Surprising Italy Travel Guide: Tested Tips to Avoid Crowds... Save Money Italy, with its timeless charm and 1,000-year-old secrets, is a paradox of crowds and tranquility. While the Colosseum and Cinque Terre tempt with their iconic allure, savvy travelers know that Rick Steves Best of Italy and Rick Steves Italy 2020 (Rick Steves Travel Guide) offer a smarter path-packing in unforgettable experiences without the chaos. These guidebooks are like time capsules, blending practical advice with cultural wisdom to steer you toward hidden gems and budget-friendly hacks. The 2020 edition, in particular, feels like a whispered secret, with updated tips on navigating fewer tourists and cheaper alternatives to luxury stays. But for those craving a tactile connection, the Milano Marittima Beach and Adriatic Riviera Hotels Marittima, Italy Original Vintage Postcard steals the spotlight. Imagine holding a piece of the 1960s, depicting sun-kissed coastlines and charming seaside hotels that modern Italy might have forgotten. It's not a guide, but a gateway-a charming reminder that Italy's soul lives in its small towns and quiet shores, where you can sip espresso in a forgotten piazza or stroll through a coastal village without a queue. So, which is better? The answer hinges on your priorities. Guidebooks deliver structured adventure, while the vintage postcard offers a slower, more reflective way to wander. Together, they paint a two-sided portrait of Italy: one for planning, the other for savoring.