Locals and repeat visitors to Italy agree: Spring is an ideal time to visit the country that gave the world pizza, Pavarotti and the pope. Especially with deals that save travelers $800 or more.

In spring, the Italian landscape blossoms. Colorful festivals celebrating Easter and local cuisine delight. And the weather is perfect for long strolls through the ruins of Rome, the architectural marvels of Florence and the seaside villages of Cinque Terre.

Avoid the sweltering heat and high prices that often come with summer travel -- and live out those "La Dolce Vita" fantasies a little sooner.