating a huge amount of pasta, this will inspire you to go on a pilgrimage to Italy.
Eat, Pray, Love: One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia | Paperback
The original novel the film is based on. It's a love affair with a country who is passionate about food, wine, love and landscapes. Fall head first into this romance.
Under the Tuscan Sun: At Home In Italy | Paperback
Frances Mayes captures the Italian spirit beautifully in her writing.
See You in the Piazza: New Places to Discover in Italy | Paperback
I'm reading this book at the moment and falling in love with Italy all over again.
Bella Tuscany: The Sweet Life in Italy|Paperback
Who better to guide you through Italy than National Geographic?
National Geographic Traveler Italy 6th Edition | Paperback
Plan that Italian vacation with National Geographic's knowledgeable guidance.
National Geographic Traveler Italy 7th Edition | Paperback
What better way to see Italy than via a roadtrip? Curate that playlist, book those hotels and explore the countryside.
Lonely Planet Best Road Trips Italy | Paperback
Essence of Italy
This is a curated adage to Italy - sensational coastlines, beautiful countryside, glamourous interiors and stunning portraits of celebrities. It practically drips La Dolce Vita (the good life) from every page.
Slim Aarons: La Dolce Vita | Hardcover
I'm sure I'm not alone in my love of books full of beautiful photography.
Italy: Coffee Table Book for Nomads | Hardcover
The essential piece of Italian cinema
La Dolce Vita [Blu-ray]
I have a deep and abiding love for Italian design, so this seemed like a natural addition to this list.
Il Modo Italiano: Italian Design and Avant-Garde in the 20th Century | Hardcover