top 50 cities to visit in italy

Protect Your Trip »

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.   

Vote to Add these Destinations to the Rankings

Naples, Italy

Burano Island

The Dolomites

You may be interested in.

Best Beaches in Italy

Best Places to Visit in Spain

Best Places to Visit in France

Best places to visit in europe for 2023-2024.

Best Cheap European Vacations for 2023-2024

Best Beaches in Portugal

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

Recommended

The 18 Best Napa Valley Wineries to Visit in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Sharael Kolberg April 23, 2024

The 25 Best Beaches on the East Coast for 2024

Timothy J. Forster|Sharael Kolberg April 19, 2024

The 50 Best Hotels in the USA 2024

Christina Maggitas February 6, 2024

The 32 Most Famous Landmarks in the World

Gwen Pratesi|Timothy J. Forster February 1, 2024

9 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Florida for 2024

Gwen Pratesi|Amanda Norcross January 5, 2024

24 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in the U.S. for 2024

Erin Evans January 4, 2024

26 Top Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts for 2024

Zach Watson December 28, 2023

Solo Vacations: The 36 Best Places to Travel Alone in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Erin Vasta December 22, 2023

26 Cheap Beach Vacations for Travelers on a Budget

Kyle McCarthy|Sharael Kolberg December 4, 2023

The 50 Most Beautiful White Sand Beaches in the World

Holly Johnson December 1, 2023

Must-Try Foods

Two-Week Itinerary

Things to Do

Best Beaches

Best Museums

Dolomites Guide

Where to Go Hiking

Where to Go Skiing

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Best Destinations

Top Cities to Visit

The 15 Best Cities in Italy

TripSavvy / Christopher Larson

If you're planning your first trip to Italy, you may be undecided as to which cities to visit. It's a tough decision, for good reason—Italy's cities offer an enticing mix of scenery, historic and ancient sites, museums and of course, great cuisine and ambiance. What's more, Italy's major cities can easily be visited by train .

The amount of time you have in Italy will likely dictate how many places you can visit there. Many travelers choose the classic itinerary of Rome, Florence, and Venice, perhaps with a side trip through Tuscany. Yet there are so many great places to discover in Italy, it's hard to narrow down any list of "best" cities. But try we must! These are our picks for the top ten Italian cities, each with its own special character and appeal.

TripSavvy / Taylor McIntyre

Rome is the capital of Italy and most likely, your first stop in the country. Rome offers a dazzling variety of sights and experiences. At every turn, you'll discover ancient monuments, ornate medieval and Baroque churches, beautiful fountains, art-filled museums, and Renaissance palaces. The ancient Colosseum is one of the most iconic sites in the world, and modern Rome is a bustling and lively city and has some excellent restaurants and nightlife. Saint Peter's Square and the Vatican City are also easily visited when in Rome.

Unlike anyplace else in the world, Venice is a unique city built over the water in the middle of a lagoon. Venice is one of Italy's most beautiful and romantic cities as well as one of the most popular for visitors to Italy. The heart of Venice is Piazza San Marco with its magnificent church, Saint Mark's Basilica . There are numerous museums, palaces, and churches to visit, and wandering along Venice's canals and getting lost in its maze of narrow streets is always enchanting. Venice is in the northeast of Italy and historically was a bridge between East and West—its architecture retains a Byzantine feel not really found elsewhere in Italy.

Florence is one of Italy's most important Renaissance architectural and art centers. Its Duomo and Baptistery are magnificent but crowded with tourists, as is the large piazza. Florence has several excellent museums with many famous paintings and sculptures, including Michelangelo's "David" and Botticelli's "Birth of Venus." There are also Medici palaces and gardens. Florence is in the region of Tuscany and is the gateway for exploring Tuscany's smaller cities and countryside.

Milan, one of Europe's wealthiest cities, is known for stylish shops, galleries, and restaurants and has a faster pace of life than most Italian cities. It also has a rich artistic and cultural heritage. Its Gothic Duomo, with its beautiful marble facade, is magnificent. Da Vinci's painting of  The Last Supper is one of Milan's top attractions and La Scala is one of the world's most famous opera houses.

Capri has charmed royalty, artists, and celebrities alike with its gorgeous beaches, many gardens, and restaurants. Situated in the Bay of Naples, Capri is a year-round destination that is bursting with tourists every summer. Be sure to get on the water to explore the sea caves (Blue Grotto is a must) and rock formations. On land, consider visiting the famed Villa San Michele before enjoying some high-end shopping, excellent pasta, and a limoncello. Or two.

Naples is one of Italy's most vibrant cities. It lies on the coast south of Rome and is the most important city in southern Italy. Naples retains much of its Baroque character and is a starting point for trips to Pompeii, Herculaneum , and the Amalfi Coast. It holds many historical and artistic treasures, and is famous for its pizza and desserts!

Bologna is known for its beauty, wealth, cuisine, and left-wing politics. Its flat streets are lined with arcades, making it a good walking city in every kind of weather. It has one of Europe's oldest universities. a nice medieval center, and several attractive squares, lined with buildings with porticoes. Bologna is the biggest city in northern Italy's Emilia-Romagna region and its Piazza Maggiore is one of the biggest squares in Europe. Even among Italians, it's considered the culinary capital of the country.

Verona is most recognized as the setting for "Romeo and Juliet" but it's also famous for its Roman Arena (the third-largest in Italy and the venue for a top opera festival. Verona has a good medieval center, Roman remains, an interesting castle complex, and lots of high-end shopping. It's the fourth most visited city in Italy and well worth a stop on a northern Italy train travel itinerary .

A popular day trip from Rome, Orvieto is a striking hill town in Umbria. It's built on volcanic plateau with near-vertical cliff faces and has a long, rich history. One of Orvieto's main highlights is the Duomo. It took close to 400 years to complete and is a masterpiece of medieval architecture. There's also a network of caves and tunnels underneath the city that have been in use for more than two millennia. Tours of Underground Orvieto are available; they leave daily and last for 45 minutes.

Built into a seaside cliff in the middle of Italy’s gorgeous Amalfi Coast, Positano is now a popular resort destination perfect for romance. Its mild climate make this a year-round destiantion but Positano most crowded from April to October. Beyond strolling through town admiring the colorful houses vistors can enjoy fresh seafood, do some shopping at boutiques, or relax at pebble and sand beaches. There are also several hiking options from Positano that follow the coast or go deeper inland.

Turin (Torino), in the Piedmont region of northwest Italy, is a major cultural hub with excellent museums, elegant shops, and good restaurants. There are also some very nice examples of Baroque architecture and historic palaces, famous coffee houses, artisan workshops, and streets with covered arcades.

Genoa is Italy's principal seaport, located in Liguria on the northwest coast of Italy. Genoa has a fascinating modern aquarium, an interesting port area, and a historic center said to be the largest medieval quarter in Europe, with a wealth of churches, palaces, and museums.

Perugia, in central Italy's Umbria region , is a very cosmopolitan city and home to two universities. It hosts a world-famous jazz festival in the summer and its University for Foreigners is a great place to learn Italian. It's a walled city on a hilltop with great views over the valley and has several important monuments and a good central square. Its history goes back to the 9th century B.C.

Cinque Terre

OK, the Cinque Terre is technically five villages but considering that the group as a whole is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, all of them are worth a visit. And they're so close to together that visitors can walk from one town into the next without much effort. This popular tourist destination is famous for the colorful buildings, fresh seafood, impressive hikes, and stunning views. Corniglia is smallest and one of the least crowded villages (it lacks sea access) while Monterosso is the largest and busiest.

Parma may not be on most tourists' radar but the Northern Italian city offers noteworthy food, architecture, and art. Foodies will delight in tasting Parmigiano Reggiano cheese and Parma ham in addition to stuffed pasta. Meanwhile, architecture lovers will be spoiled by the wide-ranging styles on display here. Especially the pink marble Baptistery. That's in addition to a museum of artifacts from the Middle Ages and a national gallery of art with collections spanning 600 years.

Traveling by Train in Italy

Travel between big cities is best done by train as driving in Italian cities may be very difficult and the extensive Italian rail system is fairly inexpensive. Most city centers are well-suited to walking and parts of the city centers are closed to cars without permits. Large Italian cities generally have good public transportation, too.

The Top 23 Things to Do in Italy

The Most Romantic Places in Italy

The 15 Best Destinations in Italy

Where to Go on Italy's Mediterranean Coast

5 Must-See Towns on Italy's Amalfi Coast

Best Places to Go in Northern Italy's Veneto Region

Top 6 Tourist Attractions in Italy

The 14 Best Day Trips from Rome

Your Trip to Milan: The Complete Guide

The Most Beautiful Castles in Italy

Best Italian Lakes to Visit on Your Vacation

Italian Nativity Displays and Christmas Scenes

20 Best Things to Do in Florence, Italy

Siena Guide: Planning Your Trip

Your Trip to the Amalfi Coast: The Complete Guide

Italy UNESCO World Heritage Sites - Southern Italy

• Inspiration
• Destinations
• Places To Stay
• Style & Culture
• Food & Drink
• Wellness & Spas
• News & Advice
• Partnerships
• Traveller's Directory
• Travel Tips
• Competitions

All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.

12 of the best cities to visit in Italy

By Jaclyn DeGiorgio

Paring Italy down to 12 cities isn’t easy. There are hundreds, and each is as distinctive as it is enthralling, embodying its singular sense of place through its territory, history, architecture, culture, surroundings, cuisine and wine. This list of the best cities in Italy combines some classics with under-appreciated gems. It shouldn’t be considered exhaustive; it’s more of a starting point for the uninitiated, a helpful guidance for anyone looking to expand their Italian horizons.

Bologna, Emilia-Romagna

Bologna isn’t nicknamed “the red, the fat and the learned” for nothing. With red-brick medieval architecture, the soaring Due Torri (two towers), 60 kilometres of 13th-century porticos, the world’s oldest university and sprawling piazzas, the capital of Emilia-Romagna doesn’t need to do much else to impress you – but it delivers. Take in sweeping city views from Piazza Maggiore’s 87-metre-high clock tower, then duck into the Quadrilatero medieval market tucked into the piazza’s side streets. The Pinacoteca Nazionale’s collection includes works by Raphael, Giotto and Titian, while MamBO, the modern art museum, has a wing dedicated to 20th-century Bolognese painter Giorgio Morandi. Italy’s Motor Valley stretches from Bologna to Modena, so automotive diehards can race off to the Ducati and Lamborghini museums. The local cuisine is a strong contender for Italy’s best – enjoy classics at old-timers Diana and Trattoria Serghei, contemporary riffs at Ahimè and Oltre or a meal that couples both at CasaMerlò.

Where to stay in Bologna : Check into one of the modern eclectic suites at  Casa Conoscenti , a revamped 14th-century noble residence with a restaurant and cocktail bar.

Genoa, Liguria

Genoa is a city that everyone seems to know of, but nobody actually knows. It’s true – at first glance, the Ligurian capital’s Mediterranean seafront isn’t as postcard-perfect as the coast’s typical candy-hued villages like Portofino, Cinque Terre and Camogli. But what Genoa seemingly lacks in visual allure, it more than makes up for in substance. Laundry dangles over the timeworn medieval Carruggi district, a dense, twisty-turny warren of narrow, stone-paved viccole crammed with cafes, restaurants and shops. Its quintessential Italian charm is juxtaposed with stately landmarks from the city’s maritime trade heyday, like the sumptuous 17th-century Royal Palace Museum and the  UNESCO-listed Palazzi di Rolli , a single street of 42 noble palaces built between the 16th and 18th centuries. Beach seekers can flit over to Boccadasse, a colourful town on Genoa’s outskirts. On the food front, focaccia from Teobaldo and Al Forno di Albaro is always a good idea and La Forchetta Curiousa and Trattoria dell’Acciughetta prepare delicious local fare.

Where to stay in Genoa:  The glorious  Hotel Bristol Palace  preserves the integrity of its past by fusing 20th-century glamour with just the right amount of modernity.

Naples, Campania

Once you’ve had a taste of the gleefully infectious, beautiful chaos of  Naples , you’re hooked: the buzzing traffic, grand architectural heritage, a lived-in historic centre, enthralling culture and the guileless warmth of its people. Obligatory sights include Caravaggio’s whimsical  Seven Acts of Mercy  at the Church of Pio Monte della Misericordia, Giuseppe Sanmartino’s ethereal  Veiled Christ  at Cappella Sansevero Giuseppe and the extensive Archaeological Museum. Naples’ contemporary art profile is rising at a steady clip. Recent years have seen Gallerie d’Italia open with a dedicated wing and the arrival of an outpost of London’s Thomas Dane Gallery, both joining the ranks of decades-old mainstays like Pan and Madre. Mount Vesuvius rises dramatically over the gulf–hike to its crater or take part in a tasting of Lacryma Christi (Christ’s tears), a wine from grapes cultivated on its slopes. The Pompeii and Herculaneum archaeological sites are south of the city, but if you want to venture further afoot, hop on a ferry to Capri, Ischia or Procida. When you’re in town, digging into a Neapolitan pie at (at least) one of these pizzerias is compulsory: Concettina ai Tre Santi, anything by Gino Sorbillo, 50 Kalò, Diego Vitagliano and La Notizia. If you’re pining for more, two of the world’s best pizzerias can be found in Caserta, just under an hour by car: I Masanielli and Pepe in Grani. Locanda Gesù Vecchio Vesuvius serves excellent traditional Neapolitan cuisine back in the city.

Where to stay in Naples : The artsy  Atelier Inès  is a six-room B&B in the Rione Sanità neighbourhood with an onsite showroom and gallery.

Milan, Lombardy

Italy’s most international city is arguably its most misunderstood. Milan doesn’t fit the standard “Italy mould”, but it’s just as fetching as its more in-your-face counterparts. The Duomo, Galleria Vittoria Emanuele II, La Scala, Brera, Pinacoteca Ambrosiana and Leonardo da Vinci’s  The Last Supper  are all musts, but there’s more to the Lombard capital. Take in the local energy by strolling Porta Venezia, a district buzzing with boutiques, restaurants, cafes, bars, galleries and Art Nouveau facades, or Isola, a regenerated working-class neighbourhood that’s a stomping ground for hipsters and three-piecers alike. Fashion meets art at Fondazione Prada, Armani Silos and Palazzo Morando, whose permanent collection rotates 17th-21st century Milanese costumes, clothes, and accessories, and design devotees will relish Villa Necchi Campiglio and Triennale di Milano museum. An aperitivo at Bar Basso is a must, as is imbibing at one of the innovative mixology hubs that have shaken up the local cocktail scene, like Rita, Carico, Tripstillery, Unseen Bar and Drinc.

Shannon McMahon

CNT Editors

Sarah James

Alex Postman

Where to stay in Milan : The stupendous  Portrait Milano  occupies a converted 16th-century monastery that hides in plain sight.

Ravenna, Emilia-Romanga

The sublime UNESCO-protected Byzantine mosaics decorating the walls and ceilings of eight churches and baptistries in Ravenna should be on everyone’s bucket list, but the city remains curiously under wraps. After just a few hours in this former Roman and Byzantine capital, it’s easy to see why Dante Alighieri hightailed it there when he was banished from his native Florence. It’s no longer the 14th century, but the appeal of this city by the Adriatic endures. A sea breeze sweeps delicately through the city centre, a pastel pedestrian zone that’s at once tranquil and lively and even a bit romantic – though not cloyingly so. Drop into the refurbished covered market to observe the sfogline, or pasta makers, crafting typical shapes like cappelletti, tagliatelle, strozzapreti and maltagliati by hand. Browse the stalls, then head to Ca’ de Vèn to sip local Sangiovese and Albana wines alongside Romagnola specialities. If you’d like to pay your respects to the father of the Italian language, Dante’s tomb is less than a minute away.

Where to stay in Ravenna : With a rooftop solarium and quiet interior garden,  Palazzo Bezzi  is a pleasant respite in the heart of Ravenna’s historic centre. For more Milan hotels , see our guide to the city's very best places to stay.

Rome, Lazio

Rome  never gets old, but it’s having a moment. Treading the classic route that covers the historic centre, Colosseum, Forum, Vatican, Borghese Gallery, Trastevere and the recently opened Largo di Torre Argentina ruins will keep you busy. Still, the crowds can stifle the Italian capital’s newfangled energy. Head outside the Aurelian walls to the San Lorenzo quarter–an open-air street mural museum to soak it up. New and long-standing galleries, like Materia, Monitor and MLA, have thrust San Lorenzo’s contemporary art scene into the global spotlight–Soho House even chose the district for its first Italy outpost. It is Rome, after all, so you can temper all the modernity with a dose of nostalgia at San Lorenzo’s old-school institutions like Tram Tram osteria and Bar Merani. For a transportive change of scenery, the ornate Art Nouveau buildings of the Coppedè quarter are adorned with Gaudi-esque embellishments. As for eating, Al Moro, Armando al Pantheon and Da Cesare never fail to serve up stellar Roman staples.

Where to stay in Rome : Wellness stands front and centre at the spectacular  Six Senses Rome , which opened in a 15th-century palazzo last year. See our guide to the best hotels in Rome for more inspiration.

Turin, Piedmont

With stately Baroque and Art Nouveau architecture and elegant piazzas, it’s no surprise that Turin draws comparisons to Paris. The splendour of its past as the seat of the House of Savoy lives on in the UNESCO-protected Royal Palace and the loggia framing Piazza Castello. The panoramic terrace at the Mole Antonelliana, the landmark with the unusual square-shaped spired dome, is a must for a gorgeous view of the city’s sienna rooftops sprawling to the foot of snow-capped Alps. The Museo Egizio features one of the world’s largest collections of Egyptian artefacts, and Museo Casa Mollino is the former home of 20th-century architect and designer Carlo Mollino. Lodged in a former Fiat factory, Pinacoteca Agnelli displays the automotive family’s art collection, which includes works by Renoir, Matisse and Picasso, and incorporates the Pista 500, Fiat’s historic rooftop test track turned garden, into the experience. The Piedmontese capital is also the city of coffee and chocolate, two guilty pleasures that come together in the Bicerin, a hot drink born at the same-named café. Just 50 kilometres from Alba, Turin is an ideal jumping-off point for wine pilgrims and truffle hunters headed to Le Lange.

Where to stay in Turin:  The warm, modern, minimalist interior of the  Turin Palace Hotel  is enhanced with pops of colour and complete with a rooftop bar and spa.

Tropea, Calabria

Nothing prepares you for seeing Tropea for the first time. The Pearl of the Tyrrhenian Sea rests on one of Italy’s most mesmerising though little-known stretches of shoreline: Calabria’s Coast of the Gods. Weathered mediaeval facades soar over sandstone cliffs that drop onto white sand lapped by translucent turquoise water. In Tropea’s tangle of narrow streets, garlands of hot chilli peppers hang alongside batches of stringed oval-shaped sweet Tropea red onions–try a scoop of it in gelato form at Gelateria Tonini. The Norman cathedral is home to local treasures, including a 13th-century painting of Madonna di Romania, the city’s patron saint, and a rare 15th-century black wood crucifix. If you’re up for a challenge, ascend 33 metres of stone-hewn steps to the Santa Santa Maria dell’Isola promontory that punctuates the beach. For a change of scenery, explore the vineyards, oil mills, dairies and farms of the unspoiled hinterland or jaunt off to Sicily’s Aeolian islands by boat.

Where to stay in Tropea:  A converted 16th-century convent,  Villa Paola  has 12 elegant rooms and a vast terrace that looks over Tropea’s old town and the turquoise Tyrrhenian Sea.

Florence, Tuscany

There’s no question that  Florence  lives up to its nickname: the cradle of the Renaissance. The Tuscan capital’s dense pedestrian historic centre, a UNESCO World Heritage site, packs plenty to keep your days full: the Duomo Cathedral, the Uffizi Galleries, Piazza della Signoria, the Medici Chapels and Santa Croce. Michelangelo’s David broods confidently in the Accademia, while Donatello’s lesser-known bronze version of the Old Testament hero stands with one foot on Goliath’s severed head in the Museo Ormero. If the dozens of footwear shops don’t keep the whims of shoe lovers at bay, the Museo Salvatore Ferragamo celebrates the work of its pioneering namesake. Cross the Ponte Vecchio to reach the Oltrarno, literally “beyond the Arno”, home to Palazzo Pitti, Boboli Gardens and Piazzale Michelangelo. The artisan boutiques and shops of the vibrant Santo Spirito quarter include leather specialist Quoio and Giulio Giannino e Figlio, one of the city’s oldest stationery shops. Visible from just about anywhere in town, the encircling, cypress-tree-topped hills tease the undulating Tuscan landscape that extends outwards from the confines of the city.

Where to stay in Florence : In the city centre, just a short walk from the crowded cluster, the  St. Regis  is an ornate oasis on the Lungarno with frescoes, marble and gilding.

Venice, Veneto

There’s no place like  Venice . The compact floating city packs one unforgettable moving image after another: gondolas gliding over smooth, murky green canals, water gently lapping the stately Venetian gothic facades in shades of pink and orange, the boisterous Rialto fish market vendors peddling the lagoon’s finest and traversing the bridges as you drift from one sinuous  calla  to another. Saint Mark’s Basilica, Doge’s Palace and the Gallerie dell’Accademia all warrant a visit, as do the galleries that have established Venice as a contemporary art mecca, like the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, the Pinault Collection, and an outpost of Milan’s Fondazione Prada. If the crowds overwhelm, sail off to one of the outer  islands . There’s a chance Murano, world-famous for its glass blowing, will be just as congested as the central hub. Burano might not be as under the radar as it used to be, but the jumbles of rainbow-hued homes and the risotto di gò, made from goby fish, are worth the 40-minute vaporetto ride. If you’re in that neck of the lagoon, dart off to Torcello for the exquisite byzantine mosaics at the Basilica di Santa Maria Assunta. Back on the central islands, start your evening with a Venetian-style aperitivo: couple your cicchetti with an  ombra  (shadow) of wine at one of the beloved bacari like Cantinone già Schiavi or All’Arco.

Where to stay in Venice:  The  Gritti Palace, A Luxury Collection Hotel , is an unrivalled timeless treasure with Murano chandeliers, plush fabrics, and splendid views of the Grand Canal.

Catania, Sicily

Selecting one city in  Sicily  is difficult as the entire island’s whimsical fantasia of art, culture and architecture reflects its tumultuous history and conquerings. But travellers tend to backburner Catania, setting out for Taormina immediately after descending on the island. Anchored in the shadows of Mount Etna on Sicily’s east coast, the city, equal parts gritty and elegant, has been obliterated and rebuilt several times over the centuries. Kick off the day local-style, with a  brioscia  (brioche) stuffed with lemon, almond, coffee and chocolate granita at a beloved mainstay like Bar Musumeci and Gran Cafe Salaire, then observe Catania dwellers in action at the historic fish market where glossy red shrimp, gleaming swordfish, and prickly sea urchin chill on beds of ice. The city is one of the UNESCO-listed eight late Baroque towns of the Val di Noto–its most notable architecture is on and around Via Croficeri. Mount Etna’s wines are among the world’s most respected, so look out for them at restaurants or sample some straight from the source at one of the wineries.

Where to stay in Catania :  Palazzo Sangiorgio  opened in a refurbished 17th-century building last fall. The decor incorporates pieces from Gio Ponti, Philippe Starck, and Flos lighting.

Merano, Trentino-Alto Adige

Mereno, the former capital of  South Tyrol , didn’t officially become part of Italy until 1919. The fairy-tale-like city exemplifies Italian charm without neglecting its Austrian roots. Cradled by the snow-capped peaks of the Dolomites, this historic spa town’s unusually mild climate keeps its indoor and outdoor natural therapeutic baths open year-round. The city centre is an assortment of architectural styles: Via dei Portici, a picture-perfect portico-lined street topped with mediaeval pastel facades, stands among the Gothic Duomo and neoclassical and Art Nouveau buildings. Outside the city, the plush gardens of Castello Trauttmansdorff flaunt flora from all over the world, and three tranquil promenades thread the city’s periphery–retreating to one of them might be just as healing as the baths. Austrian influences prevail in the atypically Italian cuisine. Expect assorted sweet and savoury canederli (bread dumplings), Schlutzkrapfen (half-moon-shaped stuffed pasta), and apple strudel. Six Michelin-starred restaurants are in the vicinity, including Ristorante Sissi and Ristorante Prezioso Fragsburg in the city itself.

Where to stay in Merano:  Soaring over the landscape at 1,230 metres, the exquisite  Miramonti  Boutique Hotel features floor-to-ceiling windows so guests can enjoy the view.

More great stories from Condé Nast Traveller

Sign up to Postcard of the Day for your daily dose of escapism

A definitive list of the best Greek islands to visit this year

How to make the most of your Parisienne holiday with 26 amazing things to do in the city of lights

Taking a trip to Rome ? We've got the full spectrum of experiences the Italian capital has to offer

Here's how to spend three days in Porto , from enjoying delicious restaurants to experiencing intriguing attractions

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 Jun 3, 2021 and updated Nov 19, 2023.

Explore related stories

Budget Travel

Apr 27, 2024 • 5 min read

With affordable public transport, great food markets and discount cards, a visit to Slovenia needn't blow up your budget.

Apr 25, 2024 • 6 min read

Apr 21, 2024 • 7 min read

Apr 19, 2024 • 10 min read

Apr 17, 2024 • 6 min read

Apr 15, 2024 • 10 min read

Apr 7, 2024 • 11 min read

Apr 5, 2024 • 5 min read

Mar 30, 2024 • 4 min read

Mar 26, 2024 • 6 min read

Italy Bucket List: 130+ Best Things To Do In Italy

Need some destination inspiration for a trip to Italy? You’ve come to the right place.

This is the ultimate Italy bucket list. It covers the 130+ best things to do, see, and experience in Italy. I created it based on my many vacations in this dreamy country.

Indeed, Italy is one of my favorite countries to visit, a dream destination I return to time and time again. Italy has Europe’s richest and most ancient culture.

After all, Italy is the cradle of European civilization — founded by the Roman Empire and embellished by the Roman Catholic Church.

As you explore Italy, you’re confronted with some of the world’s most iconic monuments — Roman ruins, UNESCO sites, Renaissance masterpieces, and elegantly preserved medieval villages and palazzos.

But you’ll also find jaw dropping landscapes and magical seaside hamlets.

In this Italy travel guide, I take you on a tour of 100+ of Italy’s must visit destinations and must have experiences.

If you want to enjoy your own slice of La Dolce Vita , read on and decide what to put on your Italy bucket list.

Epic Italy Bucket List

I’ve separated my Italy bucket list by region and major city (Florence, Milan, Rome, and Venice). Hopefully, this guide will help you plan your next trip to Italy or create your own Italy itinerary .

1. Florence: Best Things To Do In Florence

Florence, often hailed as the “Cradle of the Renaissance,” is a city of staggering beauty. It’s a treasure trove for those passionate about Medieval and Renaissance art, boasting some of Europe’s most magnificent collections.

This city isn’t just a gallery of historic art; it’s vibrant, alluring, and deeply romantic. Here, you can find yourself mesmerized by Botticelli’s masterpieces and in awe of Michelangelo’s genius, as if traveling through a portal to another era.

Florence’s historic center, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, is more than just a city; it’s a living, open-air museum where breathtaking art and architecture await you at every corner.

READ : Must See Sites in Florence

Don’t leave Florence without …

✔ Seeing Michelangelo’s monumental David , the world’s most famous statue , at the Accademia Gallery

✔ Admiring Botticelli paintings in the world renowned Uffizi Gallery , including the iconic Birth of Venus

✔ Admiring Fra Angelico’s delicate early Renaissance frescos in San Marco Monastery

✔ Hiking up to San Miniato al Monte for the best view of Florence

✔ Paying homage to Michelangelo in the Basilica of Santa Croce and enjoying one of the greatest assemblages of paintings, sculptures, and funereal tombs in existence

READ : Best Day Trips From Florence

✔ Following the Michelangelo Trail in Florence and walking in the artist’s footsteps

✔ Visiting the Medici Chapel s with Florence’s most Michelangelo sculptures

✔ Admiring the Giorgio Vasari frescos in the grand Hall of the Five Hundred in Palazzo Vecchio

✔ Inspecting the statutes of the Piazza della Signoria , Florence’s outdoor public art gallery

✔ Visiting the Bargello Museum to see world famous Renaissance sculptures by Michelangelo , Donatello , Verrocchio, Bernini , Cellini, and Giambologna

✔ Walking across and shopping on the iconic Ponte Vecchio

✔ Visiting the three glamorous palaces of the Medici dynasty : the Medici-Riccardi Palace, the Pitti Palace , and the Palazzo Vecchio

READ : Free Things To Do in Florence

✔ Climbing Brunelleschi’s dome for magnificent city views

✔ Plopping down in a pew to look up and admire The Last Judgment fresco in the Baptistery

✔ Gazing at the stunning Pietro da Cortona ceiling frescos in the Palatine Gallery of the Pitti Palace

✔ Strolling in the lovely Boboli Gardens and admiring the fountains and statuary

✔ Walking under the Wisteria Tunnel in the Bardini Gardens

✔ Strolling through the Oltrarno neighborhood on the other side of the Arno River

READ : Hidden Gems in Florence

2. Milan: Best Things To Do in Milan

Milan, a gem in northern Italy, is a must-visit on your Italian adventure. As a seasoned traveler, I can tell you that Milan is far more than just a modern metropolis.

It’s the pulsing heart of Italy’s finance and fashion scenes. But don’t be misled by those who might label it merely as an industrial hub.

In Milan, the past and present merge beautifully, creating a city with a soul that blends historical elegance with the dazzle of a modern metropolis. As you wander through its streets, you’ll be captivated by the striking architecture, significant historical sites, and world-renowned art, including some of the Renaissance’s most significant masterpieces.

And let’s not forget the culinary delights – Milan’s food scene is as stylish and sophisticated as the city itself. This city is a feast for the senses, sure to leave you with unforgettable memories.

READ : Top Attractions In Milan

Don’t leave Milan without …

✔ Walking on the rooftop terrace of the Duomo, Milan’s Gothic fantasia, at sunset

✔ Seeing Leonardo da Vinci’s iconic The Last Suppe r in Santa Maria delle Grazie

✔ Following the Leonardo da Vinci Trail and walking in the artist’s footsteps

✔ Admiring fantastic art in the Pinacoteca di Brera , one of Europe’s most underrated museums

✔ Having a cocktail or dinner in the Navigli, Milan’s trendy canal district

✔ Sipping an apertivo in Leonardo da Vinci’s own vineyard

READ : All The Last Supper Paintings from Renaissance Italy

3. Northern Italy: Best Things To Do In Northern Italy

The northern region of Italy is known locally as Il Nord or Settentrione. It consists of eight separate regions – Peidmont, Liguria, Aosta Valley, Veneto, Emilia-Romagna, Lombardy, Friuli-Venezia Giulia, and Trentino-Alto.

This region of Italy is simply bursting with Italy bucket list destinations — epic landscapes, beautiful towns, and historic landmarks waiting to be explored.

READ : 1 Week Road Trip Itinerary From Venice To Milan

Don’t leave Northern Italy without …

✔ Climbing the turrets of the crusader-era castle, Rocca Scaligera Castle, in Sirmione

✔ Admiring the world’s best Byzantine mosaics in Ravenna

✔ Standing on Juliet’s Balcony in fair Verona

✔ Gazing in awe at Verona’s Roman Arena, an amazing well-preserved colosseum

READ : Complete Guide to Finding Mosaics in Ravenna

✔ Even better, catching an opera in the Verona’s Arena during the summer opera festival

✔ Walking under the romantic covered porticos of Bologna

✔ Climbing Bologna’s Leaning Tower, the Asinelli Tower, for views

✔ Admiring architecture in Bologna’s stunning Piazza Maggiore

✔ Indulging in “tagliatelle al ragu” in Italy’s gastronomic city of Bologna

✔ Go truffle hunting in the Bologna Apennines Mountains

✔ Riding up to the top of the Mole Antonelliania in Turin

✔ Eating pecorino cheese and prosciutto in the cute pink town of Parma , which is decorated with frescos by the Renaissance artist Correggio

✔ Boat riding in the Italian Lake District

✔ Exploring Lake Como’s adorable villages: Bellagio, Varenna, and Menaggio

✔ Visiting the Borromean Islands in Lake Maggiore, known as Italy’s Garden of Eden

✔ Exploring Renaissance monuments in the secret and stunning town of Mantua

READ : Most Beautiful Towns in Italy

4. Rome: Best Things To Do in Rome

Rome is a city that never ceases to enchant me. This city is not just a must do destination. It’s a mesmerizing blend of delicious cuisine and architectural wonders spanning centuries.

As a cornerstone of Western civilization, Rome presents an unparalleled array of attractions. From the splendor of palace museums to the mystique of ancient ruins and the grandeur of Renaissance monuments, the city is a living history book.

But there’s more to Rome than just its past. The city boasts world-class museums where art aficionados can revel in the works of masters like Michelangelo, Raphael, Bernini, and Caravaggio.

Their creations from the Renaissance and Baroque periods are not just art; they’re a dialogue with history. In Rome, every corner tells a story, making it a must-visit for those captivated by the richness of art and history.

READ : 3 Day Itinerary for Rome

Don’t leave Rome without …

✔ Taking the Imperial ruins tour: Colosseum | Roman Forum | Palatine Hill

✔ Visiting the Vatican Museums , one of the world’s most outstanding art collections

✔ Admiring Michelangelo frescos in the famed Sistine Chapel

✔ Climbing the dome of St. Peter’s Basilica for the classic view of the Bernini-designed St. Peter’s Square

✔ Visiting the magnificent Borghese Gallery , Rome’s best in situ museum with magnificent sculptures by Bernini

✔ Following the trail of Caravaggio , the Baroque period’s great painter

✔ Following the trail of Bernini , the Baroque period’s great sculptor

✔ Visiting Rome’s secret palace s , with their glamorous Halls of Mirrors, to feel like an aristocrat and see in situ art

✔ Channeling your own badass gladiator on an underground Colosseum tour

✔ Putting your hard hat on and exploring the ruins of Nero’s Golden House, Domus Aurea

✔ Wandering through Trastevere, Rome’s most atmospheric neighborhood

✔ Wandering through Monti, Rome’s authentic hipster neighborhood

✔ Admiring the fantastical Art Nouveau architecture in the Coppede neighborhood

✔ Taking a food and wine tour

✔ Exploring Rome’s Mercato di Tesstaccio, a bustling place where local chefs vie elbow to elbow for the best food and produce

✔ Dining at the Rome Cavalieri Hotel and getting a free private tour of its outstanding art collection.

✔ Admiring secret and romantic Raphael frescos in the Villa Farnesina

✔ Admiring ancient Pompeiian-style frescos in the House of Augustus , Rome’s first emperor

✔ Touring the Capuchin Crypt, Rome’s own bone chapel

READ : Hidden Gems in Rome

✔ Visiting the theatrical Venetian-style apartments of an Italian Princess at the Palazzo Colonna

✔ Go underground and see an ancient Mithraic chapel in the Basilica of San Clemente

✔ Day Tripping to Tivoli to see two UNESCO sites: Villa d’Este (Renaissance mansion with amazing fountains) and Hadrian’s Villa (evocative ruins for ruin lusters)

✔ Day tripping to Tarquinia to see its Etruscan necropolis with frescos from the 5th century B.C.

5. Southern Italy: Best Things To Do In Southern Italy

I am besotted with Southern Italy . It’s a vast region that contains the provinces of Abruzzo, Puglia, Basilicata, Campania, Calabria, Molise and Sicily.

Southern Italy has some absolutely magnificent offerings including beautiful stretches of dramatic coastline, picture perfect beaches, charming coastal islands, and myriad historic cities and towns. The best known regions are the gorgeous Amalfi Coast and the Cinque Terre.

Don’t leave Southern Italy without …

✔ Visiting the ancient ruins and frescos of Pompeii , Italy’s most famous archaeological site, and learning how everyday Romans once lived

✔ Staying in a cave hotel in the UNESCO city of Matera

✔ Visiting the cluster of cave dwellings carved into cliffs in Matera

✔ Exploring the beehive “trulli” homes of Alberobello in Puglia

✔ Driving the stunning Amalfi Coast , the road of a “1000 bends”

✔ Visiting the magnificent UNESCO-listed Royal Palace of Caserta in Naples

✔ Exploring one of the world’s best archaeological museums in Naples

✔ Climbing up the fairytale hilltop aerie of Civita di Bagnoregio

READ : 35+ Historic Landmarks in Italy

✔ Exploring a mysterious fortress, the Castel del Monte, in Puglia

✔ Sailing into the Blue Grotto on the island of Capri

✔ Hiking the incredibly picturesque Path of the Gods on the Amalfi Coast

✔ Eating delicious food with sweeping views in pastel perfect and glitzy Positano

✔ Hiking (or swimming) between the picturesque villages of Cinque Terre

✔ Visiting medieval Lecce, the entrancing “Florence of Southern Italy”

6. Tuscany: Best Things To Do In Tuscany

Tuscany , the epitome of romance in Italy, is a region that should top everyone’s list of must-visit destinations. This picturesque area is akin to stepping into a vibrant landscape painting.

The region is famed for its scenic cypress-lined roads, sprawling golden wheat fields, and charming medieval towns perched atop hills. Here, you’re treated to the archetypal Italian village life, complete with exquisite wine and sumptuous cuisine.

Tuscany is also a treasure trove of cultural riches, boasting some of the finest cathedrals, palaces, and museums set against breathtaking landscapes.

It’s a region celebrated for its pivotal role in Gothic and Renaissance art, standing proudly as the cradle of the Italian Renaissance, one of humanity’s most significant cultural epochs.

READ : 10 Day Itinerary for Tuscany

Don’t leave Tuscany without …

✔ Climbing the wonky Leaning Tower in Pisa and exploring the magnificent Field of Miracles in Pisa

✔ Having a spritz on one of Europe’s most beautiful medieval squares, the Piazza del Campo in Siena

✔ Getting cultured in Arezzo , an underrated medieval town in Tuscany with Piero della Francesca frescos

✔ Going “Under the Tuscan Sun” in the charming hill town of Cortona

✔ Visiting the stunning Siena Cathedral Complex and the superbly frescoed Piccolomini Library

✔ Soaking up the sweeping panoramic views from the Facciatone Viewing Terrace of Siena Cathedral

✔ Attending the “ Palio ,” a frenetic horse racing festival in Siena

✔ Seeing one of Italy’s most famous fresco cycles, The Allegory of Good and Bad Government , in Siena’s Palazzo Pubblico

✔ Wrapping yourself in pastel Renaissance buildings in the UNESCO town of Pienza

✔ Sipping ruby red Vino Nobile at a wine cellar in medieval Montepulciano

✔ Relaxing in the Terme di Saturnia, a group of blue hued cascading natural springs

✔ Exploring the UNESCO-listed spiky towers of San Gimignano , the “Medieval Manhattan”

✔ Viewing the Black Death frescos in San Gimignano’s Chapel of Saint Fina

✔ Exploring Etruscan and Roman ruins in medieval Volterra

✔ Having a gelato in Lucca’s splendid Piazza dell’ Anfiteatro and walking the intact city walls

✔ Nabbing the classic photo of cypress-laden Tuscany outside Asciano

✔ Visiting the tiny encircled hilltop town of Monteriggioni, which looks like a postcard

✔ Sipping Brunello wine at Montalcino’s trendy Drogeria Franci

✔ Driving the classic Val d’Orcia wine route in Tuscany

7. Umbria: Best Things To Do In Umbria

Umbria isn’t just a second rate Tuscany. No, this less touristy region is filled with gorgeous hill towns, art treasures, and magnificent cathedrals. Umbrian landscapes are verdant, with a picturesque blend of olive groves, vineyards, and forests.

Don’t leave Umbria without …

✔ Admiring the extravagantly colored facade of Orvieto Cathedral , one of Italy’s most beautiful churches

✔ Shopping for ceramics in the delightful town of Orvieto

✔ Making a pilgrimage to the Basilica of St. Francis in Assisi

✔ Strolling the magnificent Corso Vannucci in Perugia

✔ Visiting a sunflower field, in full bloom between mid-June and early August

✔ Channeling your inner Renaissance courtier at the palace of the Duke da Montefeltro in Urbino

✔ Visiting the pink and honey colored town of Spello , with masterpieces by Pinturicchio in the Baglioini Chapel

✔ Watching the Race of the Candles in medieval Gubbio

✔ Visiting Deruta, a town famed for its yellow, orange, and blue ceramics

✔ Exploring Etruscan and Roman ruins in the lovely hill town of Spoleto

READ : Guide to The Most Beautiful Chapels In Italy

8. Venice: Best Things To Do In Venice

Venice, a city unlike any other, is a must-see on your Italian journey. Renowned as one of the globe’s most stunning and mesmerizing cities, it stands as a living, breathing film set, unparalleled in its beauty.

This medieval city, majestically set upon water, seems almost too surreal to exist outside of a fairytale.

Venice is a place where every traveler finds something to love – from its world-renowned museums and iconic gondola and vaporetto rides to the enchanting frescoes, scenic canal-side dining, and delightful chicchetti.

Don’t leave Venice without …

✔ Riding a gondola through the tiny canals of Venice

✔ Learning to row a gondola with Row Venice

✔ Nibbling on delicious chicchetti in Cannaregio, Venice’s historic Jewish Quarter

✔ Admiring the amazing Tintoretto frescos in the Scuola Grande di San Rocco

✔ Riding a vaporetto down the Grand Canal to see Venice’s best sites

✔ Seeing the world’s most famous drawing, Leonardo da Vinci’s Vitruvian Man , at the Accademia

✔ Having a spritz at the Gritti Terrace on the Grand Canal

✔ Admiring paintings from modern art’s Golden Age at the Peggy Guggenheim Museum , the outrageous collection of an outrageous woman

✔ Admiring ancient Byzantine mosaics in the over-the-top St. Mark’s Basilica

✔ Getting hopelessly lost in the maze of Venice’s tiny cobbled lanes and canals

✔ Attending Carnival in Venice, the annual late February festival where everyone dons costumes and elaborate masks

✔ Day tripping to Padua to see the sublime Scrovegni Chapel , created by Giotto, the greatest painter of the 14th century

✔ Taking the vaporetto to Venice’s lagoon islands: Murano, Burano, and Torcello

9. Sicily: Best Things To Do in Sicily

No Italy bucket list is complete with exploring the magnificent island of Sicily . Sicily is rich in history, culture, and food. It’s one of Italy’s most exotic regions, pure passion set amid wild beauty.

You can enjoy diverse landscapes — rocky volcanic coastlines, pristine beaches, and clifftop villages. Sicily will also dazzle you with ancient ruins, artistic treasures, Baroque architecture, and Italy’s most exotic street markets.

Don’t leave Sicily without …

✔ Admiring the Arab-Norman architecture of exotic Palermo

✔ Gazing in awe at 12th century mosaics in Palermo’s Palatine Chapel

✔ Eating or shopping in Palermo’s exotic street markets, which almost seem like Arab souks

✔ Day Tripping to Monreale Cathedral , a UNESCO-listed wonder

✔ Visiting the hilltop town of Erice and sampling the pastries of the Queen of Sicilian pastry, Maria Grammatico

✔ Visiting the ancient Elymian ruins of Segesta

✔ Admiring the world’s best preserved Greek temples in the Valley of the Temples

✔ Gasping at the world’s largest collection of ancient mosaics at the Villa Romana del Casale

✔ Visiting the Val di Noto, with the most beautiful late Baroque towns of Noto, Modica, and Catania

✔ Sample the chocolate in Modica, which has a cult-like status

✔ Taking in the views from the Greek Theater in Taormina , which may be Sicily’s prettiest town

✔ Strolling through the cobbled lanes of Siracusa , where you’ll also find a ancient Greek Theater and Roman Amphitheater

✔ Trying granita, Sicily’s own version of an adult slushie

✔ Hiking craters at Mt. Etna, Europe’s most active volcano

✔ Lounging on white sand beaches in pretty and immaculate Cefalu

✔ Lunching in the rollicking Fish Market in Catania

I hope this Italy bucket list has given you some destination inspiration for traveling to Italy. You may enjoy these other Italy travel guides and resources:

• 11 ways to spend 1 week in Italy
• 10 Day Itinerary for Italy
• 10 Day itinerary for Tuscany
• 1 Week Itinerary Venice To Milan
• 35+ Historic Landmarks in Italy
• Most Beautiful Towns in Italy
• Tips for Visiting Italy
• 5 Day Itinerary for Rome
• 3 Day Itinerary for Florence
• Best Museums in Rome
• Best Museums in Florence

If you want to create your own Italy bucket list, pin it for later.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Last Updated on December 17, 2023 by Leslie Livingston

The great big Italian bucket list!

I’ve been lucky enough to spend many family holidays in Italy and ticked off some of the items on this Italy bucket list. We started off camping in Italy and then progressed to hiring a Tuscan villa.

During our Italy vacations, we’d spend days traveling to Italian towns, cities, and hilltop villages tasting parmesan and olive oil and (when I was older) the wines.

I’ve put together this Italian bucket list full of amazing things to do in Italy. Of course, there’s much more to do than this in Italy, but these are some of the highlights of a great Italy trip.

Italy bucket list

This Italy travel bucket list covers many of the most popular things to do in Italy as well as a few lesser-known places to visit in Italy.

Some I’ve done and others I haven’t.

But rest assured, next time I visit Italy they’ll be getting ticked off.

I hope you enjoy this bucket list for Italy!

Visit the Colosseum

Everyone’s first trip to Italy should include a trip to the country’s capital: Rome. This city is packed full of history and perhaps one of the most famous parts of this history is the Colosseum.

Get skip-the-line tickets, guided tours and access to over 35 of Rome’s top attractions with a GoCity® Pass. You’ll save up to 50% compared to buying individual attraction tickets & can get the pass straight to your phone.

The Colosseum in Rome is one of the must-dos in Italy. You can view it from the outside and see the ‘gladiators’ posing for photos, or buy a ticket for a tour inside the Colosseum to feel like a Roman gladiator yourself.

Explore the beautiful hilltop towns of Tuscany

Tuscany is one of the most beautiful regions in all of Italy. This area is full of old hilltop towns with cobbled streets and castles as well as delicious wine and food.

Spend a few days discovering these beautiful hilltop towns in Italy and add them to your Tuscany itinerary.

Wander around the colourful Cinque Terre

The area known as Cinque Terre is made up of 5 centuries-old seaside villages set into the rugged coastline of the Italian Riviera.

Each of the villages has colourful houses and harbours full of fishing boats that just makes it incredibly picturesque and an absolute must-visit in Italy.

Spend a few days in Lake Como

Lake Como is a relaxing place to stay not far from the city of Milan.

The lake is gorgeous, there are luxurious hotels and spas around it and you can either sit by the lake or take boats across it.

See the ruins of Pompeii

One of my first memories of my first ever holiday abroad was wandering the ruins of Pompeii. This was back in the day that they actually let you wander into the houses rather than keep you behind a rope. Visiting the ruins of Pompeii is both fascinating and emotional but I highly recommend it as one of the top things to do in Italy.

Get advance tickets or tours from archaeologists!

See the historic Trulli homes of  Alberobello in Puglia

These beautiful historic houses are truly unique. So unique in fact that they’re been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site; one of many throughout Italy!

Visit Venice

Venice is another must-visit city for your Italy bucket list. This city is built on over 100 small islands in a lagoon in the Adriatic Sea in north east Italy. There are no roads in Venice, just canals and the maze of streets is fun to explore. Some of the things to add to your Venice bucket list include: taking a gondola ride and visiting the piazza!

Spend autumn hiking in the Dolomites

The Dolomites in Italy are beautiful at any time of the year but the colours truly come alive in autumn.

Eat SO much gelato

Italy is famous for its ice cream and for good reason. The only downside is HOW to choose which flavour to try!?

Finish dinners with a taste of limoncello

Another Italian treat is limoncello. This lemony-tasting liquor is absolutely delicious as an after-dinner tipple.

Visit the Blue Grotto in Capri

Capri’s Blue Grotto is a sea cave on the coast of the island of Capri in southern Italy. As sunlight passes through the underwater cave, it shines through the seawater and creates a stunning blue reflection that lights up the cave.

Get tickets for a boat trip to the Blue Grotto!

Ski powder in the Italian Alps

I feel as though the Italian Alps are often overlooked when it comes to skiing with many skiers sticking to France or Austria. However, the Italian Alps are home to some great powder skiing that you should check out!

Soak in the hot springs in Saturnia

Saturnia in Tuscany has some beautiful hot springs that are a relaxing way to pass an afternoon. They’re just two hours south of Siena by car so definitely do-able as a day trip from Siena!

Hike to the top of Mt Vesuvius

Another of my early Italy holiday memories is hiking up Mt Vesuvius when I was about 6. I didn’t make it to the top (I blame the heat and the unsuitable shoes!), but my younger sister and Dad did. We still joke about her being super impressed by the “hotness” coming out of the volcano’s crater.

Next time I’m in the Naples area I’ll be reaching the top!

Book a tour in the Vesuvius area.

Go hiking in the Alpe di Siusi

Also in the Dolomites mountain range, the Alpe di Siusi plateau in South Tyrol is stunning and perfect for hiking. Plan a multi-day hike stopping off at the refugios for the night.

Take a scenic drive through Tuscany’s Val d’Orcia

Perhaps the most scenic drive you can take in Italy, a drive through the stunning hills of Tuscany’s Val d’Orcia should feature on everyone’s Tuscany bucket list.

Explore the island of Capri

The island of Capri Capri in the Bay of Naples is famed for its rugged landscape, luxury hotels and shopping. It’s the perfect place for a sun-soaked getaway or to try some sailing.

Go shopping in the markets of Florence

Add shopping to your Florence bucket list!

There are many markets in Florence whether you’re looking for food or clothes. Perhaps one of the most famous markets is the leather market where you can get all sorts of leather goods from bags to shoes.

Splash out on some real Italian leather that will last you for years to come!

Watch the Palio di Siena

The beautiful city of Siena has a major event that takes place every year: the Palio di Siena. During this event, hundreds of horses and their riders race in circles around the centre of the city.

It’s an unusual horse race to watch and tickets to see it sell out super quick. It’s a great option if you’re looking for unique things to do in Italy.

Even if you don’t visit during the race, you’ll see plenty of postcards and pictures of it as you wander around the streets and shops.

Toss a coin in the Trevi Fountain

The Trevi Fountain in Rome has recently undergone renovations to be restored in all its beauty. It’s tradition to throw a coin into the Trevi Fountain and make a wish and you shouldn’t mess with tradition! Definitely add this to your Rome bucket list.

Take the Capri chairlift

Ride the chairlift in Capri to the top for 10 euros. You’ll be treated to spectacular views from the top and as well as great views the entire ride up.

See Florence’s Santa Maria del Fiore

Often said to be one of the most beautiful cathedrals in Itlay, Florence’s Santa Maria del Fiore is extremely impressive. Built with a gothic style, the orange roof and the striped walls are incredible to see in person.

Hire a Vespa on the Amalfi Coast

Where else can you ride a Vespa if not in Italy? Rent a Vespa and take a trip down the Amalfi Coast; stopping off to admire the coastal views of this beautiful part of Italy. It’s certainly a cool thing to do in Italy.

Eat your weight in pizza

Pizza! If that’s not a great reason for visiting Italy, I don’t know what is. Naples is said to be the birthplace of pizza but you’ll find great pizza through the country.

Top tip: Don’t eat in the restaurants surrounding popular tourists attractions. Instead, wander a few streets back from these to find better, cheaper Italian food.

Visit the Uffizi Gallery in Florence

The Uffizi Gallery in Florence is perhaps one of the most famous art galleries in the world. Home to many world-famous paintings and sculptures, you could spend days wandering this gallery.

Make sure to book your ticket in advance!

Explore Roman architecture in Fiesole

Just outside of Florence, and easily accessible by public transport, the town of Fiesole is well worth a visit for its ancient architecture and great views of the city of Florence.

Snap photos with the Leaning Tower of Pisa

You know what type of photo I mean!

Either one where you’re ‘holding up’ the tower, or one where you’re emulating the lean.

There’s only one Tower of Pisa and this is where to find it!

View the colourful houses of Burano

Burano used to be Venice’s best-kept secret but it’s become more popular over the last few years. Nevertheless, it’s often still much quieter than Venice in the summer!

Take the ferry ( vaporetto)  from Venice to the island of Burano and spend a day exploring the colourful houses along the streets.

Take a day trip to Burano from Venice.

Stroll down the Ponte Vecchio in Florence

A trip to Florence isn’t complete without strolling down the Ponte Vecchio at sunset!

Explore the food scene in Emilia-Romagna

Pasta and pizza aren’t the only culinary delights that Itlay has to offer. Italian cuisine differs depending on which region of Italy you’re visiting and one of the best places in Italy for food is the Emilia-Romagna region. You can expect parma ham, ragus and more!

Take a visit to Juliet’s balcony in Verona

The inspiration for Juliet’s balcony is believed to be from this balcony in Verona. If you take a visit you can pretend to be Juliet herself, or add a love letter to the wall.

Go shopping in Milan

Milan is famous for fashion and shopping. If you’re big into fashion you simply can’t visit Italy without a trip to this city! Shopping the designer stores and boutiques should definitely be on your Milan bucket list!

Explore Positano on the Amalfi Coast

Positano is another beautiful cliffside village on southern Italy’s Amalfi Coast. It’s a well-known holiday destination with a pebble beachfront and steep, narrow streets lined with colourful houses and looks beautiful.

Learn Roman history at the Forum in Rome

Another of Rome’s top attractions is the Forum. This area is where the ruins of several very important government buildings from the Ancient City of Rome lie. It’s an interesting historic sightseeing stop on a visit to Rome.

Learn more about the history of these ruins with a small guided tour. 

Take a road trip in Sardinia

Sardinia is a large Italian island in the Mediterranean Sea off the coast of Italy and has almost 2,000km of coastline. There are sandy beaches and mountains offering plenty of hiking.

Hire a car and take a road trip around the island, stopping off to hike and discover some of the mysterious Bronze Age stone ruins shaped like beehives.

Experience Carnival in Venice

At the beginning of February for two weeks, Venice comes alive for the carnival. There are masks, costumes and plenty or fun things going on.

Visit the sunflower fields

If you’re in Italy during the summer, take a drive to the surrounding areas outside of Siena in Tuscany and admire the fields full of sunflowers!

Visit Lago di Braies

The insta-famous Lago di Braies is a magical spot that’s become incredibly popular over the years. This lake with a mountain backdrop is stunning!

Tour historic Lecce

In the southern region of Apulia, Lecce is known for its baroque buildings including the Cattedrale di Liecce and the beautiful Piazza del Duomo.

Take an Italian cookery class

Italian food is delicious, I don’t know anyone who would disagree. Learn how to make some traditional Italian dishes by taking an authentic Italian cookery class (or several!).

This cookery class gets great reviews.

Visit Camogli

Sometimes referred to as the lesser-known Portofino, Camogli is a fishing village on the west side of the peninsula of Portofino with equally beautiful scenery.

Take a truffle hunting tour

Pasta is made even more delicious with a little shaving of truffle on top. Italy is home to truffles but you’ve got to hunt for them and the best way to do that is to take a tour with an experienced truffle hunter!

Stay in this incredible Airbnb in Florence

Italian Airbnb’s don’t get much better than this one in Florence with an incredible view of the Duomo!

See the statue of David

Spend a day exploring Galleria dell’Accademia in Florence and find the statue of David. This world-famous statue is masterfully crafted.

Just make sure to book your tickets in advance! 

Relax at Lake Garda

Lake Garda in northern Italy is known for its crystal clear in northern Italy, is known for its crystal clear water. Taking a sunset boat ride on the lake is a great addition to a bucket list things to do in Italy itinerary.

Watch the world go by in Piazza San Marco

Piazza San Marco in Venice is a beautiful place to watch the world go by while sipping on a glass of wine or Aperol.

Tour the UNESCO site of Genoa

This historical port city of Genoa in the Liguria region in northwest Italy is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a beautiful cathedral.

The Cathedral of San Lorenzo has a black-and-white-striped facade and a frescoed interior that you simply have to see!

Visit the city of Assisi

The birthplace of one of Italy’s patron saints, St. Francis (of Assisi), this town is home to the magnificent Basilica of St. Francis.

Set over 2 levels, the 13th-century church has beautiful paintings displaying the life of the patron saint of animals.

Gaze in awe at Michelangelo’s masterpiece in The Sistine Chapel

Visit The Sistine Chapel to see Michaelangelo’s masterpiece for yourself and a must if you want to experience bucket list Italy!

Save time by booking your tickets before you go.

Discover the Aeolian Islands

A new UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Aeolian Islands off the north coast of Sicily are a volcanic archipelago named after the demigod of the winds Aeolus. They’re the perfect place to relax or enjoy some outdoor adventure from swimming to sailing or hiking the volcanoes!

Hike Portofino to San Fruttuosso

This short hike (just under 5km), takes you from Portofino to San Fruttuosso passing beautiful emerald-green water and colourful buildings along the way.

It’s an absolutely stunning hike to do in Italy and should always feature on the top 50 places to visit in Italy.

Last Updated on October 31, 2023 by Hannah

Hannah started That Adventurer after graduating back in 2013 and has documented all of her adventures since then. From backpacking South America to city breaks in Europe , a 3 month road trip across the USA in a self-converted van and 6 years living in Canada , you’ll find posts on all of this.

Hannah specialises in active travel and on That Adventurer you’ll find hiking, walking, biking, skiing and all sorts of active travel guides to allow you to see a destination in an adventurous way.

Now back in Europe, you’ll find new guides as Hannah and her husband spend the next year ‘digital nomading’ from Norway to Portugal, Switzerland to Scotland and places in between.

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content

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

The amalfi coast, what is the prettiest place in italy, are 7 days in italy enough, what should i not miss in italy, what time of year is best to visit italy, what is the most visited city in italy, is italy expensive to visit, how much time do you need in italy, best places to visit in italy.

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.

LinkedIn | About Us

Reader Interactions

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

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Explore more

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.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

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

11 VERY BEST Cities to Visit in Italy (+ Map & Travel Tips)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: October 23, 2023

Planning a trip to Italy and wondering which cities are worth your time the most? In this guide, you can learn about the VERY BEST, most beautiful cities in Italy – what makes them worthwhile, what not to miss, how much time you need, and how to plan your visit. Find out!

Italian cities are among the most beautiful and most visited in Europe. And rightly so! With a fascinating history, centuries-old architecture, a unique mix of old and new, and a lively, chaotic atmosphere, Italian towns and cities are just like nowhere else in the world!

But with so many beautiful cities, towns, and landmarks to choose from, it might be overwhelming to decide which Italian cities are worth visiting the most. Especially if this is your first trip and you want to make the best use of your time.

So to help you plan your trip, we selected only the most beautiful, the very best cities to visit in Italy.

My first intention was to make a list of just the top 10 cities in Italy. Because – in all honesty – you probably won’t have the time to properly see even ten of them in one trip… So I wanted to feature the very best ones only.

However, it was really hard to decide which cities to include and which ones to leave out. There are just so many beautiful places to see in Italy and the competition is fierce! In the end, some major cities in Italy like Turin or Genoa didn’t make this list. Still, we ended up with 11. I just couldn’t leave any of these out or make the list any shorter anymore because each of these cities is truly worth a visit!

To help you plan your trip and get a better idea of where all these places are located, we also created this map of the best cities to visit in Italy .

Further below, you can find our list of the Italian cities that we think are worth visiting the most. For each city, we included a short intro, the very best things to do, and some useful tips for your visit. Find out!

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: 2 Weeks in Italy – Ultimate 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.

These are the best cities to see in Italy:

Rome ( Roma ) is without a doubt the most beautiful city in Italy! The Eternal City is like one huge living museum where you’ll find ancient history and fascinating places behind every corner. It’s also a very lively city with lots of restaurants, cafés, and local markets that are heaving with activity.

If you visit just one city in Italy, make it Rome! Not because it’s the largest city with the biggest population or because it’s the capital city, but because of its history and architecture that has no equals in the entire world!

No matter which street or town square you turn into, which church or museum you visit, you’ll be fascinated by the incredibly rich history of Rome and awed by its impressive landmarks.

What to See & Do

Must-see: Colosseum , the Pantheon, Piazza Navona, Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill. Also the Vatican with St. Peter’s Basilica and Sistine Chapel, St. Angelo Bridge, and Castel Sant’Angelo.

Nice to see: Campo de’ Fiori market, Trastevere district, Circus Maximus, Piazza Venezia, view from Belvedere del Gianicolo, Piazza del Popolo, Borghese Gallery, and many more. Try to also see at least a few of the best viewpoints in Rome .

How much time do you need: While you can see the musts of Rome in a day , we recommend planning at least a few days in the city. If you want to see all the main landmarks without having to rush, you’ll need at least 2-3 days in Rome (see Rome 2-day itinerary) . If you want to explore deeper and get off the beaten path in Rome, see some underground sites , and the best viewpoints , you can easily spend 5-7 days here.

Here you can find our suggestions on how to see all the top landmarks and lots of amazing hidden gems of Rome in 4 days , plus some additional suggestions for a longer trip. Be sure to also read our tips for visiting Rome .

Where to stay: Our personal favorite area to stay in Rome is around Piazza Navona and the Pantheon. Here you can find more information about this best area to stay in Rome . And here are some highly-rated hotels in this neighborhood:

• 5* The Pantheon Iconic Rome Hotel, Autograph Collection (amazing rooftop terrace).
• 4* 9Hotel Cesari (we recently stayed here – the location can’t be better and their rooftop terrace is amazing).
• 3* Albergo Abruzzi .
• 2* Boutique Hotel Atelier ‘800 .

LEARN MORE What to See & Do in Rome (all the must-see sights & top attractions)

2. Florence

Surrounded by the hilly Tuscan countryside and set on the banks of the Arno River, Florence ( Firenze ) is one of the most beautiful cities in Italy! Known as the cradle of the Renaissance, Florence is world-famous for the masterpieces of Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo.

Florence is the city of art where you’re surrounded by stunning Renaissance artworks, monuments, and the most impressive architecture.

It’s also a very lively city with music, dance, cinemas, and theaters. But Florence is also the city of food and wine, with various festivals taking place throughout the year.

Must-see: Duomo (Florence Cathedral) and everything around it ( book in advance if you want to do the dome climb!), Uffizi Gallery , Ponte Vecchio, Palazzo Vecchio and Piazza della Signoria town square. Michelangelo’s statue ‘David’ at the Galleria dell’Accademia ( book in advance !!!). Also, the view over the city from Piazzale Michelangelo is incredible, especially around sunset!

Nice to see: Basilica of Santa Croce, Palazzo Pitti, San Lorenzo Market, Piazza Santo Spirito, and the views from Florence rooftop bars .

How much time do you need: One day is enough to quickly see some of the main landmarks of Florence (see our guide on what to see in Florence in one day ). Plan two days if you want to visit the main museums and explore the city at a more relaxed pace. With three days in the city, you could also take a tour of the Tuscan countryside and visit some of the best towns in Tuscany .

Where to stay: The Florence city center isn’t that big. As long as you stay in the center, it’s easy to explore everything on foot. Here are some of the most popular hotels:

• 4* Grand Hotel Cavour (rooftop terrace with the best views).
• 3* Hotel Machiavelli Palace (great value, nice views too).
• Plus Florence (a fantastic lower-budget option).

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in Florence

No trip to Italy would be complete without visiting Venice ( Venezia ).

This ‘floating’ town is not just the most unique among the Italian cities, but it’s also one of the most beautiful cities in the world!

The city of Venice and its lagoon consists of 118 islands. Most of these islands are tiny and are connected by small bridges – you can explore them on foot. While some others are a bit further away and require a boat to get to.

Must-see and do: St. Mark’s Square, St. Mark’s Basilica, Doge’s Palace (and its famous Bridge of Sighs), Rialto Bridge, and the waterfront promenade Riva degli Schiavoni. And, of course, Venice canals including the impressive Grand Canal. Don’t miss the bucket-list experience – a gondola ride in Venice !

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

How much time do you need: One day is enough to quickly see the main landmarks, but it will be rushed (see here: one day in Venice – things to do & itinerary ). I recommend staying at least one night so that you can also experience Venice in the evening when most day-trippers have left. Plan at least two days if you also want to visit the nearby islands, and at least three days if you want to see all the top sights and attractions in Venice. See here some suggestions for a 3-day Venice itinerary with local’s tips.

Where to stay: If you are visiting Venice by car or arriving by train, you may want to stay close to Piazzale Roma. Otherwise, stay in the area between St. Mark’s Square and Rialto Bridge. Here are some hotel suggestions for this area:

• 5* Hotel Danieli – one of the most iconic hotels in Venice.
• 4* Hotel Casanova .
• 3* Hotel Montecarlo .
• 2* Hotel Rio .

READ ALSO: What to See & Do in Venice (all the best sights & attractions)

Bologna , nicknamed as ‘la dotta, la grassa, la rossa’ (the learned, the fat/rich, and the red) is a city that has it all! Bologna University is one of the oldest in Europe.

Bologna is also rich in agriculture and gastronomy and is often considered the culinary capital of Italy. And the red was originally referring to its architecture – the color of the buildings and the rooftops.

However, because it’s situated between such fine cities as Milan, Venice, and Florence, Bologna often gets overlooked by first-time visitors. Often, there’s simply not enough time to see it all… But if you do have a day to spare, definitely include Bologna in your itinerary!

Must-see: Piazza Maggiore, the Fountain of Neptune, and the two leaning Towers of Bologna (climb the Asinelli Tower and see Garisenda (cannot be climbed)). Also Basilica di San Petronio as well as Seven Churches at the Santo Stefano Complex. Bologna University with Teatro Anatomico is a must too.

Nice to see: Clock Tower (Torre dell’Orologio) and the Municipal Art Collections, Quadrilatero Neighborhood, former Jewish ghetto, Finestrella, National Gallery, and Archaeological Museum. The Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca is also nice to see. It’s situated a bit outside the city and can be reached by tourist train .

How much time do you need: One full day is enough for the main landmarks (many people visit Bologna from Florence , often for just a day). But if you have more time, you can easily fill 2-3 days in this lively bustling student city.

Where to stay: Bologna city center isn’t that big, but it’s probably most convenient if you stay in the area between the railway station and the old town. Here are some popular options:

• 4* I Portici Hotel Bologna .
• 3* Hotel Cavour .
• 2* Hotel Centrale .

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in Bologna

Milan ( Milano ) is one of the biggest and richest cities in Italy! It’s also very different from any other town on this list. Its unique blend of old history and modern-day life makes Milan one of the most fascinating cities I have ever visited.

It took many trips to Italy before I finally went to Milan. Somehow I had the impression that it’s a grey industrial city with not much more to offer to tourists than its impressive Duomo Cathedral. But I was so wrong! Milan has so, so much more to offer to any type of traveler!

Whether you are looking for art and history, shopping and dining, world-class museums, or modern architecture, you’ll find it all here! It’s a city of many facets and you’ll discover something new every time. But even if you just come here for a day and only see the main tourist sights, it’s still worth a visit!

Must-see: Duomo and Duomo Terraces , Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, and ‘The Last Supper’ painting by Leonardo da Vinci (book tickets months in advance or take a tour !).

Nice to see: La Scala, Milan canals, Sforzesco Castle, Brera district, Braidense National Library, the modern architecture of the Porta Nuova district.

How much time do you need: One day is enough for the main landmarks of Milan (check out this guide for more info on how to see the best of Milan in one day) . If you have an extra day, we recommend a day tour to Lake Como . Be sure to visit Bellagio , Varenna , and a few other towns in Lake Como !

Where to stay: Milan is quite a big city, but if you stay not too dar from the Duomo, you can see most places on foot. For some other areas, use public transport, which is excellent and not too expensive. Here are some of the best centrally-located hotels in Milan:

• 5* NH Collection Milano President .
• 4+* Room Mate Giulia .
• 3* Hotel Milano Castello .
• 2* London Hotel .

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in Milan

Ravenna is one of the smaller cities in this selection, but nevertheless absolutely worth a visit! Ravenna was the capital city of the Western Roman Empire from 402 until the empire collapsed in 476. It remained a very influential city in the region for a long period after that.

The main reason to visit Ravenna is to see its world-famous mosaics, some dating to the 5th and the 6th centuries. They are worth a trip even if you are coming from the other side of the world!

But there is more to Ravenna than that! You’ll also find centuries-old architecture, impressive museums, and a very cozy historic town center with colorful buildings and lively streets, but also really nice beaches nearby. And while the main attractions can get busy, the moment you leave the main streets, you find a really cozy city with a great vibe.

Must see: The famous Ravenna mosaics at Basilica di San Vitale, Mausoleo di Galla Placidia, and Basilica di Sant’Apollinare Nuovo. Also Piazza del Popolo and Ravenna old town.

Nice to see: Basilica di Sant’Apollinare in Classe, Battistero Neoniano, Battistero degli Ariani, Dante’s Tomb & Museum. The submerged crypt of Basilica San Francis. Also National Museum of Ravenna and Teodorico Mausoleum.

How much time do you need: Half a day is enough for just the main highlights of Ravenna, but staying a full day will make your visit more pleasant and more relaxing (if you can, plan at least one night in Ravenna). If you have some extra time in this area, we highly recommend visiting Rimini and San Marino as well!

Where to stay: Ravenna has many really nice boutique hotels and B&Bs, but also big hotels. The town center isn’t big and you can walk everywhere; still, it’s nice to stay in the heart of the city. Here are some nice hotels in Ravenna:

• Boutique hotel Palazzo Galletti Abbiosi .
• 4* Palazzo Bezzi Hotel .
• 3* Hotel Minerva .

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in Ravenna

Siena is another really nice art city in Tuscany. It’s not as big as nearby Florence, but extremely popular with locals and tourists alike! Situated on three hills and surrounded by the beautiful Tuscan countryside, Siena has a cozy feel of a smaller town.

The entire historic center is a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site and it’s just a very nice, pleasant city to visit. Also because it’s quite compact you can make a nice relaxing day trip without having to rush from one thing to another like in the bigger cities.

Must-see: Piazza del Campo and Palazzo Publico where you can also climb the tower for amazing views. Cathedral – Duomo di Siena with its Crypt, Baptistery, Piccolomini Library, and stunning views from the New Cathedral Façade. Also the Gate of Heaven (Cathedral tower and terraces).

Nice to see: Via di Citta, Via Banchi di Sopra, Piazza Salimbeni, Basilica di San Domenico, Pinacoteca Nazionale. Also, take a tour of the Tuscan countryside if you have an extra day!

How much time do you need: Plan at least one full day for Siena: half a day is enough for the main landmarks, plus you can also take a half-day tour to the nearby Chianti region or a dinner tour in the vineyards . If you can, spend two days here – one for a relaxing day exploring the city and one for the countryside and visit places like San Gimignano or Montepulciano . But you can easily spend at least a week in the region as well. See our Tuscany itinerary for some ideas.

Where to stay: If you can, stay in the historic city center in Siena! Here are some of the nicest hotels in the city center:

• 5* Grand Hotel Continental Siena.
• 3+* Palazzetto Rosso .
• 3* Hotel Duomo .
• 2* Albergo Cannon d’Oro .

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in Siena

Naples ( Napoli ), located in the southern part of the country, is a very different city from the ones situated in northern Italy.

It’s a chaotic and busy town, but one that also has a rich history, arts, and culture. Dominated by the nearby Vesuvius volcano and surrounded by hills on one side and the sea on the other, Naples is also quite picturesque.

The historic town center is a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site and there are so many landmarks in and near the city that you can easily spend 3 days in Naples alone.

Furthermore, just nearby, are the famous ancient Roman cities Pompeii and Herculaneum, as well as Mount Vesuvius volcano . The stunning coastline of the Amalfi Coast is worth a trip in itself, just as the islands of Capri and Ischia!

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in Naples

Must-see: Spaccanapoli (the famous street that ‘splits’ historic Naples old town in two), Piazza del Plebiscito, National Archaeological Museum, views from Castel Sant’Elmo, Certosa di San Martino (former monastery, now a museum), Cappella Sansevero, and Naples Catacombs.

Nice to see: the Royal Palace of Naples, the Royal Palace of Caserta, Castel Nuovo, Castel Ovo, and the neighborhoods of Vomero, Mergellina, and Borgo Santa Lucia.

How much time do you need: You can see some of the musts in Naples in 1 day , but you can easily spend 2-3 days in the city. Add a day extra for the villages of the Amalfi Coast ( day tours available ), a day for Pompeii and Mt Vesuvius ( tours available ), and also for Capri Island (boat tours available ). If you can, try to plan at least 4-5 days in this area!

READ ALSO: Best Day Trips from Naples & How to Get to Amalfi Coast from Naples

Where to stay: One of the most convenient locations to stay in Naples is the historic town center, west of Central Station and north of the Ferry Terminal. Here are some nicest hotels in that area:

• 4* Decumani Hotel De Charme .
• 3* Hotel Piazza Bellini & Apartments .

If you want to stay close to the sea (but still very central), the waterfront in the Santa Lucia area has several really nice hotels, such as Eurostars Hotel Excelsior . For more details, please see our guide to the best neighborhoods to stay in Naples .

READ ALSO: Amalfi Coast Itinerary & Naples, Amalfi Coast, Capri Itinerary for 10 Days

World-famous as the setting of Shakespeare’s ‘Romeo and Juliet’, Verona is probably Italy’s most romantic city. Set on the Adige River, this medieval town in Northern Italy is a bit like a mini version of Rome.

Just like the Colosseum in Rome , the Roman amphitheater Arena di Verona was built in the 1st century. In a way, it’s even more impressive because it’s better preserved and it’s not as crowded as the Colosseum.

Furthermore, they organize incredible concerts here – don’t miss it if you get the chance (see the calendar of performances here )!

Must-see: Verona Arena and Piazza delle Erbe. Also Juliet’s Statue and a 13th-century house with the famous Juliet’s Balcony that’s believed to have inspired Shakespeare. The views from Torre dei Lamberti.

Nice to see: Castelvecchio, Ponte Scaligero, Piazza delle Erbe, Arche Scaligere.

How much time do you need: Half a day to a day is enough for the main highlights of Verona, but to see all the top places, plan two days. We recommend staying at least one night and attending a concert at the Arena as well. Ideally, you combine a visit to Verona with that of Lake Garda , just nearby.

Where to stay: Verona isn’t big, but for the best experience, stay in the old town! Here are some of the nicest hotels in the historic center of Verona:

• 4* Hotel Accademia .
• 3* Hotel Milano & SPA***S .
• 2* Hotel Siena .

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in Verona

Lucca is one of our own personal favorite towns in Italy. It’s hard to give one reason and say what makes it special. I guess it’s a unique mix of old and new and a really cozy atmosphere that we haven’t found anywhere else. The city feels very ‘local’, has a lot to offer, and it’s also beautifully located in northern Tuscany.

One of the smaller cities in this selection, Lucca’s old town is best explored on foot or by bike. The historic town is surrounded by impressive city walls, the origins of which date to 180 BC! The walls are easily accessible and you can walk or even bike on them.

Make sure to also climb at least one of the two towers in Lucca. The Guinigi Tower is famous for having trees on top, but it’s actually from Torre Delle Ore that you have a better view of the Torre Guinigi. If you can, do both – the views of the city and its surroundings are spectacular!

Things to Do & Tips

Must-see: Duomo, San Michele in Foro church, Torre Guinigi (the one with the trees) and Torre Delle Ore (the one with a clock), and the city walls. Also the medieval town square Piazza dell’Anfiteatro.

Nice to see: Walk around the city exploring its many streets and town squares and San Frediano church. Nearby, you can visit several impressive Villas and their gardens – Villa Torrigiani, Villa Reale di Marlia, Villa Grabau, and Villa Mansi.

How much time do you need: Half a day is enough for the main landmarks of the city of Lucca. If you have a car and extra time to spare, also visit (one or several of) the nearby villas.

Where to stay: If you are traveling without a car, stay in the historic city center, within the city walls. If you have a car, try Hotel San Marco or others nearby. Here are some of the best hotels in the old town:

• 4* Hotel Alla Corte degli Angeli .
• 3* Albergo San Martino .
• 2* Hotel Diana .

Pisa town is often overlooked by visitors – everyone flocks to the famous Pisa Tower, completely forgetting about the city itself. The old town isn’t overrun by tourists and has a nice local feel that many other popular cities in Italy often lack.

Of course, the main reason to come here is the famous leaning tower and the incredibly impressive Piazza dei Miracoli (Square of Miracles) where it stands.

But if you have a few hours to spare, head to the town center as well! It’s just 15-20 minutes walk away but feels like an oasis in the desert after the hustle and the bustle of Miracles Square.

What to See & Tips

Must-see: Piazza dei Miracoli: Duomo, Baptistery the leaning tower of Pisa, and the graveyard.

Nice to see and do: Piazza dei Cavalieri with several impressive buildings including Palazzo della Carovana. Arno Promenade, Ponte di Mezzo, Chiesa di Santa Maria della Spina, and a stroll around the city center.

How much time do you need: Half a day is enough for the main highlights of Pisa including a visit to the city center. You can easily combine Pisa with a visit to Lucca town or the nearby Cinque Terre for a day . Here you can find more practical information for visiting Cinque Terre .

Where to stay: Most tourists don’t stay in Pisa and travel either to Cinque Terre (see our guide on where to stay in Cinque Terre ) or Lucca, or Florence. But Pisa also has some nice hotels (and more affordable) and it might be magical to stay here the night and see the Miracles Square in the late afternoon when most day tourists have left. Here are some of the best-rated hotels in Pisa:

• 4* Hotel Bologna .
• Palazzo Feroci .

So, this is our guide to the best, most beautiful cities in Italy. But there’s so much more to Italy than just its cities!

If you are looking for more ideas for where to go and what to see in Italy , make sure to take a look at our guide to the best places to visit in Italy . In addition to the most beautiful towns, this guide also features the best destinations of the Italian lakes, stunning coastal areas like Cinque Terre and the Amalfi Coast, and so much more!

Check it out!

If you only have time to visit a few cities in Italy and have to pick the very best ones, don’t miss Rome, Venice, and Florence (in that order). These three cities are the most beautiful ones and worth the trip the most.

Without any doubt, Rome is the most beautiful city in Italy. It’s a real city-museum with stunning landmarks, centuries-old monuments, fascinating history, and countless hidden gems behind every corner. If you visit just one city in Italy, make it Rome.

The best months to visit Italian cities are from March to May and from mid-September to early November. That’s when the weather is pleasant for sightseeing but is not too hot. It’s also less busy than in the peak summer season. Italian cities are therefore great for a spring break in Europe ! If you don’t mind somewhat more unpredictable weather, visit Italy in November . Also Rome is great in November – cooler weather and fewer crowds mean that you can see a lot more than in the warmer months.

Rome and Venice are very different cities, but both extremely beautiful, unique, and both worth visiting. If you only have the time for one of them and have at least 2-3 days, visit Rome. If you only have 1 day, visit Venice. But if you can, definitely try to visit both!

Both, Venice and Florence, are very beautiful cities with so many nice places to see and interesting things to do. However, if you only have a day and have to choose just one of the two, I’d go for Venice. With its canals, it’s one of the most unique cities in the world. But if you can make it happen, definitely visit both!

READ ALSO: Italy Itinerary – how to see the best cities and other amazing places in 2 weeks

For more practical information and tips for a big variety of Italian destinations, take a look at our Italy travel guide . It contains links to all our articles from all over Italy.

TIP: If you are in the planning stage of your trip, you may want to also check the first-timers’ guide to traveling to Europe . It’s a step-by-step guide with useful tips to help you plan an unforgettable vacation in Europe.

If you found this post helpful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin these images!

More travel inspiration for the nicest cities all over Europe:

If you are visiting other European cities and are looking for in-depth information for your trip, take a look at some of our city guides:

• Barcelona, Spain
• Paris, France
• Amsterdam, Netherlands
• Brussels, Belgium
• Lisbon, Portugal
• Salzburg, Austria
• Edinburgh, UK
• Madrid, Spain
• Reykjavik, Iceland
• Lucerne, Switzerland
• Bruges, Belgium
• Bern, Switzerland
• Krakow, Poland
• Bucharest, Romania
• Manchester, UK
• Geneva, Switzerland
• Antwerp, Belgium
• Colmar, France
• Liverpool, UK
• For more destinations, please see our destinations page.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Saturday 2nd of December 2023

HI, Can you recommend best Italian cities for handicapped (wheelchairs). Ones close to train stations and ones that offer bikes or electric scooters. Short walking tours under 1 hour would be best.

Thanks, Quin

Monday 4th of December 2023

Hi Quin, it's really hard for me to recommend much - some places in every city can be doable in a wheelchair and others might be impossible. There are bike tours in most bigger cities, but don't underestimate biking in a busy unfamiliar city with cobbled stones and crazy traffic. It can be fun but is definitely not for everyone. That being said, in Florence you could probably do quite a lot within a short walking distance from the station. Rome - the historic center is rather flat too, but is a bit further from the station (but you can easily take a taxi). In any case, there are cobbled stones everywhere. In Venice, it's a bit more difficult because most of the bridges have stairs. But you could take a boat from the station to St Mark's Square and then explore that area without having to walk much or far, and a big part is rather flat that could be done in a wheelchair. Gondola tours can also be nice if you are able to get in and out of the gondola. If you rather not walk too much, there are some nice tours that you could consider: Rome golf cart tours. Florence golf car tours. Venice wheelchair-accessible tour. I'm sure there are many more options in other cities too, but these are the main ones. Hope this helps.

John Signorelli

Sunday 15th of October 2023

My wife and I recently completed a 22 day trip across Italy. We chose to not use the services of a travel agent nor any big tour groups; we'd been "working" on doing this trip for many years. In actuality, we only put it together in 2 months!

I wanted to share a heart-felt thank you for your work in your blog. The articles and advice Jurga provided in her articles were consistently spot on and extremely helpful! There are so many things we may have missed or time we may have wasted without her advice. The various articles you see referenced describing options in cities were the most helpful (Rome in 4 days, Best things to do in Bologna, for example). You provided enough detailed information where we could easily review an article and decide what things we wanted to go do and which we didn't, as well as good efficient flow paths to follow for an enjoyable day (without killing ourselves since we are 59-60).

We didn't go to a single restaurant recommended in an article that we didn't love. Every tour we booked with a link in an article (we used about 7-8) were great values with spot on descriptions.

I know that I won't plan a trip of any significance without starting with Full Suitcase.

Monday 16th of October 2023

Thank you so much for your kind feedback, John. I really appreciate it! It's great to hear that you and your wife had such an enjoyable trip to Italy. Happy travels!

Wednesday 20th of September 2023

Hi Jurga, Thank you for all the amazing information! My husband and I are planning to visit Italy and were also thinking of spending time in Greece after Italy. Have you ever been to Greece? I didn't see any posts for Greece, but I LOVE your style of presenting information-- it's very helpful and effective. Would love your input if you've ever been.

Thanks! Michele

Thursday 21st of September 2023

Hi Michele, thank you for your kind feedback. We have been to Greece, but a long time ago - before I had this blog. So we have no articles about it, unfortunately. Hope you find some other useful guides. Enjoy your trip!

Mattia Russo

Thursday 10th of August 2023

Napoli (Naples) is in top 3 in my opinion

Friday 11th of August 2023

Napoli is a wonderful city for sure. So diverse; we love it too. It's practically impossible to rank Italian cities as they are all worth a visit :).

Wednesday 26th of July 2023

Nice write-up.

I've lived in Italy for a few years. Now there's no wrong answer, everyone has a different opinion. I personally wouldn't say Rome is the most beautiful city. Without a doubt full of some of the best mix of historical sites and amazing churches. If the Vatican, At Peter's, trevi fountain, colosseum, etc are must do bucket lists, then I'd also say for sure hit up Rome with your time.

Personally, I find Venice and Florence to be much "prettier" cities themselves and my family and I go back to visit those places. I just didn't find the city itself to be as charming. Felt very busy and dirty. But I'm also not as big a fan of the archeological sites. My 2 cents.

Friday 28th of July 2023

As you say, everyone has different opinion and it's also quite impossible to compare different places. Let's just say that Italian cities are among the most pleasant cities to visit in the world and you can't really go wrong with any of them ;). Happy travels!

Touropia Travel

Discover the World

17 Best Cities to Visit in Italy

By Alex Schultz · Last updated on February 5, 2024

Nowhere on earth can compare with Italy’s astounding cities. Drenched in history, their ancient streets are lined with fantastic palaces, churches, museums and more, and the range of sumptuous architecture on show is simply dazzling.

With iconic landmarks wherever you look, each of the best cities in Italy has something spectacular to offer, whether it is fabulous art collections, renowned cuisine, beautiful landscapes or great nightlife. Dreamy and divine, enchanting and enticing – wandering these fantastic Italian city streets will live long in the memory.

17. Perugia

Set on a hill surrounded by lush fields, this small and picturesque city’s historic center is a delightful mix of cobbled streets, steep staircases and hidden piazzas that tumble down the hillside. The capital of Umbria , Perugia is a fantastic university town, full of life and verve.

With great nightlife, lots of bars, and cheap yet delicious food options, Perugia ‘s historic buildings make a beautiful backdrop to all the life surging through its streets. Head here during the summer for one of the best jazz festivals in Europe.

Simply divine. It is not without reason that Lecce has been nicknamed ‘the Florence of the South’. Set in Puglia, its gorgeous baroque buildings and uniform architecture makes it a charming, sun-soaked city to visit.

Wandering along its streets is enchanting, as beauty abounds from every angle and there is a relaxed vibe. With a large student body, there are some fantastic bars and restaurants to check out. From here, you can easily explore the surrounding region with its multitude of beautiful, secluded beaches.

15. Syracuse

This beautiful Sicilian city houses ancient Greek ruins which are interspersed among verdant, sprawling orchards. Lively, cafe-lined piazzas and small alleys dot the center of town. Once the largest city in the world, Syracuse’s heyday has long gone, although the fantastic Parco Archeologico documents much of its fascinating history.

Looking out over the beautiful blue sea to the main island, Ortygia is the city’s delightful center. Lovely to wander around, it has a laid back vibe and chic nature, and its buildings look even better as the sun sets over the sea.

14. Trieste

Bordering the Adriatic and almost surrounded by Slovenia , for much of its history Trieste was controlled by different powers and was formerly ruled by the Hapsburgs. Due to its location at a cultural crossroads, there is an intoxicating mix of Slavic, Germanic, Greek and Italian influences.

There is also a little bit of Vienna about its beautiful cafes. Although there are no particular landmarks to visit, it’s a pretty city to stop by – from here you can easily head to the nearby wine regions.

Lying not far from Venice , Padua is lovely to explore; its beautiful medieval marketplaces and extraordinary frescoes are dazzling to behold. In sharp contrast is the architecture dating back to the dark days of Mussolini, who made many speeches here and used it as a military and industrial center.

Thanks to its ancient and prestigious university, Padua was home to a large resistance movement and the city still attracts large numbers of students every year – hence the great nightlife scene.

12. Cagliari

The historic capital of Sardinia , Cagliari is actually closer to Tunisia than Rome. Taking the boat here is mesmerizing, as you sail across the beautiful blue waters before seeing the city impressively rise up ahead. With imperious domes and lovely facades surrounding it, Il Castello is the centerpiece of Cagliari.

The peaceful streets around it are lined with cafes and restaurants. The seafront marina is lovely to walk along and history is literally everywhere you look – Roman ruins, museums and churches jostle for space. If it is sun and sea you are after, then head to the nearby Poetto Beach with its vibrant party scene.

Lying on the border with the Alps, Turin is an elegant and wealthy city that has delightful leafy boulevards, beautiful palaces, and numerous fine art collections. The home of Fiat, the suburbs with their factories are not the prettiest places but the center more than makes up for it with a lively music scene, cafe culture, and innovative gastronomy – making it well worth a visit.

Its fine piazzas have fantastic local chocolate shops and upmarket boutiques lining them, as well as some great museums.

10. Bologna

With beautiful colonnades weaving their way around the city, Bologna is a fusion of elegance and charm that contrasts with the grit and graffiti of its alternative side. While there is a rich and posh part of the city where you can visit world class restaurants and the opera, Bologna has the world’s oldest university and a large, down-to-earth student population.

Full of beautiful architecture, lively bars and cafes, it is a fun city to visit and live in.

The famed home of Romeo and Juliet, Verona is romantic and gorgeous. Its lovely piazzas are connected by delightful, cobbled streets that pass by beautiful old palaces, churches and monuments. Weaving its way around the city is the Adige River, with picturesque bridges crisscrossing over it.

With a spectacular Roman amphitheater at its heart, sumptuous cuisine and fantastic wines – plus its proximity to the lovely Lake Garda – Verona is a place that just must be visited.

The largest port in the country, Genoa is full of grand old buildings that are slightly falling apart. While it does appear charming, the city is a bit squalid in places. Having ruled the Mediterranean in the 12th and 13th Centuries, history is everywhere you look and the old city is a fantastic labyrinth of streets for you to explore.

The Palazzi dei Rolli is beautiful and there are lots of museums, restaurants and bars to visit. Nowadays, many people stop by Genoa on their way to the nearby Cinque Terre .

Capital of Sicily , Palermo’s location has long meant that different civilizations and cultures have left their mark on the city. Nowadays, you can fine Byzantine mosaics and beautiful Arab influenced buildings lying alongside Gothic palaces and Renaissance mansions.

With some fantastic markets to explore, as well the largest opera house in the country, this vibrant city has a lot to offer – the decaying grandeur about its streets is enthralling.

Much more than just the iconic Learning Tower, the former maritime power of Pisa now relies on tourists to fuel its economy. Beautiful to wander around, architectural styles from throughout the ages are delightfully shown off, as Renaissance piazzas and Gothic churches jostle for space among the other fantastic buildings on show.

More authentic than many Italian cities which have become inundated by tourists, Pisa’s prestigious university means the city has a large student population – this manifests itself in the lively atmosphere evident in its bars and cafes.

A large city, Milan is home to Italy’s fashion industry. Numerous other big businesses are based in the stylish metropolis. With innovative and creative designs emanating from its workshops, there are an endless array of shopping options to explore.

Home to numerous breathtaking art collections, the city’s museums are captivating and its streets are lined with beautiful art-deco architecture, among other styles. At the heart of Milan is the gorgeous Duomo, which is simply spectacular. Throughout the city, you will find fantastic dining wherever you turn; Milan has the most Michelin Star establishments in all of Italy.

See also: Where to Stay in Milan

Lying on the Gulf of Naples, this energetic city is full of life and vigor, with a wealth of cultural and historic sites to visit. There are two royal palaces to explore, as well as three castles and numerous ruins dating back over the ages – not to mention the vast array of architectural marvels on offer.

Its fantastic museums showcase stunning frescoes and masterpieces by Caravaggio and others, while its gastronomic scene is the stuff of legends. Do a bit rough around the edges and much less popular as some other big Italian cities, Naples is a joy to visit.

See also: Where to Stay in Naples

A simply magical city, Venice is like no other place on earth. Located in the middle of a lagoon, its beautiful canals and waterways are lined with stunning buildings, palaces and churches. The winding alleys between them lead you on to yet more delights. While the Grand Canal and Piazza San Marco are two of the must-see tourist attractions, simply wandering around this charming city is a dream.

Although it is very crowded with tourists, you can still find deserted back streets, atmospheric restaurants and bars hidden away here and there. The food here is divine, with awe-inspiring views often accompanying your meal. Take a gondola along the canals to see interesting boutiques and upmarket stores as well as souvenir shops. Aim to visit during February for its amazing costume-filled carnival.

See also: Where to Stay in Venice

2. Florence

The birthplace of the Renaissance, Florence is mesmerizing to walk around and its historic center is full of beautiful art and stunning architecture. This enchanting city is located alongside the Arno River. The Ponte Vecchio bridge spanning it is one of Florence’s most famous sights , along with the incredible Duomo at its heart. Its delightful piazzas are marvelous to stroll through, with heavenly churches and impressive statues lining them. Masterpieces by Botticcelli and Michelangelo are generously shown off to the world in its fantastic museums.

Delightful cafes and restaurants look out over the ancient cobbles, and with fantastic shopping on offer, as well as sumptuous Tuscan cuisine and delicious wines, Florence will never disappoint.

While Rome’s iconic landmarks – such as the Colosseum and Roman Forum – need no introduction, with over three-thousand years of history, the city is saturated with fantastic historical monuments, piazzas, churches , mansions and more for visitors to explore. Wandering around its ancient streets is a heavenly experience; amazing architecture and beautiful ruins are everywhere you look. In the center of the city you can find the Vatican – the heart of the Catholic Church. Here, the impressive St. Peter’s Basilica is just one of the must-see sights.

See also: Where to Stay in Rome

While incredible art is found everywhere in the city, the breathtaking Vatican Museums are unrivaled when it comes to the stupendous array of paintings, sculptures and frescoes that they have on offer. The Sistine Chapel ceiling is the highlight of this divine collection of art.

Although the art, history and culture is why people visit Rome, it is a bustling city with loads of fantastic restaurants, bars and cafes lining its streets, with many locals and tourists heading to the lively Trastevere in the evening.

Map of Italian Cities

Share this post:

10 Most Underrated Destinations in Italy

11 Most Amazing Hotels in Italy

10 Best Beaches in Italy

How to Spend 2 Weeks in Italy: DIY Itinerary

33 Top Tourist Attractions in Italy

10 Most Beautiful Italian Islands

10 Most Beautiful National Parks in Italy

23 Best Places to Visit in Italy

20 Most Beautiful Regions of Italy

14 Gorgeous Small Towns in Italy

25 Best Places to Visit in Italy (+ Map to Find Them!)

Brainstorming the best places to visit in Italy before planning a big trip?

We have you covered: despite our temptation to list a hundred places to go in Italy on this list, we’ve narrowed it down to the top Italy travel destinations… plus thrown in just a few curveballs for good measure.

Italy has long been one of our absolute favorite places to travel, and despite cumulatively spending months exploring, we’ll be returning to enjoy the most beautiful places in Italy again and again for the rest of our lives.

Here are the best places to visit in Italy, from iconic cities to charming small towns to colorful islands!

Table of Contents

How to Choose Where to Go in Italy

The best cities to visit in italy, incredible small towns to visit in italy, nature-focused beautiful places in italy, map of the best places to visit in italy.

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.

It’s downright impossible to visit all the best places to visit in Italy on one trip–so once you’ve compiled your personal bucket list, you’ll need to narrow it down!

We have almost 100 blog posts about Italy here on Our Escape Clause, covering everything from detailed breakdowns of what to do in certain cities, to the best day trips, to food guides for cities like Rome and Florence .

I’ll link many of our Italy blog posts throughout this guide to the most beautiful places in Italy, but to find additional posts on a specific place (some places, like Rome, have over a dozen), use the search bar in the top-right corner of the screen (or if you’re browsing on mobile, on the pop-out menu).

You can use these posts to help put the backbone of your Italy trip together, as well as plan the more detailed aspects of your vacation.

After reading this guide to where to go in Italy, we recommend reading our suggested 2-week Italy itinerary (with classic suggestions for first-time visitors), our guide to spending a week in Italy that provides several options for structuring your trip, and our step-by-step-guide to planning an Italy trip .

You may also want to check out our Italy road trip guide , our 101 top Italy travel tips , and our suggested Italy packing list .

Nicknamed the Eternal City, Rome is a sprawling, complex city dotted with 2,000+ years of ruins, relics, and memories–and in our opinion, it’s one of the most captivating places to visit in Italy… and also in the world overall.

No trip to Rome is complete without visiting the Colosseum and Roman Forum, strolling up the Spanish Steps, stopping by Vatican City , eating a plate (or several) of carbonara, and tossing a coin in the Trevi Fountain to ensure you return to Rome.

We also highly recommend exploring a couple of Rome’s magnificent art museums, whether that’s the iconic Borghese Gallery or quieter options like Palazzo Spada .

Beautiful, walkable Florence is known primarily for two things: its art, and its food.

As both the Cradle of the Renaissance and the capital of Tuscany, neither of these is surprising!

Touring the famous Uffizi Gallery and visiting Michelangelo’s David at the Galleria dell’Accademia is a must-do for art lovers in Florence. 

Be sure to also stop by the Duomo, stroll across the Ponte Vecchio, watch the sunset at Piazzale Michelangelo, and eat plenty of delicious Tuscan food ! 

Of all the best places to go in Italy, Venice is arguably the most unique: there is simply nowhere else on the planet like the regal city of canals, with its iconic gondolas and architecture hinting at the history of the wealthy empire that once ruled from it.

The best things to do in Venice include visiting Piazza San Marco, marveling at St. Mark’s Basilica, taking a classic Venetian gondola ride, and wandering aimlessly through the less-crowded (but still stunning) corners of the city.

When looking for the best places to visit in Lombardy , you can’t start with anywhere except Milan.

The fashion and business capital of Italy is known for its luxury brands, beautiful architecture, and more modern vibe as compared to many Italian cities–but it still has plenty of history behind it, too, and belongs on any list detailing where to go in Italy.

Visiting Milan’s incredible Duomo (and especially its epic rooftop) belongs at the top of any list of things to do in Milan, followed by getting a peek at Leonardo Da Vinci’s Last Supper.

Other sights include the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, Castello Sforzesco, and of course Milan’s famous La Scala Opera House.

The capital of Emilia-Romagna is known, above all else, for its food, which just might be the best in Italy. 

Its charms don’t end there, though. Bologna boasts 3 nicknames: la dotta (the educated, for its history university), la rossa (the red, for its unique architecture), and la grassa (the fat, for the aforementioned epic food). It lives up to all of them.

While in Bologna, be sure to climb the Asinelli Tower for incredible views of the city, hunt down the city’s hidden canals, and visit the Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca.

Plus, of course, enjoy plenty of food: tagliatelle al ragu, mortadella, and traditional balsamic vinegar are just a few of the delicacies that the region is known for.

The bustling port city of Naples isn’t everyone’s cup of tea–some would even argue that it doesn’t belong on a list of where to go in Italy. We disagree, though.

Naples has a very, very different vibe than Italian cities located further north, but its unique history, interesting things to do, and of course, pizza, make it well worth a visit.

In Naples, be sure to visit the Piazza del Plebiscito, get underground at the Bourbon Tunnel, San Gennaro Catacombs, or Naples Underground, and visit the magnificent archaeological museum, which is one of the best in Italy and where many of the most impressive artifacts from Pompeii ended up!

Plus, of course, visiting Naples means eating at least a couple of classic Napoli-style pizzas –they truly are better there than anywhere else.

Sicily’s stunning capital city is certainly a bit rougher around the edges than many of the best places to visit in Italy, but that’s no reason to stay away.

With a long and storied history impacted by half a dozen empires or so, plenty of palm trees, and even catacombs filled with mummies, Palermo is an unforgettable place, and utterly captivating if you give it the chance to be.

A trip to Palermo should definitely include a visit to the Palermo Cathedral, a food tour through the city ( Sicilian food is distinctly different from what many foreigners associate with Italian food–plus, you get to eat cannoli), and a stop to check out the Quattro Canti.

The city of Romeo and Juliet is located along the Adige River in Veneto and is arguably one of the most beautiful cities in Italy.

Packed with gorgeous views, colorful architecture, and interesting sights, Verona gets far fewer international visitors than, say, Venice or Florence–but it is easy to add onto a typical Italy vacation and well worth the effort!

While in Verona, be sure to enjoy the view from Castel San Pietro, visit Juliet’s House, and walk across the Ponte Pietra.

Tuscany’s second city was once the military rival of Florence–today, it is better known for its oval-shaped central piazza, its excellent food, and the Palio di Siena, a bi-annual horse race that takes place in the Piazza del Campo, and is a tradition that dates back around 800 years!

Visiting Siena’s Duomo (considered by some to be even more beautiful than Florence’s!) is a must-do when visiting the city, as is strolling around the oval-shaped Piazza del Campo and enjoying the view from the top of the Opera della Metropolitana.

Located on the eastern coast of Sicily, the beautiful city of Siracusa is home to beautiful views and history that dates back to the ancient Greeks (fun fact: the famous Greek mathematician Archimedes was from Siracusa!).

The best things to do in Siracusa include wandering the island of Ortigia (home to Siracusa’s old town), stopping by the many baroque churches (especially the Duomo), visiting the ancient Greek and Roman ruins scattered around, and seeing the Fort of San Giovannello.

Alberobello

With its distinct white-washed trulli (round buildings with cone-shaped roofs), Alberobello is one of the most unique places to visit in Italy and Puglia’s most famous inland sight.

The trulli are absolutely the biggest draw of Alberobello, so the most important thing to do in town is stroll through the Rione Monti, where you will find the biggest concentration of them! However, the quieter part of town, Aia Piccola, also has plenty of trulli and is well worth a visit.

Cinque Terre

Technically, I could list each of the five villages of Cinque Terre separately here (in order: Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore), but even though they are technically separate places, Cinque Terre as a whole is one of the best travel destinations in Italy.

These five traditional fishing villages are known for their colorful buildings, their location right on the sea, and of course, their seafood.

When in Cinque Terre, hike from Monterosso al Mare to Vernazza (if you have limited time for hiking, this is the one to do!), enjoy a meal featuring seafood and/or pesto, and watch the sunset over Manarola.

If you have time, consider making it a point to visit all five villages and choose your favorite–ours are Vernazza and Riomaggiore, but ask me again tomorrow. It’s nearly impossible to choose!

Located in the Basilicata region of southern Italy, Matera is known for its ancient “sassi” cave dwellings, which were forcibly emptied by Mussolini in 1952.

Today, the city has reopened and been given new life, and its remarkable beauty has made it one of the most unique places on this guide of where to go in Italy.

In Matera, be sure to visit the Church of Saint Peter and its incredible viewpoint, see the city’s rock churches, and take a walking tour through the maze-like city center in order to learn about complex history dating back 10,000 years while also seeking out incredible views along the way!

Polignano a Mare

As one of the most picturesque beach towns in Italy , Polignano a Mare is primarily known for its visually stunning Cala Porto beach–but like other places in Puglia, the whitewashed architecture, historical buildings, and seafood also shine.

Visiting Cala Porto is at the top of everyone’s Polignano al Mare bucket list–be sure to also enjoy the view of it from above at Balconata sul Mare!

Montepulciano

Truthfully, there are many hilltop towns in Tuscany that are worthy of being considered among the most beautiful places in Italy, but I chose Montepulciano to include here because it is such a delightful example of an idyllic Tuscan town.

With its winding cobblestone streets, beautiful churches, fantastic views of the countryside, and excellent local wine, Montepulciano is not to be missed!

When in Montepulciano, sample the delicious Vino di Montepulciano (ideally at the wine cellar in the center of town), seek out views of the beautiful Church of San Biagio and snap photos at Piazza Grande.

Val di Noto’s Baroque Towns

The Baroque towns of Sicily’s Val di Noto are known for their remarkable architecture, excellent food (especially Modica’s chocolate), and incredible natural setting. They’re also, collectively, a UNESCO World Heritage site!

Siracusa, also included in this guide to beautiful spots in Italy, is technically among these towns, as is the city of Catania. However, the grouping of Ragusa (home to stunning views), Scilici, and Modica (home to incredibly unique chocolate) are a popular and worthy collection of villages to visit in their own right!

Pompeii isn’t exactly a small town, of course, but this incredibly famous archaeological site doesn’t quite fit into any of our categories on this guide to the best places to see in Italy, so I’ll include it here.

In 79 AD, Pompeii (as well as other nearby cities like Herculaneum) was buried by an enormous volcanic eruption from Mount Vesuvius… and it wasn’t seen again until the 18th century.

For this reason, Pompeii offers a positively incredible look into daily life in the ancient Roman empire.

Tour the city on foot (we highly recommend a guided tour), see the haunting plaster casts of victims who were buried alive, and marvel at the small details of life 2,000 years ago that are on display in Pompeii.

Glamorous Lake Como has long been considered one of the most beautiful places in Italy, and the resort-style feel of the gorgeous villas and villages that dot the lake is a testament to its overwhelming beauty.

While visiting Lake Como, be sure to sample a few of the different villages on the lake ( Bellagio , Varenna, and Como are all popular), tour a villa or two, take a hike above the lake for stunning views, and hit the water in a boat!

The stunning island of Capri has been captivating visitors with its gorgeous vistas and otherworldly grottos since the time of Roman Emperors–and 2,000 or so years later, it’s still just as captivating.

When visiting Capri, be sure to take a boat tour around the island, admire the views from the Garden of Augustus (don’t miss the view of Via Krupp looking straight down), ride the chairlift up Monte Solaro, and if you have enough time, tour the magical Blue Grotto.

The magnificent Dolomites are arguably one of the most dramatically beautiful mountain ranges in all of Europe, and whether you’d like to visit for a summer hike or a winter ski session, they are absolutely among the best places to visit in Italy.

The best things to do in the Dolomites include visiting the charming small cities of Bolzano and Cortina d’Ampezzo, hiking to stunning mountain lakes, taking funicular rides to small mountainside towns, and road-tripping the Great Dolomites Road.

Lago di Braies

Instagram-famous Lago di Braies is known as one of the most beautiful places in Italy. 

Framed by the Dolomites and populated by picturesque wooden rowboats, it’s truly a sight to behold.

Renting a rowboat to admire the lake from the water and hiking the circumference of the lake (it takes about 1.5 hours) are among the best things to do at Lago di Braies.

Tuscan Countryside

Known for its rolling hills, golden light, beautiful vineyards, charming villages, and even its hot springs, Tuscany has long been one of the most popular places to visit in Italy–for a very good reason.

In addition to touring its cities and small towns (Florence, Siena, and Montepulciano are also included on this list and are in Tuscany), consider visiting a hot spring, taking a cooking class, going for a hike, and of course enjoying several wine tastings while in the Tuscan countryside.

The Amalfi Coast

Of course, no list of the most beautiful places in Italy would be complete without mentioning the utterly magical Amalfi Coast, which is home to quite possibly some of the best coastal views on the planet.

When visiting the Amalfi Coast, be sure to village-hop a bit–Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello are among the most popular–enjoy views of the coast from the water with a boat tour or rental, and for some of the best views of all, hike the aptly-named Path of the Gods.

The gorgeous island of Sardinia gets far fewer non-Italian–and especially non-European–visitors than coastal retreats like the Amalfi Coast, Cinque Terre, or even Sicily, but that’s too bad… because it is, without a doubt, one of the most beautiful places in Italy.

Sardinia’s beaches are known for being some of the best in Italy (and in Europe overall) , so be sure to add several to your list of things to do on the island! 

Visiting ancient ruins, sailing around the island (either yourself or on a tour), visiting the charming city of Cagliari, and checking out the many unique castles and caves all also belong on your list of what to do in Sardinia.

Mount Vesuvius

Mount Vesuvius, primarily known for the 79 AD eruption that buried Pompeii and Herculaneum, is the most famous volcano in Italy and an incredible place to visit.

Visit the crater of Mount Vesuvius (it’s about a 25-minute walk up, you can drive most of the way) to marvel at the smoldering volcano crater and to soak in magnificent views of the Bay of Naples.

Take This Map With You! Click each highlight to pull up the name of the destination. To save this map to “Your Places” on Google Maps, click the star to the right of the title. You’ll then be able to find it under the Maps tab of your Google Maps account! To open the map in a new window, click the button on the top right of the map.

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.

6 thoughts on “25 Best Places to Visit in Italy (+ Map to Find Them!)”

Kind of glad you didn’t mention my favorite place in Italy, Luca. Let’s keep it under the radar.?

Ah, if I included everywhere amazing in Tuscany, the post would never end! Lucca is my grandmother’s favorite too, we’ve spent some lovely trips there. 🙂

You’re welcome! 🙂

I will be visiting Italy in Sept 2023 for 8 days. Is it reasonable to spend time in Rome, Florence and Cinque Terre in that time period? If so, how would you recommend I break up the trip?

It’s a tight squeeze, but doable, especially if you visit Cinque Terre on an organized day trip from Florence.

Assuming the 2 days on either end of the trip are travel days, I’d recommend 3 full days in Rome, 1 day in Cinque Terre, and 2 days in Florence.

We talk a lot more about planning a week in Italy here: https://www.ourescapeclause.com/7-days-in-italy-in-a-week/

And we talk about visiting Cinque Terre from Florence here: https://www.ourescapeclause.com/florence-to-cinque-terre/

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Awesome, you're subscribed!

Thanks for subscribing! Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon!

The best things in life are free.

Sign up for our email to enjoy your city without spending a thing (as well as some options when you’re feeling flush).

Déjà vu! We already have this email. Try another?

By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions.

Love the mag?

Our newsletter hand-delivers the best bits to your inbox. Sign up to unlock our digital magazines and also receive the latest news, events, offers and partner promotions.

• Los Angeles

Get us in your inbox

🙌 Awesome, you're subscribed!

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.

RECOMMENDED: 🏝️ The best  Italian islands 🏖️ The best places to visit in Italy 🇮🇹 Italy's most beautiful villages and towns 🍝 The best restaurants in Italy

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 . 

An email you’ll actually love

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.

[image] [title]

Discover Time Out original video

• Press office
• Investor relations
• Work for Time Out
• Editorial guidelines
• Privacy notice
• Do not sell my information
• Cookie policy
• Accessibility statement
• Terms of use
• Modern slavery statement
• Manage cookies
• Advertising
• Time Out Market

12 Best Cities in Italy To Visit for First-timers

We’ve listed some of the best cities in Italy to visit to help you decide where to go if you’re planning an Italian vacation for the first time. Read on.

Tourists and travel experts have known for a long time that Italy is a special place. In fact, almost everyone has put Italy on their bucket list.

Italy’s offerings are unrivaled, thanks to its incredible food, numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites , highly regarded art, charming small towns and picturesque cities, and stunning coastlines.

So, do you have a favorite Italian destination? Keep reading to learn more about some of the best cities to visit in Italy for the first time. 

Table of Contents

12 Best Cities in Italy To Visit

Let’s check out the 12 best cities in Italy to visit for first-time travelers.

Venice is no doubt one of the best cities in Italy to visit. It is charming and very enchanting, especially for lovers. Once you see the city on the water, you’ll agree with the cliché!

The Grand Canal is just outside the Santa Lucia train station. You’ll see water taxis pass under Ponte degli Scalzi and might hear a violin serenade. 

Gondola drivers sing to smitten couples as they glide through the city’s waterways. Narrow passageways pass Old World storefronts, homes, and bridges on land.

Getting lost is normal in Venice, so embrace the disorientation or join one of the best Venice tours:

This canal-clad city’s main draw is its magic, but you’ll also find diversions. St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace have excellent tour guides. The Gallerie dell’Accademia has works by Titian, Veronese, and others. And the Teatro La Fenice has world-famous operas. You can also visit Lido’s beach, Murano’s glass, and Burano’s lace.

So if you’re visiting Italy for the first time, you must consider Venice to be one of your destinations.

Where To Stay in Venice

The origins of Rome, one of the most famous Italian cities, are mythical. Romulus and Remus, twins, nursed by a she-wolf and fathered by a war god, founded the Eternal City.

Most travelers agree that Rome is magical, despite historians’ doubts. Roma is sure to enchant, whether it’s the Vatican or the Colosseum , a caffè on Piazza Navona, or a plate of pasta at a trattoria.

The Pantheon, the Roman Forum, and dozens of churches remain. Art lovers will enjoy the Vatican Museums , and foodies will love Italian cuisine and gelato.

Rome is a fast-paced, modern city with designer storefronts, sleek hotels, and cutting-edge restaurants .

Where To Stay in Rome

3. florence.

This charming city nestled in the Tuscan hills casts a long shadow through history. Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance, housed the influential Medici family and inspired artists such as Brunelleschi and Michelangelo. It is hands down one of the most popular cities in Italy.

It’s easy to imagine that you have traveled in time back to the 14th century if it weren’t for the modern Italians and trendy shops lining the iconic Via Tornabuoni. However, it is not just the Renaissance art that attracts visitors to the Tuscan capital; there’s also the gorgeous Florentine sunset, the excellent Florentine cuisine, and the romantic atmosphere in general.

Make the most of your time in Florence by taking one of the city’s best tours led by a local:

Only have 24 hours in Florence? Check out this one-day in Florence itinerary .

Where To Stay in Florence

Bari is well-known for its architectural beauty, atmospheric Old Town, delicious food, and pristine beaches. It is also one of Southern Italy’s harbors and a regional transportation hub.

Many consider Bari to be Italy’s most beautiful coastline, and it’s difficult to disagree. Nearby Polignano a Mare’s crystal blue waters are especially appealing, and you can choose between rocky and sandy beaches. Cala Porto is well-known for its smooth white marble beaches. Porto Cavallo has a sandy beach.

First-time travelers will fall in love with Bari easily. It is also one of Italy’s safest cities anyone can visit.

Where To Stay in Bari

Milan is one of the major Italian cities, attracting artists and designers as well as models and photographers. However, it is also Italy’s most industrial city and no doubt the wealthiest. Milan is also a haven for foodies.

The Lombard capital is a city for everyone, and its elegant vibe and hidden corners make it a fantastic place to visit. If you like shopping for Italian brands, there are various brands you can buy in Milan .

The city is renowned as the Italian fashion capital due to its historic fashion houses and four fashion weeks held each year. But it offers so much more, including quaint little streets, fantastic shopping, and even more hidden gems.

Milan is also known for its artworks and architecture, as it is the location of Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper and the Duomo, a celebrated Gothic cathedral.

Where To Stay in Milan

Bologna is the food capital of Italy. Fine dining can be found almost anywhere in the city. This is largely due to balsamic vinegar, Parma ham, and Parmesan cheese in the surrounding Emilia-Romagna region.

With its stunning architecture and the longest-running university in the Western world and stunning architecture, plus being regarded as the gastronomic capital of the country, Bologna is an enticing place to visit and definitely one of the best cities in Italy every first-time traveler should visit.

Where To Stay in Bologna

Naples, the third-largest Italian city, has history, art, architecture, and delicious food. However, the city is also known for crime and grime. We have written an article that addresses this concern .

There are numerous things to do and great places to visit in Naples , so you shouldn’t skip this Southern Italian city.

Certosa e Museo di San Martino offers spectacular views from above. You can stroll Via Caracciolo e Lungomare di Napoli or chat with friendly locals to feel the city’s magic. And of course, you can’t forget the world-famous Neapolitan pizza in the very place where it was invented or that perfect sip of espresso.

You can’t judge Naples by its rough edges. Doing so would mean missing out on fascinating architecture, underground frescos, royal palaces, and so much more.

Where To Stay in Naples

Turin is one of Italy’s best-kept secrets. It has beautiful Baroque buildings, several world-class museums, and a lively café scene. It is often overshadowed by its northern rival, Milan.

Still, the Piedmontese capit is an excellent place to visit all year long because there are things to see and do for every season.

There are more than 40 museums in Turin. Some of the best ones are the Automobile Museum, which shows the city’s rich history with cars; and the Egyptian Museum, which is known for its important archaeological finds.

The art scene in Turin is also quite massive.

Where To Stay in Turin

Located between the sea and the mountains, Genoa is best known for its port and Aquarium. It also has a lovely city center and several worthwhile attractions, including an atmospheric historical city center and interesting UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

The city is ideal for art, history, and culture buffs because of its numerous museums as well as art and architectural treasures. Its expressionistic ancient Centro Storico is one of the biggest in Europe.

Genoa also boasts a verdant seafront and a diverse food and wine culture.

Where To Stay in Genoa

Verona, best known for its Shakespearean connections, caters to Romeo and Juliet fans with themed tours of the locations that allegedly inspired the play.

But this city is more than its literary connection.

Verona, about 15 miles east of Lake Garda, has several impressive attractions and historic buildings because the whole city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The beautifully sculpted Renaissance gardens, Giardino Giusti, are must-see for visitors, and so is the Arena di Verona which is a first-century Roman amphitheater that is still in use.

Where To Stay in Verona

11. trieste.

Trieste is the capital and largest city of the Friuli-Venezia Giulia region. The city is a deep-water port that serves as a maritime gateway for northern Italy, Austria, Germany, and Central Europe.

Trieste is distinctive among many cities in Europe. Most cities have a historic square, but Trieste has one that looks out over the water. Day or night, you should go to Piazza Unità d’Italia (Unity of Italy Square). Check out the legendary Fontana dei Quattro Continenti, Palazzo del Governo, and Town Hall of Trieste.

Trieste is different from what you might typically find in Italy. The Habsburgs had a significant impact on it, and you can see it in the architecture and the food.

Where To Stay in Trieste

Matera’s Sassi is well-known for their unique cave dwellings, which have been populated since the Paleolithic period. They combine to form an exceptional and truly unique landscape. This is why the Sassi di Matera has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1993.

Matera is a beautiful city in Basilicata, Italy, with a rich history, cave hotels, and delicious Italian food.

The ancient town of Basilicata is fast becoming one of the most popular cities in Italy – the country’s next big thing – so the time has come to visit Matera!

Where To Stay in Matera

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

Europe Chevron

Italy Chevron

19 Beautiful Small Towns in Italy to Plan Your Next Trip Around

By CNT Editors and Alex Erdekian

When visiting Europe, most travelers make a beeline for famous cities—but small towns in Italy are where we look for the country’s dreamiest getaways. With few locals, and often fewer travelers, they offer quintessential Italian charm without the crowds. From sleepy Sicilian seaside escapes to postcard-perfect Tuscan hamlets, we’ve rounded up the 19 most beautiful small towns in Italy to plan your next trip around. Added bonus: most of them are within day-tripping distance of a major city, so you can still get that Rome or Milan experience, too. 

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Portofino, Liguria

Population: 366

The coastal town of Portofino is one of the most beautiful European ports to sail into. It also has a wealth of excellent hotels like the Hotel Splendido and the Grand Hotel Miramare , plus great shopping, and of course, that radiant coastline. Even better? It's less than an hour's drive to the port city of Genoa (aka, the birthplace of pesto and focaccia). 

Alberobello, Puglia

Population: 10,482

The main draw of Alberobello, a small town near Bari in Puglia, is its characteristic trulli : cone-shaped, white-tipped houses that look as if they’ve been perpetually dusted by snow. Thanks to this distinctive feature, the town was made a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996. Pro tip: Head up to Piazza del Popolo, where the Belvedere Trulli lookout offers spectacular views of the entire town.

Castelluccio, Umbria

Population: <150

Located atop a steep hill 5,000 feet above sea level, Castellucio is the highest—and arguably most beautiful—village in the Apennine Mountain Range. The town is backed by snow-capped mountains on one side, and on the other, verdant plains that blossom with red poppies, violets, and rapeseed in the spring. Sadly, a 2016 earthquake rendered the village virtually uninhabitable, but some remaining residents have re-opened shops and restaurants that are currently open to visitors.

Cefalù, Sicily

Population: 13,994

Located just an hour’s drive from Palermo, the medieval town of Cefalù is so postcard-pretty that many movies have been filmed here, including the much-loved Cinema Paradiso. Highlights include exploring the town’s many mosaic-adorned cathedrals, walking along its picturesque lungomare (seafront promenade), and catching the sunset from the towering La Rocca.

Hannah Towey

CNT Editors

Jessica Puckett

Steph Koyfman

Pietrapertosa, Basilicata

Population: 937

Pietrapertosa is one of the most dramatic towns in all of Italy—it's carved into bare rock on the side of a mountain, and boasts an elevation of 3,500 feet. The town itself is beautiful, filled with ancient ruins and a ninth century Saracen castle—but the highlight of any visit is a ride on Il Volo dell'Angelo. It’s said to be the world’s highest zipline, and gives you an unbeatable aerial view over the entire town and its surroundings.

Sorrento, Campania

Population: 15,956

Despite the lack of a beach , tourists love Sorrento, which straddles the dramatic, rocky cliffs overlooking the ocean. The old town makes a great base for exploring surrounding areas—the Amalfi Coast to the East, Pompeii to the North, and the island of Capri offshore. 

Polignano a Mare, Apulia

Population: 17,491

On a limestone cliff that slices into the ocean, the tiny town of Polignano a Mare—known as the "Pearl of the Adriatic"—is one of the most romantic spots in all of Puglia. Spend a day exploring its sandy bays and inlets via boat, or simply get lost in the town's winding, whitewashed streets.

Taormina, Sicily

Population: 10,514

There’s something especially dreamy about Taormina, a clifftop town on the island of Sicily. The views of Mount Etna and the Ionian Sea hypnotize, and the ancient ruins and cafe-lined streets will keep you occupied. But we wouldn't blame you if you were to check into the Belmond Grand Hotel Timeo and never leave the room.

Praiano, Campania

Population: 2,008

Also along the Amalfi Coast, lies the town of Praiano (close to Positano), which is packed with beautiful beaches like Marina di Praia and Gavitella—and culture to boot. Come here for stunning ancient churches , towers, and sacred sculptures.

Sperlonga, Lazio

Population: 3,117

Sperlonga was the former hideaway of many Roman emperors, and it’s no wonder: The tiny town’s pristine beaches, rich greenery, and proximity to Rome—just an hour by train—make it the perfect weekend escape . The town also has an excellent museum, the Museo Archeologico di Sperlonga, which is set among the ancient ruins of Emperor Tiberius’ old villa. The Torre Truglia, located at the tip of the promontory on which Sperlonga is built, boasts the best views in town.

Saluzzo, Piedmont

Population: 17,342

Just an hour’s drive south of Turin , you’ll find the sleepy medieval town of Saluzzo—a pretty sweep of red-tiled rooftops, bell towers, and ancient spires backed by the snow-capped Cottian Alps. Highlights include La Castiglia, a 14th-century castle, and the Casa Cavassa, a Renaissance palazzo-turned-museum that’s home to some spectacular gold-leaf paintings and frescoes.

Vernazza, Liguria

Population: 764

Vernazza is the steepest and loveliest of the Cinque Terre villages. Its streets are lined with signature candy-colored houses and enough gelaterias to do your own tasting tour, while the town itself slopes down to a small, sandy beach and Cinque Terre's only natural harbor. Though sea views pop at every turn, you’ll find the most impressive vistas at Belforte, an iconic seafood restaurant inside an 11th-century castle at the tip of the harbor.

Belluno, Veneto

Population: 35,505

Perched on high bluffs above the Piave River and backed by the snowcapped Dolomites, Belluno is easily one of Northern Italy’s prettiest small towns. Besides its gorgeous 360-degree views, you’ll find a charming historical town center packed with Renaissance-era buildings, palazzi, and Romanesque churches. As an added bonus, it’s just a little over an hour’s drive from mainland Venice.

Monte Isola, Lombardy

Population: 1,646

Located on an island of the same name, the town of Monte Isola sits in the middle of one of Italy’s prettiest lakes, Lake Iseo. To get there, you’ll need to drive an hour and a half from Milan, then take a 20-minute ferry ride across the lake from the town of Iseo—but it’s well worth the effort. The quaint town boasts many excellent trattorias, lakeside cafés, cozy B&Bs, and the beautiful Madonna della Ceriola chapel, nestled at the summit of the island.

Collodi, Tuscany

Population: 1,218

Carved into the side of a hill in Tuscany between Florence and Pisa, you’ll find Collodi: a gorgeous medieval village famous for being the home of Pinocchio (or more accurately, its creator, Carlo Collodi). Don’t leave without stopping by Pinocchio Park, home to the tallest wooden Pinocchio statue in the world, and nearby Garzoni Gardens, filled with Renaissance statues, ornate fountains, and lush bamboo groves.

Positano, Salerno

Population: 3,942

You wouldn’t know it from the amount of tourists in the high season, but the population of Positano is well under 5,000 people. Yet the cliffside village on the south of the Amalfi Coast is one that lingers in the imagination. John Steinbeck wrote for Harper’s Bazaar after visiting in 1953, “Positano bites deep. It is a dream place that isn't quite real when you are there and becomes beckoningly real after you have gone.” Spend your days here boating to discover blue grottos and hiking past groves of round, juicy Sorrento lemons. Make sure to pay a visit to the domed Church of Santa Maria Assunta, too, to find a black Byzantine Madonna icon from the 13th Century.

Pacentro, Abruzzo

Population: 1,139

Floating on a plateau deep in the Apennine Mountain Range, Pacentro is like a little city in the sky. The preserved medieval village dates back to the 8th or 9th century, and still sits 2,133 ft above sea level in the Majella National Park. Its natural surroundings are integrated into the town, too: One of its hallmarks is its clear and crisp water, which comes from local springs and the snow-melt of nearby mountains, and local white stone is used by area artisans to make terracotta figurines.

San Gimignano, Siena

Population: 7,780

There are few villages with a skyline as iconic as that of San Gimignano—its 13 medieval tower houses rise from the ground like a prescient New York City . The historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site ,  is encircled by a stone wall, within which visitors will find many examples of Romanesque and Gothic architecture; outside, sloping hillsides are covered in groves of olive trees. (Did we mention the town is known for its gelato?)

Brisighella, Ravenna

Population: 7,629

Located between Renaissance cities Ravenna and Florence , Brisighella is known as the village on three hills—on the first, there is a 14th century castle, la Rocca, on the second, an 18th century church sanctuary, the Monticino, and on a third, a clock yower from the 19th century. The province to which Brisighella belongs, Emilia-Romagna, is renowned for its gastronomic traditions. Here, you’ll find forgotten fruits such as the pera Volpina, a firm pear variety related to the wild pear tree, which cooks wonderfully. Other local specialties include Sangiovese wines, Conciato cheese ripened in chalky caves, and pork from the local Mora Romagnola pig breed. After your gluttonous adventures, take a load off in the local thermal baths, another popular attraction. 

Recommended

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Local election results: Relief for Sunak in key mayoral race - but Labour wins in PM's backyard

The Tories have suffered some historic losses in Thursday's local elections, while Labour also claimed a big victory in the Blackpool South by-election. But in a relief for the prime minister, the Tory mayor of Tees Valley will keep his job.

Friday 3 May 2024 19:18, UK

Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player

• Coming up on Politics Hub With Sophy Ridge at 7pm
• Labour wins mayoralty in PM's own backyard
• Relief for PM as Tory mayor clings on in key race
• But Sunak admits overall results are 'disappointing'
• Tories could be 'almost annihilated' at general election
• Starmer hails Labour wins - but admits Gaza cost him votes
• And party fears possible result to come in London mayoral contest
• Vote 2024: Council results in full  | Mayoral results as they happen  | Labour on course to be largest party in parliament
• Live reporting by Katie Williams , Emily Mee , and (earlier) Andy Hayes and  Ben Bloch

The results we've had from the local elections so far leave us with two questions:  says our  political editor Beth Rigby .

They are: How much trouble is Rishi Sunak in, and is Labour headed for a general election majority?

Kicking off our Politics Hub special programme with some initial analysis, Beth reiterates that it's been a "terrible night" for Mr Sunak, with the Tories "absolutely battered" with Tees Valley their "only crumb of comfort".

She says she's spoken to senior Conservatives who say that the prime minister should "own these losses" and make way for a new leader if the party should lose the election.

It's a little more complicated for Labour, Beth explains, with Sky News figures showing it is on course to be the largest party - but without an overall majority.

Labour figures argue that the party is winning in "battlegrounds" such as Tamworth and Milton Keynes and are on course for victory, she says.

But there's not "massive enthusiasm" for leader Sir Keir Starmer around the country, Beth notes - leaving questions over how he's selling a "changed country" under a Labour government to voters.

"Some in the party think he has more work to do on that," she says.

Our weeknight politics show  Politics Hub With Sophy Ridge  is live now on Sky News.

The fast-paced programme dissects the inner workings of Westminster, with interviews, insights, and analysis - bringing you, the audience, into the corridors of power.

Sophy will be joined by Work and Pensions Secretary  Mel Stride , Labour's shadow home secretary  Yvette Cooper , Reform leader  Richard Tice , Lib Dem  Helen Morgan , and elections analyst  Michael Thrasher .

And on her panel tonight will be:

• James Starkie , former Home Office adviser;
• Caroline Flint , former Labour MP and minister.

Watch  Politics Hub With Sophy Ridge  from Monday to Thursday on Sky channel 501, Virgin channel 602, Freeview channel 233, on the  Sky News website  and  app  or on  YouTube .

Former Tory justice secretary David Gauke is now asked whether there is much affection for Labour, or whether it is simply the country rejecting the Conservatives.

He says he expects Labour will win the next general election "very comfortably" but Sir Keir Starmer will have "less political capital than you would expect".

"I don't think we're looking at a repeat of the popularity Tony Blair had in 1997," he says. 

Mr Gauke says he doesn't believe the mayoral elections are a good indicator of what is happening nationally.

"If Andy Street keeps hold of the West Midlands, that doesn't mean there aren't West Midlands seats that Labour will win off the Tories at the next election," he says. 

The former justice secretary says Labour had a "good set of results" but he doesn't think there is "huge enthusiasm" for the party.

Instead, he says there is "more a sense the country feels time for a change".

"They do look electable - they have come an awful long way since the time of Jeremy Corbyn," he says.

Former Conservative justice secretary David Gauke has said he expects Rishi Sunak to survive as PM following these results. 

He told Sky News they were largely expected and the Conservatives "were always going to get a kicking". 

It "could conceivably have gone worse", he says, adding the Tories have been buoyed by Ben Houchen's win in Tees Valley and saying there is "optimism" for Andy Street in the West Midlands. 

Asked whether Rishi Sunak will survive, he says: "I think he will." 

Mr Gauke says the "threat of a coup attempt has receded" despite some concern a few weeks ago. 

"I don't think there's any momentum behind that idea [now]," he says. 

He adds this will be a "relief" for Number 10. 

More success for Labour. 

The party has gained Tamworth from no overall control, taking nine seats directly from the Conservatives.

It's the morning after the day before for Beth, Ruth and Jess as they pull apart the local election results they have so far.

They discuss what big council losses for the Conservatives could mean for the Rishi Sunak narrative. How does the re-election of Ben Houchen as Tees Valley mayor help him?

Also – are there some niggles for Labour within the results, especially with Muslim communities? Jess explains what she thinks the impact of the Middle East conflict could be in Birmingham.

Plus, all three discuss John Swinney as a contender for Scotland's first minister.

Email Beth, Jess, and Ruth at [email protected] , post on X to @BethRigby, or send a WhatsApp voice note on 07934 200 444.     

The Liberal Democrats used people dressed in dinosaur suits to push a very subtle point about wanting to make the "Conservative government history".

Leader Sir Ed Davey was joined by the blow-up characters for a rally in Winchester to celebrate his party making gains. 

"We need a general election now," he told activists. 

"No matter how long Rishi Sunak stays squatting in Downing Street, the Liberal Democrat general election campaign starts today to make this Conservative government history."

Labour's election success continues as we go into the early evening, with the party gaining another council from the Conservatives.

The Tories have lost 11 seats at Cannock Chase , with Labour gaining the same number. The Lib Dems no longer have a seat, while the Green Party has gained one.

In the North West, Labour has also held Manchester , Trafford and Rossendale .

It's kept Leeds and Wakefield in West Yorkshire as well as Rotherham in South Yorkshire. 

Coventry and Sandwell in the West Midlands are also Labour holds, along with Crawley in the South East.

Elsewhere, the Lib Dems remain in control of St Albans .

We're hearing now from our political editor Beth Rigby on that projection for Labour to be the largest party at the general election but fail to win a majority. 

Beth has been discussing this with Labour sources in recent days, who she says would argue they are not trying to gain vote share in safe seats and are instead targeting battlegrounds. 

"For their tests it's can they pick up seats in marginal constituencies and the battlegrounds they need for a general election majority," she says. 

One source said Labour is on course to win a majority, arguing independents and other small parties won't get 24% of the vote share at a general election. 

They have been saying they are "very happy" with how the vote is distributed around the country. 

The party has also said it should be taken into account how much better they are expected to do in Scotland with a weakened SNP. 

Beth says these elections show the public believes the government is the problem - the question now is whether Labour is the answer. 

"When you look at the number of seats lost by the Conservatives and picked up by Labour, this is not a story of straight switching from the Conservatives to Labour," she says. 

By Professor Michael Thrasher, Sky News elections analyst

After counting more than two million votes cast in the English council elections, a provisional National Share Estimate shows the Conservatives on just 26% of the vote, a 19-point drop compared with the 2019 general election and one of its worst ever performances in any set of local elections.

Labour's vote rises from 33% in 2019 to 35% on the current estimate, after more than half the wards have now declared.

The Liberal Democrats are on 16%, an increase of five percentage points on the 2019 election. This follows a familiar pattern where the party does better in council elections than in parliamentary elections.

Other parties, such as the Greens, Reform, and independents, are projected to be on 22%.

This figure assumes also that votes for the nationalist parties in Scotland and Wales, places where no local elections took place, are unchanged from the previous election. The same condition applies to the 18 seats in Northern Ireland.

Be the first to get Breaking News

Install the Sky News app for free