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4. Visit a library of cheese outside Bologna You’ve seen the photos—giant wheels of Parmigiano Reggiano lining shelves that climb to the ceiling. Taste the famous cheese of Emilia-Romagna where it’s made during a full-day food tour that includes three factory visits from Bologna. First, witness cheesemakers at work and take in a breakfast with cheese tastings and local Lambrusco wine. Then sample slices of prosciutto and traditional balsamic vinegar aged up to 25 years and. After the factory visits, relax over lunch at a countryside trattoria. 3. Kayak along the Cinque Terre coastline Skip the common hiking trails and see the UNESCO–listed five villages of Cinque Terre from a different vantage point: the water. During a kayaking trip from Monterosso, paddle along the coastline to see hidden beaches, steep cliffs, and the pretty pastel colors of the villages. The route includes time to kick back on a secluded beach and cool off with a swim. 2. Sail over Tuscany in a hot air balloon Rise 2,000 feet (609 meters) above Tuscany’s olive groves and vineyards during this one-hour hot air balloon ride. Take flight from Siena, climbing above fruit orchards, hilltop villages, and historic castles. From the basket of the hot air balloon, see the countryside outside Florence from a new perspective. Once you float back down to the ground, a glass of sparkling wine will be waiting for you. 1. Get the Vatican to yourself—as you help unlock the Roman museums at dawn The first person in the Vatican Museums every morning is the clavigero, or key keeper. Be two steps behind him and witness the unlocking of doors before the museums open to the public with this exclusive VIP small-group Vatican tour in Rome. Explore the Gallery of Maps, Raphael’s Rooms, and the Sistine Chapel free of crowds—while talking is normally prohibited within the chapel, your guide can share details on Michelangelo’s masterpiece at this hour. NICE PLACES TO GO IN ITALY Some ideas from our students who have visited Italy. Italy is a beautiful country. When I was 4 years old I visited a small town in Italy. I would like to visit many places in Italy. First of all, I would go to the Colosseum because I like history and I think it’s a very captivating place. Venice is also a very nice place I would like to take a boat ride around. Sardinia has one of the most beautiful beaches in Italy. I love beaches and Sardinia is the place I would like to go. I also like hiking and Etna is a perfect place for that. Also, there is a big volcano. Italy is a very beautiful country, because they are great places to visit. The Trevi Fountain is one of the most beautiful fountains in the world. Spectacular and surprising projects Salvi still retains its direct charm, Torre di Pisa is a true symbol of Italy, impressive, curious and visited by millions of events every year. Verona, a smaller town in northern Italy, is where you can see after a tragedy "Romeo and Juliet".