Guest Post - Italy for Two - If Lonely Man wasn't so Lonely

Italy - The Perfect Spring Vacation for Couples 

By Alexandra Jacobs

Italy is a great place to take a spring vacation. With fewer crowds than other times of the year, especially on the beaches, spring in Italy is beautiful. For a couple on vacation, there are a number of great spots that are ideal for a romantic getaway. A week in Italy is the perfect amount of time to take in a little of the culture the country is known for, as well as explore several of Italy's best beaches. 

Most people start their vacation in Rome, as this is where the vast majority of international flights arrive. Rome is a fantastic, cosmopolitan city, but even in the spring it can be crowded and expensive. Anyone looking for a less crowded alternative in the spring should check out some rentals that resemble Hamptons Houses.  In Italy the crowds don't start rolling in until after Memorial Day. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to beat the crowds and save some money when in Rome during the spring. There are two different passes that can be purchased during a trip to Rome to save money. The Archaeologia Card offers access to archeological sites such as Palatine Hill and the Colosseum, as well as entrance to the four Roman museums, all for one low price. Another discount card, the Roma Pass, offers three days of public transportation, two free passes to any of the participating sites, and big discounts on the remaining sites, all for one discounted rate.

Photo by commons.wikimedia.org Amalfi Coast 

Heading south from Rome, couples can relax on the stunning shores of the Amalfi Coast. In the spring, the beaches here won't be nearly as crowded as they will be in the peak summer months of July and August, so it's a great time for couples who are looking to get away from it all while still being close to a variety of restaurants, cafes, and shopping. There are many bed and breakfasts and small pensiones to be found on the Amalfi Coast, many of which offer excellent deals and cheaper prices than most hotels. The towns of Amalfi, Positano, Sorrento, Salerno, and the island of Capri are all great places for couples to start their vacation on the Amalfi Coast. 

For couples who want to head north of Rome, the Italian Riviera is the ideal place for a romantic and unforgettable Italian experience. The beaches here are also beautiful, though colder than those found on the Amalfi Coast during the spring. Portofino, Portovenere, and the towns of Cinque Terre all have great beaches that are perfect for couples. All of these small towns have excellent food and quaint historic city centers that are great for shopping, dining, and exploring. These beaches are easily accessible from other points of interest in Italy as well, such as nearby Genoa and, slightly further afield, Florence and Milan.