Italy is in southern Europe, on a peninsula with islands like Sicily and Sardinia. It is between Western Europe, Central Europe, and North Africa.

Italy shares borders with four countries and has two independent areas inside it. It also has sea borders with several nations, which has shaped its government and history.

One country near Italy is Switzerland.

Another country near Italy is France.

Austria is also near Italy.

Slovenia shares a border with Italy.

San Marino is inside Italy.

Vatican City is also inside Italy.

Albania is across the sea from Italy.

Greece is another country across the sea from Italy.

Malta is a small island near Italy.

Tunisia and Libya are in North Africa, near Italy.

Croatia and Montenegro are also near Italy, across the Adriatic Sea.

Italy's location is very important.

Switzerland shares the longest land border with Italy, through the Alps.

Northern Italy and Switzerland work together economically.

France and Italy have a long history together.

Turin is a major city near the France-Italy border.

Austria shares a border with northern Italy, in areas like South Tyrol.

Austria and Italy are both in the European Union, making travel easier.

Slovenia's border with Italy is about 232 kilometers long.

Slovenia and Italy are part of the Schengen Area, with minimal border controls.

San Marino is a small republic inside Italy, with its own government.

San Marino is closely connected to Italy's economy and culture.

Vatican City is the smallest country in the world, inside Rome.

Vatican City plays a big role in the world despite its small size.

Albania is across the Adriatic Sea from Italy, with maritime borders.

Italy and Albania are connected by trade and travel routes.

Greece is southeast of Italy, across the Ionian Sea.

Italy and Greece have been connected for thousands of years.

Malta is a small island south of Sicily, with historical links to Italy.

Malta's location shows Italy's role between Europe and Africa.

Tunisia and Libya are near Italy across the Mediterranean.

Italy's position in the Mediterranean is very important.

Trade and history connect Italy to North Africa.

Croatia and Montenegro are near Italy, across the Adriatic Sea.

The Adriatic Sea is important for shipping and tourism.

Italy's geography explains its influence in Europe and beyond.

Italy's borders and coastline have shaped its history and economy.

This article was created with AI technology and edited by a HowStuffWorks editor.