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Best places to visit in italy.

Tourists and travel experts have long agreed that Italy is a special place, so much so that the country has become a de facto bucket list destination for just about everyone. Famous for its incredible food, rich historical sites, highly regarded art, charming small towns and picturesque cities, countrysides and coastlines, it's safe to say Italy's offerings are unmatched. U.S. News rounded up the best places to visit in Italy considering a number of factors, from affordability and seasonality to sights and crowds, to help you decide exactly where to go. Have a favorite destination in Italy? Cast your vote below to influence next year's ranking.

Amalfi Coast

Cinque terre, tuscany, italy.

A standard stop on many European vacation itineraries , Rome is not to be missed. Italy’s capital city is a globally renowned cultural and historical powerhouse, boasting everything from ancient ruins and tranquil parks to Michelin-starred restaurants. Here, you'll find the most important relic from the Roman Empire (the Colosseum), some of Michelangelo's greatest works (in the Sistine Chapel), an 18th century Baroque-style fountain (the Trevi Fountain) and, of course, the center of Catholicism (Vatican City). Other can’t-miss tourist attractions in the Eternal City include the Pantheon, the Roman Forum and St. Peter’s Basilica, the world’s largest church.

Situated in the scenic Tuscan valley, Florence woos travelers with old-world avenues leading to picturesque piazzas big and small. While you're soaking up the city's splendor, make sure to stop by the Piazza del Duomo, where the breathtaking Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral is located, and the romantic Ponte Vecchio, a 14th century bridge overlooking the Arno River. Once central to the Renaissance movement, Florence also offers art aficionados the opportunity to see famous pieces by Michelangelo and other iconic artists of that period. As an added bonus, Florence is ideal for a daytrip to the Chianti wine region.

The journey to the cliff-side Amalfi Coast involves heart-stopping, hairpin turns on narrow roads, but travelers agree this is part of the fun. The region covers more than 30 miles of coastline and is home to 13 colorful seaside towns, each with its own story. Positano and Amalfi are the most popular, housing numerous hotels and sights. While here, hike, relax on the beach and eat to your heart's content (there are multiple Michelin-starred restaurants along the Amalfi Coast). For something more off-the-beaten-path, set your sights on Atrani. This humble fishing village boasts medieval whitewashed architecture, winding alleys and authentic Italian charm.

There are few destinations in the world that are quite like Venice. Its uniqueness can largely be attributed to the canals that run through this northern Italian city like roads, carrying water taxis and buses in addition to its fleet of famous gondolas. As such, there is a palpable bustle here that may surprise some first-timers. For a relaxing Venice vacation, seek out the smaller streets and canals away from the busy Grand Canal and St. Mark's Square. Just be sure to stroll across Rialto Bridge and tour the grand St. Mark’s Basilica at least once.

Cinque Terre, located on Italy's northern Ligurian coast, is made up of five picturesque towns – Manarola, Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia and Riomaggiore. Manarola, the region’s oldest town, boasts scenic vineyards, olive groves and a centuries-old bell tower. Meanwhile, Vernazza, often considered one of Italy’s most beautiful villages, is well-known for its picture-perfect houses and grand medieval castle. The Cinque Terre offers an abundance of exciting activities, from boat tours and hiking to cooking classes and wine tastings. While here, don’t forget to save time for exploring the cliff-side Footpath Monterosso trail, a beautiful hiking path connecting Vernazza and Monterosso.

For centuries, this small island off the coast of southern Italy has attracted plenty of famous faces, from emperors to movie stars, due to its gorgeous scenery. Some of Capri's most amazing sights are best seen by boat, including the Faraglioni rock formations and the Blue Grotto, where sunlight turns the water into an unbelievably vivid shade of blue. On land, the Gardens of Augustus and Villa Jovis, an imperial palace, also provide spectacular views. Meanwhile, in the town center, visitors will find high-end shops and restaurants where they can relax after a long day of sightseeing.

Considered the land of the sirens in Greek mythology, Sorrento continues to lure people with its charm and stunning views. Here, vacationers can explore enchanting piazzas or relax near the water before watching the sun set behind the cliffs. Plus, lemons are big in Sorrento – both in size and in popularity – and the area is known as one of the best places in the world to taste authentic limoncello, a lemon-flavored liquor. It's also the perfect base for daytrips and boat tours to nearby Capri, the Amalfi Coast, Pompeii and other popular Italian locales.

Italy's second-largest city is best known for its high fashion, playing host to Milan Fashion Week each winter and home to iconic fashion houses including Giorgio Armani, Prada and Versace. Visitors can peruse such high-end brands at the dazzling Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II shopping arcade. But Milan's architecture (including the Gothic Milan Cathedral and grand Teatro alla Scala opera house) and sites like Castello Sforzesco (which holds nearly 10 museums and exhibitions) are worth a visit on their own. What's more, the city is incredibly walkable, so feel free to explore on foot – with or without designer stilettos.   

Located about 30 miles from Verona, Lake Garda tends to be more approachable and wallet-friendly (if a bit more touristy) than Lake Como. Activities in this recreational hot spot include swimming and windsurfing, as well as hiking and taking a funicular to Mount Baldo. Lake Garda also attracts families with Gardaland Resort, which includes themed hotels as well as an amusement park, water park and aquarium. If you're looking to get away from the crowds, go beyond the main tourist sites to the quieter northern side of the lake, where you'll find the highest mountains and tucked-away towns.

If you're looking for Italy without the crowds, Tuscany is really all it's cracked up to be. Italy's famous countryside offers travelers spectacular landscapes dotted with romantic villas and castles equipped with wineries and superb restaurants. Don’t miss out on a visit to the walled city of San Gimignano, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its medieval towers. What's more, Tuscan locales like Pisa (which offers much more than its leaning tower) and Siena are an easy drive from top destinations such as Bologna and Cinque Terre, perfect for daytrippers who don't want to stay in one place for too long.

Assisi, a medieval town with religious connections, sits on a hilltop in the lush landscapes of Umbria, just more than 100 miles north of Rome. This peaceful town's biggest draws are its sights dedicated to Saint Francis of Assisi, one of Italy's patron saints, including the Basilica of San Francesco, which houses his tomb as well as colorful frescos, and The Woods of San Francesco. Beyond its religious heritage, Assisi is worth a visit for its picturesque streets and sweeping views, while its location also makes it ideal for a truffle hunting excursion or wine tasting tour.

As the location of several ancient Greek legends, Sicily has an almost mythical quality. Once you visit for yourself, you'll see why so many writers were inspired by this island, which happens to be the largest in the Mediterranean. Be enchanted by Sicily's crystal-clear waters and golden beaches. Marvel at Mount Etna, the highest active volcano in Europe, or try hiking up it in summer or skiing down it in winter. Also save time for taking in the many cultures that have called this island home at its various cathedrals and archaeological sites.

This former Roman city in southern Italy is equal parts chilling and impressive. Pompeii was left almost completely intact after it was buried in ash after the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in A.D. 79. Its astonishingly well-preserved ruins now provide present-day visitors a glimpse into what life was like during ancient times. True history buffs might also enjoy a trip to nearby Herculaneum, another city that was preserved by the same eruption, while more adventurous explorers should consider hiking to the top of Mount Vesuvius for jaw-dropping panoramas of the Bay of Naples and the Sorrento Peninsula.

Best known for its Shakespeare ties, Verona appeals to fans of "Romeo and Juliet" with themed tours of the sights that allegedly inspired the play. But there is more to this city than its literary link. Verona, located about 15 miles east of Lake Garda, is also home to several impressive attractions and historic buildings (the whole city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, after all). Travelers won't want to miss the Arena di Verona, a first-century Roman amphitheater that is still in use, and Giardino Giusti, a beautifully sculpted Renaissance garden.

Sardinia provides the best of both worlds. Costa Smeralda is all about luxury, with its lush beaches and coves overlooking yacht-filled waters. And away from all of the glitz and glamour of Costa Smeralda, you'll find a more laid-back side of the island, including small medieval towns where Sardinians still practice sheepherding and wear traditional clothing. What's more, Sardinia features several ancient ruins, such as UNESCO World Heritage-listed Su Nuraxi di Barumini.

If you really want to treat yourself on your next vacation, Lake Como is where you want to be. Here, opulent villas and hotels line the shores and sandy beaches beckon to sun seekers. You'll see sleek sailboats and speedboats coasting in the middle of the lake, which is the perfect place to admire the region's surrounding hills. Meanwhile, for a lesson in luxury, tour one of the region’s grand villas; top picks among travelers include Villa Melzi d’Eril, Villa Carlotta and Villa Balbianello. Later, check out the Como Cathedral, a magnificent structure boasting Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque architectural styles.

The small, crescent-shaped village of Portofino is known as a vacation hot spot for the rich and famous. The water surrounding Portofino is often filled with yachts and is great for swimming and diving. Plus, the area's beauty and tranquil atmosphere make it an excellent place to unwind. When travelers need a break from relaxing, they can venture just outside of Portofino to check out historical sites like Castello Brown, an ancient military fortress with incredible views of the Marina di Portofino, and Abbazia di San Fruttuoso, a 10th century monastery that can only be reached by foot or ferry.

Thought to have been inhabited 12,000 years ago, Matera is one of the world's oldest continually occupied towns. Located in the Basilicata region in southern Italy, just west of Puglia, Matera's distinguishing features are its sassi (cave dwellings), which were inhabited until the 1950s. While here, look out for the many viewpoints, called belvederes, for a glimpse of the breathtaking cliffside. Visit Sasso Caveoso for the Casa Grotta cave house (inhabited until 1957) and the Santa Maria de Idris, a rupestrian church carved from the rocky landscape. Meanwhile, in Sasso Barisano – the oldest part of the city – you'll find modern comforts like hotels, restaurants and shops.

There are several reasons why Bologna, the capital of northern Italy’s Emilia-Romagna region, is often called "la dotta, la grassa e la rossa" ("the learned, the fat and the red"). For one, it's home to the oldest university in Europe, the University of Bologna. The city is also a food lover's dream thanks to its world-renowned cuisine, which includes Italian staples like tortellini and lasagna Bolognese. Bologna even features a gelato university and the food-themed amusement park, FICO Eataly World. Plus, the city boasts an array of terra cotta-roofed medieval buildings, including a pair of leaning towers.

Located in the northwest corner of Italy, Turin is the perfect city break brimming with grand architecture, museums and delightful cuisine. Must-visit attractions include Mole Antonelliana (a former synagogue turned into a cinema museum), the 16th-century Royal Palace of Turin and the Museo Egizio (Egyptian Museum). Once you've toured the top sights, settle into local life by enjoying the city's riverside parks, street markets, football games and historic cafes. At the latter, you'll find unique coffee blends and decadent chocolate, as well as elaborate aperitif hours. On the long list of things Turin does right, you can find these three items at the top.   

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The 15 best places to visit in Italy, from Venice to the Cinque Terre

Nov 19, 2023 • 11 min read

Rome should be the centerpiece of your trip if you’re going to Italy for the first time © Kathrin Ziegler / Getty Images

Home to some of the greatest artworks, historical monuments and food on the planet, and with the kind of varied landscapes that you often have to cross continents to see, Italy elates, inspires and moves its visitors like few other countries.

From its art- and architecture-stuffed cities to its astonishing diversity of natural landscapes – dramatic coastlines, serene lakes, pristine mountains, and those famous rolling hills – picking just a handful of destinations to visit in this wonderful country is no easy task.

So how do you decide where to go? It all depends on what you’re looking for in your Italian odyssey, whether that’s history, art, beaches, hiking or even food. No matter your passion, our list of 15 must-see places in Italy should be your starting point.

Best for history

Once caput mundi (capital of the world), Rome was legendarily spawned by a wolf-suckled boy, developed into a vast empire, rooted itself as the home of the Catholic church, and is now the repository of more than two millennia of art and architecture.

Rome should definitely be the centerpiece of your trip if you’re going to Italy for the first time, but there's simply too much to see in one visit, from the Pantheon and the Colosseum to Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel and countless works by Caravaggio. So do as countless others have done before you: toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain and promise to return.

Planning tip: There’s an overwhelming amount to see here, and with limited public transport in the city center, your choice of hotel can be crucial. Map out the sights you’re most interested in before you book – if you want to be at the Vatican at opening time, for example, don't stay near the Colosseum.

Read more: Italians reveal their under-the-radar vacation spots in Italy

Best for a Renaissance fix

From Botticelli’s Venus , emerging coyly from the water in the Uffizi Gallery , to the mind-boggling dome of its cathedral, Florence is a feast for the eyes. This was, of course, the seat of the Renaissance, and there are knock-out names at every turn – Michelangelo in the Accademia, Donatello in the Bargello, Leonardo and Raphael in the Uffizi. 

Further afield in  Tuscany – Italy's most romanticized region – is an undulating landscape of sinuous cypress trees, olive groves and coveted regional treasures. Glory in the Gothic majesty of Siena and the Manhattan-esque skyline of medieval San Gimignano before exploring the vineyards of Italy's most famous wine region, Chianti , and the rolling, cypress-studded hills of the Val d’Orcia.

Planning tip: You’re best off without a car if you’re sticking to major towns and cities since Tuscany has a good rail network. But if you want to explore the countryside, you’ll definitely need a car. 

3. The Dolomites

Best for dramatic mountains

Scour the globe, and you'll find plenty of taller, bigger and more geologically volatile mountains, but few can match the romance of the pink-hued granite Dolomites .

Maybe it's their harsh, jagged summits, the vibrant skirts of spring wildflowers, or the rich cache of Ladin legends. Then again, it could just be the magnetic draw of money, style and glamor at Italy's most fabled ski resort, Cortina d'Ampezzo , or the linguistic curiosity of picture-postcard mountain village Sappada . Whatever the reason, this tiny pocket of northern Italy takes seductiveness to dizzying heights.

4. Amalfi Coast

Best for classic beauty

Italy's most celebrated coastline is a gripping strip: coastal mountains plunge into the piercing blue sea in a prime-time vertical scene of precipitous crags, sun-bleached villages and cliffs rearing up behind. Between sea and sky, mountaintop hiking trails deliver Tyrrhenian panoramas fit for a god.

While some may argue that the peninsula's most beautiful coast is Liguria's Cinque Terre or Calabria's Costa Viola, it is the Amalfi Coast that has seduced and inspired countless greats, from Tennessee Williams and DH Lawrence to Elizabeth Taylor, Virginia Woolf and Jackie Kennedy. Of course, its staggeringly romantic looks also make it one of the best places in Italy for couples.

Planning tip: Yes, driving along the Amalfi Coast is one of the world’s most famous road trips, but often it feels like everyone else on the planet has the same idea as you. Traffic can be nose-to-tail, and parking is effectively nonexistent. Instead, take the ferry between towns or travel by public transport .

Best for stepping back in time

Frozen in its death throes, the time-warped ruins of Pompeii hurtle you 2000 years into the past. Wander through chariot-grooved Roman streets, lavishly frescoed villas and bathhouses, food stores and markets, theaters, and even an ancient brothel.

Then, in the eerie stillness, your eye on ominous Mt Vesuvius, ponder Pliny the Younger's terrifying account of the town's final hours: “Darkness came on again, again ashes, thick and heavy. We got up repeatedly to shake these off; otherwise, we would have been buried and crushed by the weight.”

Planning tip: If you have time, the other major city destroyed by the eruption, Herculaneum, is also worth a visit. Much smaller than Pompeii, its buildings are better preserved, and the location – surrounded by its modern descendant, Ercolano – makes the site even more piquant. Like Pompeii, it’s easily reached on the Circumvesuviana train.

6. Emilia-Romagna

Best for foodies

In a region as overwhelmingly foodie as Emilia-Romagna , it's only natural that its capital, Bologna , is dubbed “La Grassa” (the fat one). Many belt-busting Italian classics hail from here, including mortadella, tortellini and tagliatelle al ragù. Shop in the deli-packed Quadrilatero district – home to food stalls since medieval times – then hop on the train for an afternoon in Modena for world-famous aged balsamic vinegar.

Leave room for Parma , hometown of parmigiano reggiano cheese and the incomparable prosciutto di Parma. Wherever you plunge your fork, toast with a glass or three of Emilia-Romagna's renowned Lambrusco – a world away from the sickly sweet wine that was exported in the past.

7. Lago di Como

Best for a slice of luxury

If it's good enough for the Clooneys and vacationing Obamas, it's good enough for mere mortals. Nestled in the shadow of the Rhaetian Alps, dazzling Lago di Como is Lombardy's most spectacular lake. Its lavish Liberty-style villas are home to movie moguls, fashion royalty, and literal royalty, while the lake's siren calls include gardens at Villas Melzi d'Eril , Carlotta , and Balbianello that blush pink with camellias, azaleas and rhododendrons in April and May.

The city of Como itself is a hotbed of arresting architecture, from the Gothic cathedral to Palazzo Terragni – built by the Fascists as their party headquarters, it’s a classic example of Italian 1930s Rationalism and a striking reminder of the atrocities committed by the regime.  

Planning tip: Como is like the Amalfi Coast – the roads are clogged, and parking is a huge problem. Instead of driving, use public transport; there’s an excellent ferry and bus network, as well as a train line along the eastern edge of the lake.

8. Sardinia

Best for beaches and coastline

The English language cannot accurately describe the varied blue, green and – in the deepest shadows – purple colors of Sardinia’s seas. While models, ministers and perma-tanned celebrities wine, dine and sail along the glossy Costa Smeralda , much of the island – the Med’s second largest after Sicily – remains a wild, raw playground.

Explore its rugged coastal beauty, from the tumbledown boulders of Santa Teresa di Gallura and the wind-chiseled cliff face of the Golfo di Orosei to the windswept beauty of the Costa Verde's dune-backed beaches.

But spend time inland too, and you’ll find some of Europe’s finest prehistoric remains: mysterious nuraghi (megalithic buildings), burial sites so grand they’re known as “giants’ tombs,” and the mountain villages of Barbagia, where locals still practice centuries-old traditions.

Best for sheer italianità

Pompeii, pizza and a whole lot of panache – Naples is a city like no other. Layered like lasagna, each strip of history on top of the last, this is a place where (underground) you can walk along ancient Greek and Roman roads, while at street level there are sumptuous churches, baroque palaces and Maradona – Maradona everywhere .

Outside the city, Vesuvius looms over the time capsules of Pompeii and Herculaneum, while in town, living in the shadow of a volcano gives life a sense of urgency. All that makes for a place like nowhere else .

Planning tip: Naples becomes less chaotic from the water. Taking the ferry isn’t only an option if you’re going to islands like Ischia and Procida – you can also take a boat from the city to Sorrento , Positano and the Amalfi Coast.

Best for a fairytale city

“Unique” is an overused word, but in the case of Venice , there’s no better description. This really is a dreamscape of intricately carved palazzos, gilded churches and world-class museums, all floating on water and crisscrossed by quiet canals.

Avoid the temptation to do a quick drop-in visit to see the main sights – the real Venice is in the silent canals and narrow alleyways, which cast a spell on all who move through them. Tick off the Rialto Bridge and Piazza San Marco , but then stay on to experience this most precious, and precarious, of cities.

Local tip: This is not the place to run a tight schedule. Leave time to wander the alleys , look inside the churches and artisan shops you pass, and hop on a vaporetto that’ll chug through the islands of the lagoon.

11. Parco Nazionale del Gran Paradiso

Best for hiking

If you're pining for a mind-clearing retreat, lace up your hiking boots and explore over 500km (310 miles) of marked trails and mule tracks traversing “Grand Paradise.”

Part of the Graian Alps and one of Italy's very first national parks, Gran Paradiso's pure, pristine spread encompasses 57 glaciers and alpine pastures awash with wild pansies, gentians and alpenroses, not to mention a healthy population of Alpine ibex, for whose protection the park was originally established. At 4061m (13,323ft), the eponymous Gran Paradiso is the park's only peak, accessed from tranquil Cogne.

12. Mount Etna

Best for thrill seekers

Known to the Greeks as the “column that holds up the sky,”  Mt Etna is not only Europe's largest volcano, it's one of the world's most active. The ancients believed the giant Tifone (Typhoon) lived in its crater and lit the sky with spectacular pyrotechnics; today they simply call it idda , or “her.”

At 3326m (10,912ft), she literally towers above Sicily's Ionian Coast . Tackle the climb on foot, on a guided 4WD tour, or stick to the lower slopes, where you’ll find some of Italy’s most exciting wines being grown in the uber-fertile volcanic soil. Sicily is one of the nicest places in Italy to visit, thanks to its extraordinary wealth of history and architecture, its jaw-dropping coastline and, of course, the ever-welcoming Sicilians.

13. Cinque Terre and the Liguria coast

Best for classic coastline

Liguria’s remote Cinque Terre area is coastal Italy at its most spectacular. Five seaside villages wedged between cliffs, encircled by a national park and connected by clifftop footpaths, this is a place where humanity has lived in symbiosis with nature for thousands of years. People have chiseled terraces into the steep cliffs and grown wine here since Roman times; until the 20th century, the locals got about by sea or footpath.

The villages themselves are gorgeous, but spare some time for a hike along the Sentiero Azzurro, the most popular of the paths connecting them. Cinque Terre may be the best known, but Liguria’s coastline is one showstopper coastal village after another – additional highlights include Portofino , Portovenere and Santa Margherita Ligure .  

Planning tip: This is another area where it’s not worth driving – there are ferry services, but our favorite option is the train, which runs along the coast and stops at each of the villages.

14. Valle d’Itria

Best for picture-perfect villages

They look like hobbit houses – small conical-roofed cottages, often stitched together to form a bigger home but always fairytale pretty, whatever the size. Puglia, the heel of Italy’s boot, is famous for its trulli, but you won’t find them all over the region.

Head south of Bari, in from the coast and up onto the high karst plateau, and you’ll find the Valle d’Itria , where the green fields around towns like Cisternino and Locorotondo are dotted with trulli. Alberobello is the center of it all – the centro storico of the town is nothing but streets of them. This is one of the prettiest parts of Italy – truly.

Best for a real city break

Italy’s fashion capital  often gets a bad rap – too international, too organized, not chaotic enough. Don’t believe it. Where else can you go from a Gothic-style cathedral, started in the 14th century, to masterpieces by Leonardo (his Last Supper fresco in the church of Santa Maria delle Grazie is a showstopper, but so is the Sala delle Asse in the Castello Sforzesco , which he painted as a trompe l’oeil forest bower)?

Milan's restaurants pull together the best food from the Italian peninsula, it’s home to one of Italy’s rare cocktail scenes, and its fashion houses are transforming the city’s modern art scene with venues like Fondazione Prada , an old distillery now housing works by the likes of Jeff Koons and Damien Hirst, as well as putting on top-notch temporary exhibitions.

Planning tip: Milan doesn’t really have high and low seasons like the rest of Italy does; instead, its hotel rates rocket up and down depending on whether there’s a major event in town. Avoid Design and Fashion Weeks if you're traveling on a budget .

This article was first published June 2021 and updated November 2023

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The 10 most beautiful places in Italy

Italy's list of stunning destinations is seemingly endless. The most beautiful places in Italy? Look no further

Widely regarded as one of the most beautiful countries on earth, Italy is full of beautiful places to visit. With its rich cultural heritage, diverse landscapes and long-standing traditions, there’s a lot to uncover on a trip to Il Bel Paese.

The enduring popularity of Italy means many areas of the country suffer from over-tourism. We’ve done our best to cover the most beautiful places in Italy while highlighting some of the unique destinations you can visit within them to avoid (some of) the crowds. Next time you visit Italy, don’t miss these unique attractions showcasing the best of its nature, culture and history.

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Livia Hengel  is a travel writer based in Rome. At Time Out, all of our  travel guides  are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our  editorial guidelines . This guide includes affiliate links, which have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our  affiliate guidelines . 

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Most beautiful places in Italy

1.  Val d’Orcia

Tuscany needs little introduction. A region beloved for its picturesque landscapes, vast vineyards and curving roads lined with cypress trees, it’s a destination everyone dreams of visiting once in a lifetime. The Val d’Orcia, located south of Siena, is one of our favourite parts of Tuscany to explore, with its charming hilltop towns and numerous wine estates. Don’t miss visiting the thermal village of Bagno Vignoni, with a large pool in its central piazza, wineries around Montalcino, which produce the area’s fabled Brunello red wine, and La Foce, a 15th-century estate with one of Italy’s most beautiful, manicured gardens.

2.  Burano

Venice is more than Saint Mark’s Square. This beautiful, floating city comprises 118 islands scattered throughout the Venetian Lagoon. Hop on a vaporetto and head north in the lagoon to Burano, a small fisherman’s island with candy-coloured houses, lace workshops and tiny alleyways. Don’t miss seeing the leaning tower in the central piazza and enjoying lunch at one of Burano’s trattorias, serving local specialties, including sardines, fish risotto and bussolai (traditional cookies). You can also cross over a footbridge to reach Mazzorbo, a sleepy agricultural island where artichokes and grapes grow in a small vineyard.

📍 Check out more of the best day trips from Venice

3.  Tuscia

The glory of Rome tends to overshadow the Lazio region, which is full of fascinating places that are well worth a day trip. Tuscia, an old Etruscan stronghold located a couple of hours’ drive north, is the perfect region to escape the crowds while enjoying cultural and natural sights. Villa Farnese a Caprarola, a pentagonal 16th-century villa, houses incredible Renaissance frescoes, while the nearby Villa Lante in Bagnaia has exquisite gardens known for their water features. From Viterbo’s thermal waters to Lago di Bolsena’s lakeside towns, there’s a lot to see in the area. Don’t miss the Civita di Bagnoregio, a fairytale village sitting atop a tufa rock foundation, seemingly suspended above a vast valley.

📍 Discover the best things to do in nearby Rome

4.  Costa degli Dei

If you’re looking for an alternative to the crowded streets of Positano, head further south to the Costa degli Dei – the Coast of the Gods – in Calabria. As its name suggests, this pristine coastline is an otherworldly marvel with crystal-clear turquoise water and soft, sandy beaches. The uncontested ‘pearl’ of the coastline is Tropea, a hilltop town overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea, which offers mesmerizing views, Slim Aarons-style. Adventurous travellers will enjoy the Marina di Zambrone (which requires a hike to reach the beach), while Capo Vaticano has beach clubs with loungers for rent.

📍 Find more of the best beaches in Italy

5.  Alta Murgia

Once regarded as the ‘shame of Italy’ for its troglodyte caves and underdeveloped infrastructure, Matera’s lunar landscapes are quickly becoming one of southern Italy’s leading attractions. It’s worth spending a couple of nights in the city before venturing across the vast Murgia park to explore smaller towns like Altamura, famed for its local bread production, and Gravina in Puglia, with its verdant canyons. The park is ideal for nature enthusiasts who will enjoy hiking, cycling and birdwatching across its limestone plateaus, while culture hunters should pay a visit to Castel del Monte, a 13th-century octagonal castle with towering views over the surrounding landscape.

📍 Discover more of the best things to do in Italy

6.  Sorrentine Peninsula

One of the world’s most popular honeymoon destinations, the Sorrentine Peninsula is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful parts of Italy – if not the world. This scenic stretch of coastline, which includes the Amalfi Coast and Sorrento Coast, is filled with dozens of famous seaside towns, cliffside villages, rocky bays and sandy coves that capture the essence of  la dolce vita . It’s hard to beat the crowds, but you’ll find more space – and locals – if you head to towns like Cetara, known for its anchovy production, and Vietri sul Mare, famed for its ceramics.

📍 Check out more of the most romantic places in the world

7.  Villa Romana del Casale

The largest island in the Mediterranean, Sicily is a true microcosm of Italy – one which has seen empires rise and fall over millennia. As such, it is filled with ancient Greek and Roman relics, from temples and theatres to ornamental estates. Villa Romana del Casale, located in Piazza Armerina (a small town in central Sicily), is one of these. This large, 4th-century villa is best known for its well-preserved mosaics, the ‘Bikini Girl’, featuring young women playing sports and exercising —an extremely rare depiction that challenges gender roles and stereotypes of the time.

8.  La Strada del Sagrantino

As one of the biggest global producers and consumers of wine, Italy is filled with vineyards up and down the boot. Instead of heading to more famous regions, why not explore Umbria’s rich wine heritage on your next trip? A full-bodied red wine made near Montefalco, Sagrantino pairs well with the region’s flavourful cuisine, which includes wild boar, black truffles and gingerbread with candied fruits. And with its rolling hills and fall foliage, the Sagrantino Wine Trail is every bit as beautiful as Chianti or Le Langhe. Nearby, you can visit charming medieval towns, including Todi, Spoleto and Assisi.

9.  Riviera del Conero

Situated on the eastern shore of Italy, Le Marche is blessed with a long and picturesque coastline along the Adriatic Sea – and fewer crowds. Its highlight is the Conero National Park, a nature reserve that covers 18km of nature trails and cliffs overlooking secluded beaches where you can swim in crystalline water. La Spiaggia delle Due Sorelle (‘Beach of the Two Sisters’) is the prettiest bay in the park and is named for two large rock formations that emerge from the sea. You can reach it by sea with ferries from the port of Numana.

📍 Find more of the best hikes in the world

10.  Residences of the Royal House of Savoy

A collection of 22 palaces and castles built by the House of Savoy in Piedmont, these castles in Turin are some of the most lavish residences ever built on Italian soil. The House of Savoy was a European royal dynasty that ruled from the 11th century until the monarchy was abolished in 1946. An enormously wealthy and influential family, the Savoy built several estates to house its members, enjoy recreational activities and host governmental functions. The 17th-century Venaria Reale, often referred to as the ‘Versailles of Italy’, is the most famous venue thanks to its grand hall with intricate stucco features and checkered floors.

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Touropia Travel Experts

Discover the World

23 Best Places to Visit in Italy

Located in Southern Europe, this boot-shaped country is one of the world’s most popular travel destinations for a number of reasons that include art treasures, charming towns, passionate people and top-class cuisine. It’s a place where you can see some of the most iconic sites in the world – the leaning Tower of Pisa, the Colosseum and the Trevi Fountain, to name but a few.

There’s the chance to see renowned Renaissance masterpieces and shop for high-end fashion too. Italy offers a magnificently rich array of sumptuous natural scenery and numerous opportunities to get out into nature. Cinque Terre, Sardinia, and the Dolomites all boast incredible landscapes and fantastic hiking routes.

You could spend your time in this culturally rich land learning about the lives of the Romans, discovering the destruction caused by Mount Vesuvius at Pompeii, or simply lazing alongside one of the many Italian lakes and languishing in the opulence of the Amalfi coast. Italy offers so much to see and do that it would take a lifetime to explore. Plan your trip to this wonderful Mediterranean travel destination with our list of the best places to visit in Italy.

Map of Italy

23. Portofino

One of the most picturesque towns along the Italian Riviera , Portofino lies just a 45 minute drive southeast of Genoa. For centuries, it has been a popular day-trip destination due to all the pretty pastel-colored houses clustered about its small, scenic harbor.

Backed by gorgeous green hills, the tiny fishing village has a very relaxed feel with many of the world’s elite often heading here on holiday. As well as admiring all the impressive yachts bobbing about the bay, you can enjoy its fine views and fantastic seafood restaurants. Loads of high-end boutiques also line its small, cobbled square.

While most come to take in its ambience and aesthetic, there are some interesting sights to see. Aside from the historical Church of San Giorgio, there is the sixteenth-century Castello Brown and all its old antiquities and art exhibitions to explore. From its lovely, lush gardens, there are yet more fabulous panoramas over the stunning town and sparkling Ligurian Sea .

22. Bologna

Famed for not just its phenomenal food and prestigious university but its countless covered porticos too, Bologna is the lively, historic capital of the Emilia-Romagna region . Although it is often overlooked in favor of Florence, Rome and Venice, all its amazing medieval towers and atmospheric piazze make it well worth a visit.

Due to its strategic location in the northeast of Italy, the city slowly developed into a center of culture, trade and learning. As such, elegant palazzi and churches popped up everywhere with its important university having been founded in 1088. The oldest in the Western world, its sizeable student population creates a vibrant, youthful feel around town.

While many of its old buildings are, unfortunately, coated in graffiti, its large historic center is well-preserved for the most part. Due to the distinctive ruddy hue of its porticos, houses and churches, the city is often called ‘ La Rossa ’. Besides strolling about Piazza Maggiore and staring up at its two iconic leaning towers, you just have to try some of Bologna’s delicious cuisine before continuing with your trip around the country.

21. The Dolomites

With their soaring, jagged peaks and ginormous, sweeping valleys, the Dolomites are surely one of the most spectacular natural sites in Europe. Offering up all kinds of exciting outdoor activities, the majestic mountain range covers a massive part of northeastern Italy.

Formed over the course of many millennia, the ‘ Pale Mountains ’ are so named due to their dramatic dolomite rock formations. Beneath their striking silhouettes are idyllic alpine lakes and meadows with historic towns also dotted about. These include the charming Castelrotto and chic Cortina d’Ampezzo – the ‘Queen of the Dolomites’. In summer, many come to hike, bike or rock climb with the snowy winter months instead enticing skiers and snowboarders.

Among its most spellbinding sights are the famous outlines of the Tre Cime di Lavaredo and the six rocky spires of the Vajolet Towers . Cable cars can also transport you up to the 3,343 meter summit of Marmolada – the region’s tallest peak. From high up above the clouds, you can bask in breathtaking views over all the Dolomites’ awe-inspiring scenery.

While Genoa has a reputation for being a bit gritty and grimy, its huge historic center is also home to plenty of grand palaces and gorgeous churches. Getting lost amidst all its caruggi – narrow, claustrophobic alleyways – is lots of fun as architectural gems appear around every corner. The city also has a world-class aquarium and maritime museum to check out too.

Long an important seaport, the city was one of the Mediterranean’s most powerful maritime republics from the eleventh century up until its fall in 1797. Due to its considerable wealth, elaborate palaces and art-filled churches were erected all around its piazze. Must-see sights include its Palazzo Reale and Cathedral of San Lorenzo, both of which boast lavish interiors.

Other than admiring the immense riches on show, you can amble along Corso Italia, taking in its delightful views and architecture. At its Old Port, historic-old ships and museums teach you more about its seafaring past. Not to be missed is the enormous Aquarium Genoa which displays everything from seals and sea cows to dolphins, penguins and jellyfish.

Best known as the setting for Shakespeare’s play “ Romeo and Juliet ,” Verona is a picturesque city filled with Roman ruins, Renaissance palaces and medieval buildings. Located between Milan and Venice in Northern Italy, the city receives a bit less attention from travelers than its more celebrated neighbors but not for lack of attractions . Verona offers visitors the chance to enjoy all of the charms of an ancient Italian city without constantly battling crowds.

Although the first stop for many visitors is “Juliet’s House” with its recently added balcony , it’s important to remember that Romeo and Juliet were characters from fiction, not reality. Nevertheless, the house and its courtyard attract lovers from all over the world who come to reenact the balcony scene in person.

Of the city’s historical sites, the grand Roman amphitheater is the most famous. The third largest Roman arena in the world, the 1st-century amphitheater is remarkably well preserved. Plays are still performed in the 25,000-seat arena. Among the best representations of the Renaissance period is the Duomo, with its recently restored frescoes and marble interiors.

At dusk, Verona’s star attraction is the Via Mazzini, a broad thoroughfare where locals take their evening stroll, or “ la passeggiata .” The parade ends in the Piazza delle Erbe where visitors can relax at a sidewalk café to enjoy an aperitivo or shop for mementos of their trip to city of star-crossed lovers.

Home to some of the most famous cave dwellings in the world, the fascinating city of Matera is perched atop a rocky outcrop right in the south of Italy. Each year, thousands of tourists come to explore all the enchanting old sassi that are carved into the mountainside.

Believed to be among the very first human settlements in the country, its captivating caves have been used since around 7,000 BC. Remarkably well-preserved, its innumerable houses and churches are hewn out of large, limestone cliffs bordering its old town. Connecting them all together are steep staircases and narrow, winding streets.

Wandering about its extensive system of caves is an unforgettable experience with fantastic viewpoints and photo stops popping up all the time. While some dwellings still house cafes, businesses and even families, most are now abandoned. One of Southern Italy’s top tourist attractions, Matera and its many sassi really are unique to explore.

17. Sardinia

Renowned for its marvelous mountains and long, lovely coastline, the scenic, unspoiled island of Sardinia lies just south of Corsica . Aside from sunbathing and swimming at the beautiful beaches, it has some interesting historic cities and archaeological sites to see.

The second-largest island in the Mediterranean after Sicily, it is delightfully under visited in comparison with mainland Italy’s other regions. Due to its remote location and Sardinians’ strong sense of identity, it also looks and feels quite unlike the rest of the country. You can explore its unique history and culture in its capital Cagliari or at the ancient Su Nuraxi ruins.

Most people come though to enjoy its rugged hinterlands and romantic coastline with hiking, camping and watersports all being particularly popular pastimes. Countless little coves and hidden beaches stud its shores which lie alongside twinkling turquoise waters. In addition to trying tasty local dishes, colourful celebrations help shine a light on Sardinia’s rich heritage.

16. Alberobello

Appearing as if out of a fairytale are all of Alberobello’s adorable little trulli. These traditional dry-stone buildings with their cute conical roofs are the small town’s main sight with people visiting from all around to see them. Set right down south in Puglia , it can easily be reached from Bari, Brindisi or Taranto.

Actually meaning ‘ beautiful tree ’ in Italian, it has around 1,500 of the unusual-looking houses. While the eye-catching buildings originated in the fifteenth century, most ‘only’ date to the 1800s. Ingeniously enough, they are impressively assembled without any mortar being used. This was so the ruling counts could always have them dismantled if they wanted.

Ambling around the tiny town is a very pleasant way to spend a few hours with some of the small stone structures also containing cozy cafes, restaurants and souvenir shops. You can also take some great photos by their bright white-washed walls and grey, conical roofs.

Most known for being the birthplace of St. Francis, Assisi has an attractive old town to stroll about alongside the ginormous basilica of the patron saint. Perched atop a hulking great hill in Umbria , not far from Perugia , the small medieval city makes for a wonderful day trip from either Florence or Rome.

Very easily explored on foot, its historic heart is centered around the picturesque Piazza del Comune . After taking in its fantastic fountain and clock tower, you can see all the Cathedral of San Rufino’s ornate friezes and fine facade. Plenty of other charming churches are dotted about with there also being an excellent Roman archaeological museum to visit.

The highlight though, is, of course, the Basilica of San Francesco d’Assisi itself which sprawls across a massive part of the hilltop. Completed in 1253, it contains the tomb of the revered saint with exquisite frescoes and artworks decorating the important pilgrimage site.

14. Lake Garda

Long a popular holiday destination, Lake Garda lies in the north of Italy surrounded by little colourful towns and incredible craggy mountains. A must-visit for many, its relaxing shores, superb restaurants and romantic villas offer a tantalizing taste of la dolce vita .

The largest lake in the country, its reflective waters are overlooked by the Alps to the north while its southern reaches are bordered by the flat plains of the Po Valley. As well as pretty olive groves, orchards and gardens, you’ll also find cute towns like Sirmione and Desenzano del Garda lining it.

Other than seeing their ancient hot springs, castles and Roman ruins, they have tons of top restaurants to try. You can also go kayaking, windsurfing and sailing or take boat trips about the lake to its islands. As Limone sul Garda , Malcesine and Torbole also have lovely lakefront promenades and views, you really can’t go wrong wherever you go.

Located in the center of Puglia’s Salentine Peninsula, right down in the heel of Italy, is the stunning city of Lecce . Most known for its beautiful Baroque buildings and historic churches, it is often called the ‘Florence of the South’.

Mostly made out of the light-colored Lecce stone, its atmospheric-old streets were founded over 2,000 years ago. While dozens of ornately decorated churches like Lecce Cathedral and the Basilica di Santa Croce are dotted about, the amazing Roman amphitheater at its heart has to be the city’s standout sight. All of these highlight how Lecce thrived as an important trading town and political center.

Besides strolling about taking in all its outstanding architecture, you can check out the fine artworks in its churches. Alberobello also makes for a nice day trip as do the idyllic beaches hugging its nearby coastline. With lots of tasty dishes to try and cool archaeological sites to explore, it is no wonder the lively yet laidback Lecce is one the best cities to visit in Italy.

Nearly destroyed from heavy bombing during WWII, Milan has since reconstructed and now shines as one of the wealthiest cities in Europe. Widely regarded as a mega fashion center teeming in designer shops, Milan also attracts many to its surviving world famous treasures like Leonardo da Vinci’s painting, The Last Supper , the La Scala Opera House, the Castello Sforzesco and one of the world’s largest Gothic cathedral .

See also: Where to Stay in Milan

Located in Italy’s northwestern region of Lombardy near the Alps and the scenic Lake District, Milan is a fast-paced city excelling in business, shopping and football. More of a glamorous city with modern architecture and attractions , Milan appears less Italian compared to the country’s predominantly historic cities.

One of the busiest metropolitan cities in the country, Naples is the capital of the Campania region in Southern Italy . As it is nearby famous sites like the Bay of Naples and Pompeii, Naples presents an ideal base to stay while exploring the area.

Naples itself features one of the world’s largest historic city centers with one of the highest concentrations of historical monuments, Baroque churches and Roman ruins, offering an endless feast for lovers of history and art.

Extending beyond the city center, tourists will find scenic landscapes, picturesque villas, stylish hotels and castles in addition to ancient Roman baths and volcanic craters. Top attractions in Naples include the grand Piazza del Plebiscito, the royal palace of the Capodimonte Museum and the National Archaeological Museum , which showcases a marvelous collection of artistic works and artifacts excavated from the ruins of Pompeii .

Many favorite Italian foods originated in Naples and its surrounding area such as pizza , spaghetti and parmigiana. These dishes are taken seriously in Naples and usually feature fresh, locally grown ingredients. Other Naples food specialties include fresh seafood, mozzarella cheese and pastries such as baba, zeppole and sfogliatella.

Located along the Arno River in the northwestern region of Tuscany , the city of Pisa still bears the striking remnants of its former golden days as a commercial empire during the Middle Ages. While the Leaning Tower is a must see, visiting this city only to take a photograph of it’s most popular landmark is like looking at one tree and missing the whole forest. Pisa is so much more than just the Leaning Tower.

Surrounding the famous landmark is one of Italy’s most beautiful squares, the Campo dei Miracoli, or Field of Miracles . This remarkable plaza contains magnificent examples of Italian Renaissance that include the Duomo Cathedral, Baptistry and Camposanto Monument, all of which contain marble features, sculptures, frescoes and historic relics. Sprinkled throughout the plaza are various shops selling souvenirs and bakeries offering tasty biscotti.

Beyond the Field of Miracles, the beauty of the Arno River is what often leaves a lasting impression on many tourists. Because Pisa is divided by the river, there are several charming bridges connecting one side to the other such as the Ponte di Mezzo. The riverbanks on each side present a picturesque setting of residential houses, impressive buildings and greenery.

With 60,000 students, the University of Pisa provides the city with an atmosphere of youth and animation. The streets and waterways of Pisa often play host to lively cultural events such as the Luminara Festival, the Regatta of the Ancient Maritime Republics boat race, and the Game of Bridge, a friendly, medieval contest between the city’s two sections.

9. Lake Como

Nestled in the heart of Italy’s Lombardy region, Lake Como is a very popular destination for those seeking a blend of natural beauty, Italian charm, and a touch of luxury. Picture yourself cruising on the shimmering waters, surrounded by rolling hills and mountains that seem to dive right into the lake. The scenery is straight out of a postcard, with colorful villas and sleepy villages dotting the shoreline.

When you’re not gazing at the stunning views, you can explore the quaint streets of lakeside towns like Bellagio , known as the “Pearl of the Lake,” or Varenna , with its romantic promenade. Indulge in some Italian gelato, grab a slice of authentic pizza, or sit down for a leisurely meal at a lakeside restaurant to sample local specialties with a glass of wine.

For the adventurous, there’s plenty to do: hiking trails offer panoramic vistas, and the lake itself is perfect for water sports. And if history’s your thing, you’ll find historic villas and gardens that tell the tales of Como’s glamorous past.

The largest island in the Mediterranean, Sicily lies just across from the southern tip of Italy, on the narrow Strait of Messina. Due to its location, it has long acted as a crossroads, so is very distinct from the rest of the country in terms of its history, culture, and cuisine.

This is best exemplified by Palermo , Sicily’s capital and largest city, which was remarkably founded more than 2,700 years ago. Since then, it has been ruled by everyone from the Phoenicians and Romans to the Arabs and Normans, with each civilization leaving behind artistic and architectural treasures and culinary influences.

In addition, a wealth of important archaeological sites lie scattered around the island; these now make for some of Sicily’s most popular tourist attractions . The impressive ruins of the Ancient Theater of Taormina and the age-old edifices in the Valley of the Temples date to the Ancient Greeks; others, such as the mountaintop castles of Erice , were built in medieval times.

Renowned for its rugged beauty, Sicily’s rugged cliffs and secluded beaches are lined by sparkling waters, while fertile farmland and mountains dot its interior. Towering over everything is Mount Etna , one of the world’s most active volcanoes and the highest peak in Italy south of the Alps.

Established upon three hills in the heart of Tuscany , Siena offers tourists a step back into the Middle Ages with its well-preserved historic center and medieval horse racing tradition, famously known as Il Palio . Formerly a wealthy city, the historic center of Siena is one of the most popular places to go in Italy as it still retains many of its stunning works of art and architecture from that time period.

Siena’s Piazza del Campo is regarded as one of the finest Medieval squares in Europe. This fan-shaped plaza is noted for its architectural treasures such as the Fountain of Joy, the Palazzio Pubblico and the Mangia Tower.

Another of Siena’s architectural gems is its Duomo, a stunning black and white cathedral of Italian Romanesque design with exquisite features like marble floors, stained glass, sculptures, paintings and carvings. The piazza is also a good place to relax, watch people and enjoy the local delights of wine, coffee, pizza, focaccia and gelato.

Hosted twice every summer in the Piazza del Campo, the Palio horse race draws huge annual crowds. This 700-year old tradition involves representatives from 17 different districts racing bareback on the cobblestone plaza. Siena is also home to one of Italy’s oldest public universities, the University of Siena, widely recognized for its Schools of Medicine and Law.

6. Cinque Terre

Five quaint fishing villages awash with colors of blue, yellow and pink all hug cliff sides that slope down to the sea. These villages and the surrounding green hills make up the Cinque Terre National Park, one of Italy’s popular tourist destinations. Located in Italy’s northwestern coastal region of Liguria , the villages of Cinque Terre feature some of the country’s most beautiful landscapes that include wine terraces dating back to hundreds of years.

Meaning “Five Lands,” Cinque Terre comprises the five villages of Riomaggiore, Manarola, Vernazza, Monterosso and Corniglia. Riomaggiore boasts a medieval castle and the bustling main street of Via Colombo while Manarola is filled with colorful boats, swimming holes and caves.

Surrounded by olive groves, Vernazza offers a lively nightlife scene. The beautiful beach of Monterossa is lined with resorts while sloping vineyards adorn Corniglia . Rich in agriculture and fishing, the Cinque Terre villages are teeming in cafes and trattorias, which serve locally grown wine, olives, cheeses, pasta, seafood and homemade breads.

Among its many gems, Cinque Terre boasts a centuries-old complex of hiking paths that offer some of Italy’s most stunning coastal views. The Blue Trail, also known as Trail No. 2, is a paved trail connecting all five of the villages and is suitable for all ages.

There are very few cars in Cinque Terre as the villages are all small and easy to get around in by foot. However, all the villages are linked by a rail system that runs regularly from Genoa and La Spezia. Serving all five villages.

5. Amalfi Coast

Situated in Italy’s southwestern region of Campania , the Amalfi Coast is known for its extraordinary beauty that makes it one of Italy’s top tourist destinations . Stretching 30 miles along the southern side of the Sorrento Peninsula, the Amalfi Coast is prized for its picturesque coastline that features shimmering bays, craggy cliffs, lemon tree gardens, multicolored villas and ritzy resorts.

One of the most romantic and posh towns along the Amalfi Coast, Positano ‘s many calling cards include beautiful pebbled beaches, pastel houses, scenic mountains, waterfalls and a 13th century Black Madonna.

One of the larger towns, Amalfi , features lovely plazas lined with restaurants and souvenir shops. Perched on a hill overlooking Amalfi, the town of Ravello is favored for its beautiful villas of gardens and art works as well as its lively art and music festival. Often called the Painted Town because of its many mural-painted houses, Furore also features an enchanting bay.

One of Italy’s most visited tourist destinations, Pompeii is a famous Roman city which was buried under several feet of volcanic ash for nearly 1,700 years after the cataclysmic eruption of Mt. Vesuvius . Excavation of Pompeii began in 1748, and the site is yet to be totally unearthed. The site is located near the modern city of Naples .

A tour of Pompeii offers a fascinating insight into the everyday life of the ancient Roman world. Visitors can walk along the ancient streets to see the remains of shops, bars, bakeries, brothels, baths and residential homes as well as buildings that served as commercial and religious centers.

Some of the most significant structures include the Amphitheatre , the Forum, the Temple of Apollo, the Basilica and the Granary Market, which contains a large number of artifacts and plaster casts of people and dogs that died during the catastrophe. Within the architecture of Pompeii’s ancient buildings, there is a large number of art works and frescoes depicting erotica, mythological characters and hunting scenes.

Near the entrance of the Pompeii site, visitors will find several souvenir shops as well as food vendors selling snacks and beverages. While there are only a few dining options within the site itself, there are several cafes and restaurants located around the nearby train station.

One of Italy’s top travel destinations, Venice is a unique city in that is built upon a lagoon surrounded by the Adriatic Sea. Located in northeastern Italy, Venice is an archipelago of 118 islands all connected by hundreds of beautiful bridges and scenic canals. Of the canals, the Grand Canal is most famous and divides the city into two sections. Picturesque waterways and historic architecture make Venice one of the most romantic cities in the world.

Venice is often crowded and expensive but well worth visiting to see its magnificent landmarks like Saint Mark’s Square and Basilica, Doge’s Palace and Rialto Bridge . One of the most popular things to do in Venice is to take a gondola ride along the Grand Canal. However, it is just as equally enjoyable to ride a vaporetti along the quiet back canals.

Every year, Venice hosts one of Italy’s liveliest Carnival festivals where the streets are filled with people dressed in colorful costumes and masks, and the Grand Canal is packed with fleets of decorated boats and gondolas. A popular souvenir to purchase in Venice is one of the beautifully crafted carnival masks.

See also: Where to Stay in Venice

There are no cars in Venice, so people either walk or ride the water taxis along the canal system. Travelers should note that Venice frequently experiences high water in the spring and fall.

2. Florence

The capital of Tuscany , Florence is often described as a colossal outdoor museum because of its mass of art and architectural treasures. Internationally renowned as the birthplace of Italian Renaissance, Florence is also credited with propagating many artists, inventors, writers, scientists and explorers as well as inventing opera and the florin currency, which lifted Europe from the Dark Ages.

Additionally, Florence is known as the home of the wealthy and powerful Medici dynasty that produced several kings and popes, impacting the entire world in a number of ways culturally, economically and politically.

Florence’s hoard of art masterpieces are found all over the city, contained within the large numbers of museums, stunning churches, like the domed Santa Maria del Fiore , and internationally esteemed art galleries like the Ufizzi and Pitti Palace.

The Piazza della Signoria , the main square, is home to beautiful buildings and world famous sculptures like Cellini’s Perseus with the Head of Medusa, Ammannati’s Fountain of Neptune and Michelangelo’s Statue of David.

Walking is the best way to see the major sites in the city center. Some of the best places to walk include the Ponte Vecchio , a beautiful bridge spanning the Arno River and featuring a number of jewelry shops. Florence’s markets are another good place to spend some time before heading back to your accommodation . The San Lorenzo markets are among the most popular where tourists can find an array of locally grown foods and handcrafted goods.

Formerly the capital of the Roman Empire, Rome today is the government seat and capital city of Italy. Located in the country’s central region of Lazio, Rome is a vast and complex city that is both historic and modern at the same time.

Best known for housing ancient Roman structures and the Vatican City , Rome has endured for more than 2,500 years as an important center for culture, power and religion.

Rome is divided into several districts with its center, the Colosseo district, containing the most ancient attractions like the Colosseum , the Forum of Augustus, Capitoline Hill and the Roman Forum. On the outskirts of the center is Old Rome, featuring the Pantheon, stunning cathedrals, plazas and Renaissance architecture. The Vatican is well known for St. Peter’s Basilica , the Apostolic Palace and Sistine Chapel.

There is so much to see and do in Rome , that it could take months to see it all. However, one way for tourists to experience the best of the city is by taking a hop-on, hop-off bus tour. This bus tour stops at major places of interest and top museums , and tourists are free to get off and on as they wish.

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Reader interactions.

May 12, 2017 at 9:28 am

I have only been to Rome and absolutely love it! we are going to be in Croatia for 3 weeks and I would like to go to Venice or Naples for a couple days, but can’t decide, which one would you go to?

July 13, 2016 at 1:02 am

The best place to visit in Italy is Naples. Its the real Italy and its built right on the water, so the water views are spectacular and since the tourists have not found it the prices are still reasonable. From Naples, it also seems like there are more day trips than the other tourist destinations. From Naples, you can hit Pompeii and the Amalfi Coast very easily, the island of Capri is straight out from Naples, which is a great day trip, but I prefer the Islands of Ischia and Procida. You can hike to the top of Mount Vesuvius, check out Herculaneum, which I like just as much as Pompeii and it is better with kids than Pompeii. Also, if you like shopping, I find that Naples has the best shopping I have found. Much better than Milan. The shops are more reasonably priced than any other city and there are lots of leather or fabric factories right in Naples that you can buy from shops on Via Toledo and other shopping districts and I almost forgot to mention Christmas alley and Spaccanapoli. Probably one of my favorite neighborhoods in Naples. If you are in Rome and you miss the Naples area, you probably made a big mistake. It is too close and there is too much to miss out on this beautiful area.

September 16, 2015 at 12:58 am

every place in Italy I’ve been to is very unique. I love the character of each city. however, having to choose from, yet the best is RomanTIC Venice.

August 24, 2015 at 6:28 pm

I recently visited Italy. I would say that it is one of the most beautiful places in the world. I visited it as part of an overall Europe trip and wanted to stay longer. We visited Rome first. Next we visited Cinque Terra staying in Manarola but completing many of the available walks to the other towns. Absolute bliss. Anyways I believe that cinque Terra should definitely be on your list if you are planning to visit and should definitely be further up this list. I loved Rome and believe that it deserves to be equal with Cinque Terra as they were both divine for their own reasons.

May 7, 2015 at 9:10 am

I absolutely adore Italy. Been to a few both on cruise and by plane ( and Eurostar too ). How I LOVE Sicily ( becos of Godfather ) ; Venice ; Bologna ; Lake Como ; Sardinia ; Milan ; Rome ; Verona ; Naples ; Florence ; Pisa, Livorno….beautiful food, wine, people, scenery. I used to love the UK esp London but now it has to be Italy and everything about it. France comes a close third although it is getting rather tired and shabby.

December 10, 2014 at 5:32 am

Nice Article, if you can not go for longer, the best places have been mentioned. If I could add something, as I am Italian from Venice I could suggest to visit the close places around like Treviso, Castelfranco and the beautiful Bassano del Grappa, the gorgeous Asolo.

Happy travel, Chris

August 14, 2014 at 8:40 pm

Just spent 3 weeks in Italy. travelling through Rome, Florence, Bologna, Amalfi, Sorrento, Pompeii, Venice, MIlan, and went to Pisa on a day trip. MY ORDER of these: 1. Amalfi – Amafli and the Amafli coast is absolutely unbelievable. The most beautiful place I travelled to on this trip. The beach, food and atmosphere is to die for. 2. Venice – what can I say, everyone knows Venice. I found it was a massive tourist trap and over crowded but, the city is beautiful and would go back. 3. Florence. Close to everything, a day trip to Bologna or Pisa is so close, and with attractions like academia (david) and uffizi museums plus much more it is a must do. 4. Rome – Colosseum is amazing, a true wonder and vatican is a must see. So as the city will keep you busy with history and attractions. Didn’t like the atmosphere. BUT is a must 5. Pompeii. Stayed in the actual town of Pompeii as I heard naples was dirty, and all you want to do there is see the ruins. But trust me they were awesome. A must do and could have found itself higher on the list = 6. sorrento and milan – would go to see Capri (Sorrento) and last supper (milan) 8. Bologna – Nice but it was nothing exciting. would just go from Florence if you had half a day to spare

Hope this helps Travellers

August 6, 2014 at 7:09 am

I have been to Rome, and the Amalfi Coast…..both deserve to be there. I think Salerno in the Campania region deserved to be there too.

July 27, 2014 at 1:29 am

You have totally forgotten places in the southern Italy such as Bari, Otranto, Gallipoli, Lecce…. And I think that Dolomites are beautiful too ;).

June 29, 2014 at 12:54 pm

I spent only 5 days in Sicilia. NOT ENOUGH. It’s such a lovely place to visit. Food and people are equally our favorite in Italia. What such an unique experience to climb and walk onto the dark land of Etna at 10000 feet and admire the mediteraneen sea almost smaller than you. I don’t know about Gene and Milan but I will return back to the south for sure. Pompei should replace Pisae. No kidding.

April 22, 2014 at 4:21 pm

you guys sure hit South Italy too, it’s beautiful at well at North Italy.

Grazie Ci Vidiamo Presto!

April 18, 2014 at 2:13 am

Hi guys. I’m Italian, and I’m from Milan. Many people, most of all are Italians, think that Milan is a poor cultural city. That isn’t the truth: Milan has got many treasures that nobody knows.

March 17, 2014 at 4:43 am

I’m Italian and I don’t agree with this list. First of all, Naples is one of the poorest, dirties cities in Italy, second of all, in Milan there are just few things worth visiting (duomo, scala, galleria, castello and Leonardo’s “last supper”) but, of course it’s the city of shopping. Then, Genoa is really dirty too (less than Naples) Finally, In Pisa besides the field of miracles there’s nothing else! I don’t mean that there are the worst cities but they shouldn’t be in the top 10 best Italian cities! I would rather suggest you to visit: Turin, Ferrara, Urbino and Siracusa. But I mean, there are so many beautiful places that it’s hard to tell you which one is the best!!

March 10, 2014 at 5:44 am

This place seems awesome & I can’t wait to go out there in the summer!

September 19, 2013 at 2:45 am

Nothing to say against Genoa but honestly maybe another city from south will be better on that ranking. I mean Palermo. Unfortunaly is knows as the city of the mafia, but it’s so charming and extremely beautiful or Val Di Noto in Sicily there are the most beautiful baroccan churches in Italy and the look-out of the Etna. Sicily have 6 world heritage sites is the second region in Italy after Tuscany that have 7. And deserve to stay in the ranking. No way! From a not Sicilian Guy. I’m from Apulia

August 16, 2013 at 8:53 am

Beautiful Italy!! Fantastic world-known attractions, but also its less frequented areas can also offer an authentic experience, idyllic landscapes and lots of culture, history, enogastronomy. For example, the Maremma in southern Tuscany.. or the Salento in Apulia.. or the Tuscia in Latium

July 23, 2013 at 11:25 am

Verona is a beautiful city. I went there this summer and it was amazing! Lake Garda is also a beautiful place with lots of small villages and towns nearby for shopping!

May 21, 2013 at 12:22 pm

I totally agree that Rome is the best, although I much love Norther Italy, Rome is the best place ever!

May 6, 2013 at 6:18 am

For me, Venice is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. It is truly magnificent how the place is surrounded by waterways that made the city more unique than other cities.

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24 Best Places to Visit in Italy

Written by Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated Oct 6, 2023

Few places rank as high on travelers' bucket lists as Italy. Whatever your taste in travel, you'll satisfy it in this country that is at once exotic and familiar. History, art, food, music, architecture, culture, sacred sites, charming villages, and stunning scenery are all around, and in an atmosphere that only the most confirmed curmudgeon could fail to enjoy.

From the soaring Dolomite mountains in the north to the beaches of Puglia and the ancient temples of Sicily, Italy is filled with outstanding places to see. These range from magnificent natural and scenic wonders to some of the greatest masterpieces of art and architecture the world has known. No matter where you choose, you can't go wrong.

Plan your trip to Italy with our list of the best places to visit in Italy.

2. Florence

4. tuscan hill towns, 6. lake como, 7. amalfi coast, 8. capri & sorrento, 9. the cinque terre, 10. pisa and lucca, 12. pompeii and herculaneum, 13. lake garda, 15. bologna, 16. the dolomites, 21. sardinia, 22. ravenna, map of places to visit in italy.

Both for its history as the capital of much of ancient Europe and for its present-day role as one of Europe's most vibrant cities, for most tourists traveling to Italy, Rome heads the list of places to visit. Relics of its ancient glories—the Colosseum , the Forum , the Pantheon , the Appian Way, and the Palatine Hill —vie with the vast riches of the Vatican as the top attractions.

But between the important sights like the Sistine Chapel and Michelangelo's Pieta, take time to enjoy the city itself. Relax in the Borghese gardens ; eat gelato on the Spanish Steps ; explore the narrow streets of Trastevere ; sip morning cappuccino in cafés; window-shop on the Via Veneto; and toss a coin in Trevi Fountain , so you can return again and again. It will take several trips to see it all.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Rome

The showcase of the Italian Renaissance, Florence can at times seem like one giant art museum. The Duomo, the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore , is a landmark of world architecture , topped by its gravity-defying massive dome.

Together with its marble-inlaid bell tower by Giotto and the octagonal Baptistery with its incomparable bronze doors by Ghiberti, this is one of the world's finest ensembles of Renaissance art.

Half a dozen art museums brim with paintings and sculptures, while more masterpieces decorate its churches and palaces. Before you overdose on art in the Uffizi Gallery and Pitti Palace , stroll through the Boboli Gardens and explore the artisans' studios and workshops of the Oltrarno, or shop for leather in Santa Croce.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Florence

Who could fail to love a city whose streets are made of water, whose buses are boats, and where the songs of gondoliers linger in the air? It is a magic city, and its major attraction to tourists is the city itself.

The hub of the city is the broad Piazza San Marco, St. Mark's Square , surrounded by several of its top tourist attractions. The great Basilica of St. Mark stands beside the Doge's Palace , and overlooking both is the tall Campanile.

Taking a gondola ride is one of the most romantic things to do in Italy . Gondolas congregate at the end of the plaza in the Grand Canal . In the other direction, a gate under the clock tower leads into a warren of narrow, winding passageways, where you're sure to get lost on the way to Rialto Bridge. But getting lost is one of the greatest pleasures of Venice, where a postcard scene awaits around each corner.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Venice

The undulating landscape of Tuscany is crowned by stone towns whose foundations go back to the Etruscans. Each sits atop a hill, and many still have the castles and towers that once defended their commanding positions.

It's difficult to choose one above the others, as each has its own architecture, art, character, and story to tell. Fairly bristling with towers and enclosed in walls that are largely intact, San Gimignano looks much as it did in the Middle Ages, when it was an important stop on the pilgrims' route to Rome.

Volterra was an important Etruscan center before the Romans came and still has remains of both civilizations today. The tourist attractions of Arezzo are the legacy of the many artists, architects, and poets who lived there.

Like Volterra, walled Cortona was an Etruscan settlement and later a Roman one, but adds reminders of its Florentine past as well. Cortona is one of Italy's oldest towns. The proximity of these hill towns to the cities of Florence, Siena, Pisa, and Luca fills Tuscany with a concentration of many of the best places to visit in Italy.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Italy

Although Milan is a major entry point for tourists because of its airport, it's often overlooked as a destination of its own. That's a shame, because Milan has one of the highest concentrations of artistic and architectural attractions in all Italy, and for those interested in design and fashion (not to mention shopping), it's a must.

Milan has been the home and workplace for luminaries in all these fields: Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, Verdi, Enrico Caruso, Toscanini, and designer Giorgio Armani.

Il Duomo, Milan's massive cathedral, is among the world's most magnificent churches, and finest example of the Flamboyant Gothic style. La Scala is the world's most prestigious opera house, Da Vinci's The Last Supper fills the wall at a monastery, and throughout the city are museums and palaces filled with some of the world's finest art. And no fashionista can resist a stroll through the famed Quadrilatero.

Italy's most beautiful lake, Como has been the favorite summer retreat of the rich and famous since ancient Romans fled Milan's summer heat to cool off in villas along its steep shores. Later villas decorate its tightly clustered towns, especially pretty Bellagio , artfully set on a point where the three narrow arms of the lake meet.

A microclimate makes the western shore of Lake Como temperate even in winter, so the white peaks of the Alps just to the north can be viewed between palm trees and camellias. Don't overlook the town of Como, on the southern shore, well worth a stop before boarding a steamer to explore the lake.

Just to the west of Lake Como is Lake Maggiore, with its own attractions ; to the east is Lake Garda , a summer playground filled with water sports and other things to do.

Read More: Visiting Lake Como: Top Attractions, Hotels & Tours

The high, precipitous Amalfi Peninsula juts sharply into the Mediterranean just south of Naples, forming the southern rim of Naples Bay. It's hard to imagine a more beautiful – or unlikely – setting for the towns that spill down its steep slopes.

Streets in most of these picturesque towns are stairways, and houses seem glued to the cliffs behind them. Flowers bloom everywhere, and below the towns are enticing beaches caught in coves of emerald water. High above the coast is the town of Ravello , where luxuriant gardens frame some of the coast's finest views.

The Amalfi Drive , along the southern coast, is one of the world's great scenic routes, or you can see the coast from the water by taking a 45-minute ferry ride from Sorrento to Positano. You have several options for getting to Positano from Rome .

Read More: Top Attractions & Places to Visit on the Amalfi Coast

The fabled Isle of Capri rises in steep cliffs from the Tyrrhenian Sea, only 20 kilometers from Sorrento. It was the bolt-hole for the Roman emperors Augustus and Tiberius and today attracts a steady stream of tourists arriving on the frequent ferries and hydrofoils from Sorrento and Naples.

Although very small – it is barely six kilometers at its longest – it has two towns, Capri and high above it, Anacapri. The lower town is where to find smart shops and cafés full of people-watchers hoping to spot a celebrity. Anacapri is the site of the lovely Villa San Michele and its gardens.

One of the top things to do on Capri is a trip to the Blue Grotto, a large flooded cave where reflected sunlight makes the water look as though it were lit from inside. At the other side of the island is the beautiful Marina Piccola, a tiny beach at the foot of the cliffs guarded by the craggy Faraglioni sea stacks.

Like Capri, the charming town of Sorrento seems to have been created for pleasure. The views, framed by candy-colored buildings and lemon trees, take in Naples and its bay, Mt. Vesuvius, and Capri. It's a town for strolling, sitting in cafés, and taking day trips to Capri, the Amalfi Coast, or Pompeii and Herculaneum.

Read More: From Rome to Capri: Best Ways to Get There

The five towns that cling to the steep, rocky Mediterranean coast north of La Spezia were almost impossible to reach by land until the railway connected them by tunneling through the headlands that separate them.

Today, the trail along the cliffs that locals once used to travel from town to town is one of Europe's greatest hikes; the shortest and widest of its sections, between Manarola and Riomaggiore is known as the Via dell'Amore, and has finally reopened after several years' closure due to a landslide.

Although hiking the trail is the goal of most tourists, don't overlook the pleasures of lingering in these little villages . Riomaggiore and Vernazza , with their narrow streets dropping down to tiny rock-bound harbors are the most filled with character, and despite its recent popularity with tourists, the Cinque Terre remains one of Italy's most appealing attractions.

The nearby towns of Pisa and Lucca are worth visiting while you're in Tuscany, the first for the exceptional Campo dei Miracoli complex and the other for its endearing charms.

The Leaning Tower of Pisa , actually the campanile for the adjacent cathedral, is a well-known Italian icon, and forms the centerpiece of a UNESCO World Heritage site that also includes the cathedral, baptistery, and Campo Santo.

The highlight of the impressive baptistery is Nicola Pisano's intricately carved free-standing pulpit, a masterpiece of Romanesque sculpture. Completing the ensemble is a museum displaying some of the most beautiful gold and silver work of the Middle Ages and Renaissance.

Nearby, Lucca is one of Europe's most charming towns to explore and enjoy, surrounded by wide walls whose top is a tree-lined park. Inside the walls are beautiful Romanesque and Tuscan Gothic churches, tower houses (one of which you can climb to the top), and a Roman arena that has been "fossilized" into an oval piazza.

The compact historic center of this former Roman stronghold is embraced by a deep curve in the Adige River. Dominating its heart is the remarkable well-preserved first-century Roman arena , scene of the world-renowned summer opera festival.

Several Roman arches are mixed among the medieval and Renaissance buildings, many of which show Verona's long history as part of the Venetian empire. Alongside the river stands the large Castelvecchio , a castle built in the 14th century, guarding a brick arched bridge, Ponte Scaligero.

For all its rich treasury of architecture and art, Verona's biggest claim to tourist fame is based on pure fiction. Verona was the setting for Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet , and over the past century, locals have obliged by creating homes, a balcony, and even a tomb for the fictional characters. These are some of the top things to see and do in Verona

In AD 79, Mt. Vesuvius erupted violently and suddenly, engulfing the thriving Roman city of Pompeii and encasing it for more than a millennium in six meters of ash and pumice-stone. The city remained frozen in time until excavations that began in the 18th century uncovered more than half of its buildings and public spaces.

The same eruption also engulfed the city of Herculaneum , but this time in molten lava, not ash. So instead of raining down and crushing buildings with its weight, the lava flowed in and filled the city from the ground up, supporting walls and ceilings as it rose, and preserving them in place.

Also preserved in this airtight seal were organic materials, such as wood, textiles, and food, giving a more complete picture of life in the first century. Details such as eating vessels and even food have been preserved as they were when the disaster struck.

Read More: Visiting Pompeii: Top Attractions, Tips & Tours

Combining dramatic mountain scenery with a wide choice of water sports and holiday amusements, Lake Garda is the most family-friendly of the Italian Lakes . Near Verona, Lake Garda is easy to reach by train, and close enough to be a day trip from Milan .

A favorite place to visit for families , Lake Garda is well supplied with low-key resorts and campgrounds, and at the southern end, the popular theme parks of Gardaland, Gardaland Sea-Life, and the movie-themed Caneva World are magnets for kids. The busiest area is along the southern shore, where there are several beaches with shallow water for young swimmers.

You can rent kayaks, paddle boards, and equipment for water sports at various places along the eastern and southern shores. Winds sweeping down from the mountains that rise sharply at the northern end of the lake make sailing popular there, and at Torbole you'll find some of Europe's best windsurfing and kitesurfing .

Lake Garda is not without tourist attractions to visit. The small town of Sirmione , almost an island at the end of a long peninsula on the southern shore, is approached through the gates of a small castle, which you can tour. Follow the only street past chic boutiques and souvenir stores (Sirmione is a popular place to go shopping) to the beautifully preserved ruins of a Roman villa and spa.

Farther north, Malcesine's castle clings to a rocky promontory above the lake, reached via narrow Medieval streets. For more mountain and lake views, ride the rotating cable car from Malcesine to the summit of Monte Baldo.

At its height in the 13th and 14th centuries, Siena rivaled Florence for its arts and culture, and it still has a wealth of art and architectural treasures. The highlight is the magnificent Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta , whose inlaid marble facade and striped bell tower stand dramatically among Siena's mostly red brick buildings. The cathedral interior is a museum of works by great artists and sculptors, including Donatello, Giovanni Pisano, Bernini, and Lorenzo Ghiberti.

But art treasures are just some of Siena's attractions . The winding medieval streets and broad plazas are inviting places to wander. Piazza del Campo is considered one of Europe's finest medieval public squares. Twice each summer, this gigantic, sloping main square is the scene of a chaotic horse race known as the Palio.

Renowned for its culinary skills and cuisine, as well as for its historic university (Europe's oldest), Bologna is the most appealing city to visit. The elegant arcades shelter the streets from the sun or rain, and beneath them are shops with their original century-old interiors. Follow Via Galleria to admire its old aristocratic mansions.

Life centers around the adjoining Piazza Maggiore and Piazza del Nettuno, where you'll find the magnificent 16 th -century Neptune Fountain and the still unfinished façade of the Basilica of San Petronius.

The other church to see is the atmospheric Santo Stefano, a complex of seven religious buildings built by the Benedictines from the 10th to 13th century. Its two leaning towers, Asinelli and Garisenda, are tall thin pillars of brick and stone, taller than the more famous one at Pisa. These are remnants of medieval times, when families had their own defensive towers attached to their homes.

Read More: Top Attractions & Places to Visit in Bologna

Home to six of Italy's top ski resorts , the jagged peaks of the Dolomites are spectacular at any season, whether the mountains are white with snow and ice, or rising dramatically above lush green Alpine meadows. The most famous town is Cortina d'Ampezzo , one of the top ski resorts in the world .

Other villages of wooden chalets are ski centers, too, and hidden deep in the valleys are more hamlets that curious tourists can discover by following the mountain roads that radiate from the Strada delle Dolomiti, the Dolomite Road .

This year-round route stretching from Bolzano to Cortina d'Ampezzo, is a continuing series of mountain views as it crosses the Passo Pordoi and passes the peaks of the Gruppo del Sella to reveal the Cinque Torri, five peaks overlooking Cortina.

Although the road snakes up and down the mountainsides in switchbacks, it is wide, well-paved, and free of the alarming drop-offs that make so many Alpine roads teeth-clenching experiences. You can pause the drive at several points to take gondola rides for even more breathtaking views of mountains in every direction.

Highlights are the forest-surrounded Lake Carezza, the waterfall in Canazei, and the tree-framed views from Passo di Costalunga. In inscribing the Dolomites as a World Heritage Site, UNESCO called the Dolomites "among the most attractive mountain landscapes in the world."

As the canals characterize Venice, and the Renaissance is the essence of Florence, in Naples, it's the sheer exuberance that will hold you spellbound. It's a boisterous place, its narrow streets filled with color, noise, and life.

You'll find plenty to see and do in Naples , in its treasure-filled churches, its magnificent palaces lavished in the riches of European royalty, and its premier archaeological museum displaying the finds from nearby Pompeii.

Join locals and stroll by the waterfront to savor views of Mt. Vesuvius across the bay, hop a ferry to the island of Capri or magical Sorrento, shop in the glass-domed Galleria Umberto I, and by all means, sample the pizza—Neapolitans claim to have invented it.

The island of Sicily has earned seven places on the UNESCO World Heritage Site list, three for its ancient sites, two for natural wonders, and two for architectural treasures. Some of the finest remaining examples of ancient structures are in Sicily: at Selinunte is one of the largest Greek temples; in Agrigento , at the Valley of Temples, is one of the three most perfect Greek temples anywhere; and the 3,500 square meters of mosaics at Villa Romana del Casale in Enna decorate one of the best-preserved villas in the entire Roman Empire.

Sicily's landscapes, crowned by Mt. Etna, and its spectacular golden-sand beaches match its world-class attractions.

The capital of Palermo is a vibrant city full of color and fine buildings. Nearby Monreale Cathedral is a masterpiece of Norman architecture, its walls covered by 6,340 square meters of the interior walls with intricate mosaics by artists from Constantinople and Sicily. Monreale stands today almost exactly as it was built in the 1100s, and is one of Sicily's top tourist attractions .

Most tourists visit Assisi as the home of St. Francis, and for the Franciscan sites that rose here to memorialize him. The Basilica di San Francesco was constructed over the saint's tomb in the early 13th century and is one of the world's most visited pilgrimage destinations.

Along with the Basilica, a pilgrimage includes other sites closely associated with the saint. The Renaissance church of Santa Maria degli Angeli was over St. Francis' oratory (Porziuàncola ) and the cell in which he died.

St Francis preached and prayed at the 12 th -century Cathedral of San Rufino , and the Gothic Basilica of Santa Chiara is dedicated to St. Clare, the disciple of St. Francis who founded the order of Poor Clares.

Religion is not the only draw for tourists to Assisi. The building and decoration of all these holy sites drew the finest artists of their day, making Assisi a center for the arts and leaving works by great artists that include Giotto and Cimabue. Assisi is a popular day trip from Florence , and there are several ways of getting to Assisi from Rome .

One of the great industrial cities of the north, Turin, unlike Milan, is relatively small and compact, and it's highlights are easy to explore on foot. There is a grandeur to its architecture and its formal layout, designed by the Savoys to show that they were as regal as any of Europe's royal families and could surround themselves with splendor that rivaled Paris.

Its arcaded squares and avenues and royal palaces right in the center set the tone, but that is not all of Turin's charm. A small medieval quarter, Roman sites, and entire neighborhoods of Art Nouveau lend variety, and a riverside park with a complete faux-medieval village prove that Turin doesn't take itself too seriously.

Don't miss the extraordinary Museum of Cinema in a skyscraper that was once a synagogue. Turin's contrasts will charm you—as will its coffee houses and grand cafés.

Read More: Top Tourist Attractions in Turin

This enigmatic Mediterranean island seems worlds apart from Italy, and is itself a land of stark contrasts. Best known for its glamorous Costa Smeralda, the jet-set paradise of luxury enclaves set against the emerald waters of the northeast coast, Sardinia has a lot more to offer adventurous tourists or even the sun-loving beach seeker.

The entire south is ringed with mile after mile of white-sand beaches , and the rugged interior is prime territory for hikers and climbers. Sardinia is a place for travelers who want to explore remote mountain villages, where old traditions not only survive but are a way of life.

The most enigmatic and fascinating attractions are the hundreds of mysterious round stone towers, known as Nuraghe, which dot the entire island and make Sardinia high on the list of unique places to visit in Italy. Prehistoric sites are everywhere and include these towers, sacred wells, "giants tombs," and other ancient structures. Entire Phoenician and Roman cities wait to be explored.

Read More: Top Attractions & Things to Do in Sardinia

This ancient city on the Adriatic is truly unique in Italy. Unlike any other, Ravenna's artistic origins are almost entirely Byzantine, and here you'll find Western Europe's finest collection of Byzantine mosaics , all in nearly pristine condition.

In the sixth century, Ravenna was the seat of the king Theodoric the Great, who was raised in Constantinople, and it became a center for mosaic artistry that reached its zenith here.

Seven buildings decorated with some of the finest examples of mosaic art are included in a UNESCO World Heritage Site. See all of them, but above all don't miss the early 5th-century Neonian Baptistery; the impressive interior of San Vitale; and the jewel-like Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, which UNESCO calls "one of the most artistically perfect" and best preserved of all mosaic monuments.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Ravenna

If Puglia were less remote, it would be one of the country's best-known tourist destinations. Picturing Italy as a boot, Puglia forms the heel — a long stiletto heel reaching southeast into the Adriatic Sea.

The capital city of Lecce is filled with Baroque architecture, magnificent churches with facades intricately carved in local golden limestone. At the very tip of the heel is the Salento, a largely pristine coast of rocky cliffs, soaring headlands, and beaches in the deep coves between them. On the Salento's western shore, some of Italy's most beautiful beaches stretch in kilometers of golden sand.

The eastern shore is protected by the Parco Naturale Regionale Costa Otranto. Its picturesque village of Otranto (see the mosaics in its 12th-century church) is the gateway to the pristine blue-flag beaches on Baia dei Turchi . From the 15th-century castle, you can see across the Adriatic to the mountains of Albania.

At Alberobello, you can see the picturesque villages of trulli, little conical-roofed houses that now constitute a UNESCO World Heritage Site . You can make one of these little houses your home while you tour the region.

Riches from its maritime past have left the port city of Genoa with a rich legacy of Italy's most splendid noble palaces. Dating from the 16 th and 17th centuries, these marble showcases of Italian art and architecture are Genoa's prime tourist attractions and are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

But don't overlook the steep, atmospheric streets of the old sailors' quarter above the Old Harbor, or the Aquarium and the Maritime Museum , both overlooking the harbor. One of Europe's best aquariums, it holds more than 10,000 aquatic animals in a state-of-the-art facility that replicates their natural environments; the Maritime Museum is also a draw for families, as it brings the age of sail to life for children.

Take advantage of the numerous funiculars to navigate the city's steep terrain, and don't miss the chance to sample some of Italy's finest cuisine.

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Where to Go from Rome: For a break from the bustle of Rome, you can easily spend a day exploring gardens and attractions in Tivoli , and even farther with the help of our page From Rome to Capri: 5 Best Ways to Get There . For even more suggestions, refer to our page on the Top-Rated Day Trips from Rome .

Where to Go near Florence: You don't have to travel far to find many of the top tourist attractions in Tuscany . Travel west to the lovely walled city of Lucca , and only a little farther to see the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa, with its cathedral and baptistery. South of Florence is Siena, where our Visitor's Guide to the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta will lead you to its greatest treasures.

Where to Go from Venice: The Veneto region is filled with exciting places to visit, such as nearby Padua . The villas of Andrea Palladio are the top tourist attractions in Vicenza , and not far beyond are historic Verona and beautiful Lake Garda .

More on Italy

18 Absolute Best Places to Visit in Italy (+ Map & Planning Tips)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: February 4, 2024

Planning your first trip to Italy and wondering what are the best places to visit ? This article should help you decide what to see and where to go in Italy, even though the choice might look overwhelming at first.

Italy is one of the most beautiful countries in the world and one of our favorite places that we return to again and again. History, architecture, bustling cities, charming villages, beaches, islands, mountains… Not even to mention the food, wine, and friendly people… This country is incredibly diverse and has so much more to offer than you’d ever be able to do in one trip…

Even after so many trips to Italy , we feel like we just scratched the surface of this incredible country. There is just so much to see and do!

In this article, we share the very best places to see in Italy. This list is not just about the best Italian cities . As beautiful as they are, there is so much more to Italy than its major cities! In this guide, you’ll also find the most stunning Italian regions and islands, coastal areas and picturesque little towns, but also the most beautiful nature and jaw-dropping sceneries.

These are one by one amazing destinations that are each worth a trip from the other side of the world. You cannot go wrong with any of these places! But combine a couple of them together and you’re in for a real treat – one of the best trips you can ever make. Find out!

READ ALSO: 2-Weeks Italy Itinerary

How to use this map:  Use your computer mouse (or fingers) to zoom in or out. Click on the icons to get more information about each place. Click the arrow on the top left corner for the index. Click the star next to the map’s title to add it to your Google Maps account. To view the saved map on your smartphone or PC, open Google Maps, click the menu and go to ‘Your Places’/’Maps’. If you want to print the map or see it in a bigger window, click on ‘View larger map’ in the top right corner.

Here are the best places to visit in Italy:

The Eternal City is an absolute must when visiting Italy for the first time! Without any doubt, Rome is one of the most beautiful cities in the world.

I often refer to Rome as the city-museum. And it sure feels like the entire place is one huge open-air museum! Every street, every building, every town square, every park, every church, and every monument breathes centuries-old history.

It’s an incredible experience to see all that art, architecture, and history that you previously only saw in books or in the movies.

No matter how much time you have planned in Italy, you really have to include Rome in your Italy itinerary !

Not to be missed: Colosseum , Roman Forum, Palatine Hill, the Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps, Piazza Navona, the Vatican with St. Peter’s Basilica and Sistine Chapel, St. Angelo Bridge and Castel Sant’Angelo, Capitoline Hill.

Nice to see: Campo de’ Fiori market, Trastevere district, Circus Maximus, Baths of Caracalla (and many other Ancient Rome landmarks ), Piazza Venezia, Piazza del Popolo, Borghese Gallery, the Appian Way, Aventine Hill, Belvedere del Gianicolo, and many many more.

TIP: Try to also visit at least a few of the nicest viewpoints in Rome . Many of them are located just next to the most popular sights, and so it’s quite easy to add a few of these to your itinerary.

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in Rome

How much time do you need: One full day is an absolute minimum in Rome and – if you plan your 1-day Rome itinerary well – you can get a glimpse of all the main sights. If you want to see all the best places in the city and not just take a picture of the exteriors and rush through everything, plan at least 2-3 days . If you want to explore deeper and get off the beaten path in Rome, you can easily spend 5-7 days in the city.

TIP: Take a look at our suggested 4 days Rome itinerary – it covers all the main landmarks and lots of amazing lesser-known places that will make your trip so much more memorable. See also our guide to the best neighborhood to stay in Rome .

Best time to visit: Rome is a year-round destination, but the best time weather-wise is April-May and September-October. It’s really hot in July and August making it difficult to appreciate the sights. For fewer crowds and cooler weather, consider the shoulder months such as March or November. Read also what it’s like to visit Rome in November .

LEARN MORE: Tips for Planning a Trip to Rome

There are few places in the world that speak to one’s imagination as Venice does. Without any doubt, Venice is one of the must-see places in Italy!

The entire city of Venice and its lagoon with 118 small islands is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. And when you see it, you’ll understand why. The whole town is an architectural masterpiece!

The best way to explore Venice is on foot, so prepare to walk. A lot. Stroll the narrow streets, cross hundreds of bridges, and take the time to admire the details of medieval buildings and stunning gothic palazzi (palaces). You should also take a gondola ride! Not only does it give a very different perspective of the city, but it’s also a real bucket list experience.

Not to be missed: Venice canals and Venetian gondola ride , St. Mark’s Square, St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace , Grand Canal, Rialto Bridge, Bridge of Sighs , and the pedestrian waterfront promenade Riva degli Schiavoni.

Nice to see: Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute and an excursion to the nearby islands of Burano and Murano . Libreria Acqua Alta, Campo San Polo, Jewish Ghetto, San Giorgio Maggiore Island, and many churches of Venice. Also La Fenice opera house.

How much time do you need: One day is enough to see the main landmarks of Venice (here’s how to see the best of Venice in one day) . If you make it a very long day, you can even take a short excursion to the nearby islands Murano, Burano, and Torcello. For a more relaxed experience, plan at least two days for all the sights in Venice and the nearby islands. If you want to explore the city deeper, plan 3-4 days. See here a suggested itinerary for 3 days in Venice with tips from a local.

READ ALSO: Best Things to Do in Venice

3. Florence

A trip to Italy, especially for those visiting for the first time, involves visiting lots of cities and towns. And even if you’re not a big fan of city trips, there is one more city that you absolutely should see in Italy, and that’s Florence ( Firenze ).

Florence, the capital city of the Tuscany region, is considered the cradle of the Renaissance. It’s here that you’ll find works of Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and many others. The old city center is quite compact, but it’s packed with incredible masterpieces of Renaissance art and architecture.

Not to be missed: Duomo (Florence Cathedral), Baptistery of St. John, Uffizi Gallery, Ponte Vecchio, Palazzo Vecchio and Piazza della Signoria, and the view from Piazzale Michelangelo. Michelangelo’s ‘David’ at the Galleria dell’Accademia.

Nice to see: Palazzo Pitti and Boboli Gardens, Basilica di San Lorenzo and San Lorenzo Market, Piazza Santo Spirito, Basilica of Santa Croce, and the views from the best rooftops in Florence .

How much time do you need: One day is enough to quickly see the ‘musts’ of Florence (see 1 day Florence itinerary ). If you want to visit more museums and explore deeper, then you’ll definitely want to spend at least two days here. Plan an extra day for a tour to the Tuscan countryside (more info below).

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in Florence

Italy has 20 regions and, in all honesty, they are all worth a visit. However, if you are traveling to Italy for the very first time, Tuscany is one of the nicest regions to visit. Not only because it’s conveniently located between Rome, Venice, and Milan, but also because it has so much to offer.

Tuscany is home to some of the most beautiful towns in Italy. Florence, Siena, Pisa, Lucca, San Gimignano, Volterra, Prato, Arezzo – all these towns are worth a visit! And there are many, many more…

Tuscany is also known for its picturesque landscapes with rolling hills and winding roads lined with cypress trees. It’s also a great destination for foodies and wine lovers. Some of the best Italian wines are produced in Tuscany! Even if you are not visiting the wineries, make sure to try Brunello di Montalcino and Chianti wines at the local restaurants.

Not to be missed: Florence (see above), Siena (and the impressive Siena Cathedral ), Pisa (see further below), and the stunning landscapes of Val d’Orcia. See also our guide to the best towns in Tuscany .

Nice to see: Lucca, San Gimignano, Montepulciano , Volterra, Pienza, Prato, Arezzo, and the wineries.

How much time do you need: You need at least 2 days for Tuscany – one day in Florence, and one (very packed) day for Siena, San Gimignano, Pisa, and Chianti. If you want to see so much in such a short time, consider this tour that visits all the main highlights in one day.

Ideally, you spend at least 3-4 days in Tuscany as that will give you more time to enjoy all the main sights in a more relaxed way. If you have enough time, I recommend a week in Tuscany. There’s just so much to see and do!

LEARN MORE: Best Towns in Tuscany & Tuscany Itinerary

5. Cinque Terre

No list of the best places to visit in Italy would be complete without mentioning Cinque Terre . This coastal area is so scenic that it’s hard to believe that it’s real!

Cinque Terre is the collective name of five picturesque hillside towns along the coast of the Italian Riviera in the Liguria region. The 5 Cinque Terre towns are Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza, and Monterosso al Mare.

These colorful towns are perched between the azure-blue sea on one side and the steep hills dotted with vineyards on the other side. This means that you can’t easily get to Cinque Terre by car and the best way to visit is by boat, by train, or by hiking the Cinque Terre trail between the villages. For more practical information, please check our travel tips for visiting Cinque Terre .

Not to be missed: Manarola, Vernazza, and Riomaggiore.

Nice to see: Corniglia and Monterosso al Mare. Also, the nearby Portovenere and the Gulf of Poets are well worth your time!

How much time do you need: You can see the best of Cinque Terre in one day (also as a day tour from Florence ). If you want to explore deeper and also see some of the stunning coastal areas nearby, plan 2-3 days here.

LEARN MORE: One Day in Cinque Terre & Where to Stay in Cinque Terre

6. Amalfi Coast

The Amalfi Coast in the Campania region is another popular tourist destination in Italy. This area stretches between Sorrento and Salermo and has some of the most beautiful coastal landscapes in Italy. The rugged coastline is dotted with colorful fishing villages and small beaches. It looks like a real-life painting. The Amalfi Coast is also a very popular vacation destination.

The main attractions of this area are the coastal towns of Positano , Amalfi , and Ravello . But also Sorrento and Naples are must-see, just like the famous Mount Vesuvius volcano .

The nearby Capri Island with the famous Blue Grotto and charming Anacapri should also be on your list! Nature and outdoor enthusiasts will love the coastal hike Path of the Gods .

Nearby, you’ll also find the ruins of Pompeii , the ancient city that was buried by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 A.D. It’s one of the most interesting places to visit for those who would like to learn more about Roman times.

Not to be missed: Scenic drive along the Amalfi Coast and its three main towns Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello (can also be visited with a day tour ). Also Pompeii is among the top sights in Italy. Capri Island and the Blue Grotto.

Nice to see: Sorrento, Herculaneum, Mt Vesuvius, and the Path of the Gods hike.

How much time do you need: One day is enough to get a taste of what the Amalfi Coast is about. If you have two days, you can also visit Capri. Or you can also spend a week or two here and never get bored… If you want to explore all the main highlights of the Amalfi Coast at a leisurely pace, we recommend at least 3-5 days in the area. Here you can find our guide on where to stay on the Amalfi Coast and here is our guide to the best areas to stay in Naples .

LEARN MORE: Amalfi Coast Itinerary & Amalfi Coast Travel Tips

TIP: You can visit Pompeii and the Amalfi Coast on a day trip from Rome with an organized tour . It will be rushed, but well worth it!

READ ALSO: Amalfi Coast vs. Cinque Terre: which is nicer?

7. Lake Garda

Lake Garda is one of our personal favorite places in Italy. Lake Garda is located in northern Italy, about halfway between Venice and Milan, and can easily be incorporated in your Italy itinerary. It is one of the most scenic lakes in the world and absolutely worth a visit!

Lake Garda is a very big lake. If you want to drive all the way around it, it’s a 150 km (93 miles) drive that would take at least 3-4 hours without any stops or traffic. The best way to explore the lake is by taking a ferry between various towns, but driving the scenic road all the way around the lakes is also an unforgettable experience.

Along the shores of Lake Garda, you’ll find some stunning towns and picturesque little villages. Most famous is the town of Sirmione at the south end of the lake. Malcesine , Limone Sul Garda , and Riva del Garda are also very much worth a visit, even if just to see the northern side of the lake. And there are many more places to explore, but that requires a lot more of your time.

Not to be missed: Sirmione (Castello di Sirmione, Grotte di Catullo, and a boat tour around the peninsula), Malcesine, and a boat ride on the northern end of the lake.

Nice to see: Limone Sul Garda, Riva del Garda, Desenzano del Garda, Garda, Peschiera del Garda, Salo, Bardolino, Torbole, Isola del Garda.

How much time do you need: You can see the main highlights of Lake Garda in one day (by car and/or boat or with a tour ). But you’ll need at least 2-3 days to explore this area a bit deeper. You can find more details in our Lake Garda itinerary suggestions for 1 to 3 days .

LEARN MORE: What to See at Lake Garda

8. Lake Como

Lake Como , just north of Milan, is another stunning lake that also deserves to be on any list of the best of Italy. It’s a place loved by the rich and the famous and you’ll find some grand villas dotting the shores of this lake.

Lake Como is set at the foot of the Alps, just near the border with Switzerland. Many places here have been used as filming locations for countless Hollywood movies. When you’ll see the scenery, you’ll understand why.

Como Lake is not as big as Lake Garda, but it’s quite long and has a very unique shape that looks like an upside-down letter Y. The roads around the lake aren’t very wide and it would take you a good part of the day to drive all around it. Instead, you can take a boat and easily explore the most interesting places in a day or two. There are also car ferries around the middle point of the lake, so you can easily explore the best places by car. Just beware that parking is very problematic.

The main town in this area is Como , located at the south end of the lake. Here you can also take a funicular to the mountain town of Brunate for stunning views of the surroundings. Other nice towns to visit are Bellagio (a must-see), Varenna , and Cernobbio . But the main attraction of Lake Como are its gardens and villas and especially Villa Carlotta and Villa Balbianello .

Not to be missed: Como town , a boat ride on the lake, Bellagio , Varenna , Villa Carlotta, and Villa Balbianello. Take a look at our guide to the best things to do in Lake Como for more info.

Nice to see: Brunate, Menaggio, Villa Olmo, Cernobbio, Lecco, Pescallo, and Ghisallo Pass… Take a look at our guide to the best towns of Lake Como for more details.

How much time do you need: You can see the best of Lake Como in one day, also with a day tour from Milan . You’ll need at least 2 full days if you also want to visit the two most beautiful villas. Count 3-4 days if you want to explore a bit deeper.

LEARN MORE: Info & Tips for Visiting Lake Como

9. Italian Dolomites

With so many incredible towns to visit in Italy, the country’s most beautiful natural attractions often get overlooked by first-time visitors. Don’t make this mistake! The Italian Dolomite Mountains are worth a trip from the other side of the world! The scenery here is simply phenomenal and I don’t say this lightly.

We’ve seen a lot of the world and some of the most incredible mountain scenery in Switzerland , Western Canada, New Zealand, or Norway to mention just a few. Yet, it took us years to get to the Italian mountains… After spending almost a month in this region over several different trips, I can say that it’s as beautiful as it gets.

No matter which mountain pass you drive, which gondola ride you choose, or which hike you make, you’ll find the most remarkable landscapes in the Dolomites!

Not to be missed: Hard to say because every place is so beautiful. The most popular areas for first-time visitors are Val Gardena and Cortina d’Ampezzo with the iconic 3 peaks Tre Cime di Lavaredo . Also the lakes Pragser Wildsee (Lake Braies) and Lake Sorapis are stunning. Marmolada , the highest mountain range of the Dolomites, is also considered a must.

READ ALSO: Best Places to Visit in the Dolomites in Italy

Nice to see: Everything! Check out the Cinque Torri area that offers stunning mountain views and easy access to some incredible Great War sites. Also the mountains of the nearby Trentino region are really beautiful. Check out Val di Fumo , a spectacular place that’s still under the radar of most international tourists.

READ ALSO: Most Beautiful Lakes in the Italian Dolomites

How much time do you need: You can get a glimpse of the Dolomites in a day if you take a guided tour with a local guide. There are day tours from Bolzano, from Venice, or from Lake Garda. But if you are traveling in summer and love hiking, plan at least 5-6 days in the area. Stay in Val Gardena for a few days and be sure to spend several days in the Cortina d’Ampezzo area as well (see our guide to the best places to stay in the Dolomites ).

We’ve been to the Dolomites several times and will definitely go back again. There is just so much to see that you could spend many vacations here!

LEARN MORE: Dolomites Itinerary

Good to know: In winter, you can ski in the Dolomites. There are countless ski resorts in the South Tyrol and Trentino regions. And in summer, it’s a paradise for hiking and other outdoor activities!

READ ALSO: Best Hikes in the Dolomites

One more beautiful town that I feel deserves a mention on this list of the very best places to see in Italy is Verona . World-famous as being the setting for Shakespeare’s ‘Romeo and Juliet’, Verona is known as Italy’s most romantic city. But there is so much more to it than just Juliet’s tiny balcony!

Verona is a very old town with a rich history and beautiful architecture. Its most famous attraction is the 1st-century Roman amphitheater. You can visit it inside during the day or get tickets for one of the many concerts and performances in the evening. There is always something happening here!

The town is compact and you can see a lot in a short time. Stroll around the old town, get just a bit off the beaten tourist path, and you’ll find a great atmosphere of a real Italian town that’s often hard to find in many other most popular towns and cities in Italy.

Not to be missed: Verona Arena, Piazza delle Erbe, Torre dei Lamberti, and Juliet’s House & Balcony.

Nice to see: Castelvecchio, Ponte Scaligero, Piazza dei Signori, Arche Scaligere, and the views from Castel San Pietro.

How much time do you need: Half a day is enough for the main highlights of Verona. If you have one full day in the city, you can cover most of its best attractions. In two days, you can see the best of Verona plus take a tour of the nearby vineyards .

TIP: You can visit Verona as well as Lake Garda as a day trip from Milan . There are also tours from Venice .

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in Verona

For many years, I was convinced that Milan was not as beautiful or worth a visit as most other Italian cities. However, my recent visit proved me wrong. Milan is a fascinating city and one of the very few places in Italy where history and modern-day life go so well together. I can’t compare it to any other Italian city as none of them have the same vibe as you’ll find in Milan.

Milan is a bit of a rough diamond and you have to make some effort to explore deeper in order to truly appreciate it. But even if you just visit for a day and focus on the main tourist attractions, it’s still well worth a visit!

Not to be missed: Duomo and Duomo Terraces, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, and ‘The Last Supper’ by Leonardo da Vinci (book months in advance or take a tour !).

Nice to see: Sforzesco Castle, La Scala, Milan canals, Brera & Braidense National Library, Porta Nuova district.

How much time do you need: One day is enough for the main landmarks of Milan (see this guide for more info: one day in Milan ). If you have more time, I suggest taking a day tour to Lake Como .

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in Milan

12. Italian Riviera

Italian Riviera is a beautiful coastal area of the Liguria region in western Italy. It’s best known for the picturesque coastal villages of Cinque Terre (mentioned above) and the luxury holiday resort for the rich and the famous – Portofino. But also here, there is so much more to see and do!

This part of Italy is just as beautiful as, say the Amalfi Coast, but you won’t find many tourist groups here. It’s more a place for a repeat trip to Italy than for those visiting the country for the first time and so many tourists never get to see more of this region beyond Cinque Terre. Yet, I think it surely deserves a visit if you can squeeze another day or two in your Italian itinerary.

The biggest city in this area is Genoa, but if you have to choose one or the other, I find that the coastal towns are worth your time more.

Not to be missed: Portofino, Cinque Terre, Camogli (featured image on top of this article).

Nice to see: Genoa, Santa Margherita Ligure, Portovenere.

How much time do you need: You need at least one day for Cinque Terre (see #5 above) and at least one day for Portofino, Santa Margherita Ligure, and Camogli. If you also want to visit Portovenere and Genoa, you’ll need at least 4 days in this region and it will be rushed.

LEARN MORE: Most Beautiful Towns of the Italian Riviera

One of the most unique cities in Italy, Naples , is totally different from any other place in Italy! It’s noisy and crowded, but it’s also home to some of the most interesting historical sights and landmarks. Not even to mention that Naples is the birthplace of pizza. So a visit here is your chance to try the original Italian pizza, as it’s supposed to be.

No matter what you might have heard of Naples, don’t doubt for a second – the city is absolutely worth a visit! Ideally, you combine a trip here with that to the earlier-mentioned Amalfi Coast. But Naples is a fascinating destination in itself!

There is so much to see and do in and near Naples that you’ll have to be really selective about where to go, especially if your time in the area is limited.

Not to be missed: Historic city center (the area around Spaccanapoli and Via dei Tribunali), the Veiled Christ at Sansevero Chapel, National Archaeological Museum, Santa Chiara Monastery, Gesu Nuovo Church, and the views from Castel Sant’Elmo.

Nice to see: Naples Underground, Naples Catacombs, Piazza del Plebiscito, Royal Palace of Naples, Cathedral, Castel Nuovo, Ovo Castle, Via San Gregorio Armeno, Spanish Quarter.

How much time do you need: You need at least one day in Naples in order to see some of the musts. Ideally, you plan at least 2-3 days for the city, plus a few days for its surroundings including a visit to places like Pompeii, Herculaneum, Mt Vesuvius, or the Royal Palace of Caserta. See our guide to the best day trips from Naples for more information about all these places.

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in Naples & Naples – Amalfi Coast Itinerary for 10 Days

The centuries-old rival town of Florence, Pisa is another place that most people consider a must-see in Italy. And it’s well worth a trip, even if just to see the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa!

It seems that everyone in the world has seen the famous Pisa Tower (even if just on a pizza box of a local pizzeria in your hometown). But not many people know that there is so much more to see in Pisa than its tower.

Piazza dei Miracoli (Square of Miracles) certainly does its name justice! The architecture here is stunning. Most buildings here date from the 11th and 12th centuries. Don’t miss the Duomo, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, the Baptistery, and the graveyard.

After a visit here, make sure to also visit the city center of Pisa. You’ll find a very pleasant Italian town with more locals than tourists, trendy cafes, restaurants, and nice little shops. When you come here from the busy Piazza dei Miracoli, you won’t believe this is the same town.

Not to be missed: Piazza dei Miracoli with the leaning tower of Pizza.

Nice to see: Pisa town center.

How much time do you need: Half a day is enough for the main highlights and a visit to the city center. You can take a guided tour that covers all the main places in about 2 hours .

TIP: Because it doesn’t require that much time, Pisa is often visited as a half-day trip from Florence or in combination with other places nearby. For example, you can take a day tour from Florence that combines Pisa, Siena, and San Gimignano or a day tour that visits Pisa and Cinque Terre from Florence .

There are also day tours from Rome that visit Pisa and Florence in a day and many other options. In other words, it’s really easy to include Pisa in your itinerary when planning a trip to Italy.

15. Emilia Romagna

Probably one of the most underrated regions in northern Italy, Emilia Romagna is a true hidden gem just waiting to be discovered!

If this place was anywhere else in the world, it would be overrun by tourists. But surrounded by such grand neighbors as Venice, Milan, and Italian Lakes in the north, coastal areas of the Italian Riviera in the west, and Tuscany in the south, Emilia Romagna is often overlooked by most first-time visitors.

However, if you are looking to discover the more authentic side of Italy, you should really consider visiting at least a couple of places in this region. Emilia Romagna is like the best of Italy in one, but without as many tourists. It truly has it all: rich history, stunning architecture, art, beautiful beaches, lively towns, and lovely landscapes. Furthermore, Emilia Romagna offers some of the very best food in the whole of Italy.

Not to be missed: Ravenna , Bologna .

Nice to see: Rimini , Parma, Ferrara, Modena.

How much time do you need: You’ll need at least one day for Bologna (you can easily visit Bologna from Florence for a day too) and at least half a day for Ravenna. If you have more time, you can easily fill 4-5 days in this region.

LEARN MORE: Emilia Romagna Itinerary & Best Things to Do in Bologna

TIP: If you find yourself planning a trip to this part of Italy, make sure to also plan a day for San Marino . While technically not part of Italy, it definitely deserves a mention and a visit!

San Marino is a tiny Republic surrounded by the Emilia Romagna region in Italy. It’s a real fairytale-like destination and well worth your time.

Pro tip: Plan to stay at least one night in one of the San Marino hotels so that you can explore this magical place without the crowds of day-trippers.

LEARN MORE: San Marino

Puglia (Apulia) is a beautiful region in southern Italy, right at the ‘heel’ of this boot-shaped country. Apulia is probably best known internationally for its trulli houses. Trulli are dry stone huts with a conical roof only found in this part of Italy and mostly in Alberobello town and the Itria Valley. These houses are typically painted white, while the roofs are left grey.

If you are looking for more authentic places to visit in Italy, then you should definitely consider this lesser-known region. It has some incredibly beautiful areas and just a fraction of the number of tourists compared to the surrounding regions.

A visit here is about the colors, the smells, the tastes that somehow feel stronger than anywhere else. It feels as if time passes slower here and so this is a wonderful part of Italy for those who like to travel deeper and are looking for more local experiences.

Not to be missed: Trulli houses in Alberobello, Promontorio del Gargano (a scenic drive along the coast following the ‘heel’ between Peschici and Manfredonia).

Nice to see: the 13th century octagonal-shaped Castel del Monte, Lecce that’s often called ‘Florence of the South’, Bari, Cathedral of Trani, Cathedral of Otranto, Taranto, Grotte di Castellana.

How much time do you need: You’ll need a day to explore the Terra dei Trulli and at least half a day for the scenic drive at the Gargano NP. The rest really depends on what you’re planning to visit.

Sicily is not only the largest island of Italy but also of the whole Mediterranean region. The island has nice beaches and breathtaking scenery, and it’s also very rich in history. You can even find ancient temples dating to the 5th-6th centuries BC (don’t miss Agrigento’s Valley of the Temples!).

One of the main attractions of the island is Mount Etna, Europe’s largest and most active volcano. You can visit the volcano with various tours – by jeep, hiking, etc.

Sicily is also a great region for foodies as it has its own distinct cuisine. Sicilian food has been influenced a lot by its history and you’ll find dishes influenced by French, Greek, Arabic, and North African cuisines. Different regions within Sicily can have very different food as well.

TIP: If you’d like to get to know more about Sicilian food and taste a big variety of it, you may want to consider a local food tour . There are some really good tours in all the bigger towns.

Not to be missed: Mount Etna, Valley of the Temples, Taormina (and the nearby villages where The Godfather was filmed), Syracuse (Siracusa), and Palermo.

Nice to see: Villa Romana del Casale in Piazza Armerina, Catania, Monreale, and Erice and Segesta.

How much time do you need: You can see the highlights of Sicily in 3-5 days, but you can easily spend a week or two here as well.

18. Sardinia

Just a little bit smaller than Sicily, Sardinia is also a big island that is a good vacation destination in itself. It has some nice places for sightseeing, but it’s also a popular vacation island with azure-blue waters, rugged coastlines, and dreamy white-sand beaches. It’s a great place to experience the Italian dolce far niente , the sweetness of doing nothing!

If you are looking for a more active holiday, you’ll find plenty to see and do as well. The island interior is mountainous and there are some nice hiking trails here. There are also nice little towns, archeological sites, and little islands to visit…

Sardinia is very different from the rest of Italy, with its own unique culture and food. It offers a lot of diversity in activities, sights, and sceneries and so it’s a great vacation destination for those who want to combine a beach holiday with some sightseeing.

Not to be missed: Costa Smeralda and its La Madalena Archipelago. Nuraghi, fortress-like tower ruins shaped like beehives. One of the oldest nuraghi (1500 BC) is Su Nuraxi in Barumini.

Nice to see: Cagliari, Alghero, and countless beaches.

How much time do you need: You can see some of the main highlights of Sardinia in 2-3 days, but it would be a pity to fly to this island just to tick the box on your Italy bucket list… If you are looking for a more relaxing vacation and want to enjoy the beautiful beaches, you can easily spend a few weeks here.

TIP: If you are thinking of visiting Sardinia, but are not sure where to start, take a look at Strictly Sardinia , a website by my Italian friend Claudia. Sardinia local, she shares all the top tips to help you plan an unforgettable trip.

READ ALSO: Tips & Useful Info for Traveling to Europe

So, this is my list of the absolute best places in Italy. As you can see, many of these destinations can be like a trip in itself, while some others can be visited in just a day or even less.

I hope that these suggestions will help you plan a dream trip to Italy! No matter where you go and how much time you spend, one thing you can be sure of – you’ll want to come back!

For more detailed destination guides and practical tips for your trip to Italy, please check our other articles on the blog via this link: Italy itinerary for 2 weeks . This itinerary covers many of the very best places in Italy in the most efficient way.

READ ALSO: How to Plan a Trip to Europe (+Top Tips)

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Sunday 30th of July 2023

Good afternoon, I was wondering if you have 3 - 4 wks itineraries for Italy? I have already visited the touristy places and would love to visit other regions. Thank you!

Tuesday 1st of August 2023

Hi Carmen, no, we don't have any sample itineraries for a longer duration as the possibilities would be endless. As you say, you already visited many popular places, so you'll never find an itinerary that's perfect for you because most itineraries will most definitely include some of the most popular areas. I also can't imagine you have visited all the 'touristy places' in Italy either ;). We have been to Italy dozens of times and still just scratched the surface of all there is to see... You can spend 3-4 weeks in the Dolomites alone and still not see everything... The best way to plan a trip is pick a few areas that interest you the most and then spend a few days in each exploring it deeper. Good luck with the planning.

Bruce Ogilvie

Wednesday 14th of June 2023

We are travelling to Italy this September. Thanks for your Italy article. Very helpful. Please inform us of where to stay in Florence. $$ and $$$ please. 3 or 4 stars. What area or neighborhood?

Hi Bruce, you can find some information on the best area to stay and our hotel recommendations for Florence in this article. If you are traveling any time soon, book ASAP! Have a great trip!

Tammy Hamilton

Friday 3rd of March 2023

What if you want to do it in three weeks? What do you recommend and how to travel and where to stay

Hi Tammy, take a look at our Italy itinerary for 2 weeks. It has so many additional recommendations that you can easily make it 3 weeks or more. You could start with Naples/Amalfi Coast for 3-4 days, then Rome for 3 days, then Florence (+Tuscan countryside/Cinque Terre/Pisa) for another 3-4 days, Bologna for a day or two, Venice for 2-3 days, Verona for a day, Lake Garda for 2-3 days, Lake Como for 1-4 days, and end with a day or two in Milan. It's just one of the gazillion ways to do it. Once again, take a look at the itinerary I linked to above. It has all the details and suggestions. If I ever find the time, I might publish some more recommendations, but there are so many possibilities that it's really difficult to recommend 'the best' itinerary. Good luck with the planning!

Tuesday 21st of February 2023

What is the best spot/address to take cypress tress picture in Tuscany. The one you have in this post. Thanks.

Sunday 26th of February 2023

Hi Ramesh, there are quite a few places in Tuscany where you will find similar views. The problem is that what you see in reality is often much further away than in the pictures. So if you are looking to take pictures like that - and depending on the place - you'll need a good telephoto lens. Anyway, this picture is from Crete Senesi not far from Siena. There are a few places indicated with this name on Google Maps and they are all quite scenic. If you are looking for this exact spot, you can find it here. Be aware though that it's usually full of people taking pictures, especially at sunset, so it's not as idyllic as it may look in the photos.

Thursday 2nd of February 2023

Hi we plan to have ten days to venice dolomite como and portofino . Where should we start first and how long for every place.any recommendations for the best transportation through this journey. Do you have any recommendations for hotel and restaurant too thank you

Friday 3rd of February 2023

Hi Miley, what you are asking are detailed suggestions for an entire trip itinerary. Unfortunately, I really have no time to offer this service to our readers. Creating a good itinerary for a trip like this takes many hours and everyone has different interests, flies to different airports, travels in different seasons, etc. etc. You might find some inspiration in our 2-week Italy itinerary that has all the details. But it doesn't cover all the areas that you want to see. We do, however, have plenty of articles on our blog that covers all the areas that you want to see in great detail. You can find a lot of them linked in this article, and otherwise, take a look at the overview on our Italy travel page. Good luck with the planning and have a great trip!

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Compass & Pine

The Ultimate Travel Guide

The 25 Best Places to Visit in Italy

Italy is a country that is rich in history and culture. There are so many places to visit it can be hard to know where to start. In this article, we will provide a guide for travelers on the 20 best places to visit in Italy. From bustling cities to stunning coastal towns, there is something for everyone. Plus, we’ll give you tips on traveling with kids and how long you should spend in each city. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your Italian vacation today!

Cinque Terre

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Florence is the capital city of Tuscany that is brimming with art and history. It was the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance, and there are plenty of places to learn about this period of time.

It is home to some of the world’s most famous museums, such as the Uffizi Gallery and the Accademia Gallery. Both of which hold works from the most impressive masters of the western world:

• Michelangelo

Be sure to visit and climb the impressive Duomo at the heart of the city. The views atop the dome are some of the best in Italy, and the dome’s interior is decorated with Giorgio Vasari’s elaborate portrayal of heaven and hell .

What Should I See in Florence? Uffizi Gallery, Accademia Gallery, Duomo, Baptistery, Ponte Vecchio, and the Boboli Gardens.

When Should I Visit Florence? Spring or fall. The summer gets hot and is packed with other tourists.

Traveling to Florence with kids: Florence is a great place to travel with kids. In between climbing towers and the duomo, be sure to stop by and grab some delicious gelato and walk through the Boboli Gardens.

How Much Time Should You Spend in Florence? While you could see the Duomo and the Uffizi Gallery in a single day, we recommend a minimum of three or four days. This will give you enough time to visit the highlights and take your time around this amazing city. Honestly, though, I could spend a lifetime in Florence. It is my favorite Italian city!

There is no doubt that Rome is one of the most popular places to visit in Italy. Over 10 million people make the trek to the Eternal City each year!

This ancient city is home to some of the world’s most famous landmarks, such as the Colosseum and the Vatican. The best part is Rome acts as one large open-air museum. You could see most of the top sights without paying a dime (except for flying and staying there, of course).

You can see the exterior of the Colosseum, Castel Sant’Angelo, and the Vatican just by walking around the city center. Some of the most important sites in Rome, including UNESCO World Heritage sites, are free to visit:

• Piazza Navona
• Spanish Steps
• Trevi Fountain
• Roman Forum
• Altar of the Fatherland
• Palatine Hill
• Campo de’ Fiori
• Arch of Constantine

For the foodies out there, Rome has some of Italy’s best food. Make sure to try traditional dishes like carbonara and amatriciana. Trust us; it’s just as good as you’re envisioning.

Do You Love Art?

Heading to Rome but unsure which of the 60-plus museums to visit? Here’s our pick of the top 10 museums in Rome.

What Should I See in Rome? Colosseum, Vatican City, Trevi Fountain, Piazza Navona, Pantheon, and Borghese Museum. Walk around the city and see stunning cathedrals, places, and Renaissance architecture.

Heading to the Vatican? Find out who painted the Sistine Chapel ?

When Should I Visit Rome? Spring or fall. Avoid the summer heat and crowds.

Traveling to Rome with kids: Rome is a great place to travel with kids. There are plenty of kid-friendly activities, such as visiting the Vatican Museums, exploring the Roman Forum, or taking an underground tour of the Colosseum. If you’re looking for something a little more active, try biking one of Rome’s oldest roadways: the Appian Way.

How Much Time Should You Spend in Rome? While you could spend weeks exploring Rome, we recommend staying at least 3-5 days to see the highlights and taste the local culture. If you’re pressed for time, tourism companies offer jam-packed city tours that can be done in 4-6 hours but feel too rushed in our experience.

There is no place quite like Venice. This unique city is built on canals and is full of charming bridges and beautiful architecture.

For those that like to see a lot in a short amount of time, Venice should be at the top of your list of places to see in Italy. You can practically explore all of the top sights in just one day. Be sure to visit St. Mark’s Basilica, the Grand Canal, and the Rialto Bridge .

Interested in churches or architecture? We wrote a guide on the top 15 Venice cathedrals and churches you should see on your next visit.

Oh, and while you’re there, don’t forget to enjoy a ride in a gondola amongst the oldest buildings in Venice .

What Should I See in Venice? St. Mark’s Basilica, Grand Canal, Rialto Bridge, Piazza San Marco, Doge’s Palace, and the Venetian Ghetto.

When Should I Visit Venice? Spring or fall. Avoid the summer heat and crowds.

Traveling to Venice with kids: Venice can be a great place to travel with kids, regardless of age. Take a gondola ride, visit the dungeons of Doge’s Palace, and explore the unique creative art held in the Peggy Guggenheim Collection.

How Much Time Should You Spend in Venice? While you can see the major highlights in just 24 hours, we recommend a minimum of two days in Venice. This will give you enough time to explore the city, see all the highlights at a leisurely pace, and visit the neighboring islands of Murano , Burano , and Torcello .

Heading to Venice?

No Venetian trip is complete without visiting these top sights.

Milan is a fashion-forward city known for its high-end shopping. But there is more to Milan than just designer clothes and luxury brands.

Milan is home to some of the world’s best art, including Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper . Other highlights include the Duomo (shown above), the Sforza Castle, and the La Scala Opera House.

If you go to Milan expecting Rome or Florence, you’ll be let down. Milan takes some effort to experience and appreciate. It’s more industrial than other cities on our list and doesn’t feature as many “must-see” highlights. That said, Milan is still one of the best places to visit in Italy.

What Should I See in Milan? Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper (located in Santa Maria delle Grazie church), Duomo, Sforza Castle, La Scala Opera House, and the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II.

When Should I Visit Milan? Spring is the best time to visit Milan. Summer receives the most visitors, while Fall and Winter get fairly cold.

Traveling to Milan with kids: Of all the places on our list, Milan might be the least kid-friendly. While there are fun activities like climbing to the top of the Duomo, it’s more geared towards adults.

How Much Time Should You Spend in Milan? We recommend one or two days. This will give you enough time to see the highlights and do some shopping. We feel like Milan is a great place to see in between other cities, but maybe not a place you’d prioritize on your first visit to Italy.

Tuscany is a picturesque region of central Italy that is known for its rolling hills, cypress trees, and vineyards. This is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy some of Italy’s best food and wine. If you’re already visiting Siena, Florence, or Pisa, it’s well worth taking a day trip to the Tuscany countryside.

What Should I See in Tuscany? Go to neighboring hill towns like San Gimignano, Pienza, Montalcino, Montepulciano, and Volterra and visit a vineyard. Be sure to try Brunello di Montalcino and Chianti wines!

When Should I Visit Tuscany? Tuscany is beautiful year-round, but late Summer and Early Autumn are recommended since that is wine harvest season.

Traveling to Tuscany with kids: Tuscany isn’t the best spot for children. While it’s a nice break from the big cities on our list, the main highlight is exploring smaller towns and drinking wine.

How Much Time Should You Spend in Tuscany? Tuscany is a day-trip type of location. Rent a car or book a tour that leaves from Florence, and you’ll have a great time. If you’re really into trying a variety of wines from the region, then you could easily spend three-to-five days in the area.

Sienna is a hill town in central Italy known for its distinctive brick buildings and medieval architecture.

It gets compared to neighboring Florence regularly, but the comparison isn’t fair. If you’re heading to Sienna expecting Florence, then you’ll be let down.

Siena is a beautiful and quaint place for more leisurely activities, such as wandering the cobblestone streets and watching the sunset. If you’re more interested in relaxing and drinking wine than you are urban exploration, Sienna is one of the best places to visit in Italy.

Planning On Using Uber in Italy?

Uber in Italy isn’t as simple as you might expect. Here are some local alternatives and how to catch a cab.

What Should I See in Sienna? The Duomo, the Piazza del Campo, Torre del Mangia, and the Palazzo Pubblico.

When Should I Visit Sienna? Like most of Tuscany, it’s beautiful year-round.

Traveling to Sienna with kids: Sienna is a great place to travel with kids, as there are plenty of kid-friendly activities. Kids will love visiting the Duomo, exploring the Piazza del Campo, and learning about the city’s history.

How Much Time Should You Spend in Sienna? Sienna is a great city to visit if you are already spending time in other parts of central Italy. It’s fantastic for a day trip or overnight.

Lake Como is a stunning lake in northern Italy known for its scenic beauty, celebrity villas, and romantic charms.

It’s nestled at the foot of the Alps, just near the border with Switzerland. While not as large as Lake Garda (also on our list), it’s just as beautiful and offers some fantastic hiking if you’re up for the challenge.

The only downside to Lake Como is that it’s a bit of a tourist trap. Just as many people flock to Lake Como for its natural beauty as they do for the celebrities that have summer retreats here.

If you’re looking to experience the Italian Lake District and want to avoid large crowds, opt for Lake Garda instead.

What Should I See at Lake Como? The lakeside towns of Como, Bellagio, and Varenna.

When Should I Visit Lake Como? Lake Como is perfect year-round. It’s close enough to the mountains to offer some great skiing during the winter but is picture-perfect during the summer, spring, and autumn.

Traveling to Lake Como with kids: If you and your family is really into outdoor adventures, Lake Como is a great place to be. Go hiking nearby, rent a boat to explore the lakes, and take adventures to the local waterfalls in Orrido di Bellano.

How Much Time Should You Spend at Lake Como? It depends on what you want to do. If you’re just visiting the lakeside towns, a few days is enough. However, if you’re planning on doing some hiking or other activities, we recommend at least a week.

Chances are, if you picture a coastal Italian town in your head, it’s either Cinque Terre or the Amalfi Coast.

Cinque Terre is a group of five small villages on the Italian Riviera that offer dramatic coastlines, colorful houses, and tasty vineyards. Each town is beautiful, but the highlight is Manarola (pictured in the photo above). Manarola is so beautiful that it was a highlight in Italy’s tourism campaign.

What Should I See in Cinque Terre? All five villages: Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza, and Monterosso al Mare.

When Should I Visit Cinque Terre? Spring or fall. Avoid the summer heat and crowds.

Traveling to Cinque Terre with kids: Kids will love visiting the five villages, exploring the coastline, and hiking between all five villages (the trail is perfect for a day trip).

How Much Time Should You Spend in Cinque Terre? If you don’t think hiking or wine tasting is up your alley, you can make a long day trip from Florence (the train ride is about two and a half hours). If you want to hike or relax on the beach, it’s best to stay for a night or two.

Verona is a large city in northern Italy best known as the setting for Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. But there’s much more to see in Verona than just the balcony where Romeo professed his love. This city contains a first-century Roman amphitheater, medieval castles, and lovely gardens. It’s extremely underrated, and we didn’t see many other tourists while visiting.

Stroll around town, grab some gelato, and experience an Italian town not often visited by tourists.

What Should I See in Verona? The balcony of Juliet’s House, Ponte Scaligero, the Roman Arena, and the Castelvecchio Museum.

When Should I Visit Verona? Northern Italy can be fairly cold during the winter, so keep that in mind while planning your trip. Otherwise, Verona is beautiful year-round.

Traveling to Verona with kids: Kids love exploring the Roman Arena, visiting Juliet’s House, and seeing the medieval castle. Our niece liked climbing to the top of Torre dei Lamberti as well.

How Much Time Should You Spend in Verona? If you’re quick about it, you could see Verona’s highlights in just a few hours. That said, it’s well worth spending the night and enjoying local pasta.

Turin is a capital city in northwestern Italy that is sometimes overshadowed by its more famous neighbors (Florence, Milan, and Venice). But Turin has plenty of sights and activities to keep visitors entertained, including the Egyptian Museum, the Royal Palace, and the Cathedral of San Giovanni.

What Should I See in Turin? The Egyptian Museum, La Venaria Reale, the Royal Palace, Palazzo Madama, Basilica of Superga, and the Mole Antonelliana.

When Should I Visit Turin? September and October are the best months to visit. The autumn colors are in bloom, and the weather is pleasant.

Traveling to Turin with kids: Kids love visiting the Egyptian Museum, exploring the Public Pellerina Park, and the Planetarium of Turin.

How Much Time Should You Spend in Turin? We recommend two or three days. This gives you enough time to see all of the key sights and explore the area in a leisurely place.

Pisa is a small city in central Italy known for its iconic leaning tower and is one of the most popular places to visit in Italy.

I’m sure native Pisans would disagree, but Pisa is so small that you can see everything in the city within two or three hours.

If you’re already in the area or traveling between Cinque Terre and Florence, it’s worth a quick stop for photos.

What Should I See in Pisa? The Leaning Tower, the Cathedral, and the Baptistery.

When Should I Visit Pisa? Since you’ll be there for such a short amount of time, it doesn’t matter too much when you visit. Peak tourist season is from June – September.

Traveling to Pisa with kids: Our niece loved climbing the tower. It offers a fantastic view of the city and the neighboring Cathedral.

How Much Time Should You Spend in Pisa? Two or three hours. Maybe a little more if you plan to climb the tower.

Bergamo is a city in northern Italy that likely won’t be many itineraries, and that’s partially the reason it makes ours. While locally, it’s known for its well-preserved Old Town, which is surrounded by medieval walls, it has gone under the radar of tourists.

Bergamo locals are more than happy to chat about their beloved city and give you recommendations on where to get drinks and authentic food.

If your idea of traveling is exploring off-the-beaten-path options, Bergamo should make your list of places to visit in Italy.

What Should I See in Bergamo? The Citta Alta, Colleoni Chapel, Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, and Piazza Vecchia.

When Should I Visit Bergamo? It’s busiest in May and June, so we’d avoid those months. Even then though, there aren’t many tourists making their way to Bergamo.

Traveling to Bergamo with kids: The Citta Alta is a great place to visit with kids. They’ll love exploring this ancient city and learning about Italian history.

How Much Time Should You Spend in Bergamo? You can explore the main sights and Old Town in a day, but it’s worth spending the night as it’s more affordable than most cities.

The Amalfi Coast is one of the most popular places to visit in Italy. It’s a 50 km stretch of coastline on the Tyrrhenian Sea, dotted with dramatic cliffs, picturesque colorful towns, and crystal clear waters.

It’s also home to some of the scariest roads we’ve come across thus far in our travels. Seriously, taking a bus to the Amalfi Coast is like a close brush with death.

The Perfect Day Trip to Amalfi

Planning on visiting Amalfi? You have a couple of options if you’re leaving from Rome. Click here to learn more.

What Should I See on the Amalfi Coast? The towns of Amalfi, Positano, and Ravello.

When Should I Visit the Amalfi Coast? Head to the Amalfi Coast in May or September. They’re just outside the peak tourist season, but the weather is still enjoyable.

Traveling to the Amalfi Coast with kids: Go swimming for beautiful views of the cliffs and towns, hike Path of the Gods for one of the best coastal trails we’ve experienced, and rent kayaks to paddle around the coastline.

How Much Time Should You Spend on the Amalfi Coast? If you’re going to the Amalfi Coast for a beach vacation, we recommend three or four days. This will give you enough time to explore the towns and do some swimming and hiking. You could also take a long day trip from Naples and see the highlights.

Pompeii is a small town near Naples that was destroyed by a volcano in 79 AD. The entire town was covered in ash, preserving it for thousands of years. Today, it’s a popular archaeological and UNESCO World Heritage site where you can see the town’s ruins.

Want to learn more about Mount Vesuvius and how it destroyed Pompeii? We wrote the guide on it.

What Should I See in Pompeii? The ruins of the town, including the Forum, the amphitheater, and the Villa of Mysteries.

When Should I Visit Pompeii? Spring or fall. Avoid the summer heat and crowds.

Traveling to Pompeii with kids: There’s only one thing to do here, but booking a tour guide made it more enjoyable. Our guide helped paint a picture of life before the eruption and made seeing the ruins more exciting.

How Much Time Should You Spend in Pompeii? You can see the whole site in about two or three hours. We recommend you take a day trip from Rome.

How to Visit Pompeii From Rome

Pompeii is one of Italy’s best history lessons. Explore the ancient ruins with our guide.

The Dolomites are a mountain range in northern Italy known for their dramatic peaks, alpine forests, and lovely meadows. They’re extraordinarily beautiful and popular destinations for hiking, mountain biking, and skiing.

The scenery offered by the Dolomites is on par with the best mountain ranges I’ve seen in the United States, Western Canada, Iceland, and Switzerland. Seriously, as soon as you arrive, you’ll wish you had visited sooner.

What Should I See in the Dolomites? The peaks of the Tre Cime di Lavaredo, the Val di Fassa valley, and the Marmolada glacier.

When Should I Visit the Dolomites? Spring, summer, or fall. Avoid the winter if you’re not interested in skiing.

Traveling to the Dolomites with kids: The Dolomites are a great place to visit with kids. The hiking and mountain biking offers some incredible views. We recommend the Cinque Torri and Tre Cime di Lavaredo hikes.

How Much Time Should You Spend in the Dolomites? We recommend three days. This will give you enough time for scenic drives, hiking, biking, and soaking up views you won’t get elsewhere.

Capri is an island off the coast of Sorrento and is known for its mountainous coastlines, luxury hotels, and designer shops.

While not a large island by any means, there are some great hiking and swimming holes. Plus, it’s fun to watch all of the boats and yachts drive by. Somehow there’s always a bigger yacht.

If you’re looking for a beach town, Capri is a must see place in Italy.

What Should I See in Capri? The Blue Grotto, Villa Jovis, Faraglioni rocks, and Capri town.

When Should I Visit Capri? Avoid the summer heat and explore Capri during the other three seasons.

Traveling to Capri with kids: Like most of the other beach towns and cities, some of your best options are to go swimming. Head to the Blue Grotto and explore an underwater cave and the most bright blue water I’ve ever seen.

How Much Time Should You Spend in Capri? Catch a boat from Sorrento and have a fantastic day trip filled with outdoor activities.

I admit the first time I visited Bologna, I didn’t get the appeal. I was looking in the wrong areas. Bologna has a beautiful historic center, but the heart of Bologna is its people.

Visit one of the many excellent restaurants, and the locals will gladly tell you about their city. Explore the University of Bologna for a history lesson in the world’s oldest university. Go walk through the streets and be amongst the people. That’s how you should enjoy Bologna.

Now, when I am helping friends decide on where to visit in Italy, Bologna makes the list.

What Should I See in Bologna? The Basilica di San Petronio, the Palazzo Re Enzo, the Fountain of Neptune, and the University of Bologna.

When Should I Visit Bologna? Spring or fall. Avoid the summer heat and crowds.

Traveling to Bologna with kids: If your children are interested in cars, Museo Ferruccio Lamborghini is a fascinating museum with a lot of classic Italian cars.

How Much Time Should You Spend in Bologna? We recommend spending a night or two in Bologna.

Mount Etna is an active volcano on the island of Sicily. It’s one of the most popular tourist attractions on Italy’s largest island, and for a good reason. You can take a cable car to the top, hike around the crater, or even go skiing in the winter.

I’ve never hiked on an active volcano before Mount Etna, and the experience is very surreal. The dried lava and red coloration made me feel like I was walking on Mars.

Make sure you bring clothes you don’t mind getting dirty because you’re pants and sneakers are going to be covered in soot.

If you’re looking for a place to visit in Italy that is a little out of the norm, Mount Etna is must-see.

When Should I Visit Mount Etna? Spring or fall. Sicily in summer is brutal, so we advise skipping it. Winter is beautiful, and you can ski on the mountain.

How Much Time Should You Spend on Mount Etna? A day trip from Catania is enough time to see the highlights.

Taormina is a small town on the east coast of Sicily that sits atop a mountain. It’s known for its dramatic setting, with views of Mount Etna and the Mediterranean Sea.

Taormina is also home to some of Sicily’s best beaches, as well as an ancient Greco-Roman amphitheater that is still in use today. Be sure to walk around the city at sunset for some of the most beautiful views in Italy.

Taormina holds a special place in my heart because I proposed to my wife right down the road from where this photo was taken.

No matter how many times I visit the country, Taormina always has a place on my list of must see places in Italy.

What Should I See in Taormina? The Greek Theater, the Piazza IX Aprile, and the beaches.

When Should I Visit Taormina? Avoid the summer heat and opt for spring or autumn.

Traveling to Taormina with kids: The Greek Theater is a great place to visit for a history lesson and fantastic views. Take a cable car down to the beach and enjoy the ocean.

How Much Time Should You Spend in Taormina? Taormina is best for a day trip to see the highlights. While you could spend a night or two there, it’s very expensive, and it would be more for relaxation than exploration.

Lake Garda is the largest lake in Italy and is a personal favorite of ours. Due to its proximity to Milan and Venice (it’s about halfway between both), it’s a great location to add to your Northern Italy itinerary.

The lake is surrounded by mountains and several picturesque towns along its shores. We recommend taking the 150 km (93 miles) scenic drive around the lake. Another cool option is to take the ferry between towns. Each town is beautiful in its own right, but Sirmione, at the south end of the lake, is our favorite and most popular with tourists.

You can’t go wrong with any of the towns in the Italian Lake District, as they’re all UNESCO World Heritage sites and worthy of adding to your list of places to visit in Italy.

What Should I See at Lake Garda? The lake towns of Sirmione, Malcesine, Limone Sul Garda, and Riva del Garda.

When Should I Visit Lake Garda? It’s beautiful all year round, but Lake Garda is best explored during the summer so you can take advantage of the crystal-clear water.

Traveling to Lake Garda with kids: All of the towns along the lake offer a variety of activities for children. but Sirmione is your best option. Go kayaking in Lake Garda, hike the nearby forests, explore Castle Scaligero, and visit Gardaland Theme Park.

How Much Time Should You Spend at Lake Garda? While you could visit the lake as a pit stop on your way to Venice or Milan, we think you should spend at least one night in a lakefront town. It’s a very romantic destination.

Naples is the third-largest Italian city and is known for its chaotic streets, passionate people, and of course, pizza. The pizza here is some of the best in the world, and you can’t visit Naples without trying it. Just be warned that it’s not like the pizza you’re used to in the United States. It’s thinner, has a slightly charred crust, and is often only topped with fresh mozzarella and basil.

Maybe more than any other city on the list, Naples feels the most lived-in. For whatever reason, we saw more people going about their day than elsewhere in the country. It was charming and offered a different atmosphere than Rome, Florence, and Milan.

What Should I See in Naples? Eat pizza (trust us, it’s amazing), visit the Naples National Archaeological Museum, and explore the historic city center. If time permits, take a day trip to Pompeii or Herculaneum.

When Should I Visit Naples? The best time to visit Naples is between March and May. Daytime temperatures hover in the 80s — making it perfect weather for the beach.

Traveling to Naples with kids: The Naples National Archaeological Museum is a great place to visit with kids. The museum has some cool ancient Roman artifacts. Also, did I mention that Naples has amazing pizza? Yeah, children will love that.

How Much Time Should You Spend in Naples? We recommend spending at least two days in Naples and southern Italy. Pompeii and Herculaneum are worth visiting, and you’ll need at least one day to eat your way through the city.

San Marino is one of the world’s oldest republics and also one of Europe’s smallest countries (see map below). It’s located on the east coast of Italy and is completely landlocked by the country. San Marino is known for its medieval architecture, stunning mountain views, and tax-free status.

I know it’s cheating since San Marino is its own country, but it still makes our list of places to visit in Italy.

What Should I See in San Marino? The Three Towers of San Marino, the Guaita Tower, the Cesta Tower, and Mount Titano.

When Should I Visit San Marino? Spring or fall. Avoid the summer heat and winter cold.

Traveling to San Marino with kids: The Three Towers of San Marino are a great place to visit with kids. They’ll love exploring the towers and learning about the country.

How Much Time Should You Spend in San Marino? We recommend visiting San Marino on a day trip from Florence or Bologna. It’s so small that you’ll easily see everything this country offers.

Apulia is a region in southern Italy that tourists often overlook due to how far it is from Rome and Naples. But this region has so much to offer, from its beautiful coastline to its centuries-old villages. Apulia is a great place to relax and enjoy the slow pace of life.

What Should I See in Apulia? The trulli houses, Alberobello, Ostuni, and Lecce.

When Should I Visit Apulia? Visit during the summer months so you can enjoy the crystal clear waters and do some cliff diving!

Traveling to Apulia with kids: The real highlight for kids is swimming in the warm Adriatic Sea. Some places offer kayaks for you to paddle along the coastline.

How Much Time Should You Should You Spend in Apulia? It takes a little over 2.5 hours to get from Naples to Bari and even longer to get to the smaller towns. If you plan on enjoying the beaches and sea, it’s best to spend at least one or two nights in Polignano a Mare or an equally beautiful beachtown.

Sardinia might not be as well known as Italy’s most famous island, Sicily, but this large island has equally compelling white-sand beaches, clear water, rugged coastlines, and unique culture.

Sardinia is a great place to relax and enjoy the Mediterranean lifestyle. On the other hand, if you are looking for a more active vacation, there are plenty of hiking trails and sightseeing options.

What Should I See in Sardinia? The beautiful beaches, Costa Smeralda (and La Madalena Archipelago), Porto Cervo, and the 1,500 BC Nuraghe (stone building).

When Should I Visit Sardinia? Avoid the summer months as they get very hot. Otherwise, spring, autumn, and winter are beautiful.

Traveling to Sardinia with kids: The beaches are a great place to visit with kids. The white-sand and azure-blue waters are fun and relaxing. Go hiking in La Maddalena and explore this beautiful island.

How Much Time Should You Spend in Sardinia? We recommend spending at least one week in Sardinia. This will give you enough time to relax on the beaches and explore the island.

Palermo is the capital of Sicily and is located on the island’s north coast. The city is known for its beautiful architecture, Mediterranean cuisine, and friendly people.

Palermo is a great place to explore Sicilain culture (note, it’s fairly different than Italian culture) and see some of the country’s most impressive buildings.

For history afficianados, Palermo is a great place to tour due to it’s role in Sicilian warfare and the Allied invasion of Sicily in World War II.

If you’re looking for a vacation spot that doesn’t include the mainland, Palermo should be on your list of places to visit in Italy.

What Should I See in Palermo? The Norman Palace, the Cathedral of Palermo, Monreale Abbey, and Capuchin Catacombs.

When Should I Visit Palermo? Spring or fall. Avoid the summer heat and winter cold.

Traveling to Palermo with kids: The Norman Palace is a great place to visit with kids. They’ll love exploring this ancient palace and learning about Sicilian history.

How Much Time Should You Spend in Palermo? We recommend spending at least two days in Palermo. This will give you enough time to see all of the highlights and start your travels to other Sicilian cities, Syracuse, Catania, and Taramino.

Frequently Asked Questions

There is no definitive answer to this question, as it depends on what type of beauty you are searching for.

Are you looking for natural beauty, or are you searching for architecturally beautiful places? If the former some places stand out for their natural beauty, including the beautiful beaches of the Amalfi Coast, Cinque Terre, Lake Como, and Venice.

7 days is a short time to visit Italy, but it is possible to see some of the country’s highlights in this time frame. If you are pressed for time, we recommend focusing your trip on one specific region, such as Tuscany, Umbria, or Veneto. This will allow you to experience the area and not feel rushed. Unfortunately, this means you likely won’t be able to see any of the charming villages spread throughout Italy.

Oh, man. This answer is going to be different for everyone.

If you’re interested in art, you’ll want to stop by Rome, Florence, and Venice.

If you’re interested in architecture, you really can’t go wrong anywhere. Italy is a very old nation, so you’re bound to see really interesting buildings in any city or town.

Looking for natural beauty? The Amalfi Coast has some of the most beautiful towns in all of Italy, while the Dolomites offer some of the most stunning mountain ranges in the world.

Regardless of where you decide to go, you won’t regret visiting Italy.

The best time to visit Italy depends on what you want to do while there.

If you’re interested in outdoor activities, the spring and fall are ideal as the weather is milder.

If you’re interested in beach holidays, you’ll want to visit during the summer.

And if you’re interested in skiing, winter is the best time to go.

That being said, any time of year is a great time to visit Italy, as there is always something to see and do.

With over 10 million people visiting each year, Rome is the most visited city in Italy, followed by Florence and Venice.

Rome is a must-see for any traveler as it is home to some of the world’s most famous historical sites, such as the Colosseum and the Vatican.

Florence is a beautiful city located in Tuscany and is known for its art and architecture.

Venice is a unique city built on canals and is one of the most romantic places in the world.

Italy is a relatively expensive country to visit, but there are ways to save money.

If you’re interested in saving money on accommodation, we recommend staying in hostels.

Eating out can also be expensive, but there are ways to save money here. Look for places that have a “menu del giorno” which is a set lunch menu that is usually a fraction of the cost of ordering à la carte.

And finally, try to avoid tourist traps. These are places that are aimed at tourists and tend to be overpriced. Do some research before you go and visit places that are off the beaten path.

This is a difficult question to answer as it depends on what you want to see and do while you’re in Italy.

If you’re interested in seeing the main tourist attractions, we recommend spending at least a week in the country.

If you’re interested in exploring Italy’s smaller towns and villages, we recommend spending at least two to three weeks in the country.

And if you’re interested in getting to know Italy and its culture, we recommend spending at least a month in the country.

Of course, the more time you spend in Italy, the more you’ll be able to see and do. But even a short trip to Italy will surely be an unforgettable experience.

Recommended Booking Resources

The companies I’ve listed here are my top picks when it comes to travel. Their offerings consistently outshine the competition in terms of value for money, quality of service, and exceptional customer service. These companies form the foundation of my search for travel deals, given their reliability and excellence that I have personally experienced numerous times.

Kayak for Flights, Hotels, and Cars

Kayak.com makes it simple to plan your stay in Italy. All on one website, you can book your flights, hotels, and cars. The platform provides detailed descriptions, reviews, and ratings to help you choose the right place for your next stay in Italy.

Varied Accommodation Options with Booking.com

Booking.com provides a wide variety of accommodation options in Venice. From budget hostels to luxury hotels, you can find something that suits your budget and preferences.

Cheap Flights with Going.com

Going.com searches for cheap and rare flights and will notify you when one matches your home airport and a destination of your choice. We scored a non-stop, roundtrip flight from Newark (EWR) to Milan-Malpensa (MXP) for $359 in 2021 and then again from Philadelphia (PHL) to Marco Polo Airport (VCE) for $475 in 2023.

Hostelpass for Budget-Friendly Stays

HostelPass can help you save money on your accommodation. With a single flat fee, you can stay in hostels in Venice and other European cities.

Plan Your Excursions with Get Your Guide

Get Your Guide offers a range of guided tours and activities in Venice. Whether you want a guided tour of St. Mark’s Basilica or a cooking class, you can find it here.

Efficient Train Travel in Italy with Trainline

Trainline can help you navigate Italy’s extensive train system and get you to Venice’s Santa Lucia train and bus station. It’s an efficient way to travel between cities if you’re planning to visit more of Italy during your trip.

Pocket-Sized Wisdom: Venice Travel Guide 2023 Book

For an in-depth guide to Venice, consider purchasing the Venice Travel Guide 2023 . It’s packed with useful information, tips, and maps to help you make the most of your visit.

Sustainable Tourism: LifeStraw for Reusable Water Bottles

Help keep Venice beautiful by practicing sustainable tourism. Consider investing in a reusable water bottle with a built-in filter like LifeStraw . It’s eco-friendly and ensures you have safe drinking water wherever you go.

Walks of Italy for Culturally Rich Walking Tours

For a deep dive into Venice’s rich history and culture, consider booking a walking tour with Walks of Italy . The guides are knowledgeable, and the tours offer a great way to explore the city on foot while visiting the main sites and top attractions.

There you have it, the best places to visit in Italy. As I’m sure you realize by now, Italy is a country with much to offer! No matter what kind of vacation you are looking for, there is sure to be a city in Italy that suits your needs. From the art paradise of Florence to the stunning beaches of Sardinia, you cannot go wrong when planning a trip to this beautiful country. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your dream Italian vacation today! Where are some of your must-see places in Italy? Let us know in the comments below.

About Todd O'Rourke

Todd is an award-winning writer and filmmaker who co-founded Compass and Pine with his dog Leg. Together, they have traveled extensively throughout the United States and Europe, with their base of operations in Philadelphia.

He started Compass and Pine after living in Vicenza, Italy for three years and falling deeply in love with the country, the people, and, of course, the food.

His favorite city is Florence, Italy, and his favorite National Park is Olympic in Washington.

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November 25, 2022 at 11:42 pm

You and your dog are super cute! I’m excited to follow your next adventures (:

November 27, 2022 at 10:37 am

Hi Kathryn,

Thank you so much for the compliment. We look forward to sharing our adventures with you 🙂

Best, Todd & Leg

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Home » Europe » 20+ BEST Places To Visit in Italy (Map, Pics & Things to do!)

20+ BEST Places To Visit in Italy (Map, Pics & Things to do!)

Mountains, Lakes, Cities, Coastlines, Culture – and so much more(!) these are the BEST places to visit in Italy ft. a map, photos & things to do!

From the majestic alps and great lakes of the far north, through renaissance cities and cultural heartlands, and right down to the Mediterranian coastlines and islands of the south – the great geographical boot of the Italian nation is a mosaic of rich diversity.

The combination of its ancient Roman history, its world-famous cuisine and its reputation for fashion, art and culture, Italy has risen to be one of the most desired destinations to visit in Europe.

With such a tapestry of choice, it is often hard to choose that perfect Italian destination. With our list of best places to visit in Italy, we aim to make that choice all the easier and have included things to see and do in each area, photos of the best places to visit in Italy (to get you inspired) a map of the best places to visit in Italy (to help you get your bearings as to where everything is in case you want to include a few in the same itinerary!)

In This Post

• 2 The Vatican
• 7 Amalfi Coast (Amalfi, Positano & Ravello)
• 10 Cinque Terre (Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore)
• 15 Sardinia
• 16 The Italian Lakes: Lake Garda, Lake Como & Lake Maggiore
• 17 The Mountains: Dolomites / Italian Alps

Map of the Best Places to Visit in Italy

The modern-day Italian capital reflects much of this past grandeur and is a must when visiting Italy. From its ancient architecture, catholic icons and Roman ruins to its bustling modern metropolitan heartland, Rome has something for every visitor – and our complete guide to the best things to do in Rome is perfect for first time visitors .

Things to see in Rome:

• Visit the Colosseum – no trip to the Italian capital is complete without a visit to the world-famous Colosseum. Built between 70-80 AD and holding up to 80,000 spectators, this ancient amphitheater is a sight to behold.
• Gaze at the Trevi Fountain
• Climb the Spanish Steps
• See the Pantheon – One of the best-preserved temples of ancient Rome in the entire world. The pantheon lies in the center of Rome along the Piazza Della Rotonda.  

The Vatican

Things to see and do in The Vatican

• Walk around St Peters Square – Technically circular; St Peters Square is located in front of the Vatican City, the heart of the Catholic church. Marvel at the impressive statues of religious figures and former popes that surround the square.  
• Visit St Peter’s Basilica – One of the most recognized religious buildings in the world, St Peter’s Basilica is full of beautiful frescos and divine detailed architecture.
• Explore the hugely impressive Vatican Museum, experience the incredible Sistine Chapel and exit via the stunning double helix staircase.

Things to see in Florence:

• See Florence Cathedral – a stunning example of medieval designed and one of the most iconic domed cathedrals in the world, a sight that can be seen towering over the city. 
• View Michelangelo’s David – this famous renaissance sculpture can be seen alongside many more at the city’s Galleria dell’Accademia art museum.
• Walkthrough the Boboli Gardens – these lush green gardens make for the perfect afternoon stroll.
• Cross the Ponte Vecchio – the city is full of historical constructions, and the Vecchio bridge is one of Florences oldest. Cross the River Arno using the bridge and view the plethora of shops that adorn it.
• Take a day trip to visit the enchanting Tuscan Hill Towns of San Gimignano, Volterra or Cortona ; or to Siena to see the Piazza del Campo – one of Europe’s greatest medieval squares.

Things to see in Milan:

• Milan Cathedral – like many Italian cities Milan has a breathtaking cathedral at its heart. Taking 600 years to finally complete, the intricate architectural design is truly spectacular and is considered one of Milan’s top tourist attractions.
• Shop in style at Milan’s Grand Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, a shopping center with the grandeur of a palace.
• Get to know the work of Italy’s most beloved son Leonardo da Vinci at the Leonardo da Vinci National Museum of Science and Technology.
• Grab a coffee in the Piazza del Duomo – this grand open public space is a great place to start you Milan explorations and with its many cafes and restaurants its also an ideal stop for fresh Italian cup of coffee. 

Things to see in Venice:

• Start your Venice experience in the impressive St Mark’s Square and Doges Palace, not only is it the most famous Piazza in the city but also the location of many of its main sights. 
• Take a Gondola ride along the grand canal – this is seen as the thing to do in Venice and is a great way to see the city
• Escape the crowds on Venice Lido – this separate picturesque island is the perfect place to relax and escape the hordes of tourists 
• Stand on the Rialto Bridge (one of the most famous landmarks in Italy )
• Visit St Mark’s Basilica – by far the grandest and most famous building in Venice. Completed in the late 11the century, this beautiful Byzantine designed church is awe-inspiring inside and out.
• Read our Ultimate Weekend in Venice Guide (featuring a full list of things to do, plus where to stay, where to eat how to get around, and day trip ideas including Burano & Murano )

Things to do in Sorrento

• Soak in the atmosphere of the Piazza Tasso, the cities main hub of activity (but not located at the center).
• Take in the sights of the Corso Italia, the main thoroughfare in the heart of Sorrento which include the Duomo (Cathedral)
• Watch the sunset from the terrace at Bellevue Sirine.
• Take a day trip to Capri to see the beautiful Blue Grotto or spend a couple of days along the Amalfi Coast.

Amalfi Coast (Amalfi, Positano & Ravello)

There are 13 small cities and hilltop towns located on Italy’s Amalfi Coast. Many of these are centered around tourism and the main coastal towns that most tourists visit are the historic centers of Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello. (And we’ve got the perfect Amalfi Coast itinerary to help you see them all!)

Things to see & do on the Amalfi Coast

• Take in the gorgeous views from Praiano
• Watch the fishing fleets at Cetara.
• Take a boat tour into the Grotta dello Smeraldo Cave.
• Walk the Path of the Gods

Things to see in Naples:

• Climb Mount Vesuvius – Vesuvius is one of the only volcanos to erupt in Europe in the past hundred years, and you can hike to the top!
• Visit the ruins of Pompeii – Take a tour of this famous Roman city destroyed and covered by the 79 AD eruption of Mount Vesuvius.       
• Visit the Piazza del Plebiscito – this is Naples’ main square and is a great place to start your exploration of the city. It is home to the Royal Palace and Royal Basilica, both must-see buildings when in Naples.
• Soak up the sea air in Naples Harbour – defined by its port city reputation, Naples Harbour is the perfect spot to watch the hugely busy port come to life.  

Things to see in Verona:

• Visit the ‘Arena di Verona’ – Verona’s Roman amphitheater is more than a match for the famous one in Rome. Constructed in 30 AD, the building is miraculously well preserved.
• Relax on the shores of Lake Garda – only a short distance for Verona is one of Italy’s largest and most stunning lakes, Lake Garda.
• Step into a Shakespeare play – The Casa di Giulietta is supposed to be the building where the famous balcony scene in Romeo and Juliet takes place. Step inside and learn more about the play and building.

Cinque Terre ( Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore )

If you’re planning a trip to Cinque Terre we think that you need at least 3 days to really do it justice. But of course, you could easily spend longer exploring all the little streets, shops and hikes that are on offer in the region.

The 5 famous colorful villages cut into the side of the cliffs are Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore and we’ve put together 15 Top Cinque Terre travel tips (perfect for first-time visitors!) to help you get the most from your stay.

Things to see & do in Cinque Terre

• Get your hiking boots on hit the trails between the five towns
• Watch the sunset from the viewpoint at Maranola
• Cinque Terre is known for it’s Pesto (and seafood), so be sure to try a local dish called ‘trofie al pesto’ – a pasta dish that looks similar to chopped up bits of slightly twisted spaghetti.

What to see in Palermo:

• See the Palatine Chapel – this is one of the best-preserved examples of Byzantine architecture and artwork in all of Europe.
• Sample divine food at Palermo’s markets – The Palermo markets are some of the most vibrant markets in all Italy and provide an opportunity to immerse yourself in the local community.
• Relax on Mondello Beach – Only 15 minutes north of Palermo is the stunning Mondello Beach, great for catching some rays and cooling off in the crystal clear waters.
• Take a day trip to the island of Ustica – boats run from Palermo to the beautiful tiny island of Ustica which is well known for being a fantastic spot for scuba diving.

Things to see in Bologna:

• Try the local dish ‘Tortellini’ – now world-famous, tortellini is one of Bologna’s most celebrated dishes and is a must-try for serious foodies.
• Visit the Piazza Maggiore – as the city’s historical center, the Piazza Maggiore is a great starting point to explore Bologna’s fantastic architecture.
• Climb to the top of Monte Della Guardia – this local forested hill provides breath-taking views of the entire city below.
• Pursue the stalls at La Piazzola Market – one of the oldest markets in Bologna, La Piazzola is a treasure trove of stalls popular with both locals and tourists alike.

Things to see in Bari:

• Take a tour of the old town – wander the maze-like cobbled streets of Bari’s old town and transport yourself back through the centuries.
• Relax along the San Francesco shoreline – this picturesque beach is the perfect place to swim in the turquoise Adriatic waters.
• Visit the ancient ruins of Egnazia – this preserved ancient city foundations stand as a monument to the prehistoric peoples that lived here from the 9th century BCE.
• Take a day trip to see the whitewashed dome roofed ‘trullo’ huts in the famous town of Alberobello

Things to see in Pisa

• The Leaning Tower of Pisa ( obviously …)
• The other sights in the Piazza Del Duomo/Piazza Dei Miracoli including The Cathedral, The Baptistry, the Camposanto Monumentale and the Bell Tower.
• Shop along Corso Italia
• Grab a snap of the Arno River from the Ponte di Mezzo (Bridge)

Things to see and do in Sardinia

• Uncover the mysterious nuraghi of Sardinia (ancient beehive-shaped stone fortresses) – there are over 7000 dotted around the island.
• Wander around the capital Cagliari’s hilltop Castello neighborhood.
• Luxe it up in Costa Smeralda, where Europe’s rich and famous come to play in their mega-yachts and waterfront villas.
• Explore Neptune’s Grotto, tucked away in the stunning cliffside of Capo Caccia.

The Italian Lakes: Lake Garda, Lake Como & Lake Maggiore

The Mountains: Dolomites / Italian Alps

Whether you want to ski down them in winter, or hike up or around them in summer – the mountains are a perfect playground for outdoor lovers – and offer some of the most amazing views in the world at every turn. It’s no wonder they are one of the best places to visit in Italy.

And if you are trying to decide which one to choose – the Dolomites are loved for their superior ski slopes but the the Valle d’Aosta is known for its breathtaking views on its hiking and biking trails. It is also  generally quieter, a little less expensive and has more off the beaten path villages to explore than it’s counterpart.

And that’s a wrap folks, we hope this guide to 20+ BEST Places to Visit in Italy has been a huge help planning your trip to Italy.

If you know of anyone else that needs a little bit of inspiration for visiting Italy or assistance in planning their Italy vacation (or even how to explore the country while they are there!), please be sure to share this post on social media: Facebook, Flipboard, Twitter or grab one of the images from below for Pinterest. And remember – sharing is charing (and we thank you in advance!)

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Hi There! Thanks for reading our guide to the 20+ BEST Places to Visit in Italy (inc Italy Map + Things to do) I just wanted to let you know that this post contains affiliate links, which means if you purchase something after clicking a link, I may get a small commission – which is at absolutely no cost to you . If you enjoyed this article and are going to be searching for some of the things I mention anyway, I would love it if you could click through from the links above & thank you in advance! Read my full Disclosure here . And a huge Thank You for reading the MakeTimeToSeeTheWorld travel blog.

The Ultimate Italy Bucket List: 75 Best Things to Do in Italy

For the last several years, we have been traveling to Italy over and over again, each trip deeper and richer than the last… and yet, our Italy bucket list seems to keep getting longer instead of shorter!

Discovering all of the best things to do in Italy is a lifelong project and one that we absolutely relish taking on.

We adore traveling in Italy. The food, the distinct regional differences, the landscapes, the sheer breadth of places to visit… this is truly a magical place, and there is a reason that foreigners like us have been getting caught up in its web for centuries.

As a travel destination, Italy is simply unbeatable.

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

We spend a lot of time writing about Italy, a lot of time traveling in Italy, and a lot of time dreaming and scheming about how to get back to Italy once we leave… so it only makes sense that we finally commit our (ever-growing) Italian bucket list to print.

Looking for some epic ideas to help you decide what to do in Italy?

Here’s what we suggest, from the obvious to the unusual. Some we’ve done, some we haven’t, and some we fully plan to do again.

I’m going to do my best to list each of these Italy bucket list items as a single experience, but let’s be real–many of them are best experienced a dozen times or more!

Table of Contents

Once You Narrow Your Italy Bucket List Down…

Epic things to do in italy’s cities, unforgettable food + cultural experiences in italy, outdoor adventures to have in italy, more italy bucket list ideas.

Obviously, no one Italian vacation could possibly cover all of the tourist attractions, bucket list experiences, and incredible destinations listed here (believe me, if there was a way, we’d be all over it).

Once you narrow down your wish list ever so slightly, we recommend heading over to our Italy itinerary guide to start putting your trip together!

We also recommend reading our comprehensive list of Italy travel tips before you go, our suggested packing list for Italy , and, if you’re hoping to self-drive part of your trip, our advice on structuring an Italian road trip .

One of my favorite things to write about Italy are detailed itineraries, and we have suggestions for Rome , Florence , Venice , Cinque Terre , the Amalfi Coast , Milan , Naples , and more (and in the cases of some cities, several versions depending on how long you have to explore!).

With more than 100 posts on Italy alone here on Our Escape Clause, there is no shortage of information to peruse here!

Head to our Italy archives to view all posts in order, or if you’re looking for details on a particular destination, the search bar at the top right of the page is a great tool to use.

Stare in wonder at the Colosseum.

For many of us, the first Italy bucket list destination we ever dream of is the Colosseum… and it’s well worth the visit.

Want to go beyond the usual visit?

We had an absolute blast visiting the Colosseum at night !

Ride in a gondola in Venice.

I originally wrote under this Italy bucket list item that I wasn’t sure the price tag would ever justify us actually crossing this off–but now that we’ve experienced it, I can say that taking a gondola ride in Venice absolutely lives up to the hype (if you follow certain tips , that is).

Visit the mummies of Palermo.

Definitely not among the best things to do in Italy for those with a weak stomach, but certainly among the most interesting, is to tour the Capuchin Crypt of Palermo .

The mummies found in the capital of Sicily are among the best-preserved we’ve seen anywhere and are definitely an incredibly memorable sight.

Admire the rooftops of Milan’s Duomo up close.

Other Italian cities are prettier, but when it comes to intricate cathedral rooftops, Milan has them all beat.

Milan’s Piazza del Duomo is one of the most iconic things to see in Italy, and it’s absolutely stunning both from the rooftops and on the ground level.

Watch the sunset from the Piazzale Michelangelo in Florence.

Crowded? Sure. But also magnificent.

Admire Verona from the Castel San Pietro.

One of the prettiest viewpoints we’ve found in Italy so far is from Castel San Pietro in Verona–and it tends to have a fraction of the crowds of similar viewpoints in, say, Florence or Rome .

Explore Matera.

Like much of Italy, this city’s history is long and many-layered, and its setting is beautiful.

Pull ourselves out of bed to see the Trevi Fountain, Colosseum, and Pantheon empty at dawn in Rome.

When I originally wrote this list of things to do in Italy, I noted that our lack of desire to set alarm clocks for dawn made this one of the technically simplest but personally hardest bucket list items to check off.

However, one bout of landing in Rome with massive jet lag later, we’ve managed to see all this and more in Rome as the sun rises (with the assistance of an Italian coffee or three, of course).

Also, pull ourselves out of bed to see the Piazza del Duomo and Ponte Vecchio empty at dawn in Florence.

Still working on this one, but can’t wait to experience it!

Climb the cupola in Florence’s Duomo.

We’ve climbed the bell tower and absolutely adored the view, but I’ll always feel like I have unfinished business with Brunelleschi’s Dome until we visit the cupola ourselves.

Take a selfie with the Leaning Tower of Pisa.

Touristy? Sure, but plenty of fun things to do in Italy are!

Get lost in Venice during the winter.

Visiting Venice in winter is one of the best ways to avoid the crowds (during Carnival is the exception) and we absolutely love it: the fog, the empty canal views, the ambiance.

Throw a coin in the Trevi Fountain.

What better way to ensure that we always, always return to Rome?

Move to Rome for 6 months and study Italian.

May through October would be just about perfect.

I may be 60 before I finally cross this off my list of things to do in Italy, but I’m determined to get to it eventually!

Marvel at the mosaics of Ravenna.

The more than 1500-year-old, UNESCO-recognized Ravenna mosaics are absolutely magnificent to behold in person.

Spread across 8 separate buildings in the city, they just might be some of the most remarkable art in the country (which is extremely high praise given that we’re talking about Italy of all places).

“Live” for a month in at least 6 different Italian cities.

Three down so far: we spent a month in each Florence , Bologna , and Rome .

Then we stayed in Florence again… and then Rome again.

Basically, we have trouble stepping outside of our favorites for this one, despite our best intentions!

Stroll along Lucca’s city walls.

Lucca’s city walls, which fully envelope the historic center of the city, are among the best-preserved in Italy–and today, you can walk or bike along the tops of them, soaking in beautiful views of Lucca along the way.

Tour the Royal Palace in Turin.

When Italy was unified in the second half of the 19th century, the House of Savoy became the Italian royal family–and since they were from Turin, Turin was quickly recognized as the capital of Italy.

The capital quickly moved to Florence and then Rome, but Turin’s royal palace, which dates to the 16th century, still stands in the city, and we’d love to see it.

Take a day trip to Burano from Venice.

This colorful island may be in the Venetian lagoon, but in many ways, it feels worlds away from Piazza San Marco!

Climb Asinelli Tower for unforgettable views of Bologna.

Even if this did test my fear of heights more than just about any of our Italian bucket list items, it was worth the terror!

This view remains one of my favorite in the country.

Tour one of Italy’s best art museums.

Whether that’s the Uffizi in Florence, the Borghese in Rome, or somewhere else, there’s no doubt that visiting an Italian art museum with a knowledgeable guide makes the experience much more magnificent than visiting alone!

Take a food tour.

Or, in a perfect world, several food tours in many different cities–it’s the fastest way to appreciate just how varied and regional Italian cuisine is.

Taking food tours is one of those things to do in Italy that we’ll never check all the way off our list–we’ve taken tours in Rome , Palermo, Florence , and Emilia-Romagna so far, with plenty more to come!

… And a cooking class.

Pasta, pizza, gelato, and tiramisu are all popular… but you can find more eclectic ones, as well.

We’ve taken Italian cooking classes in Florence, Lucca, at a villa outside of Siena, and at “home” in a villa that we were renting in the countryside, and all of them were fantastic.

Explore the food scene in Emilia-Romagna.

Especially the traditional balsamic vinegar, the parmigiano-reggiano, the parma ham, the tagliatelle al ragu… the food in Emilia-Romagna is among the best in Italy, and we never get tired of enjoying it!

Buy gold jewelry on the Ponte Vecchio in Florence.

Yes, I’ll absolutely overpay by doing this, but at least once in my life, I plan to enjoy the splurge!

Enjoy a wine tasting in the Tuscan countryside.

Bonus points if the vineyard has an amazing view!

Splurge on a very nice piece of leather.

This one probably won’t be crossed off our Italy bucket list anytime soon, but we’ll get around to it one day!

Visit a parmigiano-reggiano factory.

This travel experience in Italy most definitely lived up to the hype!

So much so, in fact, that we fully intend to do it again one day.

Ship a case of wine home from Italy.

And not only wine–traditional balsamic vinegar, fresh olive oil, and truffle oil all make incredible Italian souvenirs that can extend your trip well past your flight home!

Hunt down Michelangelo’s masterpieces.

The Sistine Chapel and David are obvious starting places, but Michelangelo’s art is all over Italy.

Overpay for an Aperol Spritz in order to enjoy an epic view.

Whether it’s a Venetian canal, the coast of Capri, or a piazza in Florence, some views are simply worth paying a few dollars extra for.

Tour a vineyard during harvest season.

It’d be so cool to see the harvest up close!

Learn all about olive oil, preferably on a vineyard.

We’ve tasted more than our fair share of olive oil, but we’d love to learn more about the work behind it.

Splurge on a Michelin Star meal.

With how delicious even non-award-winning restaurants typically are in Italy, I imagine this will be an unforgettable experience.

Visit Venice for Carnival.

The masks. The costumes. The foggy February weather. It all sounds epic.

Attend the Palio di Siena.

Festive, biannual horse races located in the center of one of our favorite cities in Tuscany? Sign us up.

Go truffle hunting.

All the better to appreciate what goes into finding these delicious morsels.

… And attend a truffle festival.

There are truffle festivals held all over Italy each fall, and I can’t think of a better way to celebrate the world’s tastiest fungus.

Go on a pizza-crawl in Naples.

Make a list of the best places, start with a very empty stomach, end the day ridiculously full, regret nothing. True Italy bucket list material.

We loved our self-planned Naples pizza tour , though I have to admit–we didn’t eat pizza again for months afterward.

… and a gelato crawl in Florence.

Unlike our Naples pizza crawl, we haven’t formally set up a gelato crawl for ourselves in Florence–but we have probably eaten enough gelato to justify saying we have.

That won’t stop us from using the excuse to eat even more gelato on our next trip to Florence, though!

Attend an Italian football game.

… To experience a whole different side of Italian culture.

Pay a visit to Pompeii.

There’s something incredible about strolling the literal streets of Pompeii –it’s an unforgettable experience that belongs on any list of what to do in Italy!

… and Herculaneum.

Less famous than Pompeii but equally impressive in its own way, the resort city of Herculaneum was buried in the same eruption that obliterated Pompeii.

Visit one of Italy’s ghost towns.

My grandparents once accidentally wandered into one–we’d love to see these for ourselves!

Learn how to make excellent pasta carbonara from scratch.

There are plenty of cooking classes in Italy, but many of them cover the same things: basic pasta, pizza, gelato, tiramisu.

All of that is delicious, but we want to master carbonara!

Check out the Christmas markets in Bolzano.

Honestly, as much as we adore Italy, it’s hard to say that the bulk of the Christmas markets belong on a list of the best things to do see in Italy–places like Germany, Austria, and France simply outrank Italy in this category.

Bolzano, though, is not only one of our favorite Italian cities, but has significant Austrian heritage that makes their Christmas markets something special!

Tour the Prosecco region of Italy and enjoy all the bubbly.

Prosecco is delicious–a trip through this beautiful region north of Venice sounds divine!

Hike to Lago di Sorapis in the summer.

Less popular than iconic Italian lakes like Como or Lago di Braies, but still incredibly beautiful and reasonably accessible, Lago di Sorapis is a magnificent Italian bucket list destination.

Hike to Fiesole from Florence.

Sure, there’s also a bus that runs there, but hiking sounds like more fun.

Visit the crater of Mount Vesuvius.

Because it’s the only active volcano in mainland Europe, and why not?

As a bonus, it’s also home to some incredible views of the surrounding coastline, including the Bay of Naples and the island of Capri!

Soak in the hot springs in Tuscany.

Saturnia is the best-known, and considering how beautiful it is, that’s no surprise!

Hike the villages of Cinque Terre.

… Particularly from Monterosso al Mare to Vernazza, and from Corniglia to Manarola.

Hike the Path of Gods.

What a way to get amazing views of the Amalfi Coast!

Visit the Instagram-famous Lago di Braies.

… Because those views look like they’d be worth the crowds.

Visit Civita di Bagnoregio.

This tiny Italian hilltop town may just be the most dramatically placed of them all: you have to take a pedestrian bridge in order to access it!

Explore the beaches of Sardinia.

Photos from Sardinia immediately make me dream of bathing suits and sailboats.

Go horseback riding in Tuscany.

Horseback riding past vineyards and villages? Yes, please.

Visit Mount Etna in Sicily.

What better way to start getting to know this mysterious island than by visiting its incredible volcano?

Unfortunately, during our last road trip in Sicily , Mount Etna stayed stubbornly concealed by clouds and we didn’t get a chance to experience it!

Go hiking in the Dolomites in summer.

It’s hard to imagine anything more stunning than this. We wouldn’t say no to a fall foliage trip, either.

… And then skiing in the winter.

Jeremy has never been skiing and I haven’t been since roughly 2002, so this would definitely be outside our comfort zones–but I can’t think of a better place to try it out again than in Italy!

Explore Gargano National Park.

One glance at the photos of this coastline and the Tremiti Islands were all it took to add this offbeat destination to our bucket list for Italy!

Rent a boat for the day on Capri.

I can’t imagine a better way to experience the island than by admiring it from the water!

Hike part of the Via Francigena.

Less famous than the Camino del Santiago in Spain but equally stunning, the Via Francigena is a pilgrimage walk that runs from Canterbury, UK all the way to Rome–and while walking that far is probably never going to make our personal bucket list for Italy, we’d love to hike part of the Italian section, especially in Tuscany!

Take an Italian road trip.

Through Tuscany… or Puglia… or South Tyrol… or Umbria… or Emilia-Romagna… or Sicily… or all of the above.

We’ve rounded up our best suggestions for road trips in Italy here !

Set sail on the Amalfi Coast.

There’s a reason that the Amalfi Coast is considered one of the most beautiful coastlines in the world–and from the water is the best way to appreciate it.

Ride a Vespa through the countryside.

There’s no better way to experience the Italian countryside on a beautiful day than by renting a Vespa and enjoying one of the most classic things to do in Italy!

They aren’t too hard to drive–but if you’re uncertain on a scooter, we definitely recommend sticking to the countryside and not, say, trying to navigate Rome with one.

Spend a night in a trullo in Alberobello.

These houses are so unique and visiting them is currently a solid priority on our Italy bucket list!

Check out the village of my ancestors in Sicily.

It’s a very American thing to do, but what can I say–I’m a very American woman.

Some of my ancestors came from the tiny town of Francavilla in Sicily, and from what I can tell, it has very little to offer to tourists these days… but I want to go anyway.

Update: I went! Yes, very little to offer tourists (and the rain that day didn’t help), but I’ll never forget standing inside the church that was already more than a century old already when my ancestors left the island.

Rent a villa in Tuscany.

We’ve done this several times now, and can attest that it’s even more fun with extended family!

Spend a weekend relaxing at Lake Como.

The hikes! The villas! The views! The boat rides!

Lake Como is probably our most obvious bucket list Italian destination that we haven’t seen yet, and we can’t wait to explore it thoroughly.

Drive the Great Dolomites Road.

For some of the best mountain views in all of Europe, you can’t beat the Italian Dolomites.

Get professional portraits taken in Italy.

It’s hard for us to think about splurging on these since we take so many pictures together through our travels, but there are tons of places in Italy that would make an amazing backdrop for some professional shots!

Take a train to Sicily.

Sicily may be an island, but you can still get there by train!

You can board a train on the mainland that is then loaded in its entirety onto a ferry, which is then transported to Sicily–and that’s a unique enough transportation method that it’s on our list of things to do in Italy simply because it sounds interesting to experience!

Spend a summer living in Cinque Terre or along the Amalfi Coast.

Coastal Italy in the summer–it may be crowded, but it’s also stunning.

Our first two visits to Cinque Terre were both far too short (and also impacted by rainy weather and train strikes).

Our third was magical, but also rainy, and we still left dreaming about how to return ASAP!

Road trip in a Fiat 500.

Sounds like the perfect car to drive the Amalfi Coast with, right?

Visit each of Italy’s 20 regions.

We’ve visited 11 so far, and we absolutely cannot wait to cross this one off of our Italy bucket list.

With so many incredible things to do in Italy, we may need several decades to accomplish them all–but having the chance to enjoy so many magnificent experiences in Italy is well worth the effort.

We can’t wait to get back.

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

2 thoughts on “The Ultimate Italy Bucket List: 75 Best Things to Do in Italy”

Pinned! My dream is to spend a full month exploring Italy and I would love to check off as many of these items as possible!

I hope you get the chance to do it one day! Italy is a magical place.

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Visit Italy: Top 20 Things To Do and Must-See Attractions

The 20 best things to do in italy (bucket list).

You’re planning to visit Italy for your next trip and you’re looking for the best places to visit?

Great choice, there are many beautiful things to see in the country, you will love it!

With many beautiful cities , a rich history , stunning landscapes , some of the most beautiful Mediterranean islands and of course delicious food , I can say without a doubt that Italy is one of my favourite destination in Europe.

In order to help you plan your stay, I have prepared this list of the 20 best things to do in Italy , with all the highlights and must-see attractions. It will for sure give you an idea of your next travel destination.

So, what are the best points of interest in Italy? Discover Rome , the Amalfi Coast, Capri, Sicily and much more now!

1. Rome : the capital

2. florence: the art city, 4. venice: the romantic city, 5. the cinque terre, 6. lecce: the baroque city, 7. verona: the shakespearean city, 8. genoa: port city, 9. naples : historic city, 10. capri: magnificent island, 11. turin: the city of cinematography and chocolate, 12. milan: the capital of fashion, 13. lake maggiore and the borromean islands, 14. lake como, 15. garda lake, 16. the dolomites, 17. the amalfi coast, 18. gargano national park, 20. sardinia, flight prices to italy, you’re traveling in italy these articles will help you, visit italy: the 20 best places to visit and must-see attractions.

I will start this guide of the best things to do in Italy with the capital, Rome. The Eternal City city attracts millions of tourists every year but, despite what you might think, it isn’t the most touristic city of the country. Florence and Venice both attracts more international visitors!

Rome is a beautiful city, with the added advantage of being very easy to visit on foot. It’s full of ancient monuments, beautiful squares and museums. Here are the must-see:

• The Coliseum
• The Roman forum
• The Pantheon
• Trevi Fountain
• Piazza Navona

If you are visiting Rome, you should also go to the Vatican City. Don’t miss the following:

• Saint Peter’s Square
• Saint Peter’s Basilica , the world’s largest basilica
• The Sistine Chape l and Michelangelo’s major work: The Last Judgement
• And all Vatican museums

For more details about the city, you should read my article: The 25 best things to do in Rome .

Florence, undoubtedly the most beautiful city of Tuscany, is home to numerous museums and Renaissance palaces. The Cultural Heritage is immense : Half Italian works of art are located in Florence. No wonder why it’s one of the most visited city in Italy along with Venice!

So will you be one of the 15 million tourists that will visit the city this year?

Must-see places in Florence:

• The Uffizi gallery and its famous paintings
• The basilica San Miniato al Monte , from which you will have a panoramic view over Florence. A tip: go there for sunset
• Piazza della Signoria: a real open-air museum
• Cupola del Brunelleschi: climb 400 steps for a 360 degree view of Florence. Remember to book your tickets in advance to avoid the queue.

And don’t forget to visit the Tuscan countryside , famous for being the most beautiful in Italy!

To learn more about the best places to visit in Florence, you should read my dedicated article: The 27 Best Things to do in Florence.

When you hear about Pisa, the first thing that comes to your mind is probably the famous leaning tower, the symbol of the city. However, there are also other things to see in the city, so you can easily spend a full day in town.

• The Piazza dei Miracoli , is the touristic heart of the city: all the famous monuments of Pisa are located there!
• The tower of Pisa , with it’s 20€ entrance fee (it can be a surprising price!)
• The Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption
• The Baptistery of Saint John of Pisa
• The Monumental Cemetery Camposanto
• La Piazza dei Cavalieri , a small typical Italian square with fewer tourists
• Borgo Stretto: shopping hotspot and ideal place to eat or have a drink in one of the numerous restaurants.

You will find every information you need to visit Pisa in my article: The 10 best things to do in Pisa.

I can’t write an article about the Best of Italy without mentioning the famous City of Venice!

Venice is one of the most touristic cities in Europe, a great choice if you want to spend a weekend or more in Italy. With its numerous canals and its famous gondola rides, it’s also the perfect destination for a romantic stay. The Venice Carnaval takes place every year in February and attracts tourists from all over the world. If you don’t mind the crowds, it can be a good time to visit the city!

The places to visit in Venice:

• Saint Mark’s Square: heart of the city and pigeons’ area
• Saint Mark’s Basilica and its golden mosaics
• The Ducale Palace
• The Bridge of Sighs: Venice’s famous bridge
• The islands of Murano (world famous for glassmaking) and Burano with its typical colorful houses.

You can find more info about the best places to visit in Venice in my article: The 31 best things to do in Venice .

This guide of the best places to visit in Italy wouldn’t be complete without mentioning the Cinque Terre , 5 stunning cliff-side villages overlooking the Mediterranean sea. You have probably already seen pictures of them, these spectacular colourful towns are amongst the most famous sights of Italy!

Cinque Terre villages are located close to each other. To visit them, you have 3 choices:

• Do the hiking trail that connects them (but be careful, depending on the season, some of them might be closed). The routes between each village can go from ½ hour to 2 hours.
• Take the train that connects all the villages: The Cinque Terre Express.
• By boat, with amazing views over the villages.

The Cinque Terre villages are the following:

• Monterosso al mare: located in the northernmost part, it is the largest of the villages and the only one with a large sandy beach.
• Vernazza with its colourful houses and small port.
• Corniglia, the only one that isn’t connected to the sea, can be reached by a staircase of more than 350 steps.
• Manorala: the oldest village.
• Riomaggiore, situated in the very East, at “the end” of the Cinque Terre.

If you want more information about Cinque Terre, you should read my detailed article: How to visit Cinque Terre?

Much less known than the previous cities, it’s however definitely worth a visit during your trip to Italy. Lecce, located at the base of the “Italian boot” in Puglia region, is a very beautiful baroque town. There are churches, museums and palaces everywhere, all sharing the same architectural style.

• La Basilique santa Croce
• The Basilica of the Holy Cross
• The historic center
• The dome of Lecce
• Sant’Oronzo Square
• Faggiano Museum

Verona is the city of love and of the tragic destiny of Romeo and Juliet. Everyone has already heard about it, but do you know what are the best things to do in town?

Here are the best places to visit in Verona:

• Juliette’s house: the opportunity to admire the famous balcony and take a picture with your lover
• The piazza Bra, where Verona arena is located
• Piazza delle Erbe with its market, bars and restaurant terraces
• The basilica of San Zeno Maggiore, the oldest church in Verona
• The Castelvecchio, a 14th century castle turned into a museum

Genoa is and have historically always been a port city. Christopher Columbus, one of the most famous adventurers of all time was born here!

The city is also full of monuments and beautiful sites to admire. Not many people visit it but it’s a shame, because there are very nice things to see in Genoa.

Things to do:

• The port of Genoa where you can visit the aquarium and see a replica of a pirate ship. Don’t forget to take the glass elevator to enjoy a panoramic view of the city.
• The historical center with the piazza dei Ferrari and its beautiful fountain
• Walk along Via Garibaldi and visit one or more palaces such as the palazzo reale, the palazzo bianco or the palazzo Rosso.
• Stroll along the Lungomare, a 3 km seaside promenade
• Go to Boccadasse, an old fisherman’s village with colourful houses

Naples is the European city with the largest historical centre, so you can be sure there are a lot of churches and monuments to visit in the city! Naples is also very famous around the world for its gastronomy: the pizza (created in the 1600s as a street food for the poorest Neapolitans) as well as the famous Neapolitan sauce.

Naples must-see attractions:

• Start with the historic centre and its Duomo
• The Piazza del Plebiscito, a huge and very photogenic square with beautiful monuments surrounding it
• The Vigiliano Park and its magnificent view over the bay
• Visit the archaeological museum which houses objects from Pompeii archaeological site
• Go to Pompeii,  located about 40 minutes by bus or train from Naples and witness the damage caused by the murderous eruption of the Vesuvius.

From Naples you can easily take the ferry and go to Capri island for a day trip.

You will start your visit of one of the most beautiful places in Italy in Marina Grande port. You should then take the funicular: it will take you directly to the famous Piazzetta, in Capri town center. With its café terraces and magnificent view over the bay, the place is magical!

Other things you shouldn’t miss in Capri are the Arco Naturale , a large 20m height rocky arch and the viewpoint of Tragara , which also offers a magnificent view. And of course the must-see attraction of Capri: the blue Grotto (Grotta Azzurra in Italian), named after the unique water color inside.

You may not know it, but Turin is THE chocolate city. Yes, there is not only Swiss or Belgian chocolate! Italian one is also very famous. Your favourite sweet thing has even been invented by a master pastry chef from Turin! Every year, the chocolate festival takes place in town, with many events and tasting.

But Turin is also the city of cinema. Located in Turin’s emblematic monument, the Mole Antonelliana, the Cinema Museum is one of the best in the world. You will learn more about the history of cinema and you can even see masks of Star Wars and Lord of the Rings! Don’t forget to take the panoramic lift to the upper terrace, you will enjoy a 360° view over the entire city.

Also worth seeing during your trip to Turin:

• The Egyptian museum : the 2nd largest after the one in Cairo and the oldest Egyptian museum in the world
• The automobile museum, with its impressive collection of vehicles
• The Palazzo Reale, former residence of the Dukes of Savoy

To plan your visit to Turin, you can read my definitive guide about the city: The 20 best things to do in Turin

Milan is the capital of fashion and design, with many renowned designer’s luxury boutiques and showrooms. In addition, there is also many historic buildings to visit in the city!

The tourist attraction you shouldn’t miss in Milan:

• The Piazza del Duomo and its magnificent Cathedral: the Duomo di Milano . Don’t hesitate to take the entrance ticket with rooftop terrace access, it’s worth it!
• The Sforza Castle and Parco Sempione, just nearby
• The Vittorio Emmanuel II gallery and its huge glass roof, a luxury shopping spot
• The Pinacoteca di Brera (Brera art gallery) and its rich collection of paintings by Italian masters such as Raphael, Bellini or Caravaggio.
• The monumental cemetery: The burial place of celebrities, featuring some very unusual tombstones.

If you have planned to go to Milan, you should my detailed article, with all my best tips to visit the city in 1, 2 or 3 days: The 15 best things to do in Milan

The Lake Maggiore , along with  Lake Como and Lake Garda is one of the 3 biggest (and most beautiful) Italian lakes. If you plan to visit Milan during your stay in Italy, it can be a great idea to spend a day or 2 around Lake Maggiore, as it’s only at 1h30 by car. And if you don’t have a car, many tour companies offer day trips from Milan.

Lake Maggiore is especially known for the Borromean Islands: the great new is that you can perfectly visit all 3 of them in 1 day with one of the many boat tours available.

The 3 islands

• The Isola Madre, where you will be able to admire its famous exotic garden with freely wandering peacocks.
• The Isola Bella, with the Borromean palace, its garden and the shell grotto
• The Isola Superieure, an island of fishermen.

Located at only 1 hours from Milan, Lake Como is the third largest lake in Italy. The lake is a very popular jet set holiday destination and is famous around the world for its many majestic villas and lush gardens.

It’s also a very popular shooting location: for example, you might have seen in it in Star Wars episode II! A part of the movie was shot at the Balbianello villa , one the lake shore. But Lake Como is more than this: around the lake you can visit beautiful fishing villages and enjoy many hiking trails. A must visit in Northern Italy!

Best Places to see:

• Como city and its pedestrian center
• Tremezzo  and Villa Carlotta with its sumptuous botanical garden
• Bellagio and villa Melzi , a source of inspiration for Stendhal himself
• Varenne and the villa Monastero with its promenade at the edge of the water
• Castello Di Vezio and its panoramic view of the lake below
• And of course, if you’re Star Wars fan, the Villa Balbianello.

Lake Garda is the largest and one of the most touristic lake in Italy. It’s located at only 1h30 by train from Milan.

Besides the lake itself, you can visit some of the nearby towns:

• Sirmione: the most famous town on Lake Garda. Its medieval castle marks the entrance to the city, and it’s vert pleasant to stroll in the small typical alleys. Catullo caves archaeological site is also worth seeing for its ruins of Roman temples and villas.
• Malcesine : in the city, you can visit Scaliger Castle and the Palazzo dei Capitani. Then take the cable car to Monte Baldo and enjoy a panoramic view of Lake Garda.
• Torri del Benaco: with its small fishing port and Scaligero castle, it also deserves a stop.

If you love hiking and Italy, then the Dolomites are made for you! Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the area has 18 mountain peaks, some of them being more than 3,000 meters height.

Famous for their very particular shape, sculpted by the elements, they are even more beautiful at sunrise and sunset.

To fully enjoy the landscape, you can drive along the Dolomites road from Bolzano to Cortina . There is around 130km and the road offer breathtaking views on the mountains.

Don’t hesitate to stop in the villages or at the lago di Carezza. Cortina is one of the best starting point for the numerous hiking trails in the region. If you love outdoors activities, the Dolomites is the region you should see during your next trip to Italy!

You are looking for the top sights in Italy? Then the Amalfi coast is a great choice for your next trip!

Located South of Naples, the Amalfi coast is famous for being one of the most beautiful coasts of Italy. With its wild coast and amazing cliff-side villages, no doubt you will love it!

Overview of the best places to visit:

• Sorrento , standing on a cliff with a view over the bay and the island of Capri.
• Positano, a colorful cliffside village. It’s popular jet-set destination for its fashion boutiques and trendy cafes.
• Nocelle: if you go to Positano, you should really do the Path Of Gods Trail, it start from Nocelle, a bit above Positano.
• Amalfi and its magnificent Duomo
• Ravello and the villa Cimbrone: with its 6 hectares garden overlooking the sea, it’s a must-do in Ravello.

Located in Puglia region, Gargano Natural Park is the largest natural park in Italy. The coast is famous for the limestone rocks the sea has carved over time. You will be able to see numerous caves, wild coves and faraglioni .

The center of the Gargano is a great place for peaceful hikes, especially in the Umbra forest, literally “the forest of shadows”. Stroll under the hundred years old trees and enjoy the flora and fauna.

The small town of   Vieste is also a must in the region!

Sicily, the biggest island in the Mediterranean sea, is the ideal place to visit if you want to mix relaxation at the beach and discovery of world class archaeological sites. Add the delicious Italian cuisine to the mix and the result is a perfect combination for unforgeable holidays!

Best places to see in Eastern Sicily:

• Catania and the Piazza del Duomo with the Cathedral of Santa Agatha
• Syracuse and the island of Ortigia : Take a walk the small alleys of the historical center, admire the grandiose Piazza del Duomo and enjoy the view of Castello Maniace
• Baroque towns: Noto, Modica and Ragusa
• Taormina : For the famous Greek theatre, the view over the Etna and its magnificent pebble beach: “Isola Bella”.
• Etna, the most active volcano in Europe.

Places to visit in Western Sicily: 

• Palermo , with the beautiful palatine chapel , the Norman palace and the unusual Capuchin Catacombs
• Cefalu, a small traditional fishing village
• Agrigento and the valley of the temples
• The beaches of “Scala dei Turchi” and Eraclea Minoa
• The Egadi Islands , a paradise on earth.

Discover all of my articles about Sicily .

You love beautiful beaches and you’re wondering where to go in Italy?

Sardinia , the 2nd biggest Italian island, is famous around the world for its stunning beaches. It’s the perfect destination if you want to enjoy holiday in the sun.

Best places to visit in Sardinia:

• Cagliari , the capital of Sardinia which stretches over several hills. Visit the Castello district , most of the tourist attractions are located there.
• Maddalena Islands , with beautiful wild beaches.
• Costa Smeralda : the perfect jet-set destination for a luxury holiday. The road, all along the coast, offers a spectacular view.
• The Gulf of Orosei : Huge and impressive limestone cliffs, hosts some of the most beautiful beaches of Sardinia.

You’re planning to visit Sardinia during your next trip? Have a look at my article about the best things to do: The 20 best places to visit in Sardinia.

And you, what do you plan to visit in Italy? What are your favorite places?

So, you want to go to Italy? In order to get the best price, I highly recommand you to check flight prices now. It’s quick and easy, just use our flight comparator below!

Once on the results page, feel free to compare several sites, to make sure that no fees are added to the final rates.

Italy travel Guides

• Buy the Lonely Planet Italy guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk
• Buy the Rick Steves Italy guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk

Discover all my articles about Italy : All my articles to help you plan your trip to Italy are listed there.

• The 20 Best Things to do in Italy – All the must-see places!
• Cinque Terre: The definitive guide to plan your visit
• Florence: The 27 best things to do and must-see attractions
• Milan: The Top 15 things to do in the city and around
• Pisa: Top 21 must-see attractions + Tips
• Rome: The 25 best things to do and see
• Siena: Top 20 best places to visit
• Turin: The 20 must-see attractions
• Venice: The 31 best things to do (+ Tips)
• 2 days in Florence
• 3 days in Florence
• 4 days in Florence
• 5 days in Florence
• 2 days in Milan
• 3 days in Milan
• 4 days in Milan
• 2 Days in Rome – How to visit Rome in 48h
• 3 Days in Rome – The best itinerary to visit Rome in 72h
• 4 Days in Rome – The best places to visit in 4 days
• 5 Days in Rome – How to spend 5 days in Rome
• 6 Days in Rome – The ultimate Itinerary + Where to stay
• One week in Rome – The perfect 7-day itinerary
• 2 Days in Venice – An Epic 48h itinerary
• 3 Days in Venice – The perfect 72h itinerary
• 4 Days in Venice – Itinerary + Best Things to do + Tips
• Where to stay in Milan? My guide to the best areas and hotels for a perfect stay
• Where to stay in Rome? – The definitive guide of the best areas!
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• The 20 Best museums in Rome – With all my best tips!
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Home » Travel Guides » Italy » 25 Best Things to Do in Italy

25 Best Things to Do in Italy

Spectacular Italy needs almost no introduction and is one of the most popular travel destinations in Europe. Italy’s impact on the world can be seen all over the country, in the beautiful artwork, crumbling ruins, and impressive palaces and castles that dot the horizon.

As well as vibrant cities like Rome where old and new mingle seamlessly, you can also enjoy the less crowded coastal areas where you can relax on sandy beaches and swim in limpid seas. In addition to exploring Italy proper, you can also hop over to neighboring Sicily and enjoy a different side of life that also offers some of the best food and drink in the region.

Here are the best things to do in Italy :

1. Visit the Valley of the Temples

If you are going to visit charming Sicily as part of your travels then your first stop needs to be the Valley of the Temples which is located in Agrigento.

Here you will find a huge archeological complex that has some of the most intact Doric temples that were built here in the 5th century.

One of the best things about the temples here is that they overlook the town below and you can take in the stunning views as you tour the historical site.

Recommended tour : Valley of the Temples E-Scooter Tour

2. Climb Mount Vesuvius

Mount Vesuvius is one of the most famous mountains in the world, not least because of its famous eruption that covered the unsuspecting town of Pompeii in volcanic ash.

Nowadays Vesuvius is mostly considered safe to climb and you can trek to the crater of the mountain which looks like something you would find on the surface of the moon.

Needless to say the views from the top are breathtaking and the hike is suitable for a range of abilities.

Tour from Naples: Pompeii Ruins & Mount Vesuvius Day Tour

3. Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site as well as being designated as a national park.

Nestled in Liguria, the ‘Five Lands’ is made up of five distinct villages that sit atop craggy cliffs overlooking the famous Italian Riviera.

The five villages include Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, Riomaggiore, and Monterosso, and each has its own unique charms and sights.

The area of Cinque Terra sprawls between La Spezia and Levanto and you will find romantic olive groves, traditional eateries, and azure sea views all the way along the coast.

4. Take to the waters of Lake Como

Lake Como in Lombardy spans an amazing 146 square kilometers and is the perfect place to get out on the water and explore Italy by boat.

The area around Lake Como has houses owned by some of the richest celebrities in the world, which tells you everything to know about the kind of views you can expect here.

The landscape surrounding the lake is covered with alpine forest and traditional villages as well as dainty ornate houses that make you feel as if you are in a picture postcard version of an Italian masterpiece.

Tour from Milan: Lake Como, Bellagio and Varenna Full Day Tour

5. Enjoy the art at the Uffizi Gallery

Anyone heading to Florence shouldn’t miss the chance to visit one of arguably the most famous galleries in the world.

This museum is stuffed full of the works of Italian greats such as Leonardo da Vinci, Raphael, Michelangelo, and Caravaggio which are all displayed in one of the prettiest buildings in Italy, the Palazzo degli Uffizi.

The palazzo looks over the mighty Arno River and is a must visit for any art lovers.

Book online: Uffizi Gallery Timed Entrance Ticket

6. Stand on Juliet’s Balcony

Verona is home to what is said to be the balcony of Juliet, the character made famous in Shakespeare’s play Romeo and Juliet.

Unfortunately the reality is that the city of Verona bought the home featuring the balcony in 1905 with the purpose of making it into a tourist attraction and sadly the characters in Romeo and Juliet never existed in real life.

Still, the balcony is a pretty spot in the city and couples flock here to declare their love for each other beneath the famous building.

Explore Verona: 2-Hour Guided City Walking Tour

7. Marvel at the Coliseum

You can’t come to Rome and not visit one of the most famous attractions in the world, the mighty Coliseum.

The ruins of what was once a magnificent amphitheater are one of the greatest historical relics of our time and once it would have had a capacity of over 50,000 spectators.

The amphitheater is most well known for the gladiator matches that would have been showcased here and you can sit in the stands and imagine the violent spectacles that used to be performed here for the enjoyment of the crowds.

8. Take a trip to Pompeii

Pompeii is famous for the events that took place here in 79 AD, when Mount Vesuvius erupted and covered the town in ash.

The eruption meant that Roman life was captured and frozen in time, and when the site was excavated it offered a glimpse of a bygone era.

If you visit Pompeii today you can expect a kind of open air museum where you will find preserved houses, baths, and ancient Roman forums, all filled with the relics of the people who were living here when the eruption took place.

9. Take a boat trip along the Amalfi Coast

The gorgeous Amalfi Coast is one of the most scenic spots in Italy and if you want to experience as much of it as possible in the shortest amount of time then consider taking a boat trip along the shore line.

A number of companies offer boat rental and you can take in sights such as the towering Lattari Mountains as well as various cute coves and inlets.

Seemingly out of nowhere traditional Mediterranean villages will appear and boat tours usually come with food and drinks included so that you can snack on local produce as you take in the views.

Book online: Coast and Capri Full-Day Trip by Boat

10. Wander around the Historic Center of Siena

The city of Siena is often overlooked in favor of Florence, although this is unfair as there is a huge amount to see and do here, and parts of the city are as pretty as its neighboring rival.

The Historic Center of Siena in particular is well worth a visit and starts at the Piazza del Campo which leads to a historic district that is covered with Gothic architecture that dates from the 12th century.

This mingles with buildings from the Middle Ages and signature points to look out for include the mighty Duomo, the Pinacoteca Nazionale, and the pretty Palazzo Salimbeni.

11. Go on a pilgrimage to the Vatican

Vatican City is actually its own state within Italy, although you can only visit this landlocked area by first travelling to Rome.

If you are in the region then you should definitely consider swinging by one of the most important religious spots in the world, which is home to powerhouses such as the Piazza San Pietro and St Peter’s Basilica.

You can also take in the majesty of the Vatican Palace as well as the Sistine Chapel which features the Creation of Adam.

12. Visit Saint Mark’s Basilica

Venice has a range of peerless attractions although perhaps the most famous of these is Saint Mark’s Basilica which sits on the famed Piazza San Marco or Saint Mark’s Square.

The basilica is the final resting place of Saint Mark the Evangelist and started life as a Byzantine church before being developed over the years.

The church is a work of art in its own right and you will find glittering mosaics and gorgeous marble decorations all over the complex as well as bas-reliefs and touches of gold leaf.

13. Discover the Roman Forum

The Roman Forum is another one of Italy’s big hitter attractions and lies between the Capitoline and the Palatine hills in Rome.

This would once have been the center of the mighty Roman Empire and you can take in the beautiful complex here as well as enjoy views from the terraces all over the wider city.

14. Climb Stromboli

On a visit to Sicily you absolutely can’t miss the chance to climb at least part way up Stromboli, a still active volcano.

If you are looking for an easy trek then you can walk 400 meters up the sides of Stromboli by yourself, although if you want to continue on to the crater which still billows clouds of ash and fire then you will need a certified guide to take you.

To get to the top takes around 3 hours with the descent coming in at around 2 hours, so all in all you need to allow a five to six hour trek in order to see everything.

It can be quite a slog to the top but it is well worth it for the spectacular views.

Recommended tour: Stromboli: Sunset Trekking at Sciara Del Fuoco

15. Take a boat trip to the Blue Grotto

One of the premium sights in Capri is the Blue Grotto, also known as the Grotta Azzurra.

The grotto is the result of a cavern which is filled with water that glows a luminescent blue when the sun hits it through shafts in the sides of the rock.

The cavern itself rises to 14 meters in height in some parts and is around 60 meters long, and you can take in this amazing light show from a rowing boat inside the grotto which makes for one of the most memorable sightseeing experiences in all of Italy.

16. Take to the water at the Grand Canal

The Grand Canal in Venice is one of the most famous waterways in the world and there are a variety of ways that you can enjoy it.

One of these is to take a water bus known as a vaporetto along the various parts of the canal where you can marvel at the little bridges and traditional Venetian homes that back onto the water.

Another more romantic way to travel around the canal is to take an iconic gondola ride where you can imagine that you are back in the Venice of a different time.

17. Eat pizza in Naples

Naples has a range of pretty attractions in its own right but one of the main reasons to come here is to snack on its most famous foodstuff in the form of delicious pizza.

All over the city you will find pizza parlors and restaurants and wherever you choose to go, know that it is this city that is famed with inventing one of the world’s favorite foods.

18. Climb the Leaning Tower of Pisa

The Leaning Tower of Pisa in Pisa is a fluke of architecture, as when the tower was constructed it immediately started to sink into the marshy ground beneath it.

This gave the tower its signature crooked stance, and at various times in its existence it has been both open and closed to the public as architects struggle to asses if it is safe to enter.

When the tower is open you can climb to the viewing platform at the top where you can look across all of Pisa.

19. View The Last Supper in Milan

Even if you are not an art aficionado you will still be able to appreciate the splendor and religious significance of the mural of the Last Supper.

Painted by Leonardo da Vinci and on display at the Santa Maria delle Grazie, the mural depicts Christ and the apostles at the last supper before Christ’s crucifixion.

Many visitors to Milan consider this a highlight of their trip and it is an extremely moving sight even for those who do not believe the original story from which the mural was inspired.

20. Tour the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore

Florence is one of the most romantic and artistic cities in the world and its crowning glory is the magnificent Duomo or the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore.

The cathedral is best known for its rising dome that can be seen from all over Florence as well as its different hued frescoes and decorations.

One of the best things to do here is to climb to the top where you can look out across Florence and appreciate the might of this amazing feat of architecture.

21. Throw a coin in the Trevi Fountain

No trip to Rome is complete without a trip to the Trevi Fountain, and in fact if you want to return here then it is considered an absolute necessity.

Local legend has it that anyone who tosses a coin into the fountain will get good luck that will mean that they will one day return to this great city.

The fountain is carved in the Baroque style and is made of glittering marble which is lit up at night to spectacular effect.

22. Journey into the Frasassi Cave

The Frasassi Cave is located deep in the grounds of Ancona and descending into this wonderful feat of nature can feel like you are travelling to the center of the earth.

The journey takes 75 minutes and you can expect to find some of the most beautiful karst formations anywhere in the world here.

The inside of the grotto is covered in walkways and lighted areas that let you take in the amazing geology within such as eerie stalactites and stalagmites.

23. Follow the Chianti Wine Route

Chianti is known for its delicious wines and so it would be impossible to come here and not go on a wine tour of this region that is nestled between Siena and Florence.

There are many different wine tours that operate in this area but many of them will take you over rambling hills and through enchanting villages, visiting the local wineries and sampling the various blends on offer.

Top rated tour: Chianti Wineries Tour with Food and Wine Tasting

24. Visit the Acropolis

The Acropolis in Selinunte would once have been a political hub in the region and is made up of five distinct temples.

The most famous of these is known as Temple C which dates from the 6th century and is said to be dedicated to the god Apollo.

Other temples such as Temple D also dates from the same period and is said to be dedicated to Venus and Temple A and O are said to have been constructed sometime between 490 and 480 BC. As they seem to come in a pair, they are often thought to be dedicated to the famous twins Castor and Pollux.

25. Admire Milan Cathedral

Some people may be surprised to know that the largest church in Italy is not in Rome or even in Vatican City, but actually in Milan .

The cathedral here also known as the Duomo took an impressive six centuries to build and is dedicated to Saint Mary of the Nativity.

The interior is simply stunning and features marble decorations and a pretty alter, but one of the main attractions here is actually the roof area and you can climb a staircase to the top of the Duomo and look out across all of Milan as far as the eye can see.

Recommended tour: Fast-Track Milan Cathedral and Terraces Guided Tour

25 Best Things to Do in Italy:

• Visit the Valley of the Temples
• Climb Mount Vesuvius
• Cinque Terre
• Take to the waters of Lake Como
• Enjoy the art at the Uffizi Gallery
• Stand on Juliet’s Balcony
• Marvel at the Coliseum
• Take a trip to Pompeii
• Take a boat trip along the Amalfi Coast
• Wander around the Historic Center of Siena
• Go on a pilgrimage to the Vatican
• Visit Saint Mark’s Basilica
• Discover the Roman Forum
• Climb Stromboli
• Take a boat trip to the Blue Grotto
• Take to the water at the Grand Canal
• Eat pizza in Naples
• Climb the Leaning Tower of Pisa
• View The Last Supper in Milan
• Tour the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore
• Throw a coin in the Trevi Fountain
• Journey into the Frasassi Cave
• Follow the Chianti Wine Route
• Visit the Acropolis
• Admire Milan Cathedral

Top 22 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Italy

Italy is a truly special, incredibly diverse and magical country where I think you are just as likely to find beauty in a quiet, cobbled backstreet or traditional trattoria as in its stunning beaches or extraordinary countryside.

I’ve lived in Italy for many years, and I’d love to share my favourite destinations. Some will be well known, others not so much…

1. Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre’s rugged, rustic, but breathtaking beauty perfectly sums up why Italy is so revered as a travel destination!

Located on the stunning Italian Riviera coastline, five brightly coloured medieval villages cling jaggedly – and almost impossibly – to the inhospitable coastal rocks.

It’s such an important place; it was declared a Unesco World Heritage Site in 1997. I suggest meandering around the narrow streets, wandering the ancient vineyards that cling to steep terraces, and then heading for a pesto pasta lunch (a regional speciality) at one of the local trattorias! Pure bliss! 

My must-do highlights…

• Enjoy a hike along the Blue Trail that overlooks the ocean and takes you to five Insta-worthy villages.
• Spend a day at Cinque Terre’s only sandy beach, Monterosso al Mare, to soak up the blissful sun or cool down in the sea.
• Book a boat sunset tour and uniquely explore the coastline whilst watching the sun go down.
• Experience the mouth-watering fresh fish caught by locals who live on the island.

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2. Lake Como

Famously home to George Clooney’s Italian villa, Lake Como is the third largest lake in the country and a hot spot for tourists and locals alike.

Traditionally, Lake Como has been known as a place for wealthy people and political entities to retreat occasionally, but I would still recommend a visit to anyone!

Lake Como is home to several castles and luxurious accommodations. If you need to get around the lake, its state-of-the-art water transport ferry system has been an important part of the lake since its induction in 1826.

• Visit one of the most iconic cathedrals in Italy, The Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, where you can see a breathtaking panoramic view of the city from the top.
• Explore the museums to learn about the history of Lake Como and how it has evolved over the years.
• Enjoy a day filled with fun at the Lake Como Adventure Park set in the mountains surrounded by nature.
• For those who love water sports, hire a kayak and spend the day out on the beautiful lake, exploring around the island.

3. Tuscany Countryside

I honestly think there is no other place on earth like the Tuscan countryside. I highly recommend driving away from the cities and heading into some of the most extraordinary scenery in the world! 

This is a truly magical place where you’ll find impossibly picturesque rolling hills and scenic drives where the odd roaming wild hog or two will suddenly come into view.  

Also, expect breathtaking sunflower fields, olive groves that have been here for hundreds of years, medieval ruins and some of the most incredible vineyards in the world.

• Take a trip to the natural hot springs in Bagno Vignoni and bathe in the idyllic waters.
• Explore the romantic vineyards in Chianti to experience a unique wine tasting.
• Book a hot air balloon tour in Lucca and enjoy the breathtaking views overlooking the picturesque countryside.
• Visit the leaning tower of Pisa and capture an Insta-worthy shot next to this famous landmark.

My hotel choice for Tuscan Countryside – Il Castro Luxury Apartments San Gimignano

• To book, check prices or dates for Il Castro Luxury Apartments San Gimignano

4. Camogli, Liguria

In the northern portion of the country, the peninsula of Portofino houses small fishing villages. Among the most notable and famous villages is Camogli in Liguria.

This small port maintains a modest population of around 5,500 people and remains protected within the Portofino Marine Protected Area .

Strolling through the marketplace or basking in the sun on Comogli’s coast is a welcomed activity for tourists and locals alike. I recommend bringing your camera and taking many pictures of every nook and cranny of this endearing and picturesque part of the coast! 

My must-do highlights

• Indulge in the abundance of delicious fresh seafood on offer at an array of establishments on the main harbour.
• Slow down and take some time to relax at Camogli’s rocky beach where you can enjoy the glistening sun.
• Rent a speedboat with a skipper to explore the beautiful gems only reachable by water, the Natural Park of Portofino and Paradiso Gulf.
• Take an E-bike tour along the stunning coastline to visit the unique and charming churches and castles.

5. Calabria

Located in the country’s south, Calabria is part of the land separating the Tyrrhenian Sea from the Ionian Sea and the sun-baked toe of Italy’s boot!

Some attractions in this country can seem like a dressed-up show put in place for tourists’ enjoyment, but that is not something you will find in Calabria.

This portion of the country is quintessentially Italian, and I’m always charmed by it. Calabria has lovingly escaped the tourist game to provide an unspoiled and seemingly untouched view of classic Italy.

If you want to see Italians as they are rather than a scripted rendition, I personally think Calabria is the place to go! 

• Explore the Pollino National Park where you can discover the magnificent Raganello Canyon and walk along streams, bridges and gorges.
• Visit one of the most prestigious monuments in Calabria, the Aragonese fortress of Le Castella, where you can admire the remains of ancient castles.
• Enjoy the clear blue waters at Tropea which is well-known for being a unique and beautiful experience.
• For those who feel adventurous, book a double parasailing flight and unforgettably view the island’s landscape.

6. Lake Garda

Considered to be one of the most jaw-dropping places in the world, this is a large and impossibly picturesque lake nestled in Northern Italy surrounded by the pretty fortress town of Sirmione, the resort town of Riva del Garda, and many charming and laid-back villages in between.

Head further North and get to the famous Dolomites Mountain range.  

I highly recommend boating, wind-surfing, eating at the many charming and cosmopolitan restaurants, and generally taking in the wonderful vibe and jaw-dropping scenery.

• Visit one of the most famous hot springs in Garda Thermal Park, where you can experience naturally formed historic spas.
• Enjoy a family day at Gardaland Park, which features over 30 exciting rides, show-stopping musical performances and spectacular light shows.
• Explore the charming and picturesque town of Sirmione with a unique drawbridge entrance.
• Cycle around the lake and take in the breathtaking views on a path suspended 50 metres above the water.

7. The Dolomites

If you head further north from Lake Garda, you’ll find some of Europe’s most spectacular mountain scenery. Located in northeastern Italy, with gorgeous scenery and beautiful resorts aside, there is also plenty to do.

Head there in winter and find well-coordinated ski networks, the legendary circuit Sella Ronda, and plenty of people who cross-country skiing and snowboarding. Visit in summer and go hiking amongst stunning views and fresh mountain air.  

• Take a hike around the impressive Tre Cime di Lavaredo, famous for its three magnificent and distinctive peaks.
• Capture an Instagrammable shot at Lago di Carezza where the panoramic backdrop of the Latemar mountains reflects onto the lake.
• For an adventurous experience, climb via Ferrata in one of the best-equipped locations.
• Enjoy the culture and history that the Dolomites have to offer with a visit to Bolzano.

8. Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast

I love this area! The most famous area is the resort town of Sorrento, where you’ll find the addictive liqueur limoncello and, of course, plenty of great wine.

The city can also be used as a base to visit Pompeii, which was buried by Mount Vesuvius’ volcanic eruption in 79 AD.

Further along the ruggedly beautiful coast, you will find the impossibly picturesque and affluent town of Positano and the small, pretty town of Amalfi. The area offers one of the world’s greatest coastal drives so be sure to hire a car if you can, Fiat 500s are always an apt choice!

I would also recommend taking a boat from Sorrento to the romantic island of Capri, where you can see the gorgeous Blue Grotto, a sea cave flooded with brilliant blue or emerald light.

• Explore the picturesque Old Town of Sorrento with its beautiful pastel-coloured houses.
• Take a trip along the Amalfi Coast, which is well-known for being one of the most stunning coastlines in the world and overlooking crystal clear turquoise waters.
• Hike the four-mile stretch of the Path of Gods which provides you with the most breathtaking views of the Amalfi Coastline.
• Enjoy watching a sunset over the bay of Naples whilst listening to the musical delights of a busker in Villa Communale Park.

My hotel choice for Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast – La Casa di Peppe Guest House & Villa

• To book, check prices or dates for La Casa di Peppe Guest House & Villa

Puglia is located in the southern region of Italy , in the heel of Italy’s boot. Initially ignored by tourists for decades, it has become quite the fashionable place to take a vacation in recent years! 

Here, you can expect hill towns filled with pretty white ‘Trulli’ houses, centuries-old farmland and a spectacular Mediterranean coastline.

This region is perfect for those wishing to taste real Italy and the fabulous blue sea and glorious sandy beaches.

Aside from the varied Italian experience, you’ll have other reasons to visit this region, including the excellent regional cuisine, picturesque olive groves, and lush green orchards.

• Wander around the historic city of Leece and admire the gorgeous Baroque architecture made from unique stone and interesting features.
• For those who love food, the restaurant at Masseria Il Frantoio is a must-stop to taste its ever-evolving menu of authentic dishes.
• Visit the iconic landmark of Sant at Torre Sant’Andrea and enjoy a swim through the archway in picturesque waters.
• Take a hot air balloon ride overlooking the natural landscape of Gravina, which is filled with canyons, hills and stone houses.

10. Verona City

Verona is a lovely, relaxed city famous for Shakespeare’s story of Romeo and Juliet. It has the third-largest Roman Arena in Italy, and I highly recommend catching an opera during your visit.

UNESCO has awarded the city a World Heritage site status because of its urban structure and architecture, which include Roman remains and ancient castles.

As you can imagine, Verona is a very romantic city, so if you take a partner, you never know. They might end up proposing! The Italian lakes are accessible from Verona, Lake Garda, Lake Como, and Lake Maggiore, some of the most well-known.

The mountain lakes offer classically beautiful images of this country and are flanked by sleepy cobblestone villages and secluded gardens.

• Climb up to the top of Torre dei Lamberti to experience the panoramic and best view across the city.
• Enjoy a shopping trip at Piazza Delle Erbe which is also a perfect outdoor dining spot on a sunny day.
• Take a stroll along the stunning Ponte Pietra bridge which connects the city to Teatro Romano and Castel San Pietro.
• Wander around the magical Giardino Gusti Gardens located on the grounds of the historic palace.

11. Venice 

Venice is one of the most famous cities in Italy, and it’s built on water. It’s also often cited as one of the world’s most romantic travel destinations. In the middle of the city, you’ll find the grand square ‘Piazza San Marco,’ where the even more impressive basilica resides.

If you’re a culture seeker, you’ll be spoilt for choice here; Venice has the world’s most artistic masterpieces per square kilometre, and numerous churches, museums, and palaces are worth visiting.

Another highlight is the Bridge of Sighs (Ponte dei Sospiri), an enclosed bridge that crosses the Rio di Palazzo.

If you’re a romantic and want to ride in a gondola, remember to take plenty of money—you will be charged a small fortune for the privilege.

• Visit one of the most famous Piazza, St Mark’s Square, located in the heart of the city along the Grand Canal.
• Experience a unique way of getting around by taking one of the famous gondola rides through the city.
• Taste an array of fresh flavours at the Mercati di Rialto and see how the local Italians create their signature dishes.
• Climb the spiral staircase of Scala Contarini Del Bovolo which has a viewpoint at the top overlooking the city.

12. Bologna

Bologna is a stunning city known for its beauty, left-wing politics, wealth, and, most importantly, cuisine. It is the capital of the Emilia-Romagna region in northern Italy. If you arrive by train, move swiftly away from the station to take in the city’s most beautiful sites.

Many arcades allow you to explore the city even if it’s raining. I recommend wandering around the backstreets until you stumble upon one of the many beautiful squares where you can stop for a cafe or gelato.

Bologna also boasts the oldest university in the world, founded in 1088. Most people visit the city to discover its renowned culinary delights, which include tagliatelle al ragù, lasagne, tortellini served in broth, and fried gnocchi.

• View the spectacular art at Bologna National Gallery which features paintings dating back as far as the 13th century.
• Experience the historic markets at La Piazzola where you can buy an eclectic range of items in a lively atmosphere.
• Indulge in a traditional tortellini dish at one of the many authentic restaurants throughout the city.
• Explore one of the coolest places in the city, Ghetto Ebraico, filled with shopping, bars and restaurants.

13. Florence

Florence is a magnificent and fascinating place and an art lover’s dream. A popular city nestled in the rolling hills of the Tuscany region, Florence has plenty to offer its many visitors.

For starters, there are numerous museums filled with famous paintings and sculptures and two places I recommend are the Pitti Palace and the Uffizi.

The latter hosts works by Caravaggio, Leonardo da Vinci, and Michelangelo and receives approximately 1.6 million tourists a year (you should book before you go, or you will unfortunately face a long wait).

Also, take your time to explore the rest of Tuscany. Known as the Renaissance country, the region offers some of the world’s most beautiful and romantic natural scenery.

The extraordinary countryside and coastline keep the relaxed vacationers happy, and the ever-flowing supply of fine wine and cuisine will certainly please the food connoisseurs.

• Climb 414 steps to the top of Giotto’s Bell Tower and experience the magnificent views overlooking the city.
• Enjoy a day of shopping at San Lorenzo outdoor market where you will find some unique goods and souvenirs.
• Visit one of the most famous art masterpieces in the world, the Statue of David created by Michelangelo.
• Finish off a day of exploring by watching the sunset cast a sensational light across the city at Piazzale Michelangelo.

My hotel choice for Florence – 25hours Hotel

• To book, check prices or dates for 25hours Hotel Florence Piazza San Paolino

It’s impossible to tour Italy without visiting its famous capital, Rome. This truly incredible city is full of history spanning over twenty centuries—you could say Rome is the world’s best open-air museum.

As you wander the streets, the architecture will leave you in awe, so pack your camera.

There are many sites to discover, the most famous being the Coliseum, the Vatican, St. Peter’s, the Trevi Fountain and my personal favourite, the Pantheon.

You probably won’t get to see them all in a weekend but it will give you a reason to go back! Rome’s cafe culture is also world-famous, and for a real Rome experience, choose from one of many piazzas and watch the world go by with (an expensive) expresso. 

• Admire the structural architecture at the historic Colosseum, one of Italy’s iconic landmarks.
• Walk up the 135 Spanish Steps and capture an Insta-worthy shot between the Piazza di Spagna and the Piazza Trinita dei Monti.
• Make a wish at the most famous fountain in the Europe, Trevi Fountain.
• Visit San Crispino to enjoy some gelato, arguably one of Italy’s best ice cream places.

15. Sardinia

This large island off the coast of Italy is a favourite holiday spot for Italians and rich footballers. Most of the time, it’s a quiet and relaxing island, but popular areas can get very busy in the summer, so you must book early to stay at the best places. To reach Sardinia, you can sail or fly into Alghero, Cagliari, or the port town of Olbia.

The island is beautiful, and compared to many holiday island resorts in Europe, it remains relatively unspoiled.

There are no high-rise concrete hotels here; even the resort areas are surprisingly tasteful. I would personally recommend Sant’antioco and San Pietro, as these are the most remote and traditional areas.

Sardinia’s coastline is world-renowned, so you won’t have to search far for amazing beaches and clear water wherever you stay.

• Take a boat tour for a unique and picturesque way to explore the coastline.
• Visit the petite and beautiful town of Bosa which features some top tourist attractions.
• Spend the day relaxing on a Sardinia beach, choose between a long sandy stretch or a small hidden cove.
• Discover the caves located at different spots around the island.

The largest island in the Mediterranean Sea makes an excellent holiday destination. Like Sardinia, it has excellent beaches and wonderful cuisine, only far cheaper.

You will also have the luxury of going island-hopping—the Aegadian Islands, Aeolian Islands, and Pantelleria Lampedusa are all nearby and accessible. Sicily is a traditional and rustic island with a rich culture and a potent mix of architecture, arts, cuisine, literature, and music.

Here, you can sit on beaches, visit archaeological sites, or sample the locally caught fish. Make sure you include a visit to the Selinunte, an ancient building containing five temples centred on an acropolis.

The east coast of Sicily is more developed and tourist-friendly, and the west coast is more untouched.

As you travel down the ladder, you’ll be amazed at how friendly the Sicilian people are and how pleased they are that you chose to visit Sicily.

• Visit the petite fishing town of Cefalù filled with vibrant boats and take a dip in the picturesque turquoise waters.
• Discover one of the island’s most popular attractions, the Etna volcano, and experience an unforgettable moment.
• Watch the sunset by the white limestone cliff of Scala dei Turchi which is famous for its unique shape.
• Enjoy authentic Sicilian cuisine and taste their mouth-watering flavours created from locally sourced ingredients.

A favourite with honeymooners and well-heeled tourists, this resort island has been attracting visitors since the Roman Times and has maintained its stunning beauty.

It’s a small island in Italy’s Bay of Naples and is home to rugged landscapes, yacht-filled coves, upscale hotels and plenty of boutique shops stocking everything, from Italian wine to designer fashion.

You can’t leave without visiting the Blue Grotto, one of the most beautiful places in Italy. It’s a natural dark cavern where the sea is a stunning electric blue (actually sunlight passing through an underwater cave).

• Take a chairlift or climb up to the peak of Mount Solaro and capture a breathtaking view that reaches as far as the Calabria mountains.
• Have a romantic dinner filled with local traditional cuisine and unique island dishes.
• Visit the Grotta Azzurra where the sun reflects an unusual blue glow throughout the cave.
• Admire the spectacular sea cliffs surrounding the island by taking a boat trip to explore.

18. Portofino 

Portofino is one of my favourite under-the-radar gems! This picturesque fishing village is one of the most famous holiday resorts on the Italian Riviera. This destination is ideal for a romantic escape with your loved one! 

Portofino offers tranquillity, charming architecture, and true nature. This beautiful village has been a top spot for the rich and famous since the 1950s.

• Have a shopping day in the luxurious boutiques hidden down narrow alleys and on the marina front.
• For those who love sports, take a bike tour and soak up the panoramic views of the Gulf.
• Visit the open-air museum, where you can admire contemporary artwork and the Mediterranean Sea at the same time.
• Experience the famous diving spot near San Fruttuoso Beach and discover the unique bronze statue underwater.

This is the Italian city to head to for shopping, fashion, and beautiful (and very well-dressed) people!. It’s a cosmopolitan, fast-paced city that attracts designers, artists, photographers, and models worldwide. There are also many other reasons to visit.

People aside, Milan is also famous for its extraordinary architecture, art, history, and food and for its love of football—its two main clubs have made the city one of the most football-loving places in Europe.

There is also great architecture, including the Duomo di Milano, excellent art galleries (Milan is home to one of the most famous Renaissance paintings in history—Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper), and incredible shops, operas, bars, and restaurants.

Milan is quite the foodie city and is famous for its typical Italian dishes like Risotto, minestrone and polenta, and I would suggest trying them all! 

• Watch a football match at San Siro Stadium, one of the largest in Europe, and be part of the roaring atmosphere.
• Explore the Sforzesco Castle which features several museums and a beautiful courtyard.
• Spend a day shopping in the fashion capital of the world at the Golden Triangle filled with luxury brands.
• Wander through the creative street art in Isola and capture some Instagrammable shots.

20. Elba Island

Just north of the Tuscan Archipelago sits Elba Island, it’s remained a fairly under-the-radar destination in Italy but it’s an increasingly trendy place to holiday.

Around 30,000 people populate the gorgeous Italian island, but that number significantly increases during its tourist-filled summer months.

Elba Island is located in Italy’s Archipelago Toscano National Park and is known as the country’s third-largest island. Sardinia and Sicily are the only larger islands in Italy. Cavo Beach and Spiaggia Delle Tombe are among the most popular and picturesque beaches on Elba Island.

Like most islands, snorkelling and diving are popular tourist activities.

• Explore one of the most ancient buildings located on Elba Island, the Fortress of Volterraio, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Gulf of Portoferraio.
• Experience a sunset boat tour around the island whilst taking in the magnificent scenery and enjoying an aperitif created from local products.
• For those who love an adventure, hike up to the Capanne Mount, the highest peak of the island which is well known for capturing the best panoramic pictures of the island.
• Kayak around the beautiful island and take the chance to swim in their crystal-clear waters.

21. Lake Orta 

Lake Garda and Como are the most famous lakes in Italy, but if you want more relaxation than a tourist-ridden destination, Lake Orta is the place to go! 

Locals tend to gravitate to Lake Orta when they need to recharge. At the centre of Lake Orta is a small island, Isola San Giulio, home to a century-old monastery and basilica.

Take a ferry to the island and soak up the wonderful and tranquil atmosphere!

• Try the unique fragrance of Orta which is inspired by the stories of the land and is a great souvenir to remember your trip.
• Slow down and enjoy a stroll around the lake that is surrounded by a collection of Insta-worthy photo spots.
• Enjoy the beach clubs located along the sandy shores and swim in one of the cleanest lakes in Europe.
• Explore the famous Villa Taranto gardens and admire the vibrant colours across spectacular flower beds.

22. Ischia Island

Located on the Tyrrhenian Sea, Ischia Island is one of the many volcanically formed islands. Located about 30 km from Naples, tourists travel to this unbelievably beautiful island as it is the largest of the Phlegreen Islands in Italy. To get out to Ischia Island, visitors must take a ferry.

Two ferries bring people to the island. One takes 1.5 hours while the other is just one hour travel time, so choose the right one for your needs.

Once there, I recommend just kicking back and enjoying the beauty of this island while watching the daring cliff jumpers!

• Take a boat tour around the island and discover hidden coves whilst admiring villages along the cliffs.
• Taste the iconic arugula liquor as a digestive after enjoying a traditional dinner.
• Visit one of Ischia Island’s top attractions, the Aragonese Castle, where you can experience Insta-worthy views.
• For those who love adventure, spend a day at Ischia Adventure Park and take part in several exciting outdoor activities.

Scott Balaam - writer and photographer Scott started his travelling life back in 1999, when he headed off on a solo jaunt to South Africa, Australia, New Zealand and South East Asia with just a backpack, a camera and a spirit for adventure. After that, the travel bug bit hard and now he is always seeking to head off somewhere new. Over the years he has lived in Italy, Qatar, Australia, Ireland, UK and the USA but his spiritual home will always be Rome as this is the city which most satisfies his unrelenting thirst for culture, good food and great football. In his spare time Scott loves nothing better than to be behind the camera and also runs his own blog and Instagram page. He also counts Melbourne, the rest of Italy, Amsterdam, USA, Athens, Cape Town and Tel Aviv among his favourite places. Find Scott on Linkedin , Instagram , or Twitter . Hotel Reviewing Experience –Asked by many tourist boards and many high-profile travel brands to formally review hotels including Visit Sweden ,  OET (Spanish Tourism Office) , Sultanate of Oman and  Travel Alberta . Also travelled around the world scouting out and reviewing all the most unique hotels in the world, check out our Instagram page for photos . Also mentioned as a top UK travel journalist .

57 thoughts on “Top 22 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Italy”

Absolutely fantastic Blog to read. The few places which are there to visit are Milan known for city structure, Venice for its wonderful scene outlook and Rome for its outstanding landscape. Thanks for the wonderful Information we have addressed a Great Blog.

Italy has some of the most spectacular old cities in the world. It’s not just the countryside that’s beautiful – so many of the cities! Not only are they stunning, but cities are also incredibly fascinating, full of art, history, ancient ruins, and more. Some of the important sights in Rome are Sistine Chapel and Michelangelo’s Pieta.

Want to visit Venice one day, this country is the most beautiful country in the world thank u for sharing!

I truly admire you explorers, we only get to sit in an office behind the desk and read about the beauty of the world. Thanks Scott

Everyone should try and camp in Sicily, near the volcano! I can’t recommend this enough

The only places I was able to visit while in Italy were Rome and Venice! Loved them, but I would love to visit Tuscany and places like that. Take me outside of the city!

Really Italy is one of the most beautiful places to visit and I really love the Venice place. Initially, I was having difficulties to communicate with the loving people of Italy. However, one of my friends suggested me to take basic Italian courses from Easy Spoken Italian and now “Mi Manchi Italy!”

Great list. My only question is why aren’t there any stops in the Dolomites in Italy? I’ve heard that mountain region is incredibly beautiful and very different than any on the list.

I love Italy I went there few years ago and it was fascinating. Bologna is beautiful!

There sure are a lot of lovely places in Italy, I hope to have time to see more of them 🙂

It’s impossible to make a list of top ten in Italy. This country is the most beautiful country in the world and has hundreds of the most beautiful places! 🙂

I adore Italy and have visited twice. No matter where you are, it’s quite charming, especially Florence. It is so full of antiquities, ancient architecture, and lovely people. Everywhere you look, there is a sight to behold! I especially appreciated walking everywhere…and a coffee bar on every corner to sit and reflect the Italian way of life. I could get use to living there too!!!

While the food in Italy is reason enough to visit, the country is filled with famous works of art, exceptionally beautiful cities, and gorgeous lakes and mountains. A very romantic place.

They all look beautiful!

Love Italy – such a beautiful place!

love this list – have been to rome and venice and venice is one of the most beautiful places in the world. I am going at the end of the year and will visit milan as well. I can not wait, however, i do want to visit a bit more of the country side.

i’ve only made it to rome, would love to see the rest of the country and eat and drink!

Love to see these places…….you people have described the beauty of italy……Amazing country to visit…….I would love to highlight about the place for my local audiences on my blog @www.culturenheritage.com

I must say this article is very well written and very helpful. I will be travelling in Sept. Hope I get to see everything mentioned…….

This is a beautifully written and enticing article. The combination of eloquent descriptions and stunning photos makes me what to visit all 10 destinations immediately! Thanks Scott for sharing your appreciation and knowledge of Italy.

Where in the Milan is that canal from pictures? I was there and I doesn’t see it.

Florence!!! I NEED TO BE THERE!!

Beautiful places.I want visit Venice in near future.

Wow! Thanks for this woderful post. I live in Italy and love all the places you mentioned. This country is fabulous (but leaded by awful people…)

Great places..I’d like to visit Venice the most!

I live in Sardinia and I think that our beaches are among the finest in the world. I’m glad to see that they are in the list.

Thanks for featuring this! Exploring Italy is my dream and to read something like this helps in picturing my holiday!

I’m so glad to see Bologna on this list as I feel it is often overlooked. I loved it there 🙂

My husband and I are planing to go to Italy for our 30th anniversary. I would like to visit Venice, but I’ve heard that it has a bad smell because of the water in the canals. Is it true? I would hate to go there and not being able to enjoy my trip because of the smell.

We visited ourselves last July and on our visit it wasn’t smelly in the slightest. However it can get very, very crowded during the summer months and very humid. Spring and autumn are probably the best times to visit. Hope this helps!

We will be in Italy later this year so thank you for all the fantastic information.

Really looking forward to the Florence and the Tuscany region.

u must av mentioned ‘Poveglia’ too.. Lolz

Love the Sicily shot! Amazing!

My friends went here last January and they had a great time.Next time also I will in italy

Great article! adam

Oh.. wow! will be there in May.. I want to see it all! but won’t have enough time.. only 2 weeks

This post makes me want to go back to Italy! Someday I’m going to spend several months there I know it… and I want to jump into your photo of Sicily too lol!

I agree with some commentators here, Cinque Terre should be definitely included. I would suggest to replace it with Milan.

Italy iz da best place i eva visited…… Love it.<3

I have never seen the kind of beautiful Italy places. Really it’s looking like a dream places. Thanks.

There are far more prettier towns than the ones in Cinque Terre. It’s amazing how they managed to make such a big deal out of it for tourists.

The list is great, but I certainly would have put Amalfi coat and Capri as the number one. I agree to exchange Cinqu Terre with Milan. Yes, so many beautiful spots in Italy….very difficult!

And great photos! Really enjoyable to look at.

ITALY IS ONE OF THE MOST BEAUTIFUL PLACES I EVER SEEN, EVERY PLACE IN ITALY HAS A HISTORY, AND IS EXTREMLY ROMANTIC, GREAT PLACE TO HONEYMOON!!!!

how romantic this place, how I wish I could find my true love & perfect partner whom I can say he is my God’s Gift for my entire life 🙂 this is a LOVE place for me!

The one that I like most from your list is Sardinia for the blue incontaminated sea and for the people that are particolary friendly there. Venice instead for me is by far the most original city in the world.. Ciao from Italy 🙂

Great post and amazing pictures!!! Really, Italy is the beautiful country. Go on to explore the world and be careful!

OMG…. What a beautiful place. I just love that. Thanks for sharing it with us,

The photos are awesome! I am planning to spend 10 days in Italy and will visit Venice/Milan/Rome/ Florence. Not sure if I can cover all the ten places your recommended.

My parents went here last January and they had a great time. They will have another trip this October and I hope I can go with them. I will have this post handy. Thanks!

Why isn’t Cinque Terre mentioned? Sorry, I think it should replace Milan. The pictures are great by the way!

Want to visit Venice one day, it’s just so romantic!

Florence was a big disappointment. The bridge was just a flea market for jewels and such. But the Amalfi Coast was beautiful. Sicily was nice, Venice was cool as well as Verona, but give me the Amalfi Coast any day. Rome, of course, was large and bustling.

Looks like I have to consider Florence in my next visit to Italy, the photo looks like a shot from fairytale land.

Florence is a beautiful place full of history, it gets very busy but well worth visiting.

I hope to get back either this summer or next year.

All the best

What was your favorite thing to do in Sicily? Great post!

Hi Stephania,

I’m glad you liked the article.

We spent 16 days driving around the West Coast.

We really liked Trapani, Selinunte and Eraclea Minoa beach.

But our favourite was Sciacca, we loved the place. The people were so friendly, we started in an excellent hotel outside town and then got a flat in the centre.

By the time we left we were considering living there!!!

Glad to hear you liked the article, what are you doing in Florence?

Sadly, I agree it’s hard to get everywhere.

Where are you planning to go in Sicily?

I spent a year in Latina (didn’t make my list!!!), then two years in Rome where I was teaching English and then I went to Sicily for our honeymoon.

Once again, glad to hear you liked the article.

This makes me want to live in Italy. Oh wait, I do! Beautiful photos and great pics for where to visit. I’m based in Florence but making my way around. Crossed off the list: Florence, Rome, Sardegnia, Amalfi, Venice… next up Easter weekend in Varese by the lakes, Sicily in May, Puglia after that… Too many places, too little time.

As you said about Florence, there are often long waits for the museums. But if people need help, I suggest contacting the agency I use Apartments Florence (www.apartmentsflorence.it) for apartment rentals and help reserving museum tickets. You definitely want a reservation in the summer months.

Great article!

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40+ best places to visit in Italy

Last updated on January 12th, 2024.

There are plenty of posts floating on the internet about the best places to visit in Italy.

And while there is no wrong answer, this post stands out from the rest for 2 main reasons.

For one, it’s written by a local (me), and the second is its format.

Presented in an A to Z style, I’m sharing 40+ of the best places in Italy and some of the top Italy destinations.

I’ll also be adding local tips on Italian culture and regional dishes to try at these must-see Italy spots.

Perfect material for your Italy bucket list , use this post to help plan your Italy trip .

Amalfi Coast

You’ve seen the photos, the movies and the travel shows, and you now want to experience the Amalfi Coast for yourself.

The stunning Amalfi Coast is popular for good reason. This 50km coastline along the Tyrrhenian Sea is home to picturesque towns such as Positano, Ravello and Sorrento .

Popular as a day trip from Naples or Sorrento , it’s easily one of the top places to visit in Italy.

The coast’s namesake town, Amalfi, was my favorite that we visited on our 4-day Amalfi Coast itinerary . A walkable, and breathable, town, at its heart is the glorious Amalfi Cathedral ( Duomo di Sant’Andrea ). A church embracing Norman, Gothic, Baroque and Renaissance architectural styles, it’s unmissable when visiting Amalfi.

One of the best places to visit in Italy, get in the know with these Amalfi Coast travel tips before you visit.

Boutique hotel in Amalfi Coast — Villa Magia

I love everything about Villa Magia , beginning with its name. This magical hotel has a prime spot, overlooking the blues of the Mediterranean.

Fornilo Beach is just 700 yards from the property, and its Luna Terrace is perfect for enjoying outdoor Italian breakfasts.

Probably the best place to visit in Italy for epicureans is Bologna. The capital city of the Emilia-Romagna region in the north-west of Italy is a food lover’s paradise.

Its most famous dish, and export, is the Ragù alla Bolognese . It’s usually served with tagliatelle pasta — and a good-sized napkin to wipe away any excess sauce.

One of the city’s several nicknames is ‘la grassa’, meaning ‘the fat’. It’s a good indication to Bologna’s rich and calorific cuisine.

Plenty to see and eat

Piazza Maggiore is the city’s principal square. Get to know Bologna’s historic center better by booking a walking tour or a fun food tour .

From here, you can visit the 10th largest church in the world (by volume), San Petronio Basilica. The former city hall turned museum, Palazzo d’Accursio , is also within walking distance.

To catch a great view of Bologna, head to the Sanctuary of the Madonna of San Luca. The church sits atop a forested hill, and is about 300m above the city.

‘B’ is also for Bistecca alla Fiorentina

This succulent joint of meat comes from the Tuscany region and is a must try for greedy carnivores. The steak comes from the Chianina cow — an ancient Tuscan breed known for its high quality and superb flavor.

Boutique hotel in Bologna — Hotel Corona D’Oro

The historic Hotel Corona D’Oro has everything you need for a relaxing Bologna stay. Check into a double deluxe room with a terrace and enjoy an Italian breakfast while admiring the red rooftops.

The hotel’s located in a traffic-free zone of the center ( learn more about the ztl ) meaning no disturbance from oncoming traffic. Guests are given free bikes to explore the city during their stay.

Cinque Terre

When many visitors think about places to go in Italy, Cinque Terre usually sits in the top 5.

Colorful houses, steep terraces and centuries old fishing villages, Cinque Terre is an Instagrammer’s dream.

The province in the Liguria region of Italy literally translates as ‘5 lands’. Its coastline, 5 villages and the surrounding area form part of the Cinque Terre National Park.

The village of Manarola holds the title of being the second smallest in Cinque Terre, with a population of just 353. Via dell’Amore, or the ‘love trail’ is a popular walk that runs between Manarola and neighboring village Riomaggiore.

The smallest national park in Italy, Cinque Terre is also a UNESCO attraction , covering an impressive 4,300 acres.

‘C’ is also for Catania. With Cinque Terre attracting over 1 million visitors each year, it might be worth considering another Italian alternative.

The Sicilian city of Catania has plenty of historic sites to visit, as well as a mouthwatering Sicilian food scene . What’s more, Mount Etna is nearby, offering ample opportunities to book an unforgettable volcano day or sunset trip .

Cinque Terre hotel with the best views — Hotel Porto Roca

In the village of Monterosso is a 4-star hotel with terraces overlooking the Ligurian Sea. Hotel Porto Roca is just 5 minutes from the center, offering guests incredible views and fresh seafood.

The most popular path, the Blue Trail, also begins here. Check for any restrictions before visiting, as limits and restrictions sometimes occur.

Map: best places to visit in Italy

Dolomites .

This incredible mountain range, primarily in Italy, also shares one region, Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol, with neighboring Austria. Come winter, the snow-capped peaks of the Dolomites create a dramatic sight; even more so when the sun sets.

One of the best places to spend winter in Italy , the Dolomites are ideal for skiing or relaxing. For the jetsetters among you, Cortina D’Ampezzo is glamorous, with flashy sports cars and expensive boutiques in sight.

A full-day tour from Bolzano to the Dolomites offers a memorable experience in a short amount of time.

Alternative rustic and traditional towns to visit include Corvara and Ortisei.

Boutique hotel in the Dolomites — Berghotel Ladinia

Set in the picturesque town of Corvara in Badia is the 4-star Berghotel Ladinia . Bag a room with views overlooking the Dolomites and one that also embraces a South Tyrolian style.

Some rooms come with a terrace and all come with complimentary WiFi. The Col Alt ski slopes are just 30 yards away from the hotel’s front door.

Feast on local dishes in Berghotel Ladinia’s on-site restaurant. During winter, the hotel provides guests with a voucher to use in its restaurant.

D is also for Duomo

Duomo . It’s a word you’ll come across often when traveling throughout Italy. A Duomo is a city or town’s principal church or cathedral. Typically, they’re located in the city/town center and are usually surrounded by other buildings of importance.

If asked personally, my 5 top Duomo in Italy are:

• Siena Cathedral
• Florence ( Skip-the-line entrance ticket )
• Milan ( Fast-track entry ) 

Inside and out, the Duomo in Italy are a work of art and are a must see in Italy.

Get your best walking shoes on, as you’ll need them for visiting the Sicilian hilltop town of Erice . Situated 800m above sea level, most travelers come to visit Castello di Venere (Castle of Venus). Steep lanes from the Porta Trapani gateway will take you all the way to the top.

The 12th century castle is a prime location for catching the best views of the sea and coastline below. Erice is also a doable day trip from Palermo .

Gather your breath, and energy, on the way up at one of the cafes in Piazza Umberto. The castle park’s cafe is a good choice for getting some shade, panoramic views and a robust cup of coffee.

E is also for Etna

This active volcano hovers over the east coast of Sicily , and is the largest of the three in Italy. Join a Mount Etna sunset jeep tour to see some of the best views of Catania, Messina and beyond.

Florence (Firenze)

A city overflowing with locals and tourists alike, Florence is one of the best places to visit in Italy. A city I recommend to first-time travelers visiting Italy, two days in Florence is a good starting point.

The river Arno runs through this historic city, with medieval churches and sculptures filling its historic center. Add to this the impressive number of museums in Florence’s center .

Be sure to keep your wits about you when visiting Florence. There are several well-known scams that target tourists in Florence.

Along with visiting Michelangelo’s David and its jaw-dropping Duomo , Florence also has a tantalizing food scene. Buca Lapi isn’t just the oldest restaurant in Florence, it also serves up a mean Bistecca alla Fiorentina (see ‘B’ for Bistecca ).

For a delicious bite on the go, Osteria All’Antico Vinaio is where to go for a social media-loving filled panini.

Boutique hotel in Florence

Minutes from the Ponte Vecchio, Gallery Hotel Art is a fitting choice in Florence. With the central theme of elegant minimalism running throughout the hotel, it’s a sophisticated stay in the city of art.

F is also for Ferragosto

Avoid traveling on the days before, and on, 15 August. It’s a public holiday in Italy called Ferragosto . Essentially, the holiday marks the halfway point of the summer season.

Nothing in particular happens, but many Italians spend the day with family, friends or at the beach.

Roads are busier than usual in the days leading up to Ferragosto , and some services may be closed. Saying that, try to travel on 13 or 17 August to avoid getting caught with the crowds. 

Garda (Lago di garda)

One of the best Italy vacations, Lake Garda is another of Italy’s most popular destinations. Come here for boating, walking, picnics (summer) and for the awesome landscape.

The largest lake in Italy, Lago di Garda is shared by 3 regions: Lombardy, Veneto and Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol.

Towns to visit around Lake Garda

There are several towns and villages surrounding the lake, with Sirmione being one of the most popular. It’s home to many hotels, restaurants, as well as a market, and the impressive Scaliger Castle. A short boat cruise around Sirmione is an idyllic way to visit, and one that offers a different perspective.

The lake’s namesake town, Garda, along with Bardolino are equally popular with visitors. The town center has a harbor, as well as bars and restaurants with colorful façades.

If you prefer to visit a town on Lake Garda that’s not as touristy, consider seeing Salò. The town sits on the Lombardy side and has plenty of things to do to make up a day trip.

Boutique Hotel near Lake Garda — La Zarraba Boutique Hotel

Wake up to views of the mesmerizing Lake Garda at La Zarabba Relais de Charme . Rooms are elegant and decorated in an Italian Renaissance style. The hotel’s located in Ponti Sul Mincio, a commune in the province of Mantua in Lombardy.

If visiting in summer, save your spot on one of the sunbeds by the swimming pool. From here, you get the best of both worlds: a pool with a lake view. La Zarabba Boutique Hotel also has a garden and terrace for guests to enjoy. Take advantage of the free WiFi and on-site private parking.

G is also for gondola — Italy vacation ideas

In one of the same regions as Lake Garda is the legendary, and ultra romantic, boat transportation that’s the gondola.

While they can be expensive, and considered a novelty, gondolas are part of the Venice experience. Book a private gondola ride , or with a small group , and soak up the Venetian vibes.

Haunted (Italy)

Add some macabre to your Italy travels by visiting some of the country’s most haunted castles and haunted hotels .

Plagued by ghostly sightings and legendary fables, these historic buildings are some of the creepiest places to stay in Italy. Take the Castello di Montebello. This 14th century historic castle in Rimini, north-west Italy, may look beautiful, but there’s a chilling tale behind its walls.

Historic and haunted

Its most famous story is of the owner’s missing daughter, Azzurina — named after her piercing blue eyes. One day in June, the day of the summer solstice, she mysteriously vanished.

Her disappearance remains a mystery and is unsolved to this day. However, every five years during the summer solstice, people have reported sightings of a young girl fitting Azzurina’s description.

Boutique hotel in Rimini — Rimini Suite Hotel

From the scary to the sublime, Rimini Suite Hotel is a modern hotel in Rivabella. Just 100 yards from the coast and some of Rimini’s best beaches, the hotel has modern rooms and free WiFi. Some rooms come with a private hot tub.

Other amenities also include a swimming pool, and guests receive discounts for a nearby private beach. A continental-style breakfast is provided daily and features sweet and savory products.

Another place in the south of Sicily, Ispica is the classic image of a quaint Sicilian town. Along with examples of fine Sicilian baroque architecture , it’s also home to the Ispica caves ( Cava d’Ispica ).

When we visited during the height of summer the center was deserted. However, this gave us plenty of time to explore the city and take unlimited photographs.

Measuring 13km in length, the caves stretch from Ispica to the neighboring town of Modica. Its most interesting feature are the homes carved into the mountains.

They were inhabited until the end of the 19th century and are something unique to Ispica.

I is also for Infiorata di Noto

Every May, a spectacular floral festival descends upon the southern Sicilian town of Noto.

A blanket of flowers, embracing that year’s theme, covers one of its central streets. Taking place over 3 days, the Infiorata di Noto is a festival for travelers that enjoy flowers and art.

One of the coolest places to travel in May in Sicily, it’s worth booking that flight for.

I is also for Isola delle correnti

Plan a trip to Italy, more specifically, to the southernmost point of the country at Isola delle Correnti . Wade across waist-deep water to reach the island in Sicily with an abandoned lighthouse and far-reaching views.

With Caribbean-style beaches, climates and a laid-back energy, you’d be forgiven for thinking you weren’t in Italy.

Technically, Jesolo shouldn’t really be here, given that ‘J’ doesn’t exist in the Italian alphabet.

However, for non-Italians speakers for whom the letter ‘J’ does exist, you’ll see mentions of Jesolo — just not in Italy.

Instead, Italians know it as Iesolo with an ‘I’. This seaside town north of Venice is one of the largest resorts in Italy. Jesolo receives around 4 million people each year, and that also includes visitors from overseas.

Its main attraction is the 15km (9 mi) beach called Lido di Jesolo. There are several ways to get there from Venice, the quickest route being by renting a car (about 45 minutes). You can also take the ferry to Punta Sabbaioni and then a bus onwards to Jesolo.

The K Boutique Hotel

Similar to ‘J’, the letter ‘K’ also doesn’t exist in the Italian alphabet.

However, I’ve a valuable contribution to add under ‘K’ and that’s the fabulous K Boutique Hotel in Rome.

Located in Rione Monti, luxury features in this 4-star hotel include a private terrace, hot tub and spa. Rooms are modern, bright and come with all the amenities for a comfortable stay. Staying here means an easy 10-minute walk from sights like the Colosseum and the shopping street of Via Nazionale.

Lake Como (Lago di Como)

Immerse yourself in the natural beauty and landscape of Lake Como. Explore much loved towns like Bellagio, Como and Varenna , along with lesser visited places like Lenno and Sorico.

One of the top things to do in Italy, Lake Como also has plenty of free attractions to fill up an itinerary.

Another incredible lake to visit in northern Italy is Lago Maggiore. An ideal weekend break, we had a blissful 2 days visiting Lago Maggiore and exploring its natural beauty.

L is also for Lecce

A city full of good vibes and good food, Lecce is one of my favorite cities to visit in Puglia . Over 2,000 years old, Lecce is also one of the most important cities in the region.

The city has a strong connection with its Greek founders. In fact, the griko language is still spoken in a group of towns not far from Lecce.

Wander around the city taking in the many baroque monuments and Lecce limestone sculptures. At night, enjoy the laid-back vibe, sampling the local olive oil, cured meats and wine.

L is also for Lipari

North of the mainland of Sicily is a cluster of islands that evoke memories of long summers by the sea. The Aeolian Islands (Isole Eolie) consist of 7 in total, the largest of the group being Lipari .

A destination with the perfect blend of sandy beaches, blue waters and traditional cuisine, Lipari has it all.

The best viewpoint in Lipari is from the Chiesa Vecchia di Quattropani , a church atop a hill. You’ll need a car or motorbike to get there, but once you arrive, prepare to be treated to the best views.

Probably the most visited city in the Lombardy region, Milan is important for several reasons. The second-most populous city in Italy after Rome, Milan is known for being the capital of art, commerce and fashion.

One of the best places to visit in Italy, Italy tourist attractions are in abundance in Milan.

The city’s cathedral, the incredible Duomo di Milano , showcases a fine example of Italian Gothic architecture. Pinacoteca di Brera and Castello Sforzesco  (Sforza Castle) are other two notable sights to see in Italy.

In December, Milan becomes one of the best places to spend Christmas in Italy . Visit the Christmas markets in Piazza Duomo and see the larger-than-life Christmas tree.

Prepare for your Milan trip by familiarizing yourself with these top Milan travel tips . Wake up to a view of the Duomo at one of these centrally-located hotels or stay close by to Malpensa Airport .

Boutique hotel in Milan — Matilde Boutique Hotel

With a penchant for fashion and sophisticated living, you’re spoiled for choice in Milan. Matilde Boutique Hotel is in a central part of the city, and just 200 yards from Piazza Duomo square.

Other main attractions like La Scala Theater and San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore are also within walking distance.

M is also for Modena

Situated on the southern side of the Po Valley is the city of Modena. It’s renowned for its thriving sports car industry and the production of exceptional balsamic vinegar.

You can comfortably explore Modena’s city center in one day keeping a well-paced itinerary.

M is also for Modica, Marzamemi and Mazara del Vallo

I couldn’t write about ‘M’ places in Italy without mentioning these 3 Sicilian destinations. Chocolate lovers need to highlight, circle and underline Modica.

The southern Sicilian city’s famous for the sweet, brown stuff, which I can personally say, is sublimely delicious.

Mazara del Vallo on the north-west coast is well known for its former Arabic influences. From the buildings, the food, to even the wine, you’ll feel like you’re almost in a North African city like Essaouira in Morocco .

Third is the coastal town of Marzamemi . A picturesque spot filled with seafood restaurants and plenty of charm, it’s one of my favorite Italy trips.

N is for Naples 

Best places in Italy don’t get any better than Naples.

The city of pizza and historic landmarks beneath the watchful gaze of Mount Vesuvius, one day in Naples is not long enough.

Boasting the largest historic city center in Europe, Naples is home to some of the most impressive churches in Italy. Take the Cathedral of St. Mary of the Assumption (Duomo di Napoli). Housing 4th century mosaics and relics, it’s a sight that few photos can do justice.

Naples in and around

Not far from Naples’ city center are other famous places in Italy to consider visiting.

The Roman ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum are around 25 minutes’ drive.

Pompeii met its tragic end when it was engulfed and preserved by volcanic ash during the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD.

It’s highly advisable that you book your Pompeii ticket in advance . It won’t just save you time, but it’ll also spare you the hassle of having to wait in long lines.

Palace of Caserta

The former royal abode in Caserta was once the main residence of the kings of Naples. One of the largest royal palaces in the world covering an area of 47,000 m², it’s the Italian version of Versailles.

This skip-the-line ticket includes entrance to the royal palace and parks. Also included is the option to have an audioguide app and a train ticket to Caserta from Napoli Central Station (if selected).

Boutique hotel in Naples — Artemisia Domus

The gorgeous 4-star Artemisia Domus is 1,000 yards from Castel Nuovo (Maschio Angioino). Boasting elegant suites, it’s also in a prime location in Naples.

N is also for Noto

We’re frequent visitors to the Sicilian city of Noto . The historic center may be small but it’s filled with striking baroque architecture and cobbled streets.

A beautiful city for a vacation in Italy, consider spending a few nights nearby at IUTA Glamping & Farm . The best place in Italy to try glamping in Sicily the site is just a few minutes’ drive from the center.

Ortygia (Ortigia)

It’s not often that you come across a historic center that also happens to be an island. But this is the norm in the Sicilian city of Syracuse (Siracusa).

Separated by a narrow channel, there are 3 bridges that connect Ortygia to the mainland. One of the best places to visit in Italy, the island is one of the top Italy tourist attractions.

At the center of the old city, or ‘ città vecchia ‘, is Syracuse Cathedral (Duomo di Siracusa) . Awarded UNESCO status in 2005, the church’s structure was originally a Greek Doric temple.

O is also for Olbia and Orgosolo

In the north-east of the island of Sardinia is the city of Olbia. Close to the dazzling and glitterati Costa Smeralda, Olbia is also known for its sandy beaches and picture-perfect sea.

In the center of Sardinia is the commune of Orgosolo. This municipality’s most famous for its political murals that adorn the city’s walls. They represent the island’s political struggles as well as international issues.

Busy and buzzing, the Sicilian capital of Palermo is a great example of Sicilian life in action. Loud, passionate and exciting, there are plenty of things to do in Palermo .

Palermo has plenty of must-see sights, many of which are free to visit . The Norman Palace (Palazzo dei Normani), and its chapel, La Cappella Palatina , with its golden mosaic interior will blow you away.

Palermo Cathedral, Teatro Massimo and the city’s gritty, yet historic, neighborhoods are also worth adding to the list.

One of the best places to visit in Italy, I never miss the opportunity to revisit Palermo.

Quartu Sant’Elena

Located 6.4km (4mi) from the Sardinian capital of Cagliari is Quartu Sant’Elena. It’s the third largest city in Sardinia with plenty of historic churches, mesmerizing coastlines and sandy beaches.

Sardinia has some of the best beaches and cleanest waters in the world. Some examples in Quartu Sant’Elena include the sandy Is Canaleddus , and nearby Is Mortorius with its natural pools.

Q is also for Quattro Canti

One of the top tourist attractions in Italy, Quattro Canti typically tops visitors’ travel lists. Loosely meaning ‘four places’, the octagonal square has four baroque buildings with almost identical façades. 

Each has a fountain and statues representing the four seasons. You’ll also see sculptures of the Spanish kings of Sicily and the patronesses of Palermo.

One of the best places to visit in Italy the Italian capital should need no introduction.

Home to dozens of attractions like the Colosseum , the Spanish Steps and Trevi Fountain, Rome tops the Italy beautiful places list.

Another good reason to visit Rome is to tour the Vatican City . It may be the smallest country in the world, but it’s home to the most magnificent buildings.

Skip the lines by booking in advance for the Vatican museum and the Sistine Chapel . Nearby is the magnificent St Peter’s Basilica, from which you can visit its jaw-dropping dome and explore the underground grottos .

Should you need advice on where to stay in Rome , maybe one of these Colosseum view hotels will meet your needs.

R is also for Ragusa

In the south of Sicily is the ancient city of Ragusa. An earthquake in 1693 split the city of Ibla in two, leading to some of the buildings being re-built in Baroque style.

The city’s home to several impressive Duomo, which ranks Ragusa as one of the best places in Sicily to visit. Both are fine examples of Sicilian Baroque architecture, and places in Italy to add to your Italy trip planner.

Boutique hotel in Ragusa — Locanda Don Serafino

Book into a 4-star hotel that was built into the side of a cave. Locanda Don Serafino has elegant rooms, striking suites and delicious food.

R is also for Ravenna

The Italian city of mosaics isn’t one that features on many Italy travel itineraries. Personally, I consider Ravenna to be one of the best places to visit in Italy.

A city with plenty to see in 1 day , Ravenna has some of the most spectacular sights to see in Italy.

My heart skips a beat every time I think of Siena. The historic city is one of the most beautiful places in Tuscany and a must see in Italy.

No cars are able to enter the center of Siena. Streets are narrow, historic and all lead to Piazza del Campo. The fan-shaped square is home to the Palazzo Pubblico, the town hall and the 14th century Torre del Mangia.

Piazza del Campo is also where the famous Palio horse race happens twice a year.

One of the most famous attractions in Italy is Siena’s grand cathedral (Duomo di Siena) . It’s not easy to take pictures that do justice to this Italian Romanesque-Gothic masterpiece. The only solution is to visit and see it for yourself.

S is also for Scicli

A lesser-known city in south-east Sicily, Scicli, for me, is one of the most beautiful places in Italy. With plenty of things to do in 1 day , Scicli has Sicilian baroque churches and a TV detective to its name.

Home of ‘Inspector Montalbano’, you can visit locations from the show by joining the enigmatic Inspector Montalbano tour .

S is also for Syracuse (Siracusa)

I’ve previously covered some of the best sights to see in Ortygia , which is located off the coast of Syracuse.

Back on the mainland, signs of the city’s Ancient Greek past are everywhere. Probably the number one landmark to visit is the Greek Theater of Syracuse. First built in the 5th century BC, the theater’s on a sloping hill, focusing on the stage below.

The Greek theater is part of the complex within the Neapolis Archaeological Park. You can buy tickets at the entrance or join a tour with an expert guide .

The cultural and business hub of Turin is an important city center in north-west Italy.

One of the best places to travel in Italy, Turin was the first capital of Italy.

Piazza Castello is Turin’s principal square. It’s here that’ll find the 16th century Royal Palace of Turin of the House of Savoy. They were the ruling dynasty of the period, eventually expanding their reign to Sicily.

Also, in the square is Palazzo Madama, the building of the first Senate of the Italian kingdom.

Boutique hotel in Turin — TownHouse 70

Stay at a hotel that’s within minutes from Turin’s best attractions.  TownHouse 70  has rooms and suites that are chic and modern, with soft colors and minimalist design.

T is also for Taormina

The hilltop town of Taormina in southern Sicily is a popular spot to vacation in Italy. It’s where you’ll find, among other things, the Greek amphitheater, along with stunning views overlooking the Ionian Sea. 

Taormina has garnered a reputation for being one of the most famous places in Italy.

With its charming town center and the enchanting island of Isola Bella, Taormina’s popularity has spread further afield. The Sicilian town was used as one of the filming locations of the American TV show, The White Lotus .

T is also for Treviso

Make a detour to the northern Italian city nicknamed ‘mini Venice’ and discover the best things to do in Treviso . With canals running through the city and a delightful historic center, Treviso makes an ideal Venice day trip .

When deciding on where to visit in Italy, the city of Udine is one of the lesser known Italy tourist spots. Situated between the Adriatic Sea and the Alps in Friuli Giulia Venezia, Udine has several attractions worth visiting.

The city’s castle that sits high atop a hill (Castello di Udine) was once a former military building. Today, it runs as a history and art museum.

In the Piazza della Libertà is the 15th century town hall ( Loggia del Lionello ) and the grand clock tower (Torre dell’Orologio).

Hotel choice in Udine — Astoria Hotel Italia

Close to the town’s tourist attractions and shopping streets, Astoria Hotel Italia is a sound choice for a stay in Udine.

Elegant, spacious and with a modern décor, you’re in for a comfy stay. The hotel can also organize visits for guests to wine, ham and grappa producers in the nearby area.

U is for Umbria

Take a trip to the heart of Italy with a visit to the green and historic region of Umbria.

One of the best places to visit in Italy is Orvieto. Spend 1 day in Orvieto visiting its spectacular Duomo and stopping by its former papal residences.

The city of canals, architecture and art, Venice is easily one of the best places to visit in Italy. It’s typically busy all year round, but summertime is when visitor numbers reach their peak.

It’s because of this, that I actually prefer visiting Venice in winter . The crowds are fewer, meaning less time lining up for attractions, and more time exploring.

Must-see sights in venice

Italy tourist attractions don’t get anymore famous than in Venice.

Take St. Mark’s Square (Piazza San Marco). The grand plaza is home to the basilica, its towering Campanile, Renaissance clock tower and Doge’s Palace . From here, you can also take a morning walk through the Merceria . It’s a busy shopping street that leads directly to the famous Rialto Bridge.

While visiting Venice, make time to visit other parts, like taking a day tour of Murano, Burano and Torcello . The islands just outside Venice are some of the prettiest places to see in Italy.

Boutique hotel in Venice — Corte di Gabriela

With just 13 rooms, Corte di Gabriela  is my Venice boutique hotel pick. Providing luxury comfort, spacious showers and generous breakfasts, the hotel’s within walking distance to Venice’s main attractions. 

I detail more places in where to stay in Venice including the different neighborhoods and the closest to Venice’s attractions.

V is also for Verona and Vicenza

Within the same region of Veneto are 2 more ‘V’ cities that are places in Italy to consider visiting.

Verona is one of the most romantic cities in Italy . The setting for Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, the Casa di Giulietta is a tourist favorite. Located near Piazza delle Erbe — the city’s main square — the house is worth a quick look (depending on the crowds).

Other attractions in Verona like The Arena di Verona and Castel San Pietro make Verona one of the best Italy vacations.

Detour to Vicenza

Chances are you’ve never heard of Vicenza but my small home city has plenty of things to do . At its heart is the Basilica Palladiana in Piazza dei Signori .

Designed by renowned architect, Andrea Palladio, the Renaissance building is one of his most notable works. 

Also, in Vicenza’s historic center is the Olympic Theatre ( Teatro Olimpico ). It’s another of Palladio’s works and was also the first closed theater of its time. It was his last project before he died in 1580.

Within the province of Vicenza is where you can also find the REAL castles behind Romeo and Juliet . Montecchio Maggiore is home to the 2 castles behind the tale of the star-crossed lovers, and with dramatic views to match.

Zafferana Etnea

We’re skipping straight to Z as letters W, X and Y don’t exist in the Italian alphabet.

There’s a slight clue in the name as to this last town’s location.

Sitting among the hills that lead up to Mount Etna, Zafferana Etnea is a meeting point for volcanic tours. The town’s home to some of the best Sicily hotels with a remarkable view . From Zafferana Etnea, there are roads and trails leading to the national park.

More than a pit stop

About 500m above sea level, the town’s located between the mountain and the Ionian Sea. Many visitors don’t realize that Zafferana Etnea has seaside, as well as winter sports tourism.

The town takes its name from the pricey, yet fragrant, saffron ( zafferano ). It was once an important source of income for Zafferana Etnea, hence its homage to the costly spice.

What are your thoughts on this post listing the best places to visit in Italy? Has it helped you decide on where to visit in Italy? Let me know in the comments below.

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that I’ve recommended. Thank you for your support.

*Prices correct at time of travel

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Welcome to my site. I'm Lisa, an Italy-based travel and lifestyle blogger behind Following the Rivera. Find out more about me and my story.

36 thoughts on “ 40+ best places to visit in Italy ”

There are so many places to visit in Italy and this break down is really useful for planning! I hope to go there someday and explore some of these beautiful destinations.

Me too! I’m glad you enjoyed this list 🙂

I am going to bookmark this post. We are planning to visit Italy next year and this post has all important information.

That’s great! It’s a good post to help start the planning process

This is such an amazing list. However, I admire you for being able to choose mesmerizing places in Italy since everything is so beautiful and unique – starting with the language. As a matter of fact, you should add Italiano 😉 ! Is Jesolo really so pretty? I’ll be back to Venice for the Biennale in 2024 and will probably spend a couple of hours on the beach there. Last time I went to the Lido and liked it a lot 🙂

You’re right I should add it to the list! We love Lido, more than Iesolo. But it all comes down to preference 🙂

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The Best Places to Visit in Italy

By Nicole Kliest

We may earn a commission if you buy something from any affiliate links on our site.

Making an argument for traveling to Italy is like convincing a pasta lover to eat a bowl of bucatini—it isn’t necessary. But choosing where to visit is another matter. After all, the country’s diversity is one of its strongest selling points. From high-altitude regions sharing borders with the likes of France and Switzerland in the north, to sun-drenched sea villages dotted along the wild coastlines of the south, one could spend an entire lifetime exploring Italy and still have only just gotten started.

A country informed by its impassioned people, arresting landscapes, ancient history, and about a million other things. Italy is an intensely rich tapestry of culture. Ernest Hemingway put it best when he wrote: “We only half live over here. The Italians live all the way.” Indeed, la dolce vita imbues just about everything in Italy, with tourists flocking to all corners of the country to bask in the afterglow of their immersive slow living.

So, why not adopt the Italian mindset and embrace a leisurely approach to traveling here this year? Pick a destination, savor it, and savor it some more. Continue below for your guide to some of the best places to visit in Italy this year, with a mix of both iconic and lesser-known locales (including beautiful hotels to book as your home base).

Road Tripping Through Puglia

By Alexandra Macon

By Talia Abbas

By Leah Faye Cooper

Sun-soaked afternoons in pursuit of hidden swimming holes and spritz-fueled aperitivi are standard fare in Puglia . Six distinct provinces puzzle together Italy’s “heel of the boot,” which warrants renting a car and languidly exploring the region at your own pace. Keen to check out those iconic whitewashed cities? Ostuni is famous for that (though lesser-known Martina Franca and Locorotondo are both just as striking). In search of fresh cheese and wine? Burrata originates from Puglia, as does the flavorful indigenous grape variety, Primitivo. The region’s architecture spans from 17th- and 18th-century examples of Baroque architecture to traditional styles such as the masseria (fortified farmhouses, often converted into hotels) as well as those charming trulli in the Itria Valley. And for days by the sea, head further south to beaches like Torre Sant’Andrea and Baia Dei Turchi for turquoise-hued dips (the former is reached via a short hike through the woods).

Stay Here : Masseria Calderisi is a boutique hotel situated on a 17th-century farm that sprawls across 24 acres of ancient olive groves and citrus trees. While here, try to spot the two adopted rescue donkeys , Rosie and Momo.

Culinary Conquests in Modena

While Bologna is arguably Emilia-Romagna’s most well-known city, the region is also home to another destination that’s of particular interest to foodies. “I spent a good deal of time over the winter in the small city of Modena, which has such an exciting and thriving food scene,” Bellini Travel Founder and CEO Emily FitzRoy says. Her top picks for a memorable meal? A couple of standouts come to mind. “Dinner at Franceschetta 58 cooked by young chef Francesco Vincenzi, or a modest bowl of tortellini in brodo at Aldina, a tiny osteria on the first floor of a building overlooking the buzzing Mercato Albinelli, which also has to be my favorite food market in all of Italy.”

Stay Here : Less than an hour away from Modena’s city center is Casa Conoscenti in Bologna. Set in a former 14th-century mansion and replete with historic finishes like original frescoes, this boutique property is understated yet striking.

Outdoor Adventure in the Dolomites

Whether during the wildflower-bloomed days of summer or in the powdery ski season, the Dolomites in northeastern Italy are an underrated Alpine paradise. “This mountainous area is a natural wonder, with amazing food and a mix of culture and history,” Alison Duray of luxury tour operator Abercrombie & Kent says. Outdoor experiences are the cornerstone of a visit to any of the villages, with common activities including via ferrata , hiking, and skiing in dramatic landscapes. “German is spoken in some towns right alongside Italian, and the food scene incorporates the same cultural mix, with hearty dumpling pasta and fresh mountain food products,” Duray says. Wine lovers should also take note of Trentodoc sparkling wines, which are made in the picturesque vineyards of Trentino-Alto Adige.

Stay Here : Forestis is a luxury eco-friendly wellness resort enveloped by nature, offering staggering views of the sawtoothed mountain peaks and forested valleys.

Wine Tasting in Montalcino

A quaint hilltop town in Tuscany’s countryside, Montalcino appears frozen in time with its rolling pastures, cobblestone streets, and medieval architecture. The region is famed for its prestigious wine—Brunello di Montalcino—which is made from the Sangiovese grape and draws in oenophiles from around the world to experience its complex, elegant flavors. “Experience this picturesque town with tastings at a family-run wine estate,” Duray suggests. Montalcino is arguably best experienced by bicycle, with views of hilly vineyards and meandering farm animals serving as your peripheral scenery while en route to a visit to Fortezza di Montalcino. This fortress was constructed in 1361 by the Sienese and its many nearby side streets are worth taking the time to get lost in. (Tip: While in town, swing by Bottega d’arte on Via Boldrini for a hand-painted ceramic to take home.)

Stay Here : Castello Banfi Il Borgo is a boutique property that’s owned and operated by one of the region’s most iconic wineries, Banfi. The sprawling property dates back several centuries and is surrounded by ancient olive groves and hilly vineyards.

Pastoral Leisure in Umbria

Escape the droves of tourists in Florence with a trip a couple of hours south to Umbria. This underrated region in central Italy is peppered with countless small villages oozing with charm, which makes both a road trip or train journey appealing modes of transit. (You can train here directly from Milan, Florence, and Rome.) Similar to other picturesque Italian countrysides, your days can be spent popping into old churches, roaming around puzzle-like cobblestone streets, and sampling local fare such as crostini with black truffles, porchetta, or fichi girotti (dried figs filled with flavors like toasted almonds or cocoa).

Stay Here : Borgo dei Conti Resort opens this summer under the direction of the hoteliers behind The Place in Florence and Londra Palace in Venice. This 13th-century property will now serve as a 50-room boutique hotel with an outdoor swimming pool overlooking the undulating Umbrian hillside.

Coastal Charm in Abruzzo

Just two hours east of Rome lies Abruzzo— a rustic region with rich culinary traditions and natural splendor. With the staggering Apennine Mountains serving as a gateway on one end and the gleaming Trabocchi Coast on the other, it’s no wonder Abruzzo is considered an underrated gem by locals and in-the-know travelers alike. While in the countryside, discover the local cuisine at Reale , an innovative restaurant at the helm of three-starred chef Niko Romito that honors terroir and tradition. Interested in sampling the region’s famous wines? Head for a tasting at Masciarelli’s striking estate situated in a 17th-century fortified palace. Then, you’ll need to make your way to the Adriatic to see a trabucco; a large wooden fishing machine. Some of these also function as restaurants, like Trabocco San Giacomo, which makes for an immersive, magical meal suspended above the sea.

Stay Here : Sextantio Santo Stefano di Sessanio is located in a restored fortified medieval village. An albergo diffuso (or ‘scattered hotel’), its rooms are spread across the village surrounded by local artisans in an effort to recreate what life was like here hundreds of years ago.

Pristine Swims in Sardinia

“Sardinia is another world, with a whole other language even, on the second largest island of the Mediterranean,” Duray says of the idyllic ‘ blue zone ’ (regions of the world where life expectancy is claimed to be longer than average). The island is beloved for its mountain villages as much as it is for the rocky coastline, with archeological sites and natural wonders at every turn. “The interior has an ancient history, visible through the nuraghi (stone constructions) going back millennia,” Duray says, adding that the famed beaches in the north are becoming more accessible “while not detracting from its gorgeous Emerald Coast .”

Stay Here : Gallicantu Stazzo Retreat is a lovely farmhouse retreat in the countryside with five rooms and two suites that overlook an almond grove. Take a dip in the pool beneath the shade of leafy trees and enjoy a wine tasting in the cavern with meats and cheeses from nearby farms.

Running Through Ruins in Rome

To say Rome is having a moment may feel trite—the nearly 3,000-year-old city doesn’t need much publicity these days. But a boom of notable hotel openings in the last couple of years has sharpened travelers’ attention toward the Eternal City, with Six Senses Rome, The Rome Edition, and Bulgari Hotel Roma as leading examples. While here, go off-the-beaten path with activities like an architecture stroll through the eccentric Quartiere Coppedè, a bespoke food tour with a local, or lacing up your sneakers for a colosseum tour with ArcheoRunning on a path not typically open to the public (bookable through Sofitel Rome Villa Borghese ).

Stay Here : Bulgari Hotel Roma is a visual feast, with note-perfect interiors by the Milanese studio Antonio Citterio Patricia Viel. Particularly special is the spa’s 20-meter indoor pool punctuated by eight arabesque marble columns.

Thermal Springs in Pantelleria

Sandwiched between two continents and off the coast of both Sicily and Tunisia, Pantelleria is one of Italy’s most enigmatic islands, requiring several flights to reach its craggy shores. Rent a small car or Vespa to zip around the narrow roads, discovering vineyards with volcanic soil, prehistoric villages, and underwater caves along the way. Pantelleria is also home to several hot springs where you can slather volcanic mud across your skin for a detoxifying holiday under the sun.

Stay Here : Luca Guadagnino’s 2015, A Bigger Splash was filmed on the island and visitors can rent the stunning villa it was filmed at, enjoying the 12 hectares of surrounding trees and vineyards and views overlooking the azure sea. (If you’re traveling with a smaller group, the individual, smaller dammusi are also available for rent.)

Art Hunting in Venice

With a ban on cruise ships entering its historic center, a proposal to limit day-trippers, and a goal of becoming a global sustainability leader, Venice is working toward a brighter future. If you’re planning a visit, support these efforts by not engaging with the ‘eat-and-go’ tourist flow and, instead, settling in for several days to more deeply appreciate the culture. “The art biennale in Venice looks to be the biggest one ever,” FitzRoy says, who points to the Zeng Fanzhi exhibition as a noteworthy highlight. “It includes a structure by Tadao Aando at the magnificent Misericordia which was one of the eight Scuole Grandi in the city and is one of my favorite buildings in Venice.”

Stay Here : The Venice Venice Hotel is within a restored palazzo in the historic city center and takes design cues from contemporary Venetian style with art peppered throughout the property (which required a five-year restoration).

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26 Things To Do In Italy: The Ultimate Bucket List

June 5, 2021 //  by  Follow Me Away //   4 Comments

Are you planning a trip to Europe and looking for the best things to do in Italy?  If so, then you need to look no further than right here!

Traveling abroad can be overwhelming when deciding where to go and what activities to pursue.

Planning your trip to Italy last minute?

Make sure to book your hotels and tours in Italy in advance to ensure availability! Here are my top picks for your trip!

Tickets you MUST book in advance:

• Vatican Museums And Sistine Chapel (A MUST in advance)
• Colosseum Entry Tickets (Another MUST! Book online in advance!)
• Michelangelo’s David Tickets (Often sells out in Florence)
• Skip-The-Line Uffizi Gallery Tickets (Buy online to save time!)
• Doge’s Palace Entry Ticket (Very busy, can sell out)
• Milan Cathedral And Rooftop Tickets (Sells out and a must-see!)

Top picks for places to stay in Italy:

• Rome: Hotel Relais Dei Papi (Amazing Vatican location)
• Florence: Relais Pizza Signoria (City center location)
• Venice: Hotel Carlton Grand Canal (Grand Canal views!)
• Dolomites: Parkhotel Laurin (Central location with pool!)
• Cinque Terre: Affittacamere Casa Dane’ (Affordable location)
• Milan: Collini Rooms (Just 10 min from Milan airport!)

Let this be your guide to find the hidden gems , plan a road trip when deciding what to do in Italy.  These best places in Italy will take the worry out of your planning and make it easy to build the perfect travel plan.  

It doesn’t matter where in the country you are traveling, there are many places to see in Italy.  This country is a timeless place with a lot of visual stimulation and historical curiosities.  

From the top of the boot to the heel and toe, there are a depth of wonders to behold and enjoy when planning your itinerary.  

Let us take you on a journey to see the best landscapes, beaches, villas, and activities that are sure to make your trip the most memorable.  This list will explore the most magical aspects of Italy’s tourist attractions and be sure to make your trip the most memorable!  

Whether you are planning your 10 days in Italy , have a bit more time and are spending 2 weeks in Italy , or renting a car and doing an Italy road trip , our customized and free planning itineraries will help you choose the best that Italy has to offer! Many of these top things to do in Italy are included!

Don’t forget to check out our helpful post on When To Visit Italy which talks about the pros and cons of different seasons, weather, crowds, festivals, and more!

26 Best Things To Do In Italy : The Ultimate Bucket List 

Tour the colosseum.

Italy is a country rich in history and tradition, the Colosseum is no exception to both of those.  When looking for things to do in Italy, the Coliseum should be on the top of your list.  The Colosseum is located in Rome, in the very center of the city.  The Colosseum was built from travertine, volcanic rock, and brick faced concrete.

It is the largest amphitheater ever built, designed to hold 50,000 spectators.  This architectural marvel was built to host re-enactments of hunts, battles, and the very well know gladiatorial events! Very little of the main arena floor exists now, but you can still see the hypogeum.

There is a reason that Rome is one of the best cities to visit in Italy! The history is unmatched.

When visiting the Colosseum, for the best and least crowded experience visit during the tourist off-season, typically November to February and during its first or last hour of being open; be aware that there is no visiting this beauty and Wonder of the World on Christmas or New Year’s Day.

We highly recommend booking a Coliseum Tour to get the most out of the experience. During the summer, they even have sunset tickets so you can visit after hours! No matter when you visit Rome, make sure the Coliseum is on your list of things to do in Italy!

Skip The Line With This Coliseum Tour! 

Explore Boboli Gardens

Next on your list of things to do in Italy is explore the Boboli Gardens in Florence.  Another great attraction in Italy that is founded in history and intrigue.  These gardens were built in 1594 and are located adjacent to Palazzo Pitti.   Boboli Gardens are known as a beautiful open-aired museum and the largest green space in Florence.

 The Boboli Gardens are open every day and offer never-ending visual and sensory stimulation for the most casual to the most engaged of visitors.  When exploring the gardens, make sure to see the famous Fountain of Neptune, the Viottolone, the Boboli Gardens Amphitheater, the Fountain of Ocean with the Isolotto, and Grotta Grande.

 These multiple attractions make the Boboli Gardens one of the top things to do in Florence!

This wonderful pit stop on your journey is well worth your time and schedule.  If you have time for only activity or destination when in Florence, this is the place to see.  As museums go, Boboli Gardens is top of the list and will definitely be one of the best things to do in Italy.

Visit the Island of Capri

The Island of Capri, located in the Bay of Naples is a must-see on your things to do in Italy list.  If you are looking for the beautiful jewel tones of the Mediterranean, Capri is the perfect spot. This island is one of the most well-known islands in Italy and one visit here you can see why.  

Known for its rugged landscapes and incredible cliffs, this small getaway off the coasts of Sorrento and Naples offers the perfect escape. It is one of the prettiest places to visit in Italy!

This small island is a playground for the fun-loving adult with a taste for the finer things.  Capri is full of boutique shops and hotels and is not short of fine dining. If you’re not staying for the night, even a day trip is necessary when you plan your schedule. 

Once on the island, take a dip in the warm waters of the royal blue Mediterranean and if you’re interested enough, ride in a rowboat to explore the famed Blue Grotto, which in of itself should be on your list of sites to see in Italy!

 This absolutely stunning grotto is resplendent with crystalline blue waters.  If a boat ride isn’t your thing, check out all the boutique and kitschy shops throughout the island.  Or stop and grab gelato at one of the many gelato shops dotted along the island.  This small but gorgeous Italian island deserves to be in the top of your places to visit in Italy.

Go on a Gondola Ride in Venice

Are you planning a honeymoon or romantic getaway and looking for memorable things to do in Italy?  Or just something to do with some friends to explore the city with waterways for streets?  If you answered yes to either of these questions, a gondola ride in Venice is an absolute must.  

It may be a little expensive, but it is one of the best things to do in Venice! After all, Venice is one of the best destinations in Italy for a reason!

With this unique infrastructure, gondola rides make for a very easy going or romantic way to travel through the city.  This easygoing way to travel allows you to see the city without the noise of a boat motor behind you.

If you’re feeling swept up in the atmosphere of one of the oldest cities in Italy, ask for your gondolier to sing for you.  One of the best things to do in Italy, gondola rides can vary in price, distance, and offerings.  

The city does have set rates, but during peak times are considered a polite suggestion and not guaranteed.  Make sure you fine-tune the price and length with the gondolier before you begin your trip.  You will see why Venice is one of the best places in Italy to visit!

The Ruins of Pompeii

If history is your thing, the ruins of Pompeii is definitely a destination on your things to do in Italy.  Located at the base of Mount Vesuvius, this once coastal and ancient city was buried under lava and ash in 79 A.D.

 The eruption and lava happened so fast that many citizens were buried in the instance of whatever activity they were doing.  This lead to the ability for excavators to see Roman life in real-time, so to speak.  

You can tour Pompeii on your own or with a guided group.  See the remarkable casts of the Pompeii citizens, or view the amazing frescoes that are throughout the city.  If you happen to notice graffiti, rest assured it is from the original citizens of Pompeii. It is one of the best places to visit in Italy if you love history!

If touring on your own, allow for three to four hours of exploring.  Make sure to wear sturdy footwear and respect the area, no littering or other actions that can harm this preserved city.  

Pompeii ruins are definitely unique, as no other location exists like it anywhere in the world, which is why it makes the list of the best destinations in Italy!

Visit Volterra for Authentic Italy 

Just south of Florence, located in the Tuscany region, is the walled town of Volterra.  It is one of the best places to visit in Tuscany!

This city is guessed to be an inhabited location since 8 B.C. and became part of Rome at the end of 3 B.C.  Volterra remained part of the Florence region and rule until the 15 A.D. century. You will see why it is one of the cutest cities in Italy!

When creating your memorable list of best things to do in Italy, make sure to stop at this ancient city.  While there, explore the Piazza dei Priori, is a Tuscan medieval town square.  

This Piazza hosts the Palazzo dei Priori, which is the oldest town hall in Tuscany, built in 1257 A.D., this fine building is where the citizens went to handle city business and disputes.  Next, tour the Volterra Cathedral, which was enlarged in the 13th century after being damaged by an earthquake to see one of the most interesting places to visit in Italy!

This cathedral houses amazing frescos and works of arts that are a must-see in Italy!  If you have time for only one more activity, make sure you look at the Etruscan Walls of Volterra.

 These ancient walls, which house the entire city of Volterra are preserved and worth a study as you walk the perimeter of the city. You will see why this made our list of the most interesting places in Italy!

Stay on the Cliffside in Positano

When you think of the best things to do in Italy and look for images, few things are more iconic than Positano.  It is one of those places in Italy that you will never forget!

This colorful city was built in the 13th century on the side of a cliff along the Amalfi coast.  This city is lined with narrow streets that trail down to the pebble-covered beach.  

When traveling up and down this cliff, there are many little boutique hotels and shops for you to admire and appreciate.  We have an entire post on Where to Stay In The Amalfi Coast to help you choose!

When finding a place to stay, pick a hotel or vacation home that offers a panoramic view of the coast.  The beautiful sapphire waters will give you a definite memorable sunset on your vacation.

If you pick a higher location on the cliff, you will be sure to see over the other buildings and have that amazing view of the Mediterranean and that famous Amalfi coast, one of the best Italy vacation spots!

While there, make sure to explore the warm waters of the beach or visit the Church of Santa Maria Assunta.  This church was built during the Byzantine Empire, it is a very welcoming church with a lot of architectural interest.  

See How the Other Half Lives On The Amalfi Coast

While in Positano and scratching this stunning seaside destination off of your things to do in Italy list, take a step back and observe how the other half-life and experience the luxurious life in one of the top Italian destinations!

After picking your luxe cliffside hotel, explore like only the rich and famous do.  From seaside fine dining to sunning yourself on a terrace overlooking the Mediterranean, there are many things you can do to experience this glamorous life.

Start your day with a nice cafe and breakfast by the shore.  After that explore and shop in the little boutiques; purchase handmade leather shoes.  After a light lunch, hop on a boat and sun yourself on the deck, then jump into the warm sapphire waters, and you will see why this is one of the best places to visit in Italy!

After a nice day on the water, head in for dinner and sunset at a posh sea-view restaurant, followed by a fun-filled evening where you can kick off your shoes and dance the night away at a local disco.  

Finish your long and luxurious day, by heading back to your panoramic hotel room and enjoy the plush bedding.  Wrapping up your time in Positano, one of the best cities in Italy!

Discover the Vatican

Visiting the Vatican is one of the best things to do in Italy that you should not miss! It is one of those places in Italy, that actually isn’t even in the country! The Vatican is actually a country of its own which is unique and very cool to see.

Vatican City, founded in 1929, covers just 109 acres and an approximate population of 1000.  Vatican City houses museums, sculptures, and the infamous Sistine Chapel.  This city is ripe with history and architectural interest; making this one of the most culturally dense places to visit in Italy.

When thinking of the best things to do in Italy, Vatican City is worth the effort. Located in the Piazza San Pietro, St. Peter’s Basilica was built in 1506 during the Italian Renaissance.  The sculpture and architectural design will definitely enflame your historical intrigue.  After that, take the time to explore the Vatican Museums.  

The Vatican Museums are where you will find lots of art and history as well as the famous Sistine Chapel. You are going to want to  buy tickets in advance  for the Vatican Museums and you should try to get skip-the-line tickets if possible! This is truly one of the best destinations in Italy and you shouldn’t miss it.

Recommended Vatican Tours And Resources:

Vatican Museums And Sistine Chapel Fast Track Entry

Sistine Chapel, Vatican Museums, And Saint Peter’s Guided Tour

See the Fairytale Castles in Tuscany

There are eighteen total castles in Tuscany and there are two that are right out of fairytales that you need to see!  These two castles will definitely be happy editions to your best things to do in Italy list.  

Castello di Malaspina, located in Fosdinovo, was built in 1340.  This castle sits on top of a rocky hill overlooking the Tyrrhenian Coast.  

Once a military vantage point became a prison until 1946.  Castello di Malaspina is a beautiful fortress with amazing gardens and a very well-preserved brick structure.  It is one of the most stunning places to see in Italy!

You can explore this castle and it is well maintained.  From the top turret, be swept away into the world of imagination and think of how Rapunzel might have viewed the coast. 

Castello del Boccale, established in the 16th century by the Medici family is one of the most visually stunning castles.  It is one of the best places to go in Italy if you are a fan of fairytales.

Located on the edge of a rocky cliff, you are most sure to see mermaids swimming in the waters around it.  This castle is amazing to view from the shoreline or the water, unfortunately, you cannot go inside, as it now hosts private residents.

Leaning Tower of Pisa

Pretty much everyone has heard about the Leaning Tower Of Pisa, and there is a reason! It is one of the unique places to see in Italy and it lives up to the hype. This experience is one of the things to do in Italy that cannot be skipped.  The City  of Pisa is located in Tuscany and was established in 1372.

This city is specifically known for the Leaning Tower of Pisa and its no wonder why.  This architectural anomaly has inspired many photographs of visitors creating the illusion that they are holding this tower up.  

 The tower took 199 years to complete, due to various issues with stability, ownership, and squabbles over who should complete it.

The tower currently has a four percent tilt due to soft ground not able to hold the weight of the structure during its construction.  The tower has survived four substantial earthquakes, due to its very stiff building and the soft subsoil, it absorbed the vibrations and kept it still standing.  

Shockingly, the soft sand that almost caused it to fall, is what allowed it to stay standing. If you are looking to visit a classic tourist attraction in Italy, this is it!

Lago di Braies in the Dolomites

Lago di Braies is one of the most epic things to do in Italy! It is one of those places in Italy that you think can’t possibly look better than it does in photos but it is true!

Lago di Braies is a glacial lake and has the most beautiful turquoise waters. It makes our list of one of the prettiest lakes in Italy!  

Since this is a glacial lake, in the winter it is covered in ice and snow, but in the summer has the most breathtaking blue and green water.  This lake is located at 1500m above sea level.  Part of Pragser Wildsee, Lago di Braies attracts all adventure seekers and outdoor enthusiasts.  

If you are willing to make the hike around the lake, you will not be disappointed by the stunning nature that surrounds you and the lake.  And while the lake is considered to be a bathing lake, be aware that that water is cold, even in the summer.  

We even have a full Northern Italy itinerary if you are interested in exploring this region in more detail. We highly suggest it as it is one of the most beautiful places in Italy to visit!

Soak in the Tuscan Hot Springs

After braving a visit to Lago di Braies, now it’s time to enjoy the warmth of the hot springs in Tuscany .  There are four hot springs that are free to access and provide amazing thermal bathing.  One of the best things to do in Italy is to allow yourself time to relax and enjoy the hot baths that Mother Nature offers.  

The hot springs in Bagni di San Filippo are not only a nice warm soak but also interesting natural views.  These spring are easy to find and access.  Exploring them you can find waterfalls and pockets of cool water mixing with the warm, creating beautiful blue waters.

Saturina Hot Springs is another location worth visiting.  These hot springs are warm year-round and worth visiting.  Make sure to come early to avoid the crowds. This is one of the most unique places to visit in Italy and really shouldn’t be missed.

The other two that are free and worth visiting are Bagno Vignoni and Petriolo, both are also stunning to visit and definitely worth the stop on your hot spring tour.

 For more about the springs please see our article here .  Remember, these are natural environments, so please respect the surroundings and leave nothing behind. This is one of the best things to see in Italy and we want to leave it better than when we arrived.

Shop in Milan’s Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

If exploring the countryside and ruins are not for you, there is the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele located in Milan. Milan is one of the most iconic cities in Italy and you won’t be disappointed!

 The Galleria is the oldest active shopping mall in the country.  Designed and built by architect Giuseppe Mengoni in 1867, this Galleria was named after the first King of Italy, Vittorio Emanuele II.

 This shopping mall is more than just a place to shop, but a place to marvel and architectural ingenuity and feats.  It features two four-story glass domes, This structure covers a pedestrian street and connects The Duomo and the Teatro Alla Scalla. Even if you only have one day in Milan , you should still visit!

Most of the shopping and amenities are luxury company’s and brands, but don’t let your pocketbook stop you from visiting this place and it is one of the most intriguing things to in Italy.  

Taste the Wines of Val d’Orcia

If traveling along the hills of Siena to Monte Amiata, you will be passing right through Val d’Orcia. This area has inspired everything from Renaissance art to modern-day photography making it one of the most stunning destinations in Italy!

This hilly nation is broken up by quaint and picturesque little villages.  These breathtaking green hills are filled with sunflowers and vineyards and encompass the Orcia river, of which its name was derived.  

Once you get to this peaceful and seemingly untouched valley, visit Pienza, “the Ideal City.” This majestic locale hosts the Pienza cathedral and the Piccolomini Palace.  

After checking out these historical sites, head to a wine tour and tasting. With many wines coming from this valley, you will be sure to enjoy the flavors of Tuscany while soaking in the awe-inspiring scenery, making this one of the most memorable things to do in Italy.

Relax on a Sicilian Beach

Sicily is the largest island in the Mediterranean, located at the edge of the “toe” in Italy. If you are looking for a true Italy vacation spot, this is it!

You can get to Sicily by car over a large bridge connecting the mainland to island, by ferry, by train, and by plane. There is really no reason you shouldn’t visit this amazing island and no excuse to miss the best beaches in Sicily!

Sicily is surrounded by the most beautiful and clean beaches.  The Sicilians are friendly and the food is amazing.  Once you’re there, visit the town, but really just be ready to relax on the beaches of this island.

There are many beaches to visit on Sicily, but let’s focus on the three best ones.  If you are traveling with your family, all the beaches are great, but one stands out as the best.  

Cefalu, is located in Palermo, and the beaches here are soft and sandy with clear blue water meeting its shoreline. This makes it an ideal place to visit in Italy!

This beach offers the scenic background of the city of Cefalu.  There is also Scala dei Turchi, this location is off a rocky cliff of Realmonte.  The white cliffs surround an endless crystalline blue water making it one of the best destinations in Italy.

The water is so perfect, you will hardly be able to believe you are on the planet Earth.  

And last, Torre Salsa, just south on Montallegro, you are transported to another time.  Virtually unmarked, this beach has sandy shoreline as far as the eye can see and is surrounded by amazing sea cliffs and sand dunes.  

As the deep turquoise water laps at your feet, you will not regret your decision to visit this location, marking it as one of the best things to do in Italy.

Explore the Cinque Terre Villages

Cinque Terre is another beautiful location carved out of the rugged seaside of northwestern coast of Italy. There are so many epic things to do in Cinque Terre and we have a whole blog post on that to help you!

 Located along the famous Riviera, the Cinque Terre consists of five separate villages.  These villages are not reachable by car from the outside and can only be accessed by walking paths, trains, and boats.  

Start by exploring Doria Castle, located in Vernazza it is guessed to have been built during the 13th century, this castle is surrounded and built into rock edifices and worthy of your time.  After this exploration, head to Via Fegina beach in Monterosso al Mare.

This beach in Cinque Terre is beautiful, surrounded by warm blue waters, the village of Monterosso creates the perfect backdrop to a relaxing day.  When in Manarola, walk along the Via dell’Amore street.  

This street runs about a kilometer long and overlooks the sea, we suggest you do this at sunset and take in the majestic sunset this coast has to offer.  

Riomaggiore is the largest of the five villages and has a boasting nightlife.  This village has a plethora of places to eat and drink.  With the abundance of locations to go, getting a table at a restaurant last minute is usually no issue.  The oldest of the five villages is Corniglia. It is lesser known but still one of the best places to visit In Italy!

Located in between all the villages, this location sits on top of a hill and has a 370 step staircase leading from the bottom to the top, or the top to the bottom depending on how you look at it.  This small little village is often overlooked due to its location, but don’t let that fool you.

If you are willing to put in the effort, you will be rewarded with less crowded streets and sites as tourism is less here than the other five villages.

This little collection of villages will captivate you with their quaint mountainside establishments, hillside vineyards, docks full of boats and spectacular seafood; putting this on your Italy bucket list!

Bask in the beauty of Lake Como 

Lake Como, also known as Lago di Como, is one of the most famous lakes in all of Italy, and thus, you need to add it to your things to do in Italy itinerary! Lake Como is separated into a variety of different towns including Como, Tremezzo, Cernobbio, Menaggio, and more.

Here you can take a stroll through any of the town’s tiny streets, visit old centers, eat at good restaurants, explore old churches and more! You can also take a boat tour of Lago di Como or visit the Villa Melzi Gardens (if you are visiting during the right seasons, of course!). It is one of the top destinations in Italy for the rich and famous too!

If you need more details about visiting Lake Como, make sure to check out our Ultimate Northern Italy itinerary , and if you are really into visiting lakes/bodies of water and want to add it to your things to do in Italy, check out our article on the 10 prettiest lakes to see in Italy ! 

Visit Verona 

Of all things to do in Italy, you must check out Verona! Known for being the setting in Shakespeare’s  Romeo and Juliet,  this picturesque Italian town has loads to offer when visiting Northern Italy.

One of the best things to do in Verona is to visit the Northern Italy version of the Colosseum. The Arena Di Verona was built in 30 A.D. and is still used as a stage. Whitney Houston and Paul McCartney have performed here!

Visiting Verona can help escape the crowds of other touristy and busy cities and towns. You can also visit the Giardino Giusti, which is similar to the Garden of Versailles, and walk through the Casa Di Giulietta– which is arguably what inspired “Juliet’s house” in Romeo and Juliet! It is such a fun Italian city to visit if you like history!

  Like we said, there are tons of places to go in Italy, specifically in Verona, so you don’t want to miss out on it, and maybe you can even check out our Northern Italy Itinerary to get more ideas about what to visit when you’re close to this wonderful town!  

Make a Stop and Eat Your Heart Out in Parma

For all you food lovers, this is one of the things you must stop and do in Italy: visit Parma! Parma is home to Parmesan cheese and Parma ham, making it the MOST authentic place for these famous ingredients. We highly recommend taking a food tour, but also know that there are other things to do in Parma as well!

From visiting Cathedrals to a Baptistry to exploring the cobbled side streets of Parma, this location is a hidden gem. The town is filled with lovely buildings and isn’t packed with tourists, which makes it the perfect experience for an authentic visit and a total must-see in Italy!

Between eating your heart out and marveling at the architecture and ambiance, we highly recommend checking Parma out– and if we’ve convinced you, you can find out more information about this town (such as where to stay!) and its surrounding locations when we talk about some of the best things to do in Northern Italy. 

Travel Back to the Renaissance in Florence

Although we have already mentioned visiting the Boblio Gardens above, we want to circle back around and highlight some of the other things to do in Florence that will make your Italy trip memorable!

When looking for things to do in Italy, Florence offers so many options: from visiting the picture-perfect bridge of the Ponte Vecchio, to spending a day in the Galleria dell’ Accademia, your time will be filled to the brim with adventure. 

We recommend checking out some of Florence’s most iconic pieces of art and traveling back in time to the Renaissance. While in Florence you can visit Michelangelo’s famous “David” statue, as well as other famous paintings in the Palazzo Pitti. You will see many points of interest in Italy all in one place!

These locations will have your art-heart soaring, and we’ve linked for a timed entrance ticket below, but if you want more, make sure to check out our Ultimate 10 Days in Italy Itinerary!

And don’t forget that there are even more things to do outside of the art world, such as visiting the Santa Maria Novella Pharmacy, which is one of the more unique places to see in Italy!! If you want more information on Florence, check out our piece on the memorable things to do in Florence! 

Book Here: Timed Entrance Ticket For Michelangelo’s David 

Marvel at the Buildings in Naples 

While Naples is known for its pizza, as it is the birthplace of the delicious food, there are also plenty of things to do in Naples (we go into great detail about it in our 2 weeks Italy Itinerary article !), especially when it comes to the buildings and architecture in this wonderful city!

We highly suggest stopping here, as the sights you can see are breathtaking and informative. It is located nearby several famous Italy tourist attractions and makes a good home base while you visit the nearby areas.

Of all the things to do in Italy, you can specifically visit the Church of San Francesco di Paola, the Royal Palace, the San Carlo Theater and the National Archaeological Museum of Naples all in one trip to the Naples. And better yet, you can take a day trip from Naples to Pompeii (which we already discussed above!).

The relics and architecture put on display on Naples won’t disappoint you– so grab some pizza, visit some churches and palaces, and maybe even see an opera while exploring one of the best cities in Italy to visit!

Stop by the Small Town of Corricella 

Corricella is probably a town you haven’t heard of, but that is okay, because we are telling you that you should add it to your things to do in Italy right now!

This port is located on the island of Procida, which is in the Bay of Naples, and because it is close to the ever-popular Capri, it is typically less busy and perfect if you want to explore in a relaxing environment. It you are looking for a slower Italy vacation spot, this is it!

While the view of the sea, the colorful houses, and the local fisherman draw many people to this town, there are other things you can do here as well. From visiting the Santa Maria Delle Grazie and seeing the tip of Procida, known as the Terra Murata, you can visit churches and see the fortified medieval stronghold.

If visiting small towns is of interest to you and your Italian vacation, make sure to look at what other towns we recommend visiting in our article that talks about the prettiest towns of Italy ! They are some of the best places to visit in Italy.

Take a Trip to the Fairytale Lake of Lake Carezza

If you are near the Dolomites and don’t mind driving a bit, you can always visit Lake Carezza and add it to your things to do in Italy itinerary. This lake is gorgeous and is surrounded by tall coniferous trees. The lake itself has a green hue to it, making it stand out and giving it the nickname “Fairytale Lake.” In fact, legend has it that a mermaid and a wizard may even live in lake!

Make sure to check the lift schedules when visiting Italy In May! Some may be closed due to snow. We have had to reschedule a May trip due to this before!

Despite this being one of the “smaller” lakes to visit, this is a must-see in Italy, as there are so many scenic views for you to explore! You can also hike and enjoy what nature has to offer. And the best part?

Whether you visit in the spring, summer, or fall, you’ll always get to be able to witness the gorgeous waters– just with a different perspective. It truly is magical and one of the prettiest destinations in Italy!

And if you’re interested in spending more time around the lakes of Italy, check out our article on the prettiest Italian lakes you can visit!

Taste Wine and Enjoy the Romance of Poppi 

Tuscany is well known for its wine, and better yet, the town of Poppi is a romantic destination for anyone who wants to experience a wonderful vacation, with some delicious wine! There are so many things to do in Poppi, but wine tasting is one of the most famous!

Be sure to stop at the Brancaia Winery for a tasting and a tour, and then don’t be afraid to check out the Castle of Counts for a tour of the 13th-century castle. Tuscany is one of the best Italian places for those who love wine and food.

You’ll also get to bask in the gorgeous, famous rolling green hills of Tuscany while visiting Poppi. What can we say? It’s romantic and a great Italy activity! And if you want to know of the other most romantic spots to visit in Italy, you can always slide over to our article on Italian Honeymoons to add to your list of the best things to do in Italy!

If In Season, Don’t Miss The Venice Christmas Market! 

Traditionally, Christmas markets in Italy run from the end of November until early January, so we are adding this to your list of things to do in Italy just in case you are visiting during that time! Venice is already one of the best cities to visit in Italy, seeing it at Christmas just makes it even better.

It’s a bonus suggestion! The Christmas markets in Italy are gorgeous and are so festive, that you must check them out. In particular, we recommend stopping by to see the Venice Christmas Market. If you are visiting Venice in Winter , make sure to add this to your list of places to see in Italy!

During the Holiday season, the Campo Santo Stefano is transformed into a Christmas Village with Kiosks, craftsmen, and more! From being able to shop for Murano glass, to eating traditional foods (try the balsamic vinaigrettes!), and enjoying concerts and entertainment, this is a must!

But if you aren’t near Venice during Christmas, don’t worry– there are plenty of other Christmas markets around Italy you can check out! 

As you can see, there are limitless activities and things to do in Italy, that truly make this a destination country.  Whether you want to rub elbows with the elite, take a scenic ride and see the vistas, engage in activities like hiking, shopping, exploring, whatever you want to do, there are so many places in Italy that fit the bill!

Remember to plan ahead to make the most of your trip and be kind to the natural environments.  Leave them just as you found them and help protect all these beautiful places for future generations.  

Reader Interactions

August 18, 2019 at 10:28 pm

Can you do all these things in one trip.

August 21, 2019 at 11:09 am

They are spread out all over the country!!! But yes it is possible! Better to choose a few areas like tuscany or the islands and focus on those!

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• Top 25 unmissable things to do in Italy in 2024
• Best Tours and Experiences

Organize the best trip to Italy following our tips on the 25 best things you can do here ! Museums, wells, theme parks and much more!

We would like to dedicate this article to the people that are coming here for the first time , but also to the return travelers . We are so glad you chose our country for your next holiday and we want to make sure you get the best out of your visit.

We have listed here the 25 things we think everyone should do while in Italy . Most Italians, we are telling you sincerely, never have ever done many of the following activities and experiences.

We truly hope that, following our tips and hints, you will be able to enrich your stay in the best way possible! Shall we start?

25 unique things to do in Italy at least once in a lifetime

Before we start with our listing, we would like to share why we have selected these activities instead of others.

We wanted to include here things that, in our opinion, truly embody the spirit and the atmosphere of the place you are visiting.

The aim of this article, in fact, is giving you some alternatives, 25 nevertheless, so that, while you are visiting our country, you can understand our culture, traditions and lifestyle in the best way possible. Some of the following activities are iconic, whilst others are lesser known.

Anyhow, we hope that our list of the 25 best activities to do in Italy will inspire you to organize the best itinerary possible!

25. A day on the crater of a volcano

And not just any volcano . In fact, we are talking about Mount Vesuvius.

How many times have you thought it would have been incredible to climb it?

Climbing Mount Vesuvius is certainly one of the most special things to do in Italy . The thrill of advancing one's steps on a still active volcano, observing the vegetation that covers it and admiring the wonderful views of one of the most populous (and beautiful) cities in the world is simply incomparable.

Of course, it is an experience to be enjoyed with caution: for this, you may choose to join a tour accompanied by an experienced park guide .

24. The amazement before one of the greatest works of art by Da Vinci

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Federica Ghelfi (@fedecottoncandy)

Have you ever heard about the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie in Milan?

Its very interior houses Leonardo da Vinci's The Last Supper , not only one of the artist's greatest masterpieces, but also one of the most famous and important wall paintings in the entire history of art.

Because of its importance, the Church and the whole area of the Dominican convent were declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1980: it is the third Italian UNESCO site !

23. The world's largest masonry vault

Brunelleschi's dome profoundly characterizes the skyline of Florence.

Not only is it a prominent feature, but it is also the largest masonry vault in the world . So you don't need us to tell you how climbing the dome is one of the best things to do in Italy .

It's about combining the thrill of a wonderful view of the cityscape with a taste for art and architecture .

Not to mention that the admission ticket also includes a visit to the Giottesque Bell Tower, the Museo dell'Opera del Duomo and the Baptistery!

22. The visit to the Prancing Horse

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Musei Ferrari (@museiferrari)

Seeing Formula 1 is one of the most defining experiences of Italian weekends.

Well, if you are around Modena, you definitely cannot pass up one of the most interesting things to do in Italy: a visit to the Ferrari Museum!

Located in Maranello, the visit allows you to delve into the history of the prancing horse company , discover the company and its secrets. Not to mention that you can also visit the famous Fiorano Circuit, where Ferrari does its private testing.

21, A tour of the tastiest theme park

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FICO Eataly World is undoubtedly one of the largest food and wine theme parks in the world .

Why should you visit it?

Undoubtedly because it is a truly great collection of excellence . An incredible, and exquisite concentration of everything that makes gastronomy one of the most vital symbols of the Italian culture. You will be able to see, taste but also experience with your own hands some of the most typical traditional recipes.

You will be able to learn how to make pizza, but also ice cream and, why not, take a class on wine. Everything you ever wanted to know about our cuisine is right here, just a click away.

20. The underground of the City of the Popes

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Viterbo Sotterranea (@viterbo_sotterranea_)

Viterbo, the so-called City of the Popes, is a city with a wonderful historic center, just a few kilometers from the capital.

Among the best things to do in Italy at least once in a lifetime, we at Visit Italy would also like to include a visit to its underground passages !

During the guided tour, in fact, you will be able to discover a network of tunnels dug into the tuff that probably dates back to Etruscan times. Used to channel rainwater, but also as a hidden passageway for secret communications or brigands and as an air raid shelter, this underground place will allow you to go deep into the long history of this place.

19. A walking among the wonders of the greatest Sicilian archaeological park

The world's largest archaeological site is located in the province of Agrigento. Not only is the Valle dei Templi famous for its extent, but also for its exceptional state of preservation . It is a symbol of the greatness of Greek civilization in Italy.

The Doric-style temples you will find here have continued for centuries to inspire awe and wonder in all visitors. It is undoubtedly one of the most important things you can do in Italy.

18. A day among the treasures of the Vatican City

You can decide how much time to spend here. In our opinion, however, there is never enough time to spend in these places.

In the heart of the Eternal City, the Vatican State offers a visit to its state museum, one of the most fascinating places in the world. In fact, the Vatican Museums trace the history of mankind , with fabulous works telling the story of many different historical eras.

You'll see Greek and Egyptian statues, tapestries from the medieval period, contemporary works of art, and priceless frescoes. Surely you know the most famous of all: Michelangelo's Last Judgment .

You don't need us to tell you that seeing it is one of the greatest thrills you can experience in your lifetime.

17. Discovering Apulian architecture (not just Baroque).

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Alessandro Valsecchi (@alessandrov_ph)

For many, the Apulian region is synonymous with the sea and good food, and, undoubtedly, we can only agree. On the other hand, however, it is also much more than that, and it offers enchanting wonders to architecture enthusiasts as well.

This time, we would like to take you to Lecce, whose historic center is a masterpiece of Baroque architecture .

A few kilometers from the city is the Abbey of Santa Maria di Cerrate. Why do we include it on the list of things to do in Italy? Because this place is one of the few examples of Romanesque architecture in the region .

This Abbey is a real jewel, rich in Byzantine frescoes that have recently been restored. For fans of history, architecture and art this is without a doubt a must-see!).

16. Inside the third greatest Roman amphitheater in the world

The symbol of the city of Romeo and Juliet is undoubtedly the arena that towers in Piazza Bra. It is the third largest Roman amphitheater in the world that has survived to the present day.

It relives a new life today, being the perfect setting for plays, musicals and events that are organized every summer.

However, do you know its history and how this building has managed to reach our time intact? A licensed guide can accompany you to discover its history, telling about the era of fights and gladiators.

15. A romantic moment at the most scenic Italian castle

Miramare Castle has such an enviable position on the Gulf of Trieste that it is considered the Italian most scenic castle . And, on the other hand, how could it be otherwise? Its white figure stands out on the promontory, dominating the incomparable blue of the sea from above.

The castle can be visited in its entirety. So, not only the park with its exotic trees and stables , but also the interior of the historical museum. A moment of luxury and opulence, but also of true romance .

14. A gondola ride (but in an unique way)

Riding a gondola is indeed one of the most desired things do be done in Italy!

Navigating the canals, admiring palaces and monuments is, in our opinion, one of the best things to be had at least once in Italy. You simply cannot do without it!

We, however, suggest you experience it in a slightly unique way , that is, with a gondolier who tells you stories, curiosities, anecdotes and secrets of the city he loves so much. What do you think? A truly alternative way to visit the magnificent city on water!

13. A visit to the most ancient museum dedicated to the Egyptian civilization

You may not know that the Egyptian Museum in Turin, founded in 1824, in addition to being one of the most famous, is also the oldest in the world entirely dedicated to this incredible civilization.

Words are not enough to describe the experience you can have here. The amount of artifacts you can see is endless , not to mention that the perfect organization of the museum makes it one of the most visited places in our country.

What we recommend, undoubtedly, is to book your visit in advance and, even more interestingly, to book a guided tour with a licensed guide .

12. A great discovery at a galenical laboratory

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In the heart of Parma, you can visit an ancient galenical laboratory , dating back to 1789. The Antica Farmacia San Filippo Neri, in fact, is a silent place where you can observe flasks and bottles, scents of spices and medicinal plants that for centuries led to the making of medicines and medicines donated to the city's poor.

This pharmacy in vicolo San Tiburzio , allows you to brush up not only on a part of the history of medicine, but also to appreciate the city of Parma for its ability and willingness to assist others.

11. Inside a well of 62 ft

We are now in Orvieto, in central Italy, a city of undisputed beauty: the Duomo, the wonders of its museums and its underground tunnels all contribute to making it a fascinating destination .

Today, however, we wish to introduce you to St. Patrick's Well. It is an absolute masterpiece of engineering and hydraulics and you can walk through it in its entirety. As many as 496 steps , arranged along an endless spiral staircase take you to the base of the well and then, again, to the surface.

Definitely one of the most unique things you can do in Italy!

10. The entrance to the superb Camera dei Giganti (Giants' Room)

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Mantua is one of the symbolic cities of the Italian Renaissance . One of its most representative buildings is certainly the highly refined Palazzo Te.

This 16th-century palace, built for the Gonzaga Family, is an ode to wealth and opulence, with rooms sumptuously decorated with magnificent frescoes .

The interiors, as well as the extraordinary Italianate gardens, are aesthetically and geometrically perfect . It is a true dive into the art and refined architecture of the 16th century, which finds its zenith in the Chamber of the Giants.

9. The entrance to Italy's largest amusement park.

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This issue is somewhat debated. It seems, however, that with its 850,000 square meters, Mirabilandia is the largest amusement park in Italy .

No need to explain why you should come here! In fact, the numerous attractions of the theme park and the water park speak for themselves!

So, for a slightly different day out in Ravenna, why do not you book your tickets now ?

8. And the visit to the Europe's largest aquarium

One of the must-do things in Italy for both adults and children is certainly a visit to Europe's largest aquarium . It is located in Genoa and was opened in 1992, on the occasion of the 500th anniversary of the discovery of the Americas.

Fifteen thousand animals live here in the aquarium's 43 tanks, four of which, housing cetaceans, were added only recently, designed by architect Renzo Piano .

You can see with your own eyes the sharks, seals and penguins, but also witness the world of dolphin feeding.

7. A trip to the highest volcano in Europe

At 3329 meters (11128 ft), Mount Etna is the highest active volcano in Europe . One of our country's most fascinating places towers right next to the Black City and has been inviting explorers of all kinds to discover its wonders for centuries.

The nature of the volcano and its magnificent moonscape will repay any effort. You will be able to discover the crater, and even some of its innermost parts, and have one of the most adrenaline-pumping experiences of a lifetime.

All along the way, there will be a licensed guide to lead you , and you can discover all the wonders of the local flora and fauna in complete safety.

6. The Climbing of the most iconic Leaning Towe

One of the things everyone wants to do at least once in their life in Italy is to climb the famous leaning tower. But then, because of the long lines, most would-be visitors desist.

The Leaning Tower of Pisa, actually the Bell Tower of the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta , is one of the most iconic places in the world . In fact, this building is one of the most photographed, in ever new and original ways.

If, however, the next time you are in the Field of Miracles you finally want to climb the tower, we suggest that you buy your fast-access ticket in advance. It will make your stay much more enjoyable.

5. One of the best things to do in Italy: the lakefront on two wheels!

Lake Garda offers breathtaking scenery all along the coast. Gorgeous villages, castles , and even a state-of-the-art bike path suspended over the water ...

We suggest you visit our beautiful lake right on board a bicycle , taking advantage of local bike sharing. Not only will you be able to roam freely while enjoying spectacular views of the lake, but you will also have the security of assistance.

A fun but also sustainable way to visit the largest lake in our peninsula.

4. The beauty of the Libreria Piccolomini

View this post on Instagram A post shared by José Jesús López Baez (@josejesuslopezbaez)

How many works of art does Siena hold? An open-air treasure chest of history and marvelous architecture that never ceases to leave visitors of all ages amazed.

In the heart of the city, the most precious work of all is enshrined: the Duomo, a sublime masterpiece of Roman-Gothic architecture . Every column, altarpiece and statue is a treasure chest of wonder. Even the floor was called by one of the greatest art historians, Giorgio Vasari, " one of the most beautiful that had ever been made ".

And still inside the cathedral, you will also find the Piccolomini Library with the cycle of frescoes created by Pinturicchio . If you visit the left aisle, you cannot help but be enchanted by their beauty.

3. A tribute to the Miraculous Column

View this post on Instagram A post shared by ѕαяα ριєяѕαηтι (ℓα ριєяα) (@sapiersanti)

There are numerous legends and traditions related to the Mysterious Column of Bari. Some say it has thaumaturgic properties and some invite girls to go around it 3 times on December 6, asking to find a husband within the year .

What matters is that the Mysterious Column, a red-colored pillar protected by a grate , is located inside the Crypt of the Basilica of St. Nicholas, the city's patron saint.

It is in the Crypt, another word for an underground church, that the remains of St. Nicholas rest . And we all know that this Saint has more than one identity: for many, he is none other than Santa Claus ....

2. A visit to a magnificent fresco by Raphael and Perugino

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When people talk about the San Severo Chapel, not everyone knows that there is also one in beautiful Perugia.

It is now a museum dedicated to a fresco begun by Raphael and later completed by Perugino , dating from the early 16th century. The subject of the work is the Trinity and Saints . The upper part, plastic and monumental, is the Trinity created by Raphael; the lower part, with the figures all in the foreground, shows Perugino's Saints.

The fresco is one of a kind and is certainly a must-see for all art lovers .

1. A Guided Tour of the City Of Sassi

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Matera ®️ (@citta_di_matera_)

One of the most incredible things you can do in Italy is certainly to visit Matera.

You can discover the history but also the traditions of this Lucanian jewel, as well as learn more about daily life.

Let your guide take you through the iconic neighborhoods of Sasso Caveoso and Sasso Barisano. The views and vistas you'll see are of unparalleled beauty, and you'll also have the opportunity to enter a cave house .

Which of these things are you going to do during your next trip to Italy?

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