Italy: In the Footsteps of the Great Artists

The Art of Travel series showcases the world’s greatest artists, and the places where they lived and worked. See the sights through their eyes, and watch their masterpieces come to life.

Transport yourself back in time to meet Caravaggio navigating the mean streets of 17th-century Rome. Or head to 18th-century Venice, where Canaletto paints supersized postcards for Grand Tourists. Or to medieval Florence, where Giotto is hard at work in the Bardi chapel. Wherever you're heading, the Art of Travel series takes you on a journey into the heart of Italy’s great cities, with its best-loved artists as your tour guides.

With twelve chapters, each devoted to an artist or group of artists, and a dozen itineraries to choose from, you can immerse yourself in their world, wandering in and out of churches, palaces and grand residences to admire their work in situ – all from the comfort of your armchair.

Each chapter begins with an illustrated map, featuring hand-drawn vignettes that bring to vivid life episodes from the artists' often turbulent lives, as well as key landmarks and local colour. Set off on your own Grand Tour for the 21st century.

Review

Art historian Nick Trend charts a Renaissance and early modern masters course, rife with intrigue and lush in imagery, through Verona, Rome, and more.-- "Vanity Fair"

Art historian Trend creates 12 curated itineraries centered on an artist or group of artists who lived and worked in Italy. Because much of their art still survives in the churches, chapels, and palaces for which they were commissioned, discovering those works offers travelers--even armchair travelers--a chance to explore Italy beyond its famous museums... The beautifully produced volume contains more than 450 color plates, photographs, and illustrations... A richly detailed, innovative travel guide.-- "Kirkus Reviews" (10/1/2025 12:00:00 AM)

About the Author

Nick Trend is an art historian and journalist. As Chief Culture Editor for the Daily Telegraph, he has spent nearly three decades writing about the world's art treasures and has produced guides to many of the greatest museums and art collections. He has also worked on the curatorial staff at the National Gallery in London and has a degree in English Literature from Cambridge and a PhD in Art History from the University of East Anglia. His latest book, Art Firsts, was published in 2023.