La Dolce Vita versus Vicky Cristinia Barcelona, antipasti versus tapas and pasta versus paella! Spain and Italy may be neighbors, but their offerings are varied. When it comes to luxury villas for rent though, they both offer exceptional standards. Where you decide to go is entirely up to the experience you’re after.

To help you decide, we give the low down of two of Europe’s top spots to visit this summer.

Go for the Food

Both countries have a great love of food, both benefitting from their beautiful climate creating delicious tasting local produce and wines.

For a love of fresh ingredients as well as pizza, pasta and steak, Italy is best served with a glass of local vino on the side. Tuscany provides the perfect backdrop for your luxury villa rental, with lots to explore in the Chianti region.

For something meatier, Spain’s famous tapas serves up a rich mix of chorizos, spicy meatballs, fried fish and patas bravas to name a few. There’s no shortage of local wine or ‘cerveza’ either, it would after all be rude not to try a local Estrella! Each region is known for its own speciality, with so much diversity, you’d may be inclined to extend your stay. If you do, Villa Carlota in Marbella is surrounded by peace and tranquillity in its expansive gardens.

Soak up the Culture

Neither country is short on heritage and sights, but Italy is home to some of the most famous art and architecture in the world. From the Colosseum in Rome, to Michelangelo’s David statue in Florence. Stay in luxury villa in Sorrento and you’ll be close enough to visit the incredible Pompeii historical site.

From the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona to the Guggenheim in Bilabo and the modern architecture of Valencia. Spain’s cultural sights are endless and plentiful. Gothic architecture with baroque influences, fused with modern design deliver something for everyone.

Bliss out on the Beach

Glorious weather and coastal shores are a plenty in Spain. The magical Balearic Islands provide the perfect escape for beach life. In fact, it doesn’t get much more exclusive than Villa Livia, a beautiful Ibizan bolthole set in luscious surroundings. It’s also within easy reach of some of the island’s best beaches, including Cala d’Hort and Cala Vadella. Meanwhile, the ultimate beach island of Formentera, just off the coast of Ibiza, demands a visit – least of all for its famous picture postcard views.

Looking to the mainland, Costa Brava is known for its stretches of coasts with turquoise waters, attracting tourists throughout the summer season.

Italy is of course known for its lakes, be it Como or Garda. A-listers including George Clooney are huge fans, and as such it attracts a well-heeled visitor. The seductive island of Sardinia, should however not be overlooked. With tens, if not hundreds, of beaches to choose from, it regularly tops the ‘best beaches in the world’ list. Don’t miss out on your luxury villa rental and stay close to the action.

We’ve only skimmed the surface of what these great countries have to offer. However, both are ideal to visit during the warmer summer months, and are well geared towards tourists. Wherever you decide, you can’t go wrong with a trip to two of Europe’s most popular destinations.

Villazzo and Global Luxury Villas provide luxury vacation homes around the globe, including Spain and Italy. Coupled with outstanding service, Villazzo provides all the trappings of a five-star hotel, in the privacy of your own luxury villa.