HAVE you ever wanted to holiday as the Italians do? Locals have revealed the coastal town they visit as a holiday gem.

Tuscany was not the only Italian destination on the list. The Venetian Riviera – a purpose-built beach resort on Venice's lagoon – was fourth cheapest.

Let’s just say it wasn’t your average Mr Whippy. This gelato came with a sheepish backstory – pecorino-flavoured, and salty.

Travel Europe Holidays Italy's stunning 'hidden gem' region with amazing food, wine and coastal resorts The region in the north of Italy is a haven for foodies, wine lovers and history buffs alike ...

This charming coastal town is on the Monte Argentario promontory, which is essentially an island attached to the Tuscany coastline by sand bars and a bridge. It's long been a favoured destination ...

And Italy, from the vineyard-dotted hills of Tuscany to the flower-bedecked villages of Amalfi, seems to have been made for hikers to put one foot in front of another, and follow their bliss.