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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

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A Guide to Airports in Italy

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5 Must-See Towns on Italy's Amalfi Coast

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Where to Go on Italy's Mediterranean Coast

How to Save Money on Your Italian Vacation

Best Places to Go in Northern Italy's Veneto Region

Best Italian Lakes to Visit on Your Vacation

The 14 Best Day Trips from Rome

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Your Trip to Milan: The Complete Guide

The Top 10 Places to Go in Tuscany

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.   

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The 9 Best Places to Visit in Italy—According to You, Our Readers

By Maresa Manara

The announcement of our annual Readers' Choice Awards is always a very exciting time of the year. It's a time when you, our readers, get to speak up and tell us about your favorite travel experiences, from hotels and airlines to cruises and islands , but also about your favorite cities and countries. Over 244,000 of you took part in our 2022 Reader’s Choice Awards survey, and you didn’t hold back, telling us everything—from where to eat to what to see, and when to go. It's been loud and clear this year that you love traveling to Italy . Whether you're on the lookout for beautiful beaches, eye-catching ancient monuments, or imaginative new restaurants in the city center, Italy’s one of your top spots.

Read on for the best places to visit in Italy as voted by you in this year's Readers' Choice Awards.

All listings featured in this story are independently selected by our editors. However, when you book something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission. View our full list of the 2022 Readers' Choice Award winners here .

Piedmonte’s capital city of Turin is known for being Italy’s most elegant city. A mixture of baroque buildings and grand old coffee shops make up the city center, with views of the Alps nearly every which way you look. While Turin was once a little down on its heel, the 2006 Winter Olympics helped kick start a city-wide regeneration and it now boasts first-rate museums, including the National Museum of Cinema and the National Automobile Museum (Fiat, famously, came from here.)

Most people tend to stick around the city center, with its cafés and eateries around Piazza San Carlo, but the coolest offerings lie a bit outside. Try Scannabue , located in the San Salvario district, for bowls of pasta tossed in rabbit ragu or head to Ristorante Consorzio in Quadrilatero Romano for offal-based plates and organic wines.

Insider Tip:  Some of the world’s best chocolate comes from Turin, so head to chocolatier Odilla for chocolates made from cocoa sourced from small-scale producers and hazelnuts from the nearby Langhe region.  

As one of the most visited spots in Italy, Siena sure has kept its style. Get your bearings at the central square, Piazza del Campo, where you can admire its gothic town hall and the Torre del Mangia, a 14-century tower where 400 steps will take you to the very top. Be sure to stop by the Duomo di Siena to marvel at its mosaic-covered floor. 

Other activities worth doing on a Siena day-trip include browsing the local market (weekly on a Wednesday) or whiling the day away in one of the many hole-in-the-wall wine bars ( Trefilari Wine Bar , a 2-minute walk from the Torre del Mangia, gets our pick).

Insider Tip:  Look out for the Piccolomini Altarpiece in Siena’s cathedral, which Michelangelo worked on in the 1500s.

Bologna may be a small Italian city , but it punches well above its weight. It's easy to spend a whole day wandering the covered sidewalks of its city center or discovering street art along the character-filled university quarter of Via Zamboni. Take a break with a coffee or cocktail at Le Stanze , an atmospheric chapel-turned cocktail bar, or stop by Sorbetteria Castiglione for a warm, gelato-filled brioche, made fresh that day. Visit the main square, Piazza Maggiore and ask a local to show you the whispering walls—rumor says this is where lepers confessed their sins in the Middle Ages. Then keep walking until you reach Via Clavature, home to a daily fruit and vegetable market alongside family-run delicatessens and cosy wine bars. Stop by Bologna’s own little Venice on Via Piella, where a tiny window opens onto a stream. Book a table for dinner at Osteria Broccaindosso —a simple trattoria where there’s no menu—just plates of local charcuterie, grilled meats, and bowls of tortellini pasta.

Insider Tip:  Walk through town from the city center to the Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca, in the hills of Bologna. There are unforgettable views of the city from there. 

Palermo is southern Italy’s hottest destination right now. The city has worked hard to shed its reputation of corruption and crime, replacing it with smart public art campaigns like the new ‘Spazi Capaci’—a series of anti-mafia contemporary artworks installed in Palermo ’s most important buildings.

See Palermo through a different lens with a ‘Through my Eyes’ tour, run by recently-arrived migrants and organized by non-for-profit community hub, Moltivolti . Then have lunch at the upscale Osteria dei Vespri which does mostly fish-based dishes, with a separate menu for vegetarians and vegans. Later, check-in at Palazzo SantaMarina , an ancient aristocratic house in Palermo’s historic center that was a brothel, a bomb shelter, and a school before being restored into one of the city’s smartest new hotels (ask manager Gennaro if you can head to the downstairs spa for a tour of Palermo’s ancient ruins from 4 th century B.C.—plus some of the best spa treatments in town).

Insider Tip:  Palermo has mild weather almost all year round, so when the sun’s out make like the locals and drive 20 minutes to the white-sand, turquoise waters of Mondello beach , just outside the Capo Gallo Natural Park.

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Rome may be the capital but Milan is the Italy’s fashion and design epicentre. Stay at one of the city’s design hotels, including  Vmaison Brera Milano or Hotel Vico , and make a dinner reservation at 28 Posti in the hip Navigli district, where the seafood-based menu also includes rigatoni with miso sauce and desserts with bee pollen.

When it comes to sightseeing, the Duomo offers a fascinating look at religion and art across six centuries, and you can climb to the rooftop for all-encompassing views over Milan and the Alps. Nearby, the Santa Maria delle Grazie church houses Leonardo da Vinci's The Last Supper, but it gets busy so you’ll need to buy tickets well in advance.

Spend an afternoon at Villa Necchi Campiglio, the art deco architectural icon that was featured in Luca Guadagnino’s I am Love . Or visit Fondazione Prada, the contemporary art museum run by the eponymous fashion house, to see an ever-rotating collection of art and architecture. Later, stop by N'Ombra de Vin in the Brera district for Milan’s famed aperitivo, a cocktail, and a (free) food buffet.

Insider Tip:  Milan is surprisingly close to Lake Como , making it the perfect place for a day trip. The train goes to Como from Milan Centrale and takes around 40 minutes.

Italy’s southern city is fast, chaotic, wild, and gritty—and that’s all part of its charm. Start with an espresso and a ricotta-filled pastry at Pasticceria Di Costanzo . Not far away is Naples’ Archeological Museum, through you’ll need to buy tickets in advance to see the Roman and Pompeii ruins.

Take time away from the museum to stop for lunch. You’ll have likely heard of L'antica Pizzeria da Michele Taverna and Cafe , where queues last more than two hours. But, if you want to skip a line, it’s worth checking out Gino e Toto Sorbillo or trying one of the city’s fried pizza pies at family-run Pizzeria De' Figliole .

Visit the Chiesa dei Girolamini, home to a library with 15 th and 16 th century books before heading to the San Gennaro Catacombs, where a complex network of tunnels takes you past ancient crypts.

Insider Tip:   Catch a 45-minute ferry to Capri from Naples port and book a foraging tour with local nature enthusiast Luigi Esposito . He’ll take you to see the famed blue grotto sea cave up close, away from the crowds.

It may feel like the whole world descends on Venice daily, but there’s still a surprising amount of hidden magic to this water-logged city. To miss the crowds, start your day at St Mark’s Basilica in Piazza San Marco (an 8:30 am arrival will mean you get ahead of the crowds). If you’re short on time, pay the extra 2 euros to see the Pala d’Oro, a gold altarpiece decorated with more than 2000 emeralds, sapphires, and rubies.

While Venice’s male-dominated gondola scene is well-known, it’s worth asking your hotel to book you a gondola ride down the grand canal with the world’s first female gondolier, Giorgia Boscolo.

Venice’s food scene is robust. The most welcoming cicchetti (tapas) bars are in the district of Canareggio, off the tourist path. Head for Mezzopieno, where the buffet is always accompanied by a drink (their all-natural orange wine is particularly good).  \

Insider Tip:  Try the Venetian version of street food—fresh, hot, fried fish wrapped in paper, at Frito Inn, in Campo San Leonardo.

2. Florence 

Florence is undoubtedly Italy’s creative capital. Michaelangelo, Leonardo DaVinci, and Gucci’s founder, Guccio Gucci, came from here, and there are masterpieces everywhere you look. Cultural fiends should head to the Uffizi, which is positively brimming with art—300,000 pieces, to be exact—including paintings and sculptures by Botticelli, Raphael, Da Vinci and Caravaggio.

Take a break with lunch at Trattoria La Mescita , a two-minute walk from Michangelo’s David statue. It’s the kind of hole-in-the-wall spot that serves wild boar pasta, hearty stews, and minestrone soup on marble-topped tables, plus 2-euro glasses of wine to wash it all down. Later, cross the Ponte Vecchio and head towards the Oltrano neighbourhood, home to bars, boutiques and smaller, more intimate art galleries run by up-and-coming Florentine artists.

Insider Tip:  Visit the Santa Maria del Fiore church to experience the splendor of its pink and white frescoes and 14th century bell tower, then climb to the top for awe-inspiring views over Florence.

Think of Rome and the first image that comes to mind may be the Trevi Fountain or the Sistine Chapel . And while a visit to Rome without seeing the ancient city’s archaeological sites would be remiss, it’s worth checking out the lesser-known spots as well to get full-picture view of one of the best places to visit in Italy.

Stop by MAXXI, Rome’s museum of contemporary art, home to work by Europe’s coolest creators. A walk along the Tiber River at dusk is a must-do—in the summer months, stallholders set up shop along the water selling everything from clothes and shoes to locally-made pottery.

Rome’s vibrant food scene means there’s no shortage of dining options. Casual eatery SantoPalato in the San Giovanni neighborhood is our pick. It’s just a 25-minute walk from the Colosseum, and takes you past some of Rome’s most verdant parklands including Villa Celimontana and Parco del Celio.

Insider Tip:  Escape the city with a day trip to Ostia Antica where you can see near-perfectly preserved Roman ruins and chat to the friendly archaeologists who are always puttering around. Or head out onto Isola Tiburtina, the world’s tiniest island, accessible from Ponte Cestio bridge.

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33 Top Tourist Attractions in Italy

Italy is home to the greatest number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the world. High art and monuments are to be found everywhere around the country. Its great cities of art, like Rome, Venice and Florence are world famous and have been attracting visitors for centuries.

Besides its art treasures Italy also features beautiful coasts, alpine lakes and mountains. No wonder it is often nicknamed the Bel Paese (beautiful country).

With so many amazing sights, putting together a compilation of things to do is no easy task. The following list of top tourist attractions in Italy however should give a good indication of why over 40 million foreign tourists visit this country ever year.

33. Trulli of Alberobello

The Trulli of Alberobello is a group of conical-roofed houses located in the town of Alberobello, in the Puglia region of Italy.

Built in the 14th century, the houses are made of stone and have a distinctive conical roof comprised of flat stones. Ingeniously they were put together without the use of mortar.

Over the years, The Trulli of Alberobello has become a popular tourist destination, attracting scores of visitors interested in traditional architecture and local history.

In 1996, the Trulli of Alberobello was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site, recognising its cultural and architectural significance. Many of them have been restored and converted into holiday homes, restaurants, and shops. Thus, allowing visitors to experience this unique aspect of Puglia’s cultural heritage.

32. Island of Procida

Procida is a small island located in the Campania region of Italy, within the Bay of Naples.

The island is known for its colourful houses, picturesque fishing villages, and charming streets. Radiating a serene and unspoiled atmosphere, Procida is a popular destination for tourists who want to get away from the more crowded and touristy destinations of the nearby Amalfi Coast.

The island is famous for its incredible seafood cuisine. It also has a vibrant local culture that includes several festivals and events. Most notably, these include the Festa di Sant’Antonio Abate in January and the Festa di Santa Maria delle Grazie in September.

For those who want to go there, Procida is easily accessible by ferry from Naples, Ischia, and the Amalfi Coast.

31. Ponte Vecchio in Florence

The Ponte Vecchio is one of Florence’s most famous landmarks.

Rich in character, the medieval bridge crosses the Arno River and is lined with shops. Many of which sell gold jewellery and other high-end items.

The Ponte Vecchio has been a center of commerce since the 13th century and is one of Europe’s oldest and most historic bridges.

Remarkably, the Ponte Vecchio was also the only bridge in Florence to survive the German retreat during World War II. It has since become a symbol of the city’s resilience and history.

A hugely popular tourist attraction , the bridge is often crowed with tourists. Visitors can admire its picturesque architecture, stroll along its bustling shopping streets, and take in the views of the Arno River.

30. Verona Arena

The city of Verona is largely known for its role in the play Romeo and Juliet, but dating back even further is the Verona Arena. This incredible arena is actually a Roman amphitheater constructed 2,000 years ago.

Despite its age, the Verona Arena is remarkably well preserved, and at its peak it hosted performances for more than 30,000 people.

It is still in use today as a performance venue, enjoying a status as one of the largest open-air opera venues in the world. Over the years, famous operas like Aida, La Traviata, and Romeo and Juliet have all been performed here.

Surrounded by restaurants, cafes, and shops, the area around the venue is a popular spot for evening walks. Thus, making it a hub of cultural activity in Verona.

29. Herculaneum

Herculaneum was an ancient Roman city destroyed, along with Pompeii, in the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD.

It was preserved for centuries under layers of ash and pumice before being discovered in the 18th century. Since then, it has become a popular tourist destination and a key site for studying ancient Roman life and culture. The site is known for its well-preserved buildings and innovative use of concrete and waterproofing techniques.

Herculaneum was a smaller city than Pompeii but is better preserved, with many buildings and frescoes still evident.

Visitors to Herculaneum can see a range of well-preserved ancient structures, including houses, thermal baths, and a theatre. Also visible are the remains of shops, public squares, and streets.

Elba is an island nestled off the coast of Tuscany in the Tyrrhenian Sea.

The island has a long history, and it was previously inhabited by Ligures Ilvates, Greeks, Etruscans and Romans. Elba’s most famous resident, however, was Napoleon, who was banished to Elba in 1814. Napoleon’s winter and summer homes still stand, and they are available for the public to tour.

Easily accessible by ferry from the mainland, it is the largest island in the Tuscan Archipelago. It is also a popular holiday destination for Italians and international tourists.

Known for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and rolling hills, Elba is covered in vineyards and olive groves. The island is also rich in culture. Boasting several quaint medieval towns and historic fortifications, you should explore if you have the time.

One of Elba’s big attractions is that it is a fantastic destination for outdoor activities, including hiking, cycling, and water sports. It is also noted for its local cuisine, particularly seafood and olive oil.

27. Gran Paradiso National Park

Nestled in the Graian Alps is Gran Paradiso National Park, a gorgeous destination with stunning mountain views and incredible hiking opportunities. The Gran Paradiso National Park was first established as a way to protect the local ibex population.

The wildlife today includes those ibex as well as badgers, wolves, lynx, ermine and more than 100 bird species.

The park is easily accessible by car from the nearby towns. Seasonal things to do include summer hiking, spotting the foliage in autumn, cross-country skiing in winter and photographing flowers come spring.

Its main attraction is the Gran Paradiso peak, the highest mountain entirely in Italy. Scaling the peak provides sensational panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and peaks.

26. Palazzo Ducale in Urbino

The Palazzo Ducale is an enormous Renaissance palace located in the city of Urbino, in the Marche region of Italy .

Designed by the famous architect Luciano Laurana, it was built in the 15th century and served as the residence of the Duke of Urbino.

The Palazzo Ducale features some notable architectural elements. They include a central courtyard, a grand staircase, and a series of loggias and balconies.

The palace is also known for its outstanding art collection, which includes pieces by artists such as Piero della Francesca and Raphael. The latter of which lived and worked in the palace during the Renaissance.

Today, the Palazzo Ducale is a museum and cultural centre. It is open to visitors, who can explore its halls, courtyards, and exhibitions.

25. Trevi Fountain in Rome

One of the must-see attractions in Rome is the Trevi Fountain. The fountain was constructed in 1762 by Nicola Salvi, and it depicts the god Neptune surrounded by underwater creatures in battle.

Trevi Fountain is known as a place to throw in a coin to secure a return trip to Rome, and throwing two coins can secure a loving relationships with a Roman man or woman.

When lit up at night, the fountain looks spectacular, and many visitors come to see it under illumination in the dark. It is a popular spot for evening strolls and is a romantic venue to propose to your loved one.

See also: Where to Stay in Rome

24. Santa Maria delle Grazie in Milan

The Holy Mary of Grace, or Santa Maria delle Grazie is a church and Dominican convent located in Milan . The church was built in the 15th century and is best known for being the home of Leonardo da Vinci’s famous painting of ‘The Last Supper’.

Depicting the moment when Jesus told his disciples that one of them would betray him, the painting resides in a refectory attached to the church. It is one of the world’s most famous, impressive and studied works of art and attracts millions of visitors annually.

Today, Santa Maria delle Grazie is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As well as the famous painting, visitors can also explore the church and its enchanting surroundings. Should you wish to come here, it is best to arrive early, or just before it closes, to beat the crowds.

See also: Where to Stay in Milan

23. La Pelosa

Off the western coast of the mainland, and in the heart of the Tyrrhenian Sea, is the island of Sardinia .

While Sardinia boasts a number of stunning beaches , none is so picturesque or well-known as La Pelosa. The beach is so spectacular because of its sandy shores and shallow waters, making it easy to see right down to the ground through crystal-clear sea.

La Pelosa is often compared to the Caribbean, bringing some of the tropics to Italy. Surfing, kayaking and even scuba diving are all possible things to do at or near La Pelosa.

22. Basilica of San Vitale in Ravenna

Dating back to the 6th century, the Basilica of San Vitale is a spectacular church in Ravenna .

Renowned for its Byzantine architecture, the church is famous for its stunning mosaic decorations. They cover its walls, ceilings, and floor and depict scenes from the Bible.

The church is also known for its circular plan, a unique feature among early Christian churches. Its grand dome, which dominates the structure’s interior, is also notable.

The Basilica of San Vitale is yet another UNESCO World Heritage Site in Italy. The church is open to visitors, who can explore its interior and admire its intricate mosaic decorations.

If you want to fully appreciate its historical and cultural significance, it is worth booking a guided tour of it.

21. Dolomites

The Dolomites are a spectacular mountain range in the northern Italian Alps. They are known for their distinctive jagged peaks, which are made of dolomite rock and have a characteristic reddish-brown color.

A popular tourist destination, The Dolomites attract outdoor enthusiasts, nature lovers, and adventure seekers.

It offers visitors many opportunities for outdoor activities, including hiking, rock climbing, mountain biking, skiing, and snowboarding.

The area is also famous for its picturesque alpine landscapes, lush green valleys and crystal-clear lakes. All of which form stunning views of the surrounding mountain ranges.

The Dolomites are also home to several historic villages, including Castelrotto, Cortina d’Ampezzo, and Selva Val Gardena. They are popular places to visit for those seeking a traditional Italian alpine experience.

20. Basilica di San Francesco in Assisi

The Basilica di San Francesco, or Basilica of Saint Francis, is one of the most significant religious pilgrimage sites in Italy. Located in Assisi, the basilica was constructed in the 13th century to honor Saint Francis himself.

Although Saint Francis was a man of simplicity and poverty, the basilica is anything but. The Romanesque structure was built with two levels as well as a crypt, ornate windows and thousands of pieces of art. The Basilica di San Francesco consists of two churches, the Upper Church and the Lower Church.

The Upper Church is famous for its frescoes, painted by some of the greatest artists of the Italian Renaissance. Most notably Giotto, Simone Martini, and Pietro Lorenzetti. These frescoes depict scenes from the bible and of the life of St. Francis. The Lower Church is better known for its simplicity and elegance.

19. Sassi di Matera

In the town of Matera, there are a collection of ancient cave dwellings known collectively as the Sassi di Matera. These dwellings are thought of as the very first human settlement in all of Italy, and they may be as many as 9,000 years old.

The dwellings are carved right out of the rock, and many of these caves still house homes, businesses and cafes today. It is an incredible experience to tour ancient caves from early humans and then sip local wines from a similar cave just a short walk away.

18. Mount Etna

Mount Etna is an active volcano located on the east coast of Sicily . It is one of the most active volcanoes in Europe and can erupt a few times a year.

Geologists and volcanologists consider Etna to be a vital site for scientific research. Experts study it to understand its volcanic activity and the processes that shape the Earth’s surface.

Located within a national park called Parco dell’Etna, the precipice towers to a height of about 3,329 metres. It dominates a landscape of lush forests, rolling hills, and rugged, volcanic terrain.

Walking along the craters and fissures is one of the most spectral things to do in Italy and those who dare to get close enough can see the lava or steam. The volcanic soil is renowned for growing grapes, which means the visitors to Mount Etna will have access to an array of fantastic local wine.

17. Duomo of Orvieto

The Duomo of Orvieto is a cathedral located in the central Italian town of Orvieto.

Famous for its magnificent façade, it is one of the country’s pre-eminent examples of Gothic architecture. The cathedral was built over several centuries, starting in the 13th century and dedicated to the Virgin Mary. It was conceived to be a grand and imposing structure that would demonstrate the power and wealth of the town.

Its façade has sculptures and reliefs depicting scenes from the Bible. It also portrays intricate patterns and the lives of saints and allegorical figures.

Inside, the cathedral’s interior is equally impressive. Much of the artwork in the Duomo, which depicts apocalyptic stories and tales from Revelation, were done by Luca Signorelli.

16. Pizza Napoletana

While you’ll find excellent pizza all over Italy, there’s one place that’s absolutely the best: Naples . This is where pizza was born and where it’s still king.

Unlike pizza in places like the United States, Neapolitan pizza is generally very thin-crusted and saucy and is expected to be eaten as a whole pie while sitting down.

Although every pizzeria in Naples makes a decent pizza, some places display the label “Vera Pizza Napoletana” which indicates that the pizzeria follows the standards of The Naples Pizza Association.

See also: Where to Stay in Naples

15. Portofino

With its picture-perfect harbor, verdant scenery and haphazard rows of hilltop and waterfront homes, Portofino is one of the prettiest towns on the Italian Riviera.

Located just a short drive south of Genoa , the little fishing village has been a popular day-trip destination for centuries.

Portofino is home to landmarks like the 16th century fort called Castello Brown and the 11th century church called St. Martin, but the real attraction in Portofino is the relaxed way of life.

Visitors come to stroll along the Ligurian coastline, shop for souvenir glass jewelry and dine on Italian cuisine paired with the local Pinot Grigios.

14. St. Mark’s Basilica in Venice

St. Mark’s Basilica, known to locals as the Basilica di San Marco, is the crowning jewel of the Piazza San Marco in Venice .

The enormous church was completed in the 11th century, and it boasts more than 500 columns, several stunning domes and countless Byzantine mosaics that use gold extensively.

Also of note are the bronze Horses of Saint Mark, which date back to antiquity and watch over the basilica’s entrances. Be sure not to miss the treasury or the Museo Marciano, both of which contain a staggering collection of early gifts like jewels, sculpture and tapestries.

Capri is a small island located in the Gulf of Naples.

It is known for its stunning rugged coastline, crystal-clear waters, scenic cliffs and grottoes. Capri is also famous for its luxurious lifestyle, attracting many wealthy visitors and A-List celebrities.

The island accommodates several cultural and historical landmarks. These include the Villa Jovis, which served as the Roman Emperor Tiberius’s residence. It also hosts the Blue Grotto, a sea cave renowned for its intense blue light. Surrounded by charming cafes and shops, the Piazzetta is a picturesque square that is also well worth visiting.

Whilst on Capri , there are also many opportunities for outdoor activities on the island. Visitors can enjoy swimming and boating. Exploring the many scenic trails and paths hat wind through its rugged terrain are also popular things to do.

12. St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome

The star attraction of the Vatican in Rome is St. Peter’s Basilica. Arguably, it is the most famous church in the world. It is also the centre of the Catholic Church.

The basilica is named in honor of St. Peter. One of the twelve apostles of Jesus, he is said to be buried beneath its altar.

The current building was completed in 1626 after over 120 years of construction. It is a huge church with an interior that could fit a space shuttle together with its booster rockets. The St. Peter features a mix of Renaissance and Baroque architectural styles.

Many people come to St. Peter’s Basilica for mass. However, even if you are not religious, it is worth coming here to see the impressive artwork.

That includes several sculptures by Michelangelo. It also incorporates its stunning centrepiece dome, designed by Bramante, Michelangelo, and Bernini.

11. Valley of the Temples

The Valley of the Temples is an archaeological site in Agrigento on the island of Sicily.

It is notable for containing the remains of several ancient Greek temples from the 5th century BC. These include the Temple of Hera (Juno), the Temple of Concordia, and the Temple of Heracles (Hercules).

The site impresses with its well-preserved Doric-style columns and the stunning views it portrays of the surrounding countryside.

As a UNESCO World Heritage site, it is one of the most important examples of ancient Greek architecture outside of Greece.

A prominent attraction in Sicily, The Valley of the Temples is a must-visit for those interested in archaeology, ancient history, and architecture.

10. San Gimignano

San Gimignano is a picturesque hill town in the Tuscan hills of Italy. It is famous for its well-preserved medieval architecture and its 14 iconic towers.

At the height of San Gimignano’s wealth and power, more than 70 towers were built to defend the town against enemy attacks.

After the plague devastated the city in 1348, San Gimignano’s power faded, which kept enemies away and preserved many of the city’s medieval towers.

Easy to get to from Florence and Siena, the town is known for making delicious white wine – Vernaccia di San Gimignano. It also has a vibrant atmosphere, with several celebratory events and festivals taking place throughout the year.

9. Manarola

Located in the province of La Spezia, Manarola is a small town in the Liguria region of Italy. It is best known as one of the fabulous five towns that make up the Cinque Terre .

Manarola features brightly colored houses, steep cliffs, and breathtaking views of the Ligurian Sea. It is a favored destination for those who enjoy photography and painting.

The town is a popular destination for tourists who like hiking and boating. It also has several quaint cafes and restaurants that serve delicious menus of local cuisine.

If you don’t fancy walking the Cinque Terre trail, don’t worry, you can always get to Manarola via the train line that connects the five towns.

8. Leaning Tower of Pisa

The world famous Pisa Tower was built over a period of about 177 years. Soon after the construction started in 1173 the tower began to sink due to a poorly laid foundation and was left alone for almost a century.

When the construction resumed the engineers built higher floors with one side taller than the other to compensate for the tilt and the tower was finally finished in the 2nd half of the 14th century. Since 2001, the famous tower in Pisa is again open to those wishing to climb it’s 296 steps.

7. Lake Como

Lake Como is part of the Italian Lake District an area popular with visitors for well over 100 years for its combination of fresh air, water, mountains and good weather.

The lake is shaped much like an inverted ‘Y’, with two branches starting at Como in the south-west and Lecco in the south-east, which join together half way up and the lake continues up to Colico in the north.

Lake Como is famous for the attractive villas which have been built here since Roman times. Many have admirable gardens which benefit from the mild climate and are able to include tropical as well as temperate plants.

6. Positano

Positano is a small town located on the Amalfi Coast , a stretch of coastline renowned for its rugged terrain, scenic beauty, picturesque towns and diversity. The city seems to be scattered from top to bottom down a hillside leading to the coast.

Though Positano grew and prospered in medieval times, by the mid 19th more than half of the population was gone. In the 20th century it went from being a poor fishing village to one of the most popular tourist attractions in Italy with the help of author John Steinbeck who wrote about its beauty.

Pompeii was an ancient Roman city near present-day Naples, buried by the volcanic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD.

But far from being destroyed, the city, along with its buildings, streets and art, were preserved under layers of ash and pumice.

Today, Pompeii is one of Italy’s most popular tourist destinations. It also is a significant archaeological site, offering a glimpse into daily life in ancient Rome.

The ruins include well-preserved public buildings, such as the forum, temples, and bathhouses. It also incorporates private homes, which feature elaborate frescoes and mosaics.

When visiting Pompeii, be aware the site is very exposed to the elements. So make sure you take an umbrella with you if it looks like rain. Also, wear a hat on hot, sunny days.

4. Piazza del Campo in Siena

One of Europe’s greatest medieval squares, the Piazza del Campo is the principal public space of the historic center of Siena , Tuscany . It is renowned worldwide for its beauty and architectural integrity.

The Palazzo Pubblico and its famous tower, as well as various palazzi signorili belonging to the wealthiest of Siena families surround the shell-shaped piazza.

The twice-per-year horse-race, Palio di Siena, involves circling the Piazza del Campo, on which a thick layer of dirt has been laid, three times and usually lasts no more than 90 seconds.

3. Santa Maria del Fiore in Florence

Santa Maria del Fiore is the main cathedral of Florence . Also known as the Duomo, it is one of the city’s most famous landmarks.

A remarkable example of Gothic architecture, the cathedral took over 140 years to be built. On completion in 1436, it was consecrated by Pope Eugene IV.

The cathedral is known for its distinctive pink and green marble facade and its massive dome, designed by Filippo Brunelleschi. At the time, it was regarded as an engineering feat. It remains one of the largest domes in the world.

The interior of the cathedral is richly decorated with frescoes and features a large nave. It also boasts ornate side chapels and a high altar.

2. Grand Canal in Venice

Referred to as “The City of Water”, Venice is the crown jewel of water cities.

Though, Venice has decayed since its heyday and has more tourists than residents, with its romantic charm it remains one of the top tourist destinations in Italy. The central waterway in the city is the Grand Canal, and it snakes its way through the city between the lagoon and the Saint Mark Basin.

While strolling through Venice offers plenty of opportunities to see the Grand Canal, the best way to experience it is on the water. Locals get around via the water buses called vaporetti, but many travelers prefer the private water taxis or even the romantic gondola.

See also: Where to Stay in Venice

1. Colosseum in Rome

The Colosseum is arguably Italy’s most famous attraction.

Rome’s historic amphitheater is one of the greatest engineering feats of ancient times. Completed in 80 AD, it was used for gladiatorial contests and public spectacles, such as animal hunts and mock sea battles. At its peak, it could seat up to 50,000 spectators.

Whilst it has been damaged over the centuries due to natural disasters, looting, and stone quarrying, much of the structure remains.

Now protected as a UNESCO World Heritage site, The Colosseum can be visited independently or as part of a guided tour.

However you choose to see it, a good tip is to visit this venue about an hour before sunset. That way, you see it during the day. Then at dusk, and most spectacularly under lights at night, as the light fades.

Map of Tourist Attractions in Italy

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Reader interactions.

May 9, 2016 at 4:53 pm

Amazing places. Please when is the best time to visit Italy?

March 2, 2015 at 8:27 am

I’m an Italian girl and I can agree with all of you. These place are only the tip of the iceberg, Italy is a majestic country, full of life, art, culture and beauty. I’m very lucky :3 )

August 21, 2014 at 12:52 am

Grt list, is it ok to go Italy in oct 2014? Anyways what is the best time to visit Italy?

May 15, 2014 at 1:44 am

Just been to a place called Matera. Visit sassi. Breathtaking place

April 26, 2014 at 6:51 am

Nice list! Yes, There is something missing in it, but you should have a list of 1000 attractions because in Italy every single little village has something beautiful to show

February 9, 2014 at 5:17 am

hey where is LAKE GARDA

February 2, 2014 at 2:12 am

this is really amazing!!!!!!

January 25, 2014 at 12:55 am

wow this really inspired me to go there.

November 26, 2013 at 2:10 pm

I love San Gimignano!!!

November 10, 2013 at 6:51 am

What about Lake Garda? One of the largest lakes in Italy!!!

September 21, 2013 at 10:08 pm

I think the Dolomite region (northwest) is also spectacular. Very charming Alpine like nature, with beautiful but strange looking mountains. Cortina d’ Ampezzo with its surrounding area is difinitely worth a visit.

September 10, 2013 at 7:13 am

Great choice of destinations! Italy really does have many delights on offer. My personal favourite is San Gimignano. It’s wonderful for cycling and exploring and with its thirteen outstanding medieval towers, it is clear why the town is on the UNESCO world heritage list.

August 19, 2013 at 6:57 pm

What a fantastic list, the most beautiful selections…I would likely add the greater Portofino area of Rapallo, Sestri Levante especially if you are in the Cinque Terra as it is a super short train ride up the coast line

July 25, 2013 at 8:32 pm

So beutiful places i like this.

January 17, 2013 at 2:20 pm

This is a great list, and many of the places are covered in these tours from Canada… I hope to visit sometime soon.

November 11, 2012 at 10:44 am

Thank you so much I am going to Italy next summer now I know where to go.

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Aosta Valley

The Aosta Valley is a paradise for visitors seeking outdoor experiences in nature while exploring history and traditions The smallest region in Italy, dotted with the highest peaks in the Alps, it is the ideal destination for anyone who enjoys winter sports and high-altitude walks. Its green valleys and fairy-tale castles make the Aosta Valley an enchanting place to experience all year round.

Piedmont is sure to enchant you with its mountains, hills, typical flavours and uniquely elegant cities An extraordinary heritage of art and history, culture and nature, characterises Piedmont, a region with a thousand faces, one more interesting than the other: cities of rare elegance, mountains that lend themselves to splendid skiing or walking, fascinating villages, hills that are among the best known in the world for their extraordinary wine production.

Lombardy: a dynamic land immersed in the present and reaching toward the future, but with an extraordinary heritage of art and nature Lombardy is a region in the north of Italy known for its industry and finance, of course, but also for its art and extraordinary landscapes, starting with the picturesque lakes and its mountains, Valcamonica and Valtellina in primis. Capital and symbolic city, Milan represents the industrious heart that goes hand in hand with other cities with a vibrant spirit.

Trentino is sure to amaze you with its immense natural heritage, the spectacular splendour of the Dolomites and fascinating sites steeped in history Discover Trentino’s culture of slow travel, taking the time to savour every corner among nature and cultural trails and educational farms. You will find hundreds of hotels offering wellness centres for truly relaxing holidays for the whole family in some of Italy's most beautiful villages, set in unique landscapes.

South Tyrol

Alto Adige is a dream place to discover all year round amidst green valleys and snow-capped peaks Combine the relaxation of spa treatments with the pleasure of fun in the snow for a real wellness boost amidst Alpine lakes, beautiful villages and state-of-the-art ski facilities suitable for all ages. All this and more in the majestic scenery of the Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Alto Adige.

Veneto, a region of wonder, with cities of art of undisputed beauty, as well as the most pristine nature The beauty of Lake Garda, the charm of the Dolomites, the sea of Jesolo, the hills covered with vineyards and the relaxing thermal baths, on top of an immense artistic and historical heritage, elegant cities such as Venice and Verona, quaint villages and breathtaking landscapes. Veneto is all this and much more.

Friuli-Venezia Giulia

Friuli-Venezia Giulia Friuli Venezia Giulia: a treasure chest nestled between sea and mountains A border region sandwiched between the Friulian Dolomites and the Upper Adriatic, blessed with an immense cultural heritage resulting from the influence of different cultures and peoples, cosmopolitan and modern, Friuli Venezia Giulia will also seduce you with its temptations of relaxation, sport and fun.

Tucked-away villages, secret little beaches and superb nature: how enchanting Liguria is! Liguria is a wonderful strip of land enclosed between the sea and the mountains, with pastel-coloured houses and breathtaking views. With lush unspoilt nature, many small towns to discover and an incomparable culinary tradition, it enraptures the eye and the heart.

Emilia Romagna, a region of unrivalled charm, with immense artistic beauty and unparalleled hospitality Emilia Romagna with its Riviera Romagnola offers beach tourism that attracts families and young people to its shores every summer. Rich in sites of historical and cultural interest, this region boasts a world-renowned wine and food tradition. Skilful hospitality does the rest, making Emilia Romagna an ideal holiday destination in every season. Video credits: Oliver Astrologo

Tuscany will win you over with its unique landscapes, cities of art, thousand-year-old history and fantastic food Tuscany’s magical atmosphere evolves day by day as you stroll around the cities of art, cycle in the parks, enjoy the sea or savour its typical products, in a region with a one-of-a-kind natural, cultural and historical heritage that has fascinated visitors for centuries.

From Assisi to Perugia, via Gubbio, Lake Trasimeno and Marmore Falls: Umbria is a truly enchanting tourist destination Peaks covered in lush forests and large valleys outlined by rivers, lakes and waterfalls; sorrounded by villages and castles, crossed by paths steeped in history, art and culture, in a natural environment that helps to restore the body and soul: Umbria, the Green Heart of Italy, is all this and much more.

Le Marche, a plunge into the history, art and architecture of a region with the scent of the sea and redolent of traditions and hospitality A great variety of landscapes and an infinite range of colours that make the area's natural beauty incomparable, plus an artistic heritage that fears no comparison: this is how the Marches, with an area of no more than 10,000 square kilometres, will captivate you forever.

Sardinia: a journey to the island of the emerald sea, nuraghi, unspoilt nature and millenary traditions Crystal-clear waters, beaches of soft, white sand, granite rocks framed by wild, fragrant Mediterranean scrub: welcome to Sardinia, an island of a thousand contrasts that will also seduce you with its unique archaeological heritage and its people's innate sense of hospitality.

Lazio is not only Rome: landscapes and monuments of Lazio Rome, the capital of Italy and a unique open-air museum in the world, is enough to make Lazio one of the most beautiful and interesting regions. Even in terms of landscape, it boasts an area of great impact and remarkable variety, with its long coastline, beautiful hills and Apennine mountains. A destination to fall in love with.

Abruzzo, a journey through history between sea, mountains, flavours and unspoilt nature in parks and protected areas A region in central Italy, Abruzzo has two souls and one heart. Predominantly mountainous and hilly, it overlooks a beautiful stretch of the Adriatic Sea. Here, you will find the highest peaks of the Apennines, such as the Gran Sasso and the Majella massif, as well as the only Apennine glacier, but also some of the most popular beaches.

Campania offers landscapes, history, culture and a gastronomic tradition that the whole world envies A consistently mild climate, lush nature framing breathtaking landscapes, unspoilt villages and fairy-tale coastlines: this is Campania, a region that sums up centuries of cultures, between West and East, in a single Mediterranean jewel known for its unparalleled hospitality. A destination for the soul, the eyes and the palate.

Molise, a tiny region with grandiose landscapes: come and discover its history and culinary tradition Molise is a region steeped in history, characterised by numerous tasty food and wine delicacies, but also by rich nature reserves and villages that seem crystallised in history. A destination yet to be discovered, amid marvellous seashores and breathtaking high cliffs

Apulia: the sunny region between two seas and warm hospitality in places rich in history Located in the heart of the Mediterranean, it is a magical combination of artefacts, history, art and unspoilt nature, amidst beautiful coastlines and picture-postcard landscapes. This is Puglia, a region of golden beaches and crystal-clear waters, intense flavours and fascinating destinations: Castel del Monte, the trulli, the islands passing through towns kissed by a unique and unforgettable light.

Basilicata, a region of ancient origins, suspended between two seas and with mountains of great beauty Basilicata is a region where the passage of man has left its mark since prehistoric times. With the ancient name of “Lucania”, it is enriched by an incredible artistic heritage. Not to mention its never-boring panorama, which ranges from the Lucanian Dolomites to the Pollino Park, passing through two seas.

Calabria is the region of crystal-clear sea, the Riace Bronzes, Reggio Calabria and Capo Vaticano, a captivating mix of history and beauty Calabria, also known as the tip of the Italian boot, is a region in Southern Italy characterised by the incredible diversity of its landscapes, with the proximity of mountains to a splendid sea that attracts tourists from all over the world.

A dive into Sicily, where a sea of art, culture and nature will seduce you and become eternal love A predominantly hilly and mountainous area, but one that wins the hearts of tourists from all over the world with its wonderful sea and rich cities with a charm all their own. Sicily is a picture-postcard island characterised by the indelible marks of the people who have lived there and made it unique, amidst artistic and cultural testimonies of enormous value.

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Wander-Lush

20 Best Italy City Breaks for 2024

Italy was made for slow travel, but not everyone has the luxury of time. These 20 phenomenal Italian cities are all perfect for a short city trip of 2-3 days.

Each of the cities on this list is a year-round destination that is easy to reach by plane or train. All are walkable, and packed with wonderful things to see and do in a short period of time – from outstanding museums and Renaissance architecture, to once-in-a-lifetime foodie experiences .

Read on to discover the ideal destination for your next weekend break in Italy.

• Also see: The ultimate list of Italy’s most beautiful cities

Please note: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). Learn more.

Quick tips for planning the perfect city break in Italy

• Use Skyscanner to search for low-cost airfares to Italy from Europe and elsewhere.
• Book your train tickets well in advance, especially if you’re visiting during summer high season. In Italy, I recommend using Omio to find and buy tickets .
• Consider an annual travel insurance policy that will cover you for multiple city breaks and save you cash in the long run. I use and recommend HeyMondo – use my link to get 5% off your policy .
• Save time when you arrive by pre-purchasing an eSIM for Europe that will automatically activate when you touch down. I recommend using the Airalo marketplace to buy an eSIM (prices start from just 4.50 USD).
• To make the most of a short city break, consider a guided walking tour. Viator is the best online marketplace for unique city tours and cultural experiences in Italy and the rest of Europe. Below, you will find specific tour links for each of the cities mentioned.
• If you want to go beyond the city for a Tuscan wine tasting or alpine hiking, hire a car to make efficient use of your time. I recommend using the Discover Cars website to find a great deal.

20 of the best Italy city breaks

Capital of Tuscany and one of the most classically beautiful cities in Italy , Florence needs no introduction. Considered the birthplace of the Renaissance, Florence is brimming with fascinating architecture and art and is undoubtedly one of the best cities to visit in Italy.

This is an all-year city that is best visited in the shoulder or low season, outside of the busy summer months. Florence is easy to reach by train from elsewhere in Italy/Europe, while Peretola International Airport makes it an ideal fly-in-fly-out destination for a short Italian city adventure.

Not that you should rush it: If you have a few more days up your sleeve, be sure to take advantage of the picture-perfect Italian landscapes, wineries and cellar doors that are in close proximity to the city centre.

Some of the best things to do in Florence in 2-3 days include:

• Climbing to the top of Il Duomo di Firenze , part of the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. This 13th-century landmark is the main attraction in Florence, and climbing the 463 steps to the top is a must-do for panoramic city views.
• Seeing Michelangelo’s David sculpture , a symbol of the Italian Renaissance, in the flesh. The Galleria dell’Accademia is filled with more treasures so be sure to set aside ample time to explore.
• Strolling around the Boboli Gardens , designed for Florence’s famous Medici family before opening to the public in the 18th century. There are lovely statues and fountains scattered throughout the grounds.
• Photographing the carousel in the Piazza della Repubblica , one of Florence’s most picturesque squares.
• Watching the sunset from Ponte Vecchio over the glorious Arno River.

⭐ Top-rated city tour: Uffizi and Accademia Small Group Hidden Highlights Walking Tour with skip-the-line access or full-day Florence Vespa Tour for seeing the city sights the local way.

🛎️ Where to stay: 4F Boutique Hotel Florence .

Those seeking a city escape with a bit of edge need look no further than Naples. Italy’s third-largest city is one of the oldest continuously inhabited settlements in Europe. Its storied past combined with an interesting contemporary history makes Napoli one of the best Italy city breaks.

It’s easy to reach Naples Airport via budget carrier Wizz Air. Stay somewhere central to discover Naples by foot, or use the underground metro to make efficient use of your time (some of the stations have fabulous art installations ).

With just one day in Naples , you can take in many of the must-sees. A long weekend is recommended so you can add-on a day trip to the Amalfi Coast, Pompeii or Herculaneum .

When in Naples, don’t miss:

• Browsing the Mercato La Pignasecca , a lively produce market selling everything from baked treats to fresh pasta and seafood.
• Wandering the charming Santa Chiara neighbourhood and dropping in on the medieval Monastero di Santa Chiara , which includes a church, monastery, cloisters, tombs, and an archeological museum.
• Touring the Sansevero Chapel Museum and beholding the ‘Veiled Christ’ (1753), a one-of-a-kind sculpture by Naples-born Giuseppe Sanmartino that depicts Jesus Christ draped in a marble shroud.
• Eating an authentic Napoletana pizza at L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele . At this Naples institution you can watch the Pizzaiuoli ‘pizza artists’ at work. The four-step process they take to make the world’s best pizza is so important to Naples culture, it’s even a UNESCO-listed culinary tradition .
• Feasting on sfogliatelle , the shell-shaped pastry that is famous in Campania region. Popular fillings include orange-flavoured ricotta (traditional), almond or pistachio. Pasticceria Giovanni Scaturchio has a good selection.

⭐ Top-rated city tour: Naples Street Food Tour with a local expert, with ragù, baccalà, pizza and sfogliatelle tastings.

🛎️ Where to stay: Dante Maison de Charme .

If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-track destination for an Italian city break (whether that be in winter or summer – it’s beautiful year-round!), look no further than Perugia, the capital of Umbria. Sitting between Rome and Florence, Perugia can be visited as an add-on to a break in either city, or as a standalone destination. 

With stunning winding city streets leading out to incredible lookouts over the city (and all of Umbria), this university town is teeming with fantastic restaurants and bars, offering a taste of local life.

While it’s not as ‘bucket-list’ as more famous Italian cities such as Venice and Rome, there are a few excellent things to do in Perugia, and it’s ideal for eating some rich and hearty Italian food (Umbria’s a foodie destination, and its epicentre is Perugia!) and enjoying Aperol spritzes and local Umbrian wines under a sunny sky. 

Plus, Perugia has an international airport, with flights from several European capitals. By road, it’s just a two-hour journey from either Rome or Florence. 

The best things to do in Perugia include:

• Visiting the National Gallery of Umbria . A must for art connoisseurs, the National Gallery of Umbria houses one of the best art collections in all of Italy. It’s also the only gallery in the country that’s located in the municipal government’s building, which means the architecture is phenomenal!
• Enjoying the Umbria Jazz Festival . It takes place every year in summer and is one of the most significant events in this part of Italy. More information about the festival here .
• Visiting the Casa del Cioccolato . Umbria doesn’t mess around when it comes to food, and one of Perguia’s staples is chocolate. You can learn all about Umbrian chocolate, with tastings and talks, at Casa del Cioccolato .
• Taking a side trip to Assisi . The UNESCO World Heritage town of Assisi is a short drive from Perugia; it’s where Saint Francis, one of Italy’s patron saints, was both born and buried, and remains an Italian pilgrimage site to this day.

⭐ Top-rated city tour: Hot Air Balloon Ride over Perugia , for the best views of the city and the Perugian countryside.

🛎️ Where to stay: Locanda della Posta Boutique Hotel .

By Claire from Europe in Winter

Nestled in the heart of Tuscany, the medieval city of Siena is a gem of Italian culture and history. Known for its stunning Gothic architecture, lively piazzas and mouth-watering cuisine, Siena is the perfect destination for a short trip to Italy.

With its compact size and walkable streets, you can easily explore all that this charming city has to offer in just a few days.

Siena can be reached by air or train from Florence, with a journey time of just over an hour. While Siena is a year-round destination, the best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months, when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller.

There are so many wondrous things to see and do in Siena. Here are a few must-see sites that should be on every traveller’s list:

• Wandering the Piazza del Campo – this 13th-century square is the heart of Siena and one of Europe’s greatest medieval squares. The large square is famous for its distinctive shell shape and being home to the Palio di Siena horse race, a tradition that dates back to the Middle Ages.
• Visiting the Siena Duomo – this stunning Gothic cathedral is a masterpiece of Italian architecture and a must-visit for art and history lovers. The cathedral is home to many works of art, including frescos by Pinturicchio and sculptures by Donatello. The highlight, however, is the Libreria Piccolomini , a library filled with frescos and ancient manuscripts.
• Indulging in the heavenly flavours of freshly made Pici pasta , the city’s specialty dish that originated in Siena. Enjoy a leisurely meal at Osteria da Divo , a restaurant that lies in a series of carved-out medieval vaults under the Duomo.

⭐ Top-rated city tour: Siena Duomo and City Walking Tour , with skip-the-line privileges at the cathedral.

🛎️ Where to stay: Villa Scacciapensieri Boutique Hotel .

By Renee from Dream Plan Experience

If you like your city breaks with a side of spectacular nature, Bergamo should be on your wish-list. Nestled in northern Italy’s scenic Lombardy region, Bergamo is only 30 kilometres from the Swiss border and a day trip’s distance from Como, Garda and Maggiore lakes.

The Bergamo Alps provide a backdrop to the city centre and are tantalisingly close if you have time for a day hike .

Bergamo is notorious for being one of the chilliest places in Italy in winter , thus summer or shoulder season is a fine time to visit. It doesn’t get as crowded here as in other cities – plus you can always escape to nature if you need some reprieve. Bergamo shares Il Caravaggio International Airport with Milan, and is only a 20-minute drive away.

Spend your days in Bergamo indulging in the following activities:

• Wandering the cobblestoned streets of the old walled city, Città Alta , which towers over the lower part of the city. The defensive walls were built by the Venetians and are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Admiring the gilded icons and lavish tapestries inside the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore , the 12th century church that is the heart and soul of Bergamo.
• Browsing the Accademia Carrara , the city’s finest art museum-academy that was established in 1780 and holds an exquisite collection of works by Botticelli, El Grecco and others.

⭐ Top-rated city tour: 2.5-hour walking tour , focusing on the historic Upper Town and accompanied by a private guide.

🛎️ Where to stay: GombitHotel .

Milan is a bustling city in Northern Italy known for its business and fashion scene.  Modern skyscrapers mixed in with historic buildings make this city different from all the others in Italy.

Milan makes for the perfect quick trip in Italy because you can see most of the must-sees in just 1-2 days. It’s also easily reachable by train or plane.  Milano Centrale is the main train station in Milan and has many high-speed connections.  There are two airports, making it easy for travellers to fly in and out of the city from all over. Malpensa Airport is the main international airport and Linate is the smaller airport, mostly used for domestic or European flights.

The best time of the year to visit Milan is spring and early fall.  Summers can get very hot in Milan and winters can get quite cold.

Here are some of the must-see things to do in Milan. These are great if you’re travelling to Milan with kids or without!

• Visiting the centre of Milan, Piazza del Duomo . Here you’ll find the stunning gothic cathedral, the Duomo di Milano . For some of the best views of the city and to see its incredible architecture up close, head to the Duomo’s rooftop terrace.
• Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is Italy’s oldest active shopping gallery. Come here to shop, eat and enjoy the stunning architecture.
• Viewing Leonardo da Vinci’s iconic painting, ‘The Last Supper’ .
• Grabbing a coffee and a pastry and enjoying the atmosphere at the only Starbucks Reserve Roastery in Europe .

⭐ Top-rated city tour: Skip the line at the Milan Duomo & The Last Supper , two of Milan’s must-sees accompanied by an expert guide.

🛎️ Where to stay: Galleria Vik Milano .

By Kim Swanson from Traveling Swansons

One of the most unique (and convenient) city breaks in Italy would have to be the Sicilian city of Catania. As the second-largest city on this southern Italian island , Catania is home to Sicily’s highest-traffic airport and boasts countless flight connections across Italy and the rest of Europe – meaning it’s very easy to reach.

Though this city is often outshined by Palermo, Catania is an excellent addition to any trip to Sicily and makes for the perfect stand-alone destination as well. Charming cafes, pottery studios and other artisan souvenir boutiques , gorgeous churches – Catania has it all.

Because it is located in southern Italy, Catania is a great year-round destination. If you want to beat the crowds while still making the most of the beautiful weather, visiting in the shoulder seasons of April-June and September-November is ideal.

Some of the top things to do on a trip to Catania include:

• Visiting the Catania Fish Market , where you can see vendors hawking freshly caught seafood and other local produce. There are also some great restaurants (such as Scirocco Sicilian Fish Lab ) where you can try some of the local specialties. 
• Taking in the view from the dome of the Chiesa Badia di Sant’Agata . Here, you can get an incredible panoramic view of Catania and, on a clear day, imposing Mount Etna in the distance.
• Sampling Catanese and Sicilian fare such as pasta alla norma, arancini, pasta con le sarde and much, much more.
• Going on a day trip to nearby Taormina, Siracusa or Mt Etna .

⭐ Top-rated city tour: Catania Street Food Walking Tour , visiting the historic fish market and vibrant Benedettini neighbourhood.

🛎️ Where to stay: Palazzo Marletta Luxury House Hotel .

By Maggie from The World Was Here First

The handsome port city of Genoa is the gateway to Liguria’s Italian Riviera. Steeped in history and showcasing an abundance of Baroque, Gothic and Renaissance architecture, this is definitely one for the history buffs.

Genoa has a long history of maritime exploration and is famous for being the birthplace of Christopher Columbus. Between the 12th and 15th centuries, Genoa was one of the world’s most prosperous and prolific empires, forging Genovese colonies all over the Mediterranean and Black Sea regions, including in the Spanish city of Cadiz, in Lisbon , and as far afield as Romania .

Being a coastal city, Genoa is quite seasonal so it’s a good idea to visit in either late spring or early autumn when most businesses remain open. Fly into either Genoa or Milan Linate airports, or consider arriving and departing from Nice, which is only 3 hours from Genoa by car.

Add these experiences to your Genoa list:

• Delve into the historical centre, Le Strade Nuove , and get lost down the narrow cobbled laneways known locally as caruggi .
• Tour the magnificent University of Genoa , one of the oldest educational institutions in Europe with a history that goes back to the 15th century.
• Visit the Lighthouse of Genoa and discover more about the city’s history at the small museum inside.
• If it’s warm enough, paddle your feet in the Ligurian Sea. Boccadasse Beach is a popular swimming spot where you can lounge in the shadow of Genoa sea district’s fabulous coloured houses.
• Eat your bodyweight in Genovese pesto , a local specialty made with extra virgin olive oil from the groves around Liguria.

⭐ Top-rated city tour: Genoa Walking Tour , six hours of hidden treasures and street food treats.

🛎️ Where to stay: Grand Hotel Savoia .

Located right at the border with Slovenia , in the northeast part of Italy, Trieste is a bit different from other cities in the country. But that’s what makes it such a unique place to visit.

For centuries, Trieste was at a crossroads, under various influences and rulers, and only became part of Italy in 1954. Today you can still enjoy the multicultural and cosmopolitan vibe the city has always been known for. This is a perfect destination for an alternative Italian city break.

The city has its own airport, but still the easiest way to get here is via Venice. You can also take the train to Trieste from Ljubljana , the nearby capital of Slovenia.

The best time to visit Trieste is in late spring or early autumn when the weather is good for sightseeing and you can enjoy long, warm days.

The best things to do in Trieste include:

• Sitting down in one of many historical cafes and enjoying the local cafe culture , a true legacy of the Habsburg heritage of Trieste.
• Admiring the Piazza Unità d’Italia , one of the most beautiful main squares in Italy.
• Taking in the best panorama of Trieste from the 16th-century Castello di San Giusto.
• Visiting the fairytale-like Miramare Castle built for Archduke Ferdinand Maximilian Habsburg in the mid-19th century.
• Finding Roman ruins – the best ones are Teatro Romano and the Roman arch.
• Trying the local food, a mix of Austrian, Italian, and Slovenian cuisines . Local dishes include jota (a stew), chifeletti (a dough-like mixture of mashed potatoes, flour, butter, and eggs), and goulash alla Triestina (a local variation of the Hungarian goulash minus the peppers).
• Hopping across the border to visit Piran and Slovenia, an easy side trip from Trieste.

⭐ Top-rated city tour: Discover Trieste on Foot , a short, private walking tour customised to your interests.

🛎️ Where to stay: The Modernist Hotel .

By Kami from Kami and the Rest of the World

Located on the Adriatic Coast, Bari is the largest city in Apulia . While it is most popular for being the getaway to ferry routes connecting to other countries on the Mediterranean coast, the city itself is well worth a visit.

Because of its location, Bari is a great choice for a warm winter escape (although it does snow at times!). But for a superb experience, late spring (May-June) and early fall (September-October) are the best choices.

If you visit from another European country, you’ll likely arrive here by way of Bari’s International Airport Karol Wojtyla (BRI), located just 8km from the city centre and connected to the Bari Centrale Train Station by both buses and trains. Most of the flights are seasonal, but there are some operators that fly year-round.

If, however, you fly from overseas, chances are you’ll arrive by train after flying into one of Italy’s larger airports (Rome or Milan). Bari Centrale is ideally located close to both the Old and New Town and receives a lot of domestic and international traffic. Or you may hop on a bus from another Italian city.

Prefer to drive? Rent a car once you’ve landed in Italy and enjoy the gorgeous views along its roads. Just pay attention that you need to pay tolls to use the highways.

Some of the best things to do in and around Bari include:

• Getting lost in the Old Town. Bari Vecchia has retained its medieval plan and charm. You’ll walk on small streets, meandering past old buildings, excellent places to eat, and plenty of souvenir shops. Don’t miss visiting the Basilica of Saint Nicholas and Cathedral of Saint Sabino.
• Taking a day trip to Alberobello . The trullis are part of a UNESCO Heritage Site and offer a really charming experience. Hop on a train or bus then spend the day walking among the gorgeous houses, stopping to take photos, eat, and shop for souvenirs. Matera, Locorotundo, Polignano a Mare, and Monopoli are also gorgeous and within easy reach from Bari.
• Walking the Bari Lungomare . After you’ve indulged in the local staples such as focaccia or orecchiette, take a walk along the seafront promenade. Or, if you are a morning person, show up early and shop for fresh seafood.
• Staying at a hotel in the Old Town . Without a doubt, this is the best area to stay and it offers options for every budget. iH Hotels Bari Oriente is a 4-star hotel close to the train station and just 5-min walk from the seafront promenade.

⭐ Top-rated side trip: Excursion to Alberobello and Matera from Bari , to see two UNESCO Sites in one day.

🛎️ Where to stay: B&B Boutique Four Rooms .

By Cris from LooknWalk

Matera, a small city located just an hour outside of Bari, is easy to reach by bus or train. It has a fascinating history that you can easily discover with just a couple of days in Italy. 

Continuously inhabited for over 9,000 years, Matera is where residents dwelled in caves carved into the cliffside until the 1950s, when the Italian government relocated them to the upper part of the more modern town. Several decades later, the revitalisation and restoration of Matera started, turning the caves back into homes and creating hotels and restaurants.

In 1993, it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its fascinating history dating to the Palaeolithic period and its unique ‘Sassi’.

You also might recognise Matera if you’ve seen films like James Bond: No Time to Die or The Passion of the Christ , as Matera is a popular filming location for its old-world look.

If possible, try to go any time other than the summer, as it is very hot and people are swarming the city.

Must-dos in Matera include:

• Touring the Casa Noha Museum , where you’ll learn more about the caves and the unique history of the town.
• Checking out the Casa Grotta di Vico Solitario , a reconstruction of an 18-century cave house, where you can get a taste of what life was like in Matera long ago.
• Visiting the Park of the Rupestrian Churches , ornate churches built into the cliffside that are also under UNESCO World Heritage designation.
• Dining in a local cave trattoria , where they serve simple, delicious dishes with ingredients from the area. Southern Italy is also known for its amazing wine and olive oil, so make sure you sample those!

⭐ Top-rated city tour: Private City Tour in a Classic Ape Calessino (a local tuk-tuk).

🛎️ Where to stay: Sextantio Le Grotte Della Civita .

By Megan from Megan Starr

At the tip of Italy’s boot lies a patch of land surrounded by pristine Mediterranean sea. This island is renowned for great food, beautiful beaches and a slightly sordid relationship with the mafia.

Sicily is the perfect getaway in Italy and its capital, Palermo, has a wealth of history and culture alongside some of the island’s best street food and ornate churches. If you are staying a few days or planning a long extended vacation, Palermo is the very best place to stay in Sicily .

Multiple flights run daily between Palermo and Rome as well as various other major European airports. Palermo has a direct train connection from Catania, the other major hub on the island.

When visiting Palermo, be sure to add these sights to your agenda:

• Visiting the UNESCO World Heritage Listed Palatine Chapel , where a reported 6,000 tiny golden mosaics adorn the ceiling.
• Heading over to the Palermo Cathedral for the best views over the city. Admittedly, it looks much more beautiful on the outside than the inside!
• Having a gander around the historical markets Vucciria, Ballaro or Il Capo , a must for both people watching and trying some of the best Sicilian street food on offer. By night, the market stalls make room for little bars with live music and are a popular hangout for both locals and tourists.
• If you’re visiting in summer, head to the suburbs, known as Mondello, where a long stretch of sandy beach and various lidos await sunseekers and beach lovers.

⭐ Top-rated city tour: ‘The Godfather’ Origins Tour from Palerma, including Corleone and Portella della Ginestra.

🛎️ Where to stay: B&B Hotel Palermo Quattro Canti .

By Caroline from Veggiewayfarer

One of the most beautiful places for a short city vacation in Italy is undoubtedly the city of Arezzo . The medieval old town is particularly impressive, a hidden pearl of Tuscany that should not be missed in this region.

Arezzo is only an hour’s drive southeast of Florence, making it easy and quick to reach by car or public bus.

You can visit Arezzo all year round as the city is not overly touristy. The warmer months are particularly enjoyable and not as crowded as other cities.

Arezzo has always been famous for its fine porcelain ceramics, and also for its metalwork. Handicrafts and jewellery are deeply rooted in the city’s history and once brought Arezzo great wealth and prosperity. Unbelievably, ten tons of gold are processed here every month!

A stroll through the city centre will reveal shops that sell fine jewellery and beautiful ceramics, including the world-famous Arezzo vases.

Other things to do in Arezzo include:

• Taking a walking tour through the historic centre of Arezzo .
• Visiting the Piazza Grande , the stunningly beautiful main square and a wonderful place for a coffee break. This classic Italian square slopes down at an angle, creating an almost surreal setting.
• The monthly antique market in Arezzo, one of the most famous in all of Tuscany.
• Eating dinner at Teorema del Gusto restaurant , which serves delicious handmade pasta and excellent wines.

⭐ Top-rated city tour: Private Pasta-making Class with wine tasting in a family kitchen.

🛎️ Where to stay: Il Piccolo Cavour Charming House B&B .

By Martina from PlacesofJuma

Rome, for a classic Italy city break in the Eternal City

Most first-time Italy city breakers will choose Rome for a long weekend away as it is easy to get to, has lots of history – making it an open-air museum – and boasts delicious food and wine.

Rome is a popular destination all year round, especially in summer, so if you want to avoid bus tours and huge crowds while you step back in time at the Colosseum, avoid May, June, July, August and September.

Fiumicino Airport (FCO), also known as Leonardo da Vinci, is the main airport in Rome. To get to the city from the airport, consider the bus, the FL1 train, which stops at Trastevere, Ostiense, Tuscolana, and Tiburtina stations, or a private taxi.

Since you only have a short break, you will be limited in time to see everything, but that’s OK, as one of the best things to do in Rome is wander and people-watch!

Other highlights of Rome include:

• Visiting the Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, and the Spanish Steps . All are close to each other, so you can do your best Lizzie Mcguire coin toss and then Audrey Hepburn poses within 10 minutes of each other. 
• For art, architecture, and culture, set aside a morning to visit St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican , where you will see ‘The Creation of Adam’ by Michelangelo at the Sistine Chapel . From here, you can walk to Castel Sant’Angelo .
• Learning to whip up local delicacies – pizza, pasta and tiramisu – with one of these celebrated cooking classes in Rome .
• Visiting diverse neighbourhoods in Rome at night , including the famous Monti , stunning Trastevere , Via San Giovanni , and the less touristy Ostiense . Here you can dine, drink, and debrief all the cool things you did that day.

⭐ Top-rated city tour: Gladiator Gate and Arena Floor Special Access Colosseum Tour , including fast-track entry to the Colosseum.

🛎️ Where to stay: The Liberty Boutique Hotel .

By Gemma from Two Scots Abroad Travel Guides

Viterbo is an off-the-beaten-path city located around 100 km northwest of Rome.

You can easily reach it by direct train from Roma Tiburtina or Roma Ostiense stations. The closest airport is Rome Fiumicino.

Viterbo is famous throughout Italy for its thermal baths. In fact, the hot springs are also among its most important historical landmarks. Dante Alighieri mentions in his Inferno the Bullicame spring, which flows about 1 km from the city’s historic centre.

In addition to being a perfect destination in Italy for relaxing and rejuvenating, Viterbo boasts a wonderfully preserved medieval quarter and ancient defensive walls.

The best times to visit Viterbo are spring, fall, and winter, from around October to April. That’s partially because the thermal waters that feed the spas are very hot. The Viterbo thermal baths are accessible even to travellers on any budget – some are free, others are priced at around €10-18, and the Salus Terme is an exclusive €45-per-day spa.

Mark down these must-dos:

• Exploring San Pellegrino District , starting from the Piazza San Lorenzo onto which the Cathedral and the Palace of the Popes overlooks. Admission to the cathedral is free, while for the palace you pay €10 for a ticket that includes an audio guide.
• Bathing at Terme dei Papi , the most popular thermal bath in Viterbo, housing a monumental 2,000-square-metre pool and a natural steam cave.
• Swimming at Bullicame hot spring . Here there is a thermal pool that is free to use.
• Eating pizza at Restaurant il Labirinto , a traditional restaurant located in the historic centre of Viterbo.

⭐ Top-rated city tour: Viterbo Private City Tour , with the Popes Tombs Conclave Palace and the Duomo.

🛎️ Where to stay: B&B dei Papi Boutique Hotel .

By Annalisa from Travel Connect Experience

Turin, capital of the Piedmont region, is one of the most underrated cities in Italy. This elegant metropolis offers a rich mix of history, art and impressive architecture, as well as delicious local cuisine, fantastic panoramas and great photo spots.

Turin is absolutely worth visiting as there’s something here for everyone! Due to its close proximity to France, it has a distinctly French feel, unique to the rest of Italy, and is often called the ‘Paris of Italy’ as a result.

In addition, Turin’s compact size makes it easy to explore in just a few days, plus it gets nowhere near the number of visitors that other Italian cities get, so it never feels crowded. That’s despite Turin being the first capital of Italy!

Turin can be reached in an hour from Milan by train or in two hours if driving. If you’re flying in, the city has its own airport.

The best time to visit Turin is in the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild.

Some of the top things to see in Turin include:

• Climbing the Mole Antonelliana . This iconic landmark tower of Turin has a panoramic terrace you can visit that offers a breathtaking view of the city.
• Touring the Royal Palace of Turin . A former residence of the House of Savoy, this UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts beautiful Baroque-style architecture and stunning gardens.
• Buying a ticket for the Egyptian Museum , where you can see the world’s second-largest collection of Egyptian artefacts.

⭐ Top-rated city tour: Highlights of Turin Private Walking Tour , the best of the city in 2 hours with a local guide.

🛎️ Where to stay: Opera35 Suite & Studio .

By Catrina from 24 Hours Layover

Venice, also called ‘La Serenissima’ or the ‘City on the Water’, features on every traveller’s bucket list. The capital of Veneto region in north-east Italy, Venice’s 100 small islands and bridges can be explored solely by foot. It is most pleasant to visit during spring or early autumn.

Getting lost on the narrow calli (streets) and campi (small piazzas), crossing bridges and canals while watching gondolas glide by – this is what makes this city unique. Here, you can marvel at the beauty of world-famous attractions such as St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace. Remember not to miss out on some of the off-the-beaten-path attractions as well.

With its own airport, Venice is only a couple of hours from other European cities such as London, Amsterdam and Berlin, and is well-connected by train to cities including Paris, Vienna and Munich. 

If you only have limited time to spare, then spend 2 days in Venice , which will allow you to cover many of the best landmarks.

Here are three unmissable things to do in Venice:

• Eating Cicchetti and drinking a Venetian spritz in a traditional bacaro (local bar). Al Mercà is one of the most loved bacari among locals and is close to the Rialto Bridge.
• Enjoying spectacular views of the city and the Grand Canal from Fondaco dei Tedeschi , a rooftop terrace located on the former trading headquarters of German merchants.
• Taking a boat trip to visit Murano, Burano and Torcello or any of the other beautiful Italian islands in the Venetian lagoon.

⭐ Top-rated city tour: Venice In a Day , visiting the Basilica San Marco and the Doges Palace, finishing with a Gondola ride.

🛎️ Where to stay: Hotel Al Ponte Mocenigo .

By Maddy from Venice Travel Tips

For a sweet weekend break in Italy, consider visiting the city of Como in the Northern Lombardy region. Como is easily reachable by direct train from Milan, with Malpensa as the most convenient airport.

It’s suitable for a short visit as you can truly see and enjoy the city of Como in just a short few days, with enough time to squeeze in some Lake Como enjoyment, too. 

The spring months of April and May are the best time to visit Como. In spring, the city is not too busy with tourists, all local activities are open, and the weather is already warm (19°C on average). 

Como offers a good balance of things to see and do for those travelling alone, with loved ones or with friends. For example:

• Hiking in the hills for a view above Como . The most popular route is to first take the Como-Brunate funicular then hike to Faro Voltiano and to the peak of Monte Boletto.
• Checking out some of the many local Italian restaurants serving fresh dishes – think fish, pizzas and of course pastas. The restaurants surrounding the Piazza Alessandro Volta are great options (especially Vintage Jazz Food & Wine ).
• Taking a relaxing boat trip on Lake Como . You can either take a local boat one-way to one of the many villages then take a bus back, or enjoy an official boat tour. Buy tickets on the same day from the main ferry terminal.

⭐ Top-rated city tour: Lugano and Bellagio Cruise from Como , a full day on the lake.

🛎️ Where to stay: Suites&Atelier Lake Como .

By Zoe from Together In Switzerland

Verona is a charming city located in northern Italy’s Veneto region. Known worldwide as the city of love (thanks to William Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet ), Verona is the perfect romantic getaway in Italy for couples.

The city is easily accessible by train, with the Verona Porta Nuova train station connecting to major Italian cities including Milan, Venice, and Florence. Alternatively, the Verona Villafranca Airport offers direct flights from many European cities.

The best time to visit Verona is shoulder season, particularly in April and May, before the summer crowds descend.

Here are some key things to do in Verona:

• Seeing an opera performance at the Verona Arena . This Roman amphitheatre dates back to the first century and is one of the world’s most well-preserved ancient structures. It is now used for concerts and operas in the summer months.
• Exploring Piazza delle Erbe . This lively square is the heart of Verona’s historic centre and features colourful buildings, outdoor cafes, and a daily market. Grab a dessert, sit at the fountain and watch the visitors pass by.
• Admiring Juliet’s Balcony . The balcony where Romeo supposedly declared his love to Juliet is located in a small courtyard near Piazza delle Erbe. Visitors can leave love notes on the walls and take photos on the balcony. However, this area can get quite busy and depending on when you go, there might be a short line.
• Trying the local cuisine . Verona is famous for its hearty food, including dishes such as risotto all’Amarone, which goes perfectly with a glass of local Valpolicella wine.

⭐ Top-rated city tour: The Verona Food, Wine & History Tour , with lunch or a sunset aperitif and a skip-the-line cable car ride.

🛎️ Where to stay: Relais Balcone di Giulietta .

By Diana from Travels in Poland

Parma, one of the best Italy city breaks for foodies

One of the things we love most about Italy is good food, right? Located in the northern Emilia-Romagna Region, Parma boasts some of the most beautiful sights, sounds, and specialty foods in Italy. One of the best non-touristy places in Italy , Parma is the perfect weekend break destination for foodies.

Several trains run daily and can take you from Bologna to Parma in under an hour. The city is easy to navigate and has a laid-back atmosphere. The historic centre is particularly charming, with narrow cobbled streets, colourful buildings and hidden courtyards that add to its allure.

As a city, Parma has been inhabited since the Bronze Age. Its architecture perfectly blends Romanesque and Gothic styles – but the real draw to Parma is its gastronomy. The city is famous for its culinary excellence and is home to some of the most renowned Italian delicacies, like Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, Parma ham and balsamic vinegar.

Don’t miss these food-focused Parma activities:

• Taking a full-day guided tour of a Parmigiano Reggiano factory , a Prosciutto di Parma facility, and a Balsamic Vinegar manufacturer to explore the regional specialties. You’ll learn about how each product is produced before having an opportunity to taste them for yourself.
• If you want a more in-depth look at how to use the city’s famous ingredients in your own dishes back home, take a cooking class in the city centre. You’ll learn how to make traditional Emilia-Romagna dishes with a local home chef.
• If you’re a theatre lover, you must watch an opera at the historic Teatro Regio . Built starting in 1821, the opera house is considered one of the most influential homes of Italian opera–alongside more famous counterparts like Teatro La Scala in Milan or Teatro La Fenice in Venice.
• Finally, walk off some of that food with a long stroll around the University of Parma’s Orto Botanico di Parma Botanical Gardens .

⭐ Top-rated city tour: Private Full Day Parma Food Tour , for an in-depth insight into the history of Parmesan cheese, Parma ham and vinegar.

🛎️ Where to stay: Palazzo Dalla Rosa Prati .

By Lyndsay from The Purposely Lost

3 things to pack for a city break in Italy

• A travel raincoat – this reversible poncho packs down small and is great for travel.
• Comfortable walking shoes – I swear by my Whiten Minimalist Barefoot Shoes .
• Wing Wings – I love these handy bottle protectors for bringing home Italian wine, vinegar or olive oil!

Italy essentials

Here are some helpful websites and resources you can use to organise your trip to Italy.

FLIGHTS: Find affordable flights to Italy on Skyscanner .

TRAVEL INSURANCE: Insure your trip with HeyMondo , my preferred provider for single-trip and annual travel insurance.

SIM CARD: Buy an eSIM and data package for Italy online before you go. My top choice is the Eurolink eSIM from Airalo (10 GB for 30 days).

ACCOMMODATION: Find the best hotel deals in Italy on Booking.com .

CAR HIRE: Find the best price on a hire car in mainland Italy or Sicily using Discover Cars .

DAY TOURS: Book skip-the-line tickets, city tours and day excursions in Italy using Viator .

FOODIE EXPERIENCES: Find the best food tours and cooking classes in Italy on Cookly (use the promocode EMILYLUSH to get 10% off).

More ideas for Italy

• The best Airbnbs in Italy – local accommodation for your city break
• 10-day Italy itineraries – extend your trip
• Guide to the Aeolian Islands – my favourite destination in Italy
• What to buy in Sicily – Sicilian souvenir guide
• Europe by train – itineraries for Italy and beyond
• Winter road trips in Europe – scenic drives in Italy and elsewhere

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25 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Italy

Written by Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated Aug 17, 2023

As the birthplace of the Roman Empire and the Renaissance, it's not surprising that Italy should be so rich in masterpieces of art and architecture, or that it should have more UNESCO World Heritage cultural sites than any other country in the world .

But Italy's top attractions for tourists are not all art and architecture; the country is blessed with lakes, mountains, and a dramatic coastline that give it outstanding natural attractions, as well. You could plan an entire itinerary inspired by a single interest, from Renaissance art to hiking, but most first-time visitors like to get a sampling of the best Italy offers in several different kinds of experiences.

The attractions that follow show off Italy's art, architecture, stunning landscapes, and history, as well as places to relax and enjoy Italian life.

1. Colosseum, Rome

2. florence duomo santa maria del fiore, 3. the grand canal in venice, 4. leaning tower of pisa, 5. vatican city: basilica of st. peter, sistine chapel & vatican museums, 6. the uffizi gallery in florence, 7. cinque terre, 8. lake como, 9. pantheon, 10. trevi fountain, rome, 11. amalfi coast, 12. st. mark's basilica and doge's palace, 13. verona's roman arena and historic center, 14. pompeii and mount vesuvius, 15. roman forum, 16. the valley of temples in agrigento, sicily, 17. milan duomo, 19. rialto bridge, venice, 20. st. francis basilica (basilica di san francesco), assisi, 21. piazza del campo and duomo, siena, 22. strada delle dolomiti (dolomite road), 23. san vitale and byzantine mosaics, ravenna, 24. portofino, liguria, 25. costa sud and costa verde beaches, sardinia.

This huge amphitheater, the largest of its kind ever built by the Roman Empire and the largest of their constructions to survive, remained a model for sports facilities right up to modern times. Built by Vespasian in 72 CE and enlarged by the addition of a fourth story by his son, Titus, the Colosseum was a venue for public spectacles and shows - even mock sea battles.

A wooden floor that was 83 by 48 meters covered two additional underground stories with tunnels, rooms, cells, and passages that provided space for gladiators, workers, wild animals, and storage.

Today, the structure stands in stark contrast to the modern development that surrounds it and is a prominent reminder of ancient times and the extensive history of Rome.

Tip to parents: The Colosseum is one of the most popular places for families in Rome , and you can make a visit even more memorable for your kids by enrolling them in a gladiator lesson. They (and you) can don replica gladiator helmets and shields and learn swordplay with wooden swords.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Rome

Regarded as one of the finest cathedrals in the world, the Duomo Santa Maria del Fiore, or the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore , dominates the Florence skyline. The cathedral was built between the 13th and 15th centuries, with the most famous piece being the extraordinary dome , completed by Filippo Brunelleschi in 1434.

The cathedral's bell tower stands close beside the cathedral in Piazza del Duomo, covered in the same patterned marble typical of Tuscan Romanesque architecture.

Designed by Giotto, the campanile stands 82 meters tall, and you can climb the 414 steps up to a viewing platform with fantastic views of the city and the dome.

Opposite the Duomo is a magnificent baptistery , famed for its bronze paneled doors by Lorenzo Ghiberti. To see the original, exquisitely crafted panels, which have been replaced by exact replicas to protect the originals from weathering, visit the Museo dell'Opera del Duomo , the cathedral museum.

Author's Tips: As is true of many cathedrals in Italy, tourists wearing shorts or tank tops will not be admitted. You can climb the more than 450 steep steps to the top of the dome, inside the dark, narrow space between the inner and outer shells. While climbing, although there is a barrier, you are looking down more than 40 meters into the church below. I've never thought the view was worth it.

Giotto's bell tower has almost as many steps, but they are in a more conventional stairway setting.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Florence

A gondola ride through the canals of Venice is a tradition that travelers have been enjoying for centuries. Venice is a city of islands, and the canals have long been the city's main streets, connected by a labyrinth of narrow passageways.

The Grand Canal is the largest and most famous of these waterways, cutting a wide S-shaped route through the city. Along its sides are the grandest of the palaces once owned by the wealthiest and most powerful families of the Venetian Republic. The best way to see many of the grand palaces, whose fronts face the water, is from a Vaporetto ride along the Grand Canal.

Be sure your gondola ride - and your sightseeing explorations on foot - include some of the more atmospheric smaller canals, lined by old buildings that have remained relatively unchanged for hundreds of years.

Author's Tip: For a uniquely Venetian experience, cross the Grand Canal as the locals do when they are between bridges, on a small gondola called a traghetto. Stripped of decoration and seating, these little boats scuttle back and forth between Ca' Rezzonico and San Samuel, between the San Angelo and San Toma vaporetto stops, and several other points, including one not far from St. Mark's Square.

Although Venetians stand during the crossing, you can sit on one of the narrow benches if you feel uneasy. The small fare saves long walks between bridges.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Venice

The Leaning Tower of Pisa (La Torre Pendente) is just one of many attractions in the city of Pisa , one whose world fame comes not from the considerable elegance of its design, but from a flaw. Work began on the tower in the 1100s, and the sinking, which led to the lean, began by the time the tower reached the third story.

Leaning more and more over the centuries, before restoration work in the 1990s, it was predicted to topple over by the year 2000. Today, visitors can climb up the stairs of the tower for a fabulous view over the city.

The Leaning Tower stands on the Piazza dei Miracoli, a setting it shares with the beautiful Romanesque Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta and a round freestanding baptistery. Each of these features outstanding works of medieval stone carving.

Author's Tip: For the best view of the Leaning Tower, take advantage of the admission to the Museo dell'Opera del Duomo (Cathedral Museum), included in your ticket to the cathedral. The large windows on the upper floor overlook the tower; while in the museum, don't miss seeing the priceless masterpieces of silver and gold work from the cathedral's treasury.

The Vatican is home to some of the world's most priceless art and art collections. The centerpiece is the great Basilica of St. Peter, with the tomb of St. Peter and one of Michelangelo's most poignant works, the Pieta .

Outside is St. Peter's Square, where the Pope addresses followers. Because Vatican City has so many places to visit, you could easily spend a day or more here.

The walls and ceilings of the Sistine Chapel are covered with frescoes by Michelangelo, depicting the creation as described in the Book of Genesis, with scenes that include separating light and darkness, creating Adam and Eve, continuing through the story of Noah and other Biblical events, concluding with the powerful Last Judgement.

After you've seen the interior of the basilica and the Sistine Chapel, if you have any energy left for more sightseeing, tour the magnificent Papal Apartments in the Palace of the Vatican to see the magnificent series of frescoes by Raphael. Like Michelangelo's frescoes in the Sistine Chapel, Raphael's represent the zenith of Renaissance painting.

In addition to being one of the world's foremost art museums, the Uffizi Gallery is a one-stop history of Italian Renaissance art. Although it contains works by some of the great masters of western art, its greatest treasure is its collection of paintings that show step-by-step the evolution in painting that occurred here from the 14th to the 16th centuries.

Here, you will see the first experiments with perspective, as well as some of the early portraits as painters moved beyond religious art, and some of the first use of naturalistic and scenic backgrounds in religious art.

Be sure to see the Uffizi's most famous work: Botticelli's Birth of Venus .

Tip for Parents: Although art museums, especially ones this large, are not common choices for traveling families, the Uffizi has created tours for children that follow themes, such as monsters in art. You can download the brochure from the Uffizi website and follow it like a treasure hunt to find the artworks.

• Read More: Visiting the Uffizi Gallery in Florence: Top Highlights, Tips & Tours

Cinque Terre is a lovely coastal region with steep hills and sheer cliffs overlooking the Mediterranean. The five picturesque villages of Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola , and Riomaggiore can be reached by several means, joined to each other by walking paths, a railroad that tunnels through the headlands to emerge at each town, or a scenic narrow road high on the hillside above.

Hiking between the villages is one of the most popular things to do as it gives travelers the chance to enjoy the landscape. The small towns have maintained a feel of old-world fishing villages and offer a sense of remoteness even in the face of modern tourism. Because landslides can close portions of the trail, it is important to check current conditions before planning a hike.

If you are coming from Florence or Milan , several transportation options are available. If your time is limited, at least see the two most picturesque and charming, Vernazza and Riomaggiore.

Author's tip: The shortest and easiest part of the path carved along the cliffs between the villages is called Via dell'Amore (Path of Love) and connects Riomaggiore and Manarola. Closed by a landslide more than 10 years ago, this paved path reopened in midsummer 2023.

Lake Como is one of Italy's most scenic areas, surrounded by mountains and lined by small picturesque towns. A haunt of the wealthy since Roman times, the lake has many opulent villas and palaces along its wooded shores; Villa Balbianello and Villa Carlotta are the best known, both surrounded by gardens that are open to the public.

The mild climate that makes the lake shore ideal for gardens is also a draw for tourists, with characteristics similar to that of the Mediterranean. Along with the resort towns around the lake, there's an 11th-century abbey.

At the foot of the lake, the small city of Como, important since Roman times, is a short train ride from Milan . From its waterfront, you can embark on excursions around the lake on regularly scheduled steamers that make visiting the lakeside attractions easy.

Author's Tip: The most scenic part of the lake is from the town of Como to the center where the three arms join. A cross-lake ferry links the towns of Bellagio, Varenna and Tremezzo. A good way to see the highlights of the lake and explore these towns, where you'll find most of the attractions, is by taking the Navigazione Laghi tour boat from Como to one of the three and hopping onto ferries to visit the others. Then return to Como on a later boat.

The Pantheon, an exceptionally well-preserved remnant from Roman times , reveals the incredible architectural achievements of the Roman Empire.

The precise proportions of the building, dedicated to the planetary gods, with the height equal to the diameter, and a single beam of light entering the room from the top of the dome, were intended to represent the firmament and the sun.

Disused after early Christian kings forbade the use of a pagan temple as a church, it was later consecrated by the Pope in 609 CE. Italian Kings, the Renaissance painter Raphael, and other great Italians are buried in the Pantheon.

• Read More: Visiting the Pantheon in Rome: Highlights, Tips & Tours

Immortalized in films from La Dolce Vita to Roman Holiday, The Lizzie McGuire Movie and Three Coins in a Fountain , Trevi Fountain is a beloved icon that's a traditional stop on any visit to Rome. A coin tossed over the left shoulder (with the right hand) is supposed to guarantee a return trip.

The origins of the tradition are not clear, but the fountain itself began as a public water source, connected to an aqueduct built in the first century BC. By 1629, Pope Urban VIII wanted a more attractive fountain and asked Bernini to design the revisions. When the Pope died, so did Bernini's plan, and the present design of Neptune, horses, and shells was completed in 1751 by Nicolò Salvi.

The Amalfi Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a stunning stretch of coastline along the Sorrentine Peninsula, south of Naples and Sorrento . Hillside towns are built precariously along the steep mountainsides that cascade down to the sea.

The main towns along here are Positano and Amalfi, with its colorfully domed cathedral. You can tour the coast by road, or hop between towns by boat for different perspectives of the dramatic and almost vertical shore.

While walking paths stretch all along the coast, the most breathtaking scenery for walkers is the Sentiero degli Dei, Footpath of the Gods, at the western end from Positano. My favorite viewpoint is far above the Amalfi Drive, in the village of Ravello. Clinging to the steep mountainside in terraces, Ravello was a sizable town in the 13 th century and the gardens of its former villas make scenic belvederes for enjoying flower-framed views of the coast below.

Author's tip: If you're hoping to spot celebrities, one of the best places to go is the Marina Grande in Positano. One of the largest beaches on the Amalfi Coast , it's also the most crowded. For a quieter experience, try the sandy Maiori Beach at the Amalfi coast's eastern end.

• Read More: Exploring the Top Attractions of the Amalfi Coast: A Visitor's Guide

One of the most important tourist sites in Venice is St. Mark's Basilica, whose ornate Byzantine-inspired façade and domes overlook Piazza San Marco , St. Mark's Square . The building itself is a work of art, with a mix of architectural styles heavily influenced by the Byzantine Empire, showing Venice's long trade connections to the East.

Highlights of the vast interior are the brilliant mosaics that line its domes and vaults, and the high altar covered in gold and jewels. The Treasury contains more glittering gold and jewels.

For an unforgettable view of St. Mark's Square, the tall campanile and the clock tower, climb to the porch to stand among the iconic horses.

Next to the basilica is the Doge's Palace , also filled with priceless masterpieces of Italian art. A tour of the Doge's Palace often includes a chance to visit the prison where Casanova escaped over the rooftops. To get there, you will cross the famous Bridge of Sighs .

• Read More: Exploring St. Mark's Basilica in Venice: A Visitor's Guide

One of the largest and best-preserved Roman amphitheaters still in existence , Arena di Verona is the centerpiece of the centro storico – the town's historic center. It is one of several features from ancient times, when Verona was an important Roman city. In naming it a World Heritage Site, UNESCO notes that "Verona has preserved a remarkable number of monuments from antiquity, the medieval and Renaissance periods."

Verona continued to thrive under the rule of the Scaliger family in the 13th and 14th centuries and as part of the Republic of Venice from the 15th to 18th centuries. The imposing Castelvecchio was both palace and a defensive fortress (now an outstanding art museum), overlooking the beautiful castellated Ponte Scaligero , a 14th-century bridge.

Throughout the old center are Romanesque churches, regal buildings with characteristic Venetian Gothic windows, and stone gates that are more reminders of its Roman origins. And, of course, in a courtyard close to Piazza del Erbe's daily market, you'll find Juliet's Balcony (which was actually built in the 1930s as a tourist attraction).

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in Verona

The still-smoking volcano of Mt. Vesuvius looks down on the remains of the city it destroyed in AD 79. But that same eruption also preserved many of the city's art treasures: frescoes, mosaics, and sculptures that were encased in the lava as it cooled.

Several centuries of excavations at Pompeii have revealed the remains of houses, markets, baths, temples, theaters, streets, and human remains. Visitors can tour the site , walk along the old streets scarred by the tracks of chariots, and see the engineering used by Romans more than 2,000 years ago.

Near Pompeii is the excavated city of Herculaneum , destroyed by the same eruption in 79 CE, but buried in lava and ash that solidified and froze the town just as it was. You can combine visits to the two sites in one day, but a longer stay allows time to ascend to the very rim of still-active Vesuvius.

Pompei is an easy day trip from Naples or from Sorrento.

The Roman Forum may require a little imagination – or a good tour guide – to understand exactly what this area once looked like and how it was used. However, its historical significance as the heart of the Roman Empire cannot be overstated.

Temples were built first, then public buildings, and soon the area became Rome's governmental center. Commerce followed with the building of market halls that made the Forum the hub of public life for the city, and eventually the Roman Empire.

Today, only pillars, partial structures, and foundations of former temples, market halls, courts, and public buildings pay tribute to Ancient Rome, which survived here for a thousand years.

Author's Tip: The Forum, the Colosseum, and Palatine Hill are included in a single two-day ticket. Because the Forum and Palatine Hill both require a lot of walking, if you plan to visit all three, it's best not to do those two on the same day.

• Read More: Visiting the Roman Forum: Highlights, Tips & Tours

UNESCO lists this complex of ancient Greek temples as a World Heritage Site not only for the number of these remaining, but for their remarkable state of preservation. Unlike most other ancient Greek settlements, the temples in Agrigento have not been overlain by building in later eras, so they preserve not only the structures themselves but the landscape of the original community.

The highlight is Tempio di Concordia, one of the most perfect Doric temples surviving anywhere. Almost as large is the Tempio di Juno Lacinia. The columns of the largest, Temple of the Olympian Zeus , were toppled by an earthquake. UNESCO cites the Valley of Temples as "among the most extraordinary representations of Doric architecture in the world."

Address: Valle dei Templi, Agrigento, Sicily

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Sicily

Milan's magnificent Cathedral of Santa Maria Nascente , "Il Duomo" to the locals, is one of the world's largest churches and probably the best example anywhere of the flamboyant Gothic style. Its statue-studded façade (the exterior of the cathedral has a grand total of 2,245 marble statues) and the 135 carved stone pinnacles that crown its roof make quite a first impression, which is reinforced as you step inside.

Fifty-two immense pillars support the soaring ceiling of the nave, and its walls are decorated by the world's largest stained-glass windows. Highlights in the nave are the tomb of Gian Giacomo Medici and a 12th-century bronze candelabrum.

Below the high altar is the crypt and the octagonal chapel with the gold reliquary of San Carlo Borromeo. Under Piazza del Duomo, and reached by stairs near the entrance, are the foundations of a fourth-century baptistery and basilica.

An elevator will take you partway to the roof, where you can walk at a dizzying height among the carved stone pinnacles.

Address: Piazza del Duomo, Milan

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Milan

The Blue Grotto is one of the most visited spots in all of Italy, but there are other reasons for taking the short boat ride from Naples , Sorrento, or the Amalfi Coast to the fabled Isle of Capri . The steep rocky island juts from an intensely blue sea, its craggy cliffs softened by green pines and tropical plants.

The Blue Grotto is only one of the sea caves that cut its cliffs, and the best way to see these, along with the three signature rocks off the south coast known as the Faraglioni, is on a boat tour around the island. Several villas and gardens are open to tourists, and walking trails invite exploration.

From almost anywhere on the island, you can be certain of a good view. The beautiful Villa San Michele has perhaps the finest views on the island from its gardens, which overlook the Marina Grande from the village of Anacapri, high above. You can get there by bus or, for the energetic, by climbing the ancient Phoenician stairs carved into the steep hillside.

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

Standing on more than 10,000 wooden pilings – the originals placed at the time of its construction in 1588 – the stone Rialto Bridge is both an icon of Venice and an essential link between two sides of the city . Until the Accademia Bridge was built in 1854 it was the only way to cross the Grand Canal on foot. It is still the busiest.

Its architect won the commission to design the bridge over such stiff competition as Michelangelo and Palladio, proposing a bridge with three walkways. The outer two are perpetually crowded with tourists catching views of the Grand Canal and its steady boat traffic, while the wider central walk is lined by shops catering to visitors.

Venetians do their shopping at the other side of the Rialto Bridge, in the bustling food market in San Polo. Along that side of the bridge, the canal is lined by restaurants, and you'll find smaller – and better – choices by following the narrow streets into the neighborhood of small shops and artisans.

Author's Tip: Do cross the bridge to wander in these little streets of San Polo. Here you'll find shops devoted to paper, bookbinding, mask and costume making, even one where skilled wood smiths carve the intricately balanced forcole, the oar posts for gondolas.

Although it is one of the world's most important pilgrimage destinations, Assisi and the 13 th -century St. Francis Basilica hold an important place in art history, as well. This dual importance prompted naming the birthplace of St. Francis and of the Franciscan order as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Begun in 1228, at the time of the saint's death, the basilica consists of two churches, the lower in a vaulted Romanesque style and above it a soaring Gothic church. In both of these, you'll find frescoes by masters including Giotto and Cimabue. This is the oldest Gothic church in Italy .

Although the upper church sustained serious damage in a 1997 earthquake, restorations were completed within two years and the church has returned to its earlier appearance. The order of Poor Clares was also founded in Assisi, in honor of St. Clare, a disciple of St. Francis, and the Gothic Basilica of Santa Chiara was built in 1265.

A hilltop castle, la Rocca, and a cathedral with quality frescoes and medieval stone carving are good reasons to spend some time sightseeing in Assisi , and you can visit the nearby hermitage of Le Carceri, where St. Francis retired to pray.

Assisi is a good day trip from Florence and you can get to Assisi from Rome by bus, train, car, or tour.

Among the most famous public squares in Italy, the oval Piazza del Campo in Siena is surrounded by noble palaces, their facades of red clay brick curving to enclose the sloping piazza. Dominating the scene is the elegant Palazzo Púbblico (Town Hall) and its exceptionally tall tower. The severity of the imposing façade and its battlements is relieved by rows of windows with curved Gothic arches.

The slender Torre del Mangia, at 102 meters in height must have been a leap of faith for Medieval architects and builders, especially with its battlemented platform at the top. The Piazza del Campo is best known as the scene of the madcap bareback horserace , the Palio , held twice each summer and one of the top things to do in Italy .

In startling contrast to the red brick elsewhere in the city, the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta and its tall campanile are clad in dramatic stripes of black and white marble. Its façade is even more dramatic, a symphony of arches, gables, columns, reliefs, and pinnacles decorated in intricately detailed stone carvings and statues by Renaissance genius Giovanni Pisano.

Inside Siena's cathedral are works by Pisano, Donatello, Bernini, Ghiberti, and other Renaissance masters, which combine with paintings, sculptures, mosaics, gold and silver work, illuminated manuscripts, mosaics, and stone and wood carving for a collection to rival those of many of the most eminent museums.

This largesse reflects the fact that in the 13th and 14th centuries, Siena rivaled Florence in wealth and for its art and architecture. Although once separate seats of power, today Siena is a short day trip from Florence.

In naming Italy's Strada delle Dolomiti a World Heritage Site, UNESCO described "some of the most beautiful mountain landscapes anywhere, with vertical walls, sheer cliffs, and a high density of narrow, deep, and long valleys."

Long known to climbers and winter sports enthusiasts for some of Europe's finest hiking and skiing (the town of Cortina D'Ampezzo is one of the top ski resorts in Italy and site of the 1956 Winter Olympic Games), the Dolomites are just as appealing for sightseeing and relaxing vacations.

Dotted with charming small villages in breathtakingly beautiful settings, the road between Bolzano and Cortina D'Ampezzo is easy to tour by car. Unlike many such dramatic mountain routes, the Strada delle Dolomiti is well maintained and without the perilous sharp curves and steep drop-offs of many Alpine roads.

Bolzano , at the western end of the route, is worth a stop to see Ötzi, the man who was been preserved in ice, deep inside a glacier for 5,300 years , and the clothing and equipment, frozen there with him.

Author Tip: Do venture off the main road to find some of the villages tucked into valleys, where you'll see houses pained in Alpine frescoes. My favorite stop is in Arabba to take the funicular up Col Burz for panoramic views. Several other lifts that carry skiers in the winter are operating for hikers and tourists in the summer.

From 402 CE, when Emperor Honorius moved his court here from Milan, the Adriatic port of Ravenna was the capital of the Western Roman Empire. Honorius and his sister, Galla Placidia, began the process of making Ravenna a center for Byzantine mosaic art, an effort that was continued in the reign of sixth-century king Theodoric the Great.

The results remain today almost as these emperors saw them, lining churches and monuments in extravagant splendor. The dome of San Vitale is completely decorated (apart from a few frescoes added in the Baroque era) in pictures formed by tesserae so minute, that they combine to look like a painter's fine brushstrokes. More line the walls and chapels, comprising the largest and best-preserved display outside of Constantinople.

In the neighboring Mausoleum of Galla Placidia , the tiniest of tesserae create an intimate and other-worldly space under a low vaulted ceiling of intense blue. In a third building, the octagonal Neonian Baptistery, the entire dome is covered in intricate mosaic pictures.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Ravenna

No great art treasures or momentous historic sites put the little Ligurian village of Portofino on the must-see list, but for pure eye candy and a dose of la dolce vita , it's worth a day-trip from Genoa or a detour on the way to the Cinque Terre.

Looking as though it were built as a film set (no, the Masterpiece series Hotel Portofino , although set here, was not filmed here) with a semicircle of pastel houses facing a cozy harbor filled with boats, Portofino begs to be photographed.

A favorite watering hole for high-flying celebs (you never know who you'll spot in its cafes) and the paparazzi that pursue them, Portofino is filled with stylish boutiques and chic restaurants. But don't be put off; the town's picturesque charm will make you glad you stopped.

Leading the list of the top beaches in Italy , the miles of white sand southwest from the capital of Cagliari slope into clear blue-green water and are backed by a spectacular landscape of rocky promontories and protected wildlands.

Choose your favorite style of beach, from tiny secluded coves hidden between headlands to the three-mile-long sands at Porto Campana, where you can rent kiteboard or paddleboard equipment and take lessons, or go scuba diving in the clear water. Spiaggia Sa Colonia is another long stretch of beach with a gentle, shallow drop-off that makes it a good place to go for families with young children.

Near Chia you'll find Tuerredda Beach , whose warm blue-green waters invite swimmers and snorkelers. For a more intimate experience, beautiful Porticciolo Beach is a secluded crescent of white sand. Most remote of all are the wide white sand beaches of the Costa Verde, farther west, where the coast of Sardinia curves northward.

The miles of white sands are backed by dunes, some of which are the tallest in Europe. Don't expect a lot of tourist services here, but do expect long stretches of white sand where, even in busy August, you can find a spot without other people in sight.

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7 Reasons Why You Should Visit This Authentic Underrated City In Italy

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Italy is indisputably one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world.

Home to numerous iconic landmarks, including Rome's ancient Colosseum , the UNESCO-listed canals of Venice, and the leaning Tower of Pisa to name a few, it attracts tens of millions of visitors every year.

Nonetheless, this authentic cultural city continues to be bypassed by visitors due to its proximity to the trendy Amalfi Coast, which typically captures nearly all tourism revenue in the region.

Here are 7 reasons why you should visit criminally-underrated Naples in 2024:

It Is One Of The Most Culturally-Charged Cities In Europe

First and foremost, we must reiterate that Naples is simply the third-largest city in Italy and its largest coastal metropolis.

Needless to say, there is no shortage of fascinating landmarks scattered around its historic center-and beyond, even.

This is one of Europe's oldest cities , with a recorded history dating back as early as the second millennium BC, and from the monumental fortresses to the underground maze of Roman catacombs to the ornate chapels, there's a hidden gem to be discovered in every corner.

When exploring this UNESCO-listed city, make sure to add the historic Piazza del Plebiscito , flanked by the majestic Royal Palace and a colonnaded basilica, the 13th-century Castel Nuovo, and the medieval Naples Cathedral to your list of places to visit.

It's Not Your Average Open-Air Museum

Naples has developed a reputation for being grittier than your average Italian city.

It certainly looks less ‘polished' and glamorous than the touristy parts of Rome, Florence, or Venice, but this is exactly why it is unique and why it shouldn't be so easily scrapped from your itinerary.

It feels distinctly Italian, or more specificially, Southern Italian : this is far from being another open-air museum for Ancient History-aficionados, and though there are plenty of cultural sites listed, it is still somewhere Neapolitans actually live , work, and socialize.

In sum, Naples is a sprawling metropolis with a big heart, but it won't bow to a visitor's every whim: locals are likely to not be proficient in English, Old Naples is not your typical postcard-ready, colorful Mediterranean port, and not everything revolves around tourism.

It's Full Of Character

While it's true certain neighborhoods in Naples look less clean and, to some, less beautiful than your typical Italian tourist hotspot, how spotless or aesthetically pleasing do you expect an ancient maze of winding alleys approaching a 3,000-year-anniversary to be?

Where tourists are likely to see ruined buildings and underdevelopment, however, travelers will find a city full of character instead , with streets so narrow clothes are hung out to dry between opposite houses, hidden bookshops-turned-bar in the evenings, and local pasticcerie .

In all honesty, yes, it is overwhelming at first, but it only takes a couple of days exploring a vibrant Quartieri Spagnoli or watching high-spirited Neapolitans go about their daily affairs, rarely, if ever, registering the presence of Amalfi-bound Americans to fall in love with the organized chaos.

A Gastronomy Mecca

Other than being considered Rome's edgier southern sister, Naples is a gastronomy mecca of the first order, being the birthplace of pizza , caprese salad, buffalo mozzarella, and other world-famous foods you're likely to have grown up loving, yet didn't know originated here.

Whether you're actively looking for MICHELIN-star restaurants , or you feel your happiest sightseeing while grabbing street snacks to go, Naples and its varied selection of fine-dining eateries, street markets, and family-owned, rustic trattorie will simply blow your expectations.

You can't go wrong with a classic, and it's no wonder Naples' signature Neapolitan pizza, most commonly made with San Marzano tomatoes and mozzarella cheese, is officially the fourth-best dish in the world (there's no way you're leaving the aptly-nicknamed ‘City of the Sun' without trying it).

Naples Has Perfect Weather

This leads us straight to point number five: Naples is perfect for sightseeing regardless of season, as it is located so far south the Italian peninsula the weather remains pleasant year-round, unlike Milan , Turin or Bologna, where freezing temperatures are common.

Naples's current temperature is a pleasant 79°F, and it will only get warmer as we approach summer, before a scorching 100°F (or higher) is recorded; if we may offer a suggestion, March to May is the best period to be in Naples.

Days are long and sunny, with limited rainfall expected, there are no heatwaves, and you'll find it is less busy as the vast majority of tourists heading to the south of Italy – more specifically, the neighboring Amalfi Coast – will be doing so from June onward.

The Gateway To Beautiful Campania

Of course, no visit to Naples would be complete without adding a day tour to one of the many points of interest around the wider region of Campania, and if you're staying longer than three days, we would highly recommend you pay a short visit to either one of these spots:

• The Amalfi Coast : where your Italian dolce vita dreams will materialize, riding vespas down a beautiful, rugged stretch of coastline interspersed with charming hillside villages and eating lemon gelato as the sun sets over the Mediterranean.
• Capri : an island easily distinguished for its jagged peaks and pebbly beaches, which can be seen from the mainland in Sorrento, and an upscale leisure destination home to small-scale, chic hotels where you can escape the Amalfi crowds.
• Pompeii and Herculaneum : these formerly-bustling Mediterranean towns were buried under volcanic ash following a devastating eruption in the 1st century AD, and with their preserved villas and temples, offer a glimpse into life in an ancient Roman city in the 1st century AD.

Naples Is Safer Than The Media Portrays

It only takes a quick search on Google to pull up numerous articles describing Naples as unsafe and dangerous for tourists.

There may be some truth to those statements, but there are also a lot of overstated risks and fearmongering.

Crime is slightly higher than in other Italian, but Naples remains a fairly safe destination for a cosmopolitan hub of its size: on Numbeo's World Crime Index, it ranks as the 95th most-dangerous city in the world, only 15 slots above Rome, at 110.

Additionally, Statistica reports there are 3,500 crimes per 100,000 inhabitants, including all crime, from the petty type to full-blown violence, which is unlikely to affect tourists and is mostly restricted to mafia wars in peripheral districts.

At the end of the day, urban issues are bound to be more noticeable in Naples, which has a population of 3 million , than in smaller towns. Like any other big city, Naples has do's and don'ts tourists must adhere to protect themselves, and their primary concern remains being pickpocketed.

Beginning May 23 , Delta Air Lines will launch nonstop flights from New York (JFK) to Naples for the first time, proving there is growing demand for South Italy vacations among American travelers.

Learn more about the new service, and starting planning your trip here .

Vinicius Costa

Vini, our senior lead writer at Travel Off Path, has over 60+ countries under his belt (and currently weaving tales from Paris!), and a knack for turning off-the-beaten-path experiences into informative stories that will have you packing your bags.

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Opinions expressed here are the author's alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.

The post 7 Reasons Why You Should Visit This Authentic Underrated City In Italy appeared first on Travel Off Path .

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Ancient ruins, city tours and cannoli on a family tour of western Sicily

Start in Palermo and head west for a family adventure featuring street food, ancient ruins and a magical night tour of the city.

Italians may flock to Sicily’s soft sands in summer, but this far-flung Mediterranean island is far more than just a beach destination. Families can scale Mount Etna in giant off-road jeep buses, feast on classic Sicilian sweets and delve into archaeology at well-preserved ruin complexes like the Valley of the Temples. Older kids, meanwhile, can satisfy any gangster fascination by exploring mafia heritage in Palermo and seeking out The Godfather filming sites in the quiet mountain villages. And with the island lying closer to Africa than Rome, its southerly climate makes it a great choice for off-season travels around Easter and October.

Palermo by night

To beat the heat of the Sicilian capital in summer, try venturing into town after dusk for a guided night tour , when Palermo’s landmarks are magically illuminated. The walk can take in city highlights such as the medieval Kalsa district, the Arabesque domes of San Giovanni degli Eremiti, the Norman cathedral of Monreale and UNESCO-listed Zisa palace.

Gangster’s paradise

Unpick the island’s deep-rooted connection with the Sicilian Mafia, known locally as Cosa Nostra, at Palermo’s No Mafia Memorial museum . It explains the origins of the crime cartel and the government’s efforts to quash the organisation after the Second World War. If you’ve got more time, there are also Mafia-related tours taking in the eastern villages of Savoca and Forza d’Agro, which were key filming locations for The Godfather — a good bet if you’ve got any movie-mad teens in tow.  

Street-food specialities

Sicily’s original thick-crusted pizza is a must try. There’s a topping for every palate so picky eaters are bound to find something they like; the more adventurous should go for the classic, which includes anchovies, herbs and strong cheese on a passata base. For dessert it’s cannoli, deep-fried pastry tubes filled with sweet ricotta, that take centre stage. Arancini — fried risotto balls — are another favourite for a cheap meal on the go. A Palermo street-food tour is a fun way to explore for those whose kids love to try new dishes.  

Sicily’s sweet-making centre

With its sloping cobbled streets and crowning castle, Erice — around 70 miles west of Palermo — has a fairytale quality. But in Sicily this town is best known for its almond pastries — especially those made by local pastry chef Maria Grammatico , whose stories have been immortalised in the biography Bitter Almonds, by Mary Taylor Simeti. Follow the sweet scent of powdered sugar down winding lanes to find her old-fashioned bakery and encourage the kids to order belli e brutti — ‘beautiful and ugly’ — a buttery bite-size pastry laced with almonds and lemon.

Archaeology discoveries

Sicily has more than its fair share of ruins and many of the best are in the west of the island. Closest to Palermo is the fifth-century Segesta Archaeological Park , around 47 miles west of the capital, which offers panoramic views from a Hellenic theatre atop Monte Barbaro. But Sicily’s finest ruins can be found at the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento on the southwest coast — a UNESCO World Heritage site with one of the world’s best-preserved Greek temples.  

Volcano tours to Mt Etna

  The east of the island is famed for its succession of exquisite baroque towns in the south and the cone of Mount Etna on the east coast. Towering 3,329 metres high, Europe’s tallest volcano is also one of Sicily’s seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites — and a family favourite because of how close kids can usually get to the fuming calderas. The trip starts with a cable-car ride up to 2,500 metres, from where 4x4 jeep buses carry travellers higher on guided tours of the lunar-like landscape and smoking volcano craters. Tours are available from Catania, Taormina or Messina, but keep an eye on the local news — Etna last spewed lava as recently as November 2023.  

Where to stay

Villa Igiea Restored at the end of the 19th century by famous Italian architect Ernesto Basile and revamped by Rocce Forte Hotels in 2021, the 124-room art nouveau-style Villa Igiea in Palermo is rich in character. It still retains its frescoes, original furniture and decor with a modern twist, all of which are guaranteed to make kids feel like they’ve stepped into a fairytale. Rooms are individually decorated with lovely hardwood floors and luxury marble bathrooms, and it’s located near the port, overlooking an ancient Greek temple.

Verdura Resort Set on more than 500 acres of southwestern Sicilian coastline, the 205-room Verdura Resort offers uninterrupted views of the sea from private balconies or terraces, designed in a fresh and contemporary Sicilian style. The hotel is packed with facilities to make life easy for families, including a 60-metre infinity pool, a handful of clay tennis courts and four restaurants – plus five bars and a massive spa for the adults.

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• Best city passes to visit Italy in 2023
• Best Tours and Experiences

If you're planning a trip to Italy, it's worth buying one of our city passes . Check out the passes on offer in Rome, Naples, and Venice.

If you are planning a trip to Italy, it is worth considering purchasing one of the tourist passes offered in our country. In particular, passes for big cities such as Rome , Naples , and Venice are excellent tools for saving time and enjoying your visit.

These passes offer you priority access to the main attractions of the cities, as well as many facilities and offers for your visit. In this way, you can avoid long queues and make the most of your travel experience.

In this brief guide, you will discover everything there is to know about the best city passes in Italy in 2023.

Why choose one a city pass in italy?

Choosing one of best city passes  to visit Italy is a great idea for those who want to save time and money during their visit to Italian cities. Thanks to these passes, in fact, you can skip long lines to access the main tourist attractions and use local public transport almost unlimitedly.

In addition, the passes are convenient and easy to use: once purchased online, you can activate them on your first use and start benefiting from all the advantages offered. This way, you can focus on discovering the beauties of Italian cities without any worries.

Visit the Eternal City with the Visit Rome pass

In the shadow of Vesuvius with the Naples pass

The Naples Pass is the perfect tourist pass for discovering the beauty of Naples and its surroundings without worrying about long queues or additional costs. With the Naples Pass, you will have priority access to Naples' top attractions, including the National Archaeological Museum, Castel dell'Ovo, and the Sansevero Chapel. You can also visit other attractions, such as the Royal Palace of Naples and Pio Monte della Misericordia, with discounted entry.

Additionally, you can use local public transport, including buses, metro, and funiculars, unlimitedly. The Naples Pass is available in two options: 3 days or 7 days, depending on your travel needs.

Venice pass: Discover the beauty of the floating city

The Venice Pass is a great option for those who want to discover the beauty of the floating city. The pass is available in three options: 24 hours, 48 hours, and 72 hours. With the Venice Pass, you get priority access to Venice's main attractions, including the Doge's Palace, St Mark's Basilica, and the Peggy Guggenheim Collection.

In addition, the Venice Pass includes discounts on many attractions, such as the Murano Glass Museum and the Lace Museum. The pass also allows you almost unlimited use of the city's public transport, including waterbuses.

The Venice Pass app has been available for download since mid-October. In short, Venice Pass is a new, more comfortable, more convenient, and smarter way to visit Venice.

The best tourist pass for the Tuscan countryside

If you're planning a trip to Italy in 2023 and want to visit the beautiful city of San Gimignano in Tuscany, the San Gimignano Pass is a must-have. Ranked among the best tourist passes for Italy in 2023, the pass provides access to six museums in the city, including the Civic Museum, the Archaeological Museum, and the Torture Museum.

With the pass, you can also access the Tower of Grossa, the symbol of San Gimignano, to admire the spectacular view of the city and the surrounding countryside. Not only that, but the pass also includes admission to the San Gimignano Cathedral and the Santa Maria della Scala Cloister.

The San Gimignano Pass can be purchased online and is valid for seven consecutive days, which means you'll have plenty of time to visit all the attractions included in the pass. Don't miss the opportunity to save time and money and make the most of your trip to Italy in 2023 with one of the best tourist passes offered in the country.

Visit the Lantern City with a unique pass

2023 is the perfect year to visit Italy and make the most of its beautiful cities. To save time and money during your trip, we recommend considering the purchase of one of the best available tourist passes.

Among the top options is the Genoa City Pass , which provides access to many of Genoa's most important attractions, including the Genoa Aquarium, the Galata Museo del Mare, and the San Lorenzo Cathedral. Additionally, the pass allows you to use local public transport almost unlimitedly during the pass's validity.

The Genoa City Pass is available in various options depending on the duration of your visit and the attractions you wish to visit. By purchasing the pass online, you can activate it at first use. Don't miss the opportunity to visit Italy's beautiful cities in 2023 while saving time and money with one of the best available tourist passes, such as the Genoa City Pass.

Dante's city through a tourist pass

Are you looking for a way to save time and money during your visit to Italy in 2023? Then don't miss the opportunity to purchase one of the best available tourist passes to visit the most beautiful cities in our country.Among the best available options is the Florence Pass , a pass that offers you priority access to Florence's main attractions, including the Florence Cathedral, the Uffizi Gallery, and the Pitti Palace. Additionally, the pass allows you to use local public transport almost unlimitedly during the pass's validity.

The Florence Pass is available in various options depending on the duration of your visit and the attractions you wish to visit. You can purchase the pass online and activate it at first use. Don't miss the opportunity to visit Italy's most beautiful cities in 2023 while saving time and money with one of the best available tourist passes such as the Florence Pass.

A pass for the city of the Madonnina

If you are planning a trip to Italy in 2023, we recommend considering the purchase of one of the best tourist passes offered in our country. Tourist passes for Italian cities like Milan, as well as the aforementioned Rome, Naples, and Venice, are an excellent solution to save time and money when visiting the main tourist attractions.

In particular, the Milan Pass offers you priority access to the city's main attractions, including the Milan Cathedral, the Brera Art Gallery, the Teatro alla Scala, and many more. Additionally, with the pass, you can use local public transportation almost unlimitedly and benefit from many facilities and discounts for restaurants, shops, and leisure activities. Don't miss the opportunity to discover the beauty of Milan through the Milan Pass.

Visit Italy's most beautiful medieval city

In 2023, Italy has a lot to offer tourists in terms of tourist passes. If you are looking for the best tourist passes for Italy in 2023, you are in the right place. The tourist itineraries we propose are designed to help you discover the beauties and wonders of Italy in a comfortable and convenient way.

One of the tourist passes we highly recommend is the Orvieto City Pass . This pass will give you access to numerous attractions in the city of Orvieto, including the famous cathedral, the museum of the cathedral's works, and the Tower of Moro. The pass also includes the opportunity to take a guided tour of the city, to discover its history and culture. Buying the Orvieto City Pass is easy and convenient: simply book it online and pick it up directly in the city. This way, you can avoid long queues and save precious time during your visit.

How to buy city passes easily?

You can purchase the city passes we showed you,  online at the pass sites you can find on our channels, or on our portal's Tickets section . Once you have purchased your pass, you can activate it on the first day of use and it will be valid for the duration of the pass. When you buy your pass online, you will receive an electronic voucher that you can exchange for a pass at the venue.

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More From Forbes

15 affordable places to travel in 2024, ranked in a new report.

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Want to take an affordable vacation in 2024? You’ve come to the right place. Although travel costs are on the rise this year ( up 3.1% ), it’s still possible to save money in 2024—if you know where to go.

A new travel report from the U.K.’s Post Office —a British-based mail and financial services company — has just unveiled some of the most budget-friendly destinations for 2024. And although the annual report is aimed at U.K. travelers, it’s a helpful list for Americans, too.

By analyzing currency strengths, local prices and essential tourist expenses in 40 popular vacation destinations around the globe, the Holiday Money Report 2024 highlights some of the cheapest places to travel. The report ranks the destinations based on a barometer that takes the local price of eight tourist essentials into consideration—including coffee, beer, cola, wine, water, sunscreen, insect repellent and a three-course meal. And while the report doesn’t include factors like hotels and airfare, it helps give a good sense of where your dollars will stretch the furthest.

This is the 18th year that the Post Office has done this report. And the good news: Prices have fallen since last year in 25 spots on the list. (A note that the original report included prices in pounds sterling, which have been converted into dollars here, using the exchange rate on the date of publication of 1.26.)

An aerial view of Hoi An, Vietnam, the most affordable destination to travel in 2024, according to a ... [+] new report.

Leading the list as the cheapest place to travel right now is Hoi An, Vietnam. According to the Post Office report, a total estimated cost of just $64.51 a day for the travel essentials makes this charming gem the ultimate bang-for-your-buck destination that won’t break the bank. Located on the central coast of Vietnam, Hoi An entices visitors with its UNESCO -recognized Ancient Town, a picturesque spot where lantern-lit streets lead to quaint shops and street food stalls. It is also convenient to stunning white-sand beaches—some of the most beautiful in Asia .

Best High-Yield Savings Accounts Of 2024

Best 5% interest savings accounts of 2024.

Following closely behind in the second spot is Cape Town, South Africa, where an outlay of $68.48 a day for the essentials promises an unforgettable experience against the backdrop of Table Mountain and pristine coastlines. Here, you can dive into the vibrant culture and indulge in world-class dining (a three-course meal for two people averages less than $44.140) without denting your travel fund.

The coastline of Mombasa, Kenya, with a pair of camels on Diani Beach.

Mombasa, Kenya takes the third spot on the list. This beachfront destination on the east coast of Africa beckons with its white-sand shores, vibrant markets and rich Swahili heritage, offering an immersive experience for travelers seeking both relaxation and cultural exploration.

In a surprising twist, Tokyo, Japan—a bustling metropolis where tradition meets modernity—secures the fourth spot on the list. According to the Post Office, just $74.43 a day is needed for essential tourist purchases. Helping drive this ranking was the cost of a glass of wine (an average of only $4.56) and a bottle of water (averaging 77¢).

The cliffs of the Algarve overlooking the Atlantic Ocean above the Benagil cave in Lagoa, Portug.a

Rounding out the top five is the Algarve in Portugal, which combines culture, history and natural beauty at a fraction of the cost compared to previous years. With its sun-drenched beaches, charming villages and delectable seafood, the Algarve offers an idyllic escape for travelers seeking an affordable yet enriching getaway.

Here are top 15 best-value spots from the 2024 report. You can also download the full Worldwide Holiday Costs Barometer for more locations and more details.

Overlooking a pristine beach in Hoi An, Vietnam.

• Hoi An, Vietnam - $64.51
• Cape Town, South Africa - $68.48
• Mombasa, Kenya - $69.96
• Tokyo, Japan - $74.43
• Algarve, Portugal - $75.33
• Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt - $77.36
• Sunny Beach, Bulgaria - $79.73
• Kuta, Bali - $79.79
• Marmaris, Turkey - $83.27
• Paphos, Cyprus - $92.49
• Penang, Malaysia - $93.98
• Phuket, Thailand - $97.97
• Delhi, India - $98.05
• Costa del Sol, Spain - $102.67
• Montego Bay, Jamaica - $109.76

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Italy’s got another leaning tower —and this one could actually fall over.

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They wanna Pisa the action.

There’s another leaning tower in Italy — but this time, officials are worried about a dangerous collapse.

The 12th-century catastrophe-in-waiting is the Torre Garisenda, standing tall at 148-foot on a four-degree bend — for now — at the heart of Bologna.

The locally beloved, long-standing icon was considered to be at “high risk” of tumbling down just last year, CNN reported .

The tilting troublemaker, now off-limits to onlookers, stands next to a larger, 319-foot structure called Asinelli Tower — together they are known as the two towers.

Earlier this week, city officials recruited scaffolding, pylons, and other equipment used on the Leaning Tower of Pisa to try and keep Torre Garisenda in the air, in a $20M initiative.

It will take half a year to modify the equipment for optimal use.

“This will make it possible to secure the tower,” Bologna mayor Matteo Lepore said at a press conference.

A truncated description of the plan is to run supports across the mid-section of the tower that connect to two pulley systems anchored in the ground.

Work on its masonry will come after.

“In 2025 and 2026 there will be further consolidation and restoration work, which still needs to be planned,” the mayor added.

When built in the Middle Ages, the two towers served both a military purpose for signaling and city defense along with a flaunting of prestige, according to the city’s tourism board.

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Where is the Francis Scott Key Bridge? What to know about collapsed Baltimore bridge

The collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge , a major transportation link in the Baltimore area, sparked a massive search and rescue effort early Tuesday morning.

The bridge has been a critical transportation passageway along the East Coast for decades. Video captured the collapse , after Singapore-flagged container ship, the Dali, collided with one of the bridge's pillars.

The ship had caught fire, and several vehicles fell into the river below.

Here's what to know about the Francis Scott Key Bridge.

Follow here for live updates → Baltimore's Key Bridge collapses after ship collision; rescue effort underway

Where is the Francis Scott Key Bridge located?

The bridge crosses over the Patapsco River on I-695 and is the final link on the Baltimore Beltway, according to the Maryland Transportation Authority .

It is the outermost of the three tollways that cross Baltimore's Harbor.

How long is the Francis Scott Key Bridge?

The 4-lane bridge structure alone is 1.6 miles long. The facility also includes the Curtis Creek Drawbridge. Including approach roadways, the entire stretch is around 10.9 miles long, MDTA said.

Why did a ship hit the Francis Scott Key Bridge?

The ship, a container vessel chartered by Maersk, apparently lost power a few minutes before striking the bridge, a senior U.S. official told USA TODAY .

No Maersk crew or personnel were onboard the vessel when it struck the bridge, according to a statement from the company. It was operated by a charter company, Synergy Group, and owned by Grace Ocean Pte., based in Singapore, and ultimately bound for Sri Lanka.

Accidents like this, called Marine casualties, are not uncommon, the official told USA TODAY, with an allision (an immobile object being struck by a ship) occurring about every 10 years or so. Investigators will likely look into the cause of the power outage and whether there was a mechanical failure on the ship.

How old is the Key Bridge in Baltimore?

The Francis Scott Key Bridge opened in March 1977, according to the Maryland Transportation Authority .

What type of bridge is the Francis Scott Key?

The steel-arched bridge was the second-longest continuous-truss bridge span in the world when it was built and remains the second longest in the United States and third in the world,  according to the American Civil Engineering Society .

When was the Francis Scott Key Bridge built?

Construction of the Francis Scott Key Bridge began in 1972.

Francis Scott Key Bridge has a deep history

According to the MDTA, the bridge crosses over the Patapsco River, near where Francis Scott Key, the bridge's namesake, was inspired to write the lyrics of the Star Spangled Banner.

Key is believed to have witnessed the bombardment of Fort McHenry on the night of Sept. 12, 1814, within 100 yards of the modern-day bridge. That battle is what inspired him to the national anthem.

How vital is the Francis Scott Key Bridge?

The bridge is critical to East Coast shipping. The port’s private and public terminals handled 847,158 autos and light trucks in 2023, the most of any U.S. port. The port also handles farm and construction machinery, sugar, gypsum and coal, according to a Maryland government website.