Italy Geography

Italy is situated in southern Europe. Country’s geographical shape is very recognizable, because it reminds the boot. In the north-west the country boarders France, in the north – Switzerland and Austria, in the northeast – Slovenia. Italy is washed by the Sardinian and the Tyrrhenian Seas (western part), by the Sicilian and the Ionian Seas (southern part) and by the Adriatic Sea in the east. But all the same the majority of the country is surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea. The peninsula's backbone is formed by the Apennine Mountains, as for the Alps – they make the northern boundary. Apart from the mainland Italy the country also has several islands; the largest of them are Sicily and Sardinia. Italy includes two independent countries - Vatican City and San Marino.

The terrain of the country is characterized by the diversity. There are two main mountain chains: the Alps with the highest peak Mont Blanc and the Apennines. Taking together they cover more than 75% of Italian territory. The eastern part of the Alps, especially the Dolomite Mountains, is a good place for skiing and snowboarding. The rural landscapes are represented by olive groves and wineries. The climate of the country is mainly Mediterranean with mild winters, hot and dry summers.