top places in italy to visit

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Best places to visit in italy.

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

Amalfi Coast

Cinque terre, tuscany, italy.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: February 4, 2024

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

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

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

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

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

READ ALSO: 2-Weeks Italy Itinerary

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

Here are the best places to visit in Italy:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in Rome

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

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

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

LEARN MORE: Tips for Planning a Trip to Rome

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

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

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

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

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

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

READ ALSO: Best Things to Do in Venice

3. Florence

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

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

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

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

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

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in Florence

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

LEARN MORE: Best Towns in Tuscany & Tuscany Itinerary

5. Cinque Terre

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

6. Amalfi Coast

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

LEARN MORE: Amalfi Coast Itinerary & Amalfi Coast Travel Tips

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

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

7. Lake Garda

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

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

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

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

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

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

LEARN MORE: What to See at Lake Garda

8. Lake Como

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

LEARN MORE: Info & Tips for Visiting Lake Como

9. Italian Dolomites

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

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

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

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

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

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

READ ALSO: Most Beautiful Lakes in the Italian Dolomites

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

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

LEARN MORE: Dolomites Itinerary

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

READ ALSO: Best Hikes in the Dolomites

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in Verona

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

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

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

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

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

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in Milan

12. Italian Riviera

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

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

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

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

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

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

LEARN MORE: Most Beautiful Towns of the Italian Riviera

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Nice to see: Pisa town center.

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

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

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

15. Emilia Romagna

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

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

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

Not to be missed: Ravenna , Bologna .

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

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

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

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

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

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

LEARN MORE: San Marino

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

18. Sardinia

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

READ ALSO: Tips & Useful Info for Traveling to Europe

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

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

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

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

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Sunday 30th of July 2023

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

Tuesday 1st of August 2023

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

Bruce Ogilvie

Wednesday 14th of June 2023

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

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

Tammy Hamilton

Friday 3rd of March 2023

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

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

Tuesday 21st of February 2023

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

Sunday 26th of February 2023

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

Thursday 2nd of February 2023

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

Friday 3rd of February 2023

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

12 amazing ways to experience Italy

Jan 11, 2024 • 8 min read

Few joys compare to discovering the beauty of Italy with friends © MStudioImages / Getty Images

With its awe-inspiring art, architecture and culinary delights, Italy has been a star of the world stage for millennia.

The epicenter of the Roman Empire and the birthplace of the Renaissance, this European virtuoso practically groans under the weight of its cultural cachet. The challenge for any visit to Italy is not so much where to go – an amazing experience is honestly assured wherever you end up – but rather how to go about it.

The following advice on the best things to do from a veteran visitor can help you turn every trip into a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

1. Glam it up on the dramatic Amalfi Coast

Whether you follow the rugged cliff-laced coast in search of a wild swimming spot or live the high life with spritz-sipping A-listers in Positano , the Amalfi Coast is one of Italy's most glamorous destinations. This dramatic coastal strip has thrills and spills to suit every taste and budget, from hunting down traditional marquetry in Sorrento's maze-like old town to garden-hopping in Ravello .

Planning tip: Make time for the Sentiero degli Dei ("Path of the Gods") – a rugged hiking trail that delivers on its name with positively celestial views.

2. See artwork as part of Tuscany's sustainable tourism project

Most Tuscan tours begin in the UNESCO-listed city of Florence , a cinematic feast of Renaissance palazzi (palaces), medieval-frescoed chapels and art museums brimming with Botticelli and Michelangelo masterpieces .

At the historic heart of Florence is the Uffizi , whose unmatched Renaissance masterpieces are ogled by millions of visitors each year. To take the art journey further, the five-year Uffizi Diffusi project started in 2021 to encourage art buffs to trek across Tuscany's backcountry – on foot, by bike or by car – following an untrodden trail to Italian masterpieces.

Designed to diffuse Florence's heavy tourist load, this sustainable tourism project is bringing pop-up galleries to remote chapels, fortresses, hilltop villages and other unconventional spaces. Not only does it lead visitors off the beaten track, but it also allows artworks to be admired among the very Tuscan landscapes that inspired the artists – think iconic terrain of rolling hills dipped in morning mist, timeless cypress alleys, silver olive groves and terraced rows of vines. Check current venues on the Uffizi website .

3. Tour Rome, the epicenter of empire

Working out the best way to spend your time in the Italian capital is a cultural conundrum. Rome is the former caput mundi (capital of the world), the epicenter of the Roman Empire, the spiritual HQ of the Christian world and the repository for over two millennia of European art and architecture. The city exudes must-see sights from every pore.

Zooming around Italy's Eternal City on the back of a Vespa moped to sightsee at speed is one option and a great way to sample the dolce vita (good life). From the Colosseum (buy a "Full Experience" ticket to access the underground vaults), the Pantheon  and the Roman Forum to Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel and the Vatican Museums , there's history and culture at every turn.

Planning tip:  There's simply too much to cover in a single visit – so before you leave, toss a coin into the pool below the wild horses and cascading rockfalls of the Trevi Fountain to ensure a return visit to this captivating city.

4. Spend time on one of Italy's many idyllic islands

Italy's prized island collection hovers around the 450 mark, meaning il bel paese ("the beautiful country") has a beach-laced island with your name on it. Myriad islands dot the Mediterranean, Ionian, Adriatic and Tyrrhenian Seas. Venice alone is made up of 17 islands, and Sicily and Sardinia – the country's biggest and busiest islands – offer an enticing mix of outdoor thrills and living history.

Unblemished Capri , a boat ride from Naples, attracts celebrities and the super-rich (as does posh Panarea in Sicily's Aeolian archipelago). Volcanic Ischia is awash with thermal spas and manicured gardens.

Planning tip: Traveling with nature lovers? Then head to the peaceful salt marshes and mudflats teeming with birdlife in the pristine Grado lagoon , on the country's northeast border with Austria and Slovenia in little-explored Friuli Venezia Giulia .

5. Help to save Venice

Venice is impossible to ignore – which explains the hordes of tourists who pile into this dreamlike city of romantic canals and ethereal fogs. In an average year, some 25 million arrive to snap selfies beneath the Bridge of Sighs and glimpse heaven (in fresco form) in Basilica di San Marco . To curb future crowds, turnstiles at city entrances and advance reservations via an app to enter the city are all on the drawing board. And 2024 will see the long-awaited implementation of a tourist tax  designed to make sure day-trippers contribute to the city's survival.

Planning tip:  To make a positive impact on Italy's most mobbed city, come out of season , and don't duck in and out on a day trip. Instead, stay for a few days using the community-powered, home-sharing platform Fairbnb and meet and learn from Venetians who are passionate about their city through Venezia Autentica . At mealtimes, favor lagoon-caught seafood in local restaurants over tourist joints with English-language menus.

6. Get off-grid in rural Abruzzo

The Abruzzo region doesn't have the Amalfi's natural glamour or the cultural gems of Rome, but for travelers seeking an immersive, emotive brush with rural Italy and its people, it definitely hits the spot. Cradled by the gritty Apennine mountains and unforgiving Adriatic sea, the region was hit by an earthquake in 2009. Yet Abruzzo is slowly rebuilding itself and reclaiming its rich heritage.

In the quiet town of L'Aquila, a new outpost of Rome's MAXXI (National Museum of 21st Century Arts) is just one sign of this cultural rebirth. In remote Santo Stefano di Sessanio, the Sextantio albergo diffuso program hosts visitors in rustic rooms scattered around this pretty mountain village. Spotting rare Marsican bears padding around the Parc Nazionale d'Abruzzo is the icing on the cake.

7. Follow the Via Francigena pilgrim trail

Cycling and walking are great ways to get under the skin of Italy's diverse landscapes, and there is no finer long-distance trail than the medieval Via Francigena . A perfect, less-trodden alternative to Spain's Camino de Santiago, Italy's most celebrated pilgrim route wends its way for 1900km (1180 miles), running all the way from Canterbury in England to Rome.

The scenic Italian section unfurls at a meditative snail's pace through Tuscany and Lazio , breaking for breath at beautiful hilltop villages, volcanic lakes, Etruscan ruins , remote monasteries and enchanting emerald hills around Lucca ; the UNESCO-protected Val d'Orcia ;  Viterbo ; and other gloriously overlooked spots.

8. Enjoy the drama and excitement of Naples' street life

As Italy's most spirited urban hub, this highly charged, charismatic city in the country's deep south is a curious potpourri of nail-biting history, classical art and a grungy grassroots cocktail of frescoed ruins, frenzied markets and epicurean adventures . Drama is the order of the day in boisterous Naples , where street life unfolds like a grand opera.

Shop for swordfish heads and sweet ricotta pastries at Naples' oldest market, ogle street art in the Centro Storico, admire Mt Vesuvius views from the Lungomare seafront, explore subterranean catacombs , then follow the lead of locals and join the after-dark passegiatta (promenade) on Via Chiaia. Whatever you do, count on drama 24/7.

9. Savor slow food in Piedmont

Rare white truffles from the vine-striped countryside around Alba offer the most grassroots gastronomic experience in all of Italy. Once these fabulous fungi are tracked down by dogs in the woods, ceremoniously sniffed and greedily scoffed, there is no going back.

Truffles aside, the northwestern region of Piedmont , birthplace of the Slow Food movement , entices gourmets with sweet, creamy hazelnuts from the rolling Langhe hills and silky chocolate and myriad cocoa creations in gilded cafes in elegant Turin . Nebbiolo grapes metamorphose into magical Barolo and Barbaresco wines, and lavish banquets pair these treats with sacrosanct aperitivo (pre-meal snacks to eat with a drink and open up the appetite).

Planning tip:  Go hungry and savor the slow feast, one delicious mouthful at a time.

10. Soak up the timeless beauty of Sicily

The eternal crossroads of the Mediterranean, the island of Sicily dazzles with a brilliant diversity of landscapes and cultural treasures. In the southeast, honey-hued Syracuse was the largest city in the ancient world – bigger even than Athens and Corinth – and played an important role in classical Greece. Its hypnotic archaeological ruins, rising out of lush citrus orchards and the sparkling blue Mediterranean, continue to encapsulate Sicily's timeless beauty.

Planning tip:  Greek dramas still flourish in Syracuse's great amphitheater, alongside contemporary theater, live music and more. Plan to see a show beneath the stars on the antiquity stage at Teatro Greco – and expect an unforgettable and spellbinding spectacle.

11. Harvest grapes in the Cinque Terre

Nothing matches Cinque Terre's stunning setting – five teeny, sherbet-colored villages pinned to a jaw-dropping backdrop of terraced vineyards, wave-carved cliffs and blue sea on the Italian Riviera. Summer packs these celebrity villages to bursting point, but the autumn vendemmia (grape harvest) ushers in quite a different scene.

Planning tip:  Come in the fall for mellow days of strolling along quiet cobbled lanes and hiking through vertical vineyards and hillsides perfumed by macchia (herbal scrub) to ancient sanctuaries. The sight of local pickers gallantly harvesting the grapes that go into the Cinque Terre's sweet, fortified Sciacchetrà, and sipping the resulting vintages in a Corniglia or Riomaggiore wine bar with vertiginous views is an experience that will stay with you forever.

12. Hit the ski slopes and hiking trails in Valle d'Aosta

Ringed by some of Europe's highest peaks, including Mont Blanc, the Matterhorn, Monte Rosa and Gran Paradiso, the Aosta Valley sports some of the best winter sports facilities on the continent. In fashionable Courmayeur , winter skiers descend hair-raising runs into France and Switzerland, crossing glaciers and returning via lofty cable cars.

And when the snow melts, spectacular hiking trails in the Parco Nazionale del Gran Paradiso and around Mont Blanc await. Whatever the season, keep your ears peeled for Franco-Provençal (also known as Valdôtain), the Franco-Italian valley's distinctive local language.

This article was first published October 2021 and updated January 2024

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24 Best Places to Visit in Italy

Written by Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated Oct 6, 2023

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

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

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

2. Florence

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

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

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

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Rome

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

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

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

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Florence

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

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

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

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Venice

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

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

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

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

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Italy

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read More: Top Attractions & Places to Visit in Bologna

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read More: Top Tourist Attractions in Turin

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

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

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

Read More: Top Attractions & Things to Do in Sardinia

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

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

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

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Ravenna

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

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

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

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

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Compass & Pine

The Ultimate Travel Guide

The 25 Best Places to Visit in Italy

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

Cinque Terre

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

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

• Michelangelo

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Do You Love Art?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Heading to Venice?

No Venetian trip is complete without visiting these top sights.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Planning On Using Uber in Italy?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Perfect Day Trip to Amalfi

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How to Visit Pompeii From Rome

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Frequently Asked Questions

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Recommended Booking Resources

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

Kayak for Flights, Hotels, and Cars

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

Varied Accommodation Options with Booking.com

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

Cheap Flights with Going.com

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

Hostelpass for Budget-Friendly Stays

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

Plan Your Excursions with Get Your Guide

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

Efficient Train Travel in Italy with Trainline

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

Pocket-Sized Wisdom: Venice Travel Guide 2023 Book

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

Sustainable Tourism: LifeStraw for Reusable Water Bottles

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

Walks of Italy for Culturally Rich Walking Tours

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

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

About Todd O'Rourke

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

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

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

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Reader Interactions

November 25, 2022 at 11:42 pm

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

November 27, 2022 at 10:37 am

Hi Kathryn,

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

Best, Todd & Leg

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The 36 Most Beautiful Places in Italy

By Caitlin Morton

Some of the most beautiful places in Italy are also some of the most beautiful in the world. In fact, few parts of the world can claim such a range of natural beauty as Italy, from craggy peaks and verdant hills to turquoise waters lined by white-sand beaches. The country is also to some of the best art and architecture you’ll ever come across: We’re talking about the astonishing cathedrals of Rome , the rainbows of houses flanking the canals in Venice , and the modern masterpieces of Milan. And while no list of the best could possibly begin to cover them all, we’ve done our best to round up 36 of the most beautiful places in Italy. 

The good news? Wherever you choose to visit first, it’s sure to be a hit in this country.

This article has been updated since its original publish date.

The Grand Canal, Venice

Venice’s Grand Canal is beautiful any time of day, but the early evening is our favorite time to marvel at this architectural wonder—the sun reflecting off of the water casts a glow that, coupled with the echo of the lapping waves, becomes something magical.

Chianti Country

Yes, it’s home to some of Italy’s most famous reds, but Chianti Country is also one of the best spots in the country for an afternoon drive along winding, cypress-lined roads, and past rolling green hills and golden fields dotted with sunflowers. It’s the side of Tuscany we love most—and definitely one of the most beautiful places in Italy.

Alberobello, Puglia

The main draw of Alberobello, a small town near Bari in Puglia, is its characteristic trulli: cone-shaped, white-tipped houses that look as if they’ve been perpetually dusted by snow. Thanks to this distinctive feature, the town was deemed so unique that it was made a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996.

St. Peter’s Basilica, Rome

There's a good reason almost every first-time visitor to Rome dedicates a day to the Vatican and St. Peter’s Basilica (and its statue-lined square, for that matter), one of the most famous Catholic churches in the world. With its gilded roof and world-renowned artwork, it’s easy to see why it draws 25,000 visitors every day. Get a glimpse of it at night for a sight that is truly awe-inspiring.

CNT Editors

Steph Koyfman

Shannon McMahon

La Maddalena, Sardinia

Powdery sands and few English speakers within earshot are part of the appeal of this archipelago off the Costa Smeralda. Best of all, the local goat cheeses, Vermentino whites, and legs of prosciutto make it feel like a microcosm of old Italy.

Trastevere, Rome

This historically working-class Roman neighborhood has become a major food destination in recent years, with open-air markets and tiny trattorias serving up some of the best meals in town. And it’s not too tough on the eyes, either, especially as the sun sets.

Gran Paradiso National Park

As its name suggests, this national park in the Graian Alps is a true paradise. Visitors are treated to an array of scenic hiking trails, pristine glacial lakes, and the occasional wild ibex sighting.

Villa Igiea, a Rocco Forte Hotel, Palermo

A list of Italy’s most beautiful hotels would be nearly endless ( though here are our readers' 20 favorites ), but we’d be sure to put Villa Igiea at the very top. The Sicilian hideaway’s Art Nouveau touches and sophisticated pool scene are truly second to none.

By reputation, Capri is by far Italy’s most glamorous island—and most dramatic. From the iconic Faraglioni rocks settled in the azure Mediterranean to the scent of the island’s many flowers, it’s almost sensory overload.

Piazza San Carlo, Turin

Turin is often considered to be Italy’s most elegant city, as evidenced by the baroque buildings and grand old coffee shops lining the central Piazza San Carlo. Be sure to stop by Caffè Torino to enjoy a negroni alongside painted murals and gilded mirrors. The “Paris of Italy” also landed a spot on our list of the best places to visit in Italy , as voted by our readers.

The largest of the Aeolian Islands, Lipari has dramatic cliffs, pristine beaches, and incredible pumice caves. The best views of the island and its six Aeolian neighbors are from Quattrocchi, just west of the main town. The Gattopardo Park Hotel , once an 18th-century villa, has rooms overlooking the ancient acropolis and medieval Castello.

The Dolomites

The Dolomites are the cozy cousin to the Alps’ glitzy ski towns. The area’s powdery slopes can be accessed via the 86-mile Great Dolomites Road, one of the world’s loveliest alpine drives—and a perfect day trip from Venice.

Burano, Venice

A stroll through the cobblestone streets of this diminutive island off of Venice—known for making some of the loveliest lace in the world—is like stepping into a candy-colored fairy tale (with really great espresso).

Duomo di Milano, Milan

The magnificent white Gothic cathedral is home to more statues than any other in the world—around 3,500 in total, about two-thirds of which are located on its gargoyle-lined roof, alongside 135 spires. Take the audio guide tour of the interior to get the most out of your visit or climb the 150 steps to the roof to enjoy spectacular views over the city.

This 56-square-mile Lombardy jewel has been attracting summer vacationers since ancient Roman times; today, it’s as popular for its natural beauty as it is for its luxury hotels (and George Clooney sightings, of course).

Lucca, Tuscany

Filled with antique shops, almost 100 churches, and trattorias serving hearty Tuscan fare, the walled city of Lucca is missing one thing: the crush of tourists that can overwhelm some of its neighbors, which makes it not just a lovely place to visit but a welcome respite as well.

Chiaia di Luna, Ponza

Italy is full of gently rolling hills, but the tiny island of Ponza off the coast of Rome takes things in a slightly different, more dramatic direction. Case in point: Chiaia di Luna, a magnificent bay surrounded by towering cliffs that resemble a lunar landscape (hence the name).

Pantheon, Rome

One of the world’s greatest feats of pre-Christian architecture is the Pantheon , a domed, ancient church in the middle of Rome. Though the crowds can be distracting, this is a truly magnificent site, both inside and out.

Lake Orta isn’t nearly as grand as its massive, famous neighbors (Lake Como and Lake Maggiore), and therein lies its appeal. The body of water is refreshingly free of glitzy resorts and boat tours, making the lake—surrounded by green hills and the occasional stone house—feel like a real natural treasure.

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, Milan

Great fashion, great architecture, great food, and some of the very best people-watching on the planet—it's pretty much impossible to argue with the all-around beauty of Milan. Even its shopping malls, like Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, epitomize elegance.

Manarola, Liguria

Manarola is one of the oldest towns in the Cinque Terre and arguably one of the most beautiful. It’s known primarily for its fishing, wine-making, and excellent hiking in the hills and vineyards above the town. Don’t miss the famous walking trail called Via dell’Amore, or Love’s Trail.

Villa Cimbrone, Ravello

Manicured gardens, rows of marble statues, and dramatic views of the Amalfi Coast (especially from the aptly named Terrace of Infinity) make the 5-star hotel Villa Cimbrone in Ravello one of the most beautiful places in Italy. Even if you don’t book a room, you can still check out the gardens, which are open to the public.

Uffizi Gallery, Florence

Botticelli's The Birth of Venus may symbolize true beauty inside the Uffizi , but the museum is exquisite on the outside as well, with its symmetrical columns and stately windows. We like to stroll the perimeter after the museum closes, when Florentine couples and families come out to do the same.

Castello di Miramare, Trieste

Just a 30-minute drive north of Trieste—the photogenic heart of Friuli Venezia-Giulia —Castello di Miramare owed much of its appeal to its scenic surroundings. Formerly home to Austrian Archduke Ferdinand Maximilian, the 10th-century structure sits above the blue Adriatic on a lush, 54-acre park. It’s certainly not your average road trip pit stop.

Stelvio Pass

At more than 9,000 feet high, the Stelvio Pass is the eastern Alps’ highest paved road—a 15-mile-long ribbon of 48 hairpin turns with spectacular mountain views. The road is thrilling no matter your vehicle of choice, but if you can do the drive in a Ferrari? Even better.

Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca, Bologna

Bologna is a small but mighty Italian city, with quintessentially lovely churches, covered sidewalks, and wine bars throughout. But our favorite spot lies just outside of town: The Sanctuary of San Luca, a hilltop basilica with a famous arched portico and incredible views of Bologna below.

Fonte Gaia, Siena

This impressive fountain is one of the Tuscan town's best, and easiest to spot—it’s in the center of Piazza del Campo, the main square and home to Siena’s famous horse race, il Palio. Siena itself is filled with architecture-as-art, earning it a UNESCO designation as the “ embodiment of a medieval city. ”

San Fruttuoso, Liguria

Located about halfway between Portofino and the small town of Camogli, San Fruttuoso is as picture-perfect as Italian beaches get. The small cove’s appeal lies in its hidden location (you can only reach it by hiking from Portofino or catching a ferry), gorgeous blue water, and backdrop of a medieval abbey surrounded by mountains.

Atrani, Campania

Tucked between two cliffs overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea, the village of Atrani is the Amalfi Coast ’s best-kept secret. It’s often bypassed en route to the larger and more famous towns of Amalfi, Positano, and Sorrento, and this is a good thing—you’ll almost always have its beautiful churches, piazzas, and charming trattorias all to yourself.

Bosco Verticale, Milan

In 2017, Milan blossomed with a new beauty, complementing the city's centuries-old ones. The “vertical forest,” which envelopes two high-rise apartment blocks. The work of architect Stefano Boeri, the Porta Nuova buildings are covered with more than 20,000 trees and plants, turning the otherwise unremarkable business district into something of a tourist attraction.

Santuario Madonna della Corona, Mount Baldo

The Santuario Madonna della Corona (Sanctuary of the Lady of the Crown) is not typically listed among Italy’s most beautiful churches , but that’s probably because most people don’t know where to find it. The 16th-century church is built right into a vertical cliff on Mount Baldo, where visitors must hike up pedestrian paths to reach it.

Terme di Saturnia

The Cascate del Mulino waterfalls and Terme di Saturnia thermal spa are a popular attraction in southern Tuscany. The spring water—which sits at about 99 degrees Fahrenheit—has formed small pools on the travertine rocks over the centuries and is said to cure everything from acne to tonsillitis.

The Duomo, Florence

Brunelleschi’s Duomo is a feat of architecture, sure, but it’s also an ideal observation deck. If you can make your way up the 463 steps (no elevator, and some passages that would make the claustrophobic run screaming), you’ll be rewarded with pristine, 365-degree views of the city and all of Tuscany stretched beyond. For a view of the Duomo, climb Giotto’s Bell Tower next door instead.

The Duomo of Siena

Built in 1263, this cathedral is one of the most beautiful and ambitious Gothic churches in Italy, characterized by its extravagant zebra-striped bands of marble. Inside, you’ll see works by Michelangelo, Pisano, Donatello, and Pinturicchio and stunning floors paved with inlaid mosaics depicting Biblical stories and historical events.

San Gimignano, Tuscany

Its impressive medieval skyline, which is visible for miles as you approach, charms from a distance. But once you’re seated at a café in this tiny Tuscan town, sipping a glass of Vernaccia and snacking on salumi—that’s when the real love affair begins.

Villa Borghese, Rome

Leafy, genteel Villa Borghese is Rome’s biggest and most beautiful public garden—and with a lake, a petting zoo, and rowboats, it’s also home to a ton of kid-friendly activities.

Recommended

Nolinski Venezia

Italy Travel Guide

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The 14 best places to visit in Italy

Covering cities, seaside, islands and idyllic countryside, these are the best places to visit in Italy right now

Despite what they say, Italy can never truly be  done . How could it be? From the top to the bottom, this famous country is packed with iconic cities, gorgeous towns and villages , incredible beaches and all the rest. The food? Yeah, you know about that. Italy is the sort of place that offers idyllic beach breaks one year and rural vineyard holidays the next. To paraphrase a millennial concept, Italy is a country that does both. 

It can be overwhelming, choice often is. Put simply, these are the best places to visit in Italy right now. Safe travels, and buone vacanze! 

Discover Italy:

🇮🇹 The  best things to do in Italy 🏨 Stunning  hotels in Italy 🏝 Italy’s best islands to visit 😍 The  most beautiful Italian villages and towns ⛱ The best  beaches in Italy to visit right now

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Best places to visit in Italy

1.  Venice

Where to start with La Serenissima? Even if you’re not here for the Biennale or Carnival, this city positively hums with good vibes all year round. It has beaches, some of the world’s best art, and we don’t know if you’ve heard about the food here, but it’s properly great too. Above all, Venice calls for getting lost, so avoid the touristy gondola rides and wander aimlessly along the alluring backstreets. With regular stops for prosecco and  cicchetti , of course.

Discover Venice:

📍  20 best things to do in Venice 🍕  Brilliant restaurants in Venice 🍷  The best bars in Venice 🏛  Amazing museums in Venice 🛎   The best hotels in Venice

2.  Florence

Sure, there’s the Duomo and Michaelangelo’s David and the Uffizi and the Ponte Vecchio – Florence positively brims with headline attractions that are well worth visiting – but there’s so much more to this city than just the tourist magnets. For example, some parks that rarely feel busy, quirky museums that’ll give you the creeps, vintage shops and second-stores galore, and delicious gelato that’ll have you mumbling  benissimo!  under your breath all day long. Florence isn’t a Renaissance theme park: it’s a living city with plenty to seduce visitors of all tastes.

Discover Florence:

📍   18 brilliant things to do in Florence 🍕   Top restaurants in Florence 🏛   Excellent museums in Florence 🛍  Where to go shopping in Florence 🛎   The best hotels in Florence

3.  Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast

Italy’s stupendous Amalfi Coast, overlooking the bay of Naples, is probably best known as the production hub of Limoncello, that sweetest of  digestivi , made with lemon rinds, water, sugar and, of course, alcohol. There’s a generous sprinkling of beautiful towns along this 50km-long stretch of coastline, but Sorrento is the true highlight. With its sun-drenched piazzas, breathtaking hotels and winding streets that ooze olde-worlde charm, it’s a beautiful, manageably-sized town that’ll turn any trip into a seafood-filled, Aperol-soaked dream.  La dolce vita?  Found it, mate. Discover Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast: 📍  13 amazing things to do in Sorrento 🛎   The best hotels in Sorrento

4.  Lake Como

Italy has its fair share of dramatic scenery, but nothing can quite prepare you for the moment you first set eyes on Lake Como. An impossibly turquoise, wishbone-shaped lake, flanked by the Alps and with shores lined by palatial villas and pretty towns, this long-time escape for the well-to-do has to be seen to be believed. While a handful of Lake Como’s famous villas house luxury hotels, many are open to the public – including the exquisite Villa Balbianello, made famous by Casino Royal and Star Wars . Our tip? Pay a visit to the popular towns of Bellagio and Varenna, but stay in the city of Como for a wider range of budget-friendly accommodation. And try the missoltino .

5.  Trieste

The writer Jan Morris once described this port city as the ‘capital of nowhere’. Once you’re here, you’ll see what she meant. Over the past 200 years, Trieste has been occupied by the Habsburgs, French, Italians, Yugoslavs – and was once an independent city-state. It may be Italian again, but you wouldn’t know. The architecture is oh-so ‘Grand Budapest Hotel’, while menus feature hodgepodge dishes like gnocchi al goulash. Slovenia is only seven miles away, and traditional  osmiza  will lay on fresh farm produce for walkers en route. Best of all, you’d be hard-pressed to spot a single other tourist.

6.  Rome

With world-renowned art collections and a shit ton of history on pretty much every corner, Rome is a rite of passage for history buffs. But while you might come here for all the ruins, it’s also worth a trip if you’re properly into your cutting-edge food and drink (or just like a really good slice of pizza, tbh). Add to this the allure of its many verdant parks, with their beautiful panoramic terraces and a moderate climate that’s inviting during any season, and it’ll become far too easy to fall in love with the Italian capital.

Discover Rome:

📍 22 brilliant things to do in Rome 🍕 Really good restaurants in Rome 🍷  The best bars in Rome 🛍    Must-visit markets in Rome 🛎  The best hotels in Rome

7.  Naples

Charming, hodgepodge, run-down Naples, once a rogue and dangerous Italian city to be avoided, is in the midst of a grand revival. Back on the map thanks to the success of Elena Ferrante’s ‘Neapolitan Novels’ and Roberto Saviano’s crime saga ‘Gomorrah’ – plus the international TV adaptations of both – travellers who once would have bypassed this rough-hewn city are flocking here in droves. And yet it’s still kept much of its character and old-world charm. Laundry laces the back alleys, markets brim with sweet-smelling local produce, and life here is lived on the streets. Oh, and that backdrop!

Discover Naples:

📍  20 incredible things to do in Naples 🍕   Really good restaurants in Naples 🛎  The best hotels in Naples

8.  Sardinia

Sardinia ticks a lot of different holiday boxes. Beach bunnies will fall head-over-heels for the white sands and impossibly aquamarine water around Costa Smeralda and the island’s south coast. Nature lovers and hikers could wander for days around the interior, which feels like it hasn’t changed for centuries. And foodies can also spoil themselves with some of Italy’s finest produce and gorge themselves silly on seafood. Whatever kind of getaway you’re after, there are plenty of idyllic accommodation options ripe to make yours a truly perfect stay.

Discover Sardinia: 🛎   The best hotels in Sardinia

9.  Bologna

Famed for its swelteringly hot summers, radical leftwing politics, picturesque terracotta buildings and all that food, glorious food, Bologna could well be one of Europe’s most underrated city break destinations. In fact, the food here would be enough of a draw in itself: the capital of the Emilia-Romagna region is the home of mortadella, tortellini and tagliatelle al ragù, after all. Grab a gelato for dessert and make the pilgrimage to the Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca, just beyond the ancient city walls.

Discover Bologna: 📍   10 brilliant things to do in Bologna

10.  Ischia

A volcanic beauty sitting in the Bay of Naples, Ischia is an island that does both. It’s big enough to justify spending your entire vacation there, yet small enough that you could feasibly see the whole thing in a week. Spend your days exploring coves, grottos, beaches, gardens and rugged hills; spend your nights dining in upscale restaurants in the bustling areas of Forio and Ischia Porto, where boats bob on the marina and ferries offload holidaying Napolitani. Best of all? While Ischia certainly attracts summer crowds, it doesn’t yet feel overcrowded, particularly in comparison to neighbouring Capri. Do yourself a favour and visit now – and rent a moped if you want to do it right.

11.  Milan

Thanks to a fast-expanding transport network and a host of new starchitect-designed buildings, tourism has boomed in Italy’s business capital in recent years. Far more than just an excellent place to stock up on the latest shoes, the city has undergone a renaissance of late: cool bars, cool restaurants, cool cultural centres, and so on. That all feels rather appropriate, considering Renaissance man Leonardo da Vinci was responsible for the city’s crisscrossing network of canals, parts of the dazzling Castello Sforzesco, and also, y’know, just making Milan historically a very artsy and creative place to be.

Discover Milan:

📍  22 incredible things to do in Milan 🍕  Amazing restaurants in Milan 🍷  Brilliant bars in Milan 🛍   Where to go shopping in Milan 🛎   The best hotels in Milan

12.  Siena

So you’re going to Tuscany. Which gorgeous hilltop town will it be? From tiny, rustic Radicondoli to the vino rosso mecca of medieval Montepulciano, it’s an impossible choice to make – but someone has to do it. We’d opt for Siena: technically a city, it still has plenty of small-town charm (and serves up all those sweeping views over rolling hills you’re here for), while offering an inexhaustible amount of stuff for visitors to see and do. Take in the golden gothic cathedral, wander mazy backstreets lined with boutiques and galleries, taste locally-produced pecorino – or, if you have a sweet tooth, indulge it with a slice of panforte di siena (a type of chewy fruit cake made in the region).

13.  Sicily

Sun-soaked Sicily is just off the ‘tip’ of Italy’s ‘boot’: an almost-otherworldly island that has a character distinct from the rest of southern Italy. Visitors can hike the slopes of Mount Etna and sip the wine that’s made there, get lost in the maze-like Baroque towns of Noto, Modica and Ragusa, feast on fresh seafood on Ortigia island, sunbathe on the island’s countless beautiful beaches or let the hours pass eating granita and cannoli in pretty squares. There are majestic ruins and archaeological sites, many dating back to Ancient Greek times, dotted all over the island.

Discover Sicily: 🛎   The best hotels in Sicily 🏖 The best beaches in Sicily

14.  Verona

Consider yourself a hopeless romantic? Where better to holiday than the setting of Shakespeare’s Romeo & Juliet ? ‘Wherefore art thou’ to your heart’s content with a visit to Juliet’s balcony, which clings to the side of a charming fourteenth-century home and overlooks a courtyard containing a statue of the lovestruck heroine herself. After you’ve rubbed her chest for luck in love, marvel at the ancient amphitheatre Arena di Verona, cross the Ponte di Castelvecchio for views over the Adige River, and dine at one of many local trattorias surrounding Piazza Bra or Piazza Delle Erbe. Bellissima.  

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

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

How to Choose Where to Go in Italy

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Alberobello

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

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

Cinque Terre

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Polignano a Mare

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

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

Montepulciano

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

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

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

Val di Noto’s Baroque Towns

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Lago di Braies

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

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

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

Tuscan Countryside

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

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

The Amalfi Coast

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

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

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

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

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

Mount Vesuvius

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

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

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

About Kate Storm

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

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

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

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

You’re welcome! 🙂

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

1. Rome : the capital

2. florence: the art city, 4. venice: the romantic city, 5. the cinque terre, 6. lecce: the baroque city, 7. verona: the shakespearean city, 8. genoa: port city, 9. naples : historic city, 10. capri: magnificent island, 11. turin: the city of cinematography and chocolate, 12. milan: the capital of fashion, 13. lake maggiore and the borromean islands, 14. lake como, 15. garda lake, 16. the dolomites, 17. the amalfi coast, 18. gargano national park, 20. sardinia, flight prices to italy, you’re traveling in italy these articles will help you, visit italy: the 20 best places to visit and must-see attractions.

I will start this guide of the best things to do in Italy with the capital, Rome. The Eternal City city attracts millions of tourists every year but, despite what you might think, it isn’t the most touristic city of the country. Florence and Venice both attracts more international visitors!

Rome is a beautiful city, with the added advantage of being very easy to visit on foot. It’s full of ancient monuments, beautiful squares and museums. Here are the must-see:

• The Coliseum
• The Roman forum
• The Pantheon
• Trevi Fountain
• Piazza Navona

If you are visiting Rome, you should also go to the Vatican City. Don’t miss the following:

• Saint Peter’s Square
• Saint Peter’s Basilica , the world’s largest basilica
• The Sistine Chape l and Michelangelo’s major work: The Last Judgement
• And all Vatican museums

For more details about the city, you should read my article: The 25 best things to do in Rome .

Florence, undoubtedly the most beautiful city of Tuscany, is home to numerous museums and Renaissance palaces. The Cultural Heritage is immense : Half Italian works of art are located in Florence. No wonder why it’s one of the most visited city in Italy along with Venice!

So will you be one of the 15 million tourists that will visit the city this year?

Must-see places in Florence:

• The Uffizi gallery and its famous paintings
• The basilica San Miniato al Monte , from which you will have a panoramic view over Florence. A tip: go there for sunset
• Piazza della Signoria: a real open-air museum
• Cupola del Brunelleschi: climb 400 steps for a 360 degree view of Florence. Remember to book your tickets in advance to avoid the queue.

And don’t forget to visit the Tuscan countryside , famous for being the most beautiful in Italy!

To learn more about the best places to visit in Florence, you should read my dedicated article: The 27 Best Things to do in Florence.

When you hear about Pisa, the first thing that comes to your mind is probably the famous leaning tower, the symbol of the city. However, there are also other things to see in the city, so you can easily spend a full day in town.

• The Piazza dei Miracoli , is the touristic heart of the city: all the famous monuments of Pisa are located there!
• The tower of Pisa , with it’s 20€ entrance fee (it can be a surprising price!)
• The Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption
• The Baptistery of Saint John of Pisa
• The Monumental Cemetery Camposanto
• La Piazza dei Cavalieri , a small typical Italian square with fewer tourists
• Borgo Stretto: shopping hotspot and ideal place to eat or have a drink in one of the numerous restaurants.

You will find every information you need to visit Pisa in my article: The 10 best things to do in Pisa.

I can’t write an article about the Best of Italy without mentioning the famous City of Venice!

Venice is one of the most touristic cities in Europe, a great choice if you want to spend a weekend or more in Italy. With its numerous canals and its famous gondola rides, it’s also the perfect destination for a romantic stay. The Venice Carnaval takes place every year in February and attracts tourists from all over the world. If you don’t mind the crowds, it can be a good time to visit the city!

The places to visit in Venice:

• Saint Mark’s Square: heart of the city and pigeons’ area
• Saint Mark’s Basilica and its golden mosaics
• The Ducale Palace
• The Bridge of Sighs: Venice’s famous bridge
• The islands of Murano (world famous for glassmaking) and Burano with its typical colorful houses.

You can find more info about the best places to visit in Venice in my article: The 31 best things to do in Venice .

This guide of the best places to visit in Italy wouldn’t be complete without mentioning the Cinque Terre , 5 stunning cliff-side villages overlooking the Mediterranean sea. You have probably already seen pictures of them, these spectacular colourful towns are amongst the most famous sights of Italy!

Cinque Terre villages are located close to each other. To visit them, you have 3 choices:

• Do the hiking trail that connects them (but be careful, depending on the season, some of them might be closed). The routes between each village can go from ½ hour to 2 hours.
• Take the train that connects all the villages: The Cinque Terre Express.
• By boat, with amazing views over the villages.

The Cinque Terre villages are the following:

• Monterosso al mare: located in the northernmost part, it is the largest of the villages and the only one with a large sandy beach.
• Vernazza with its colourful houses and small port.
• Corniglia, the only one that isn’t connected to the sea, can be reached by a staircase of more than 350 steps.
• Manorala: the oldest village.
• Riomaggiore, situated in the very East, at “the end” of the Cinque Terre.

If you want more information about Cinque Terre, you should read my detailed article: How to visit Cinque Terre?

Much less known than the previous cities, it’s however definitely worth a visit during your trip to Italy. Lecce, located at the base of the “Italian boot” in Puglia region, is a very beautiful baroque town. There are churches, museums and palaces everywhere, all sharing the same architectural style.

• La Basilique santa Croce
• The Basilica of the Holy Cross
• The historic center
• The dome of Lecce
• Sant’Oronzo Square
• Faggiano Museum

Verona is the city of love and of the tragic destiny of Romeo and Juliet. Everyone has already heard about it, but do you know what are the best things to do in town?

Here are the best places to visit in Verona:

• Juliette’s house: the opportunity to admire the famous balcony and take a picture with your lover
• The piazza Bra, where Verona arena is located
• Piazza delle Erbe with its market, bars and restaurant terraces
• The basilica of San Zeno Maggiore, the oldest church in Verona
• The Castelvecchio, a 14th century castle turned into a museum

Genoa is and have historically always been a port city. Christopher Columbus, one of the most famous adventurers of all time was born here!

The city is also full of monuments and beautiful sites to admire. Not many people visit it but it’s a shame, because there are very nice things to see in Genoa.

Things to do:

• The port of Genoa where you can visit the aquarium and see a replica of a pirate ship. Don’t forget to take the glass elevator to enjoy a panoramic view of the city.
• The historical center with the piazza dei Ferrari and its beautiful fountain
• Walk along Via Garibaldi and visit one or more palaces such as the palazzo reale, the palazzo bianco or the palazzo Rosso.
• Stroll along the Lungomare, a 3 km seaside promenade
• Go to Boccadasse, an old fisherman’s village with colourful houses

Naples is the European city with the largest historical centre, so you can be sure there are a lot of churches and monuments to visit in the city! Naples is also very famous around the world for its gastronomy: the pizza (created in the 1600s as a street food for the poorest Neapolitans) as well as the famous Neapolitan sauce.

Naples must-see attractions:

• Start with the historic centre and its Duomo
• The Piazza del Plebiscito, a huge and very photogenic square with beautiful monuments surrounding it
• The Vigiliano Park and its magnificent view over the bay
• Visit the archaeological museum which houses objects from Pompeii archaeological site
• Go to Pompeii,  located about 40 minutes by bus or train from Naples and witness the damage caused by the murderous eruption of the Vesuvius.

From Naples you can easily take the ferry and go to Capri island for a day trip.

You will start your visit of one of the most beautiful places in Italy in Marina Grande port. You should then take the funicular: it will take you directly to the famous Piazzetta, in Capri town center. With its café terraces and magnificent view over the bay, the place is magical!

Other things you shouldn’t miss in Capri are the Arco Naturale , a large 20m height rocky arch and the viewpoint of Tragara , which also offers a magnificent view. And of course the must-see attraction of Capri: the blue Grotto (Grotta Azzurra in Italian), named after the unique water color inside.

You may not know it, but Turin is THE chocolate city. Yes, there is not only Swiss or Belgian chocolate! Italian one is also very famous. Your favourite sweet thing has even been invented by a master pastry chef from Turin! Every year, the chocolate festival takes place in town, with many events and tasting.

But Turin is also the city of cinema. Located in Turin’s emblematic monument, the Mole Antonelliana, the Cinema Museum is one of the best in the world. You will learn more about the history of cinema and you can even see masks of Star Wars and Lord of the Rings! Don’t forget to take the panoramic lift to the upper terrace, you will enjoy a 360° view over the entire city.

Also worth seeing during your trip to Turin:

• The Egyptian museum : the 2nd largest after the one in Cairo and the oldest Egyptian museum in the world
• The automobile museum, with its impressive collection of vehicles
• The Palazzo Reale, former residence of the Dukes of Savoy

To plan your visit to Turin, you can read my definitive guide about the city: The 20 best things to do in Turin

Milan is the capital of fashion and design, with many renowned designer’s luxury boutiques and showrooms. In addition, there is also many historic buildings to visit in the city!

The tourist attraction you shouldn’t miss in Milan:

• The Piazza del Duomo and its magnificent Cathedral: the Duomo di Milano . Don’t hesitate to take the entrance ticket with rooftop terrace access, it’s worth it!
• The Sforza Castle and Parco Sempione, just nearby
• The Vittorio Emmanuel II gallery and its huge glass roof, a luxury shopping spot
• The Pinacoteca di Brera (Brera art gallery) and its rich collection of paintings by Italian masters such as Raphael, Bellini or Caravaggio.
• The monumental cemetery: The burial place of celebrities, featuring some very unusual tombstones.

If you have planned to go to Milan, you should my detailed article, with all my best tips to visit the city in 1, 2 or 3 days: The 15 best things to do in Milan

The Lake Maggiore , along with  Lake Como and Lake Garda is one of the 3 biggest (and most beautiful) Italian lakes. If you plan to visit Milan during your stay in Italy, it can be a great idea to spend a day or 2 around Lake Maggiore, as it’s only at 1h30 by car. And if you don’t have a car, many tour companies offer day trips from Milan.

Lake Maggiore is especially known for the Borromean Islands: the great new is that you can perfectly visit all 3 of them in 1 day with one of the many boat tours available.

The 3 islands

• The Isola Madre, where you will be able to admire its famous exotic garden with freely wandering peacocks.
• The Isola Bella, with the Borromean palace, its garden and the shell grotto
• The Isola Superieure, an island of fishermen.

Located at only 1 hours from Milan, Lake Como is the third largest lake in Italy. The lake is a very popular jet set holiday destination and is famous around the world for its many majestic villas and lush gardens.

It’s also a very popular shooting location: for example, you might have seen in it in Star Wars episode II! A part of the movie was shot at the Balbianello villa , one the lake shore. But Lake Como is more than this: around the lake you can visit beautiful fishing villages and enjoy many hiking trails. A must visit in Northern Italy!

Best Places to see:

• Como city and its pedestrian center
• Tremezzo  and Villa Carlotta with its sumptuous botanical garden
• Bellagio and villa Melzi , a source of inspiration for Stendhal himself
• Varenne and the villa Monastero with its promenade at the edge of the water
• Castello Di Vezio and its panoramic view of the lake below
• And of course, if you’re Star Wars fan, the Villa Balbianello.

Lake Garda is the largest and one of the most touristic lake in Italy. It’s located at only 1h30 by train from Milan.

Besides the lake itself, you can visit some of the nearby towns:

• Sirmione: the most famous town on Lake Garda. Its medieval castle marks the entrance to the city, and it’s vert pleasant to stroll in the small typical alleys. Catullo caves archaeological site is also worth seeing for its ruins of Roman temples and villas.
• Malcesine : in the city, you can visit Scaliger Castle and the Palazzo dei Capitani. Then take the cable car to Monte Baldo and enjoy a panoramic view of Lake Garda.
• Torri del Benaco: with its small fishing port and Scaligero castle, it also deserves a stop.

If you love hiking and Italy, then the Dolomites are made for you! Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the area has 18 mountain peaks, some of them being more than 3,000 meters height.

Famous for their very particular shape, sculpted by the elements, they are even more beautiful at sunrise and sunset.

To fully enjoy the landscape, you can drive along the Dolomites road from Bolzano to Cortina . There is around 130km and the road offer breathtaking views on the mountains.

Don’t hesitate to stop in the villages or at the lago di Carezza. Cortina is one of the best starting point for the numerous hiking trails in the region. If you love outdoors activities, the Dolomites is the region you should see during your next trip to Italy!

You are looking for the top sights in Italy? Then the Amalfi coast is a great choice for your next trip!

Located South of Naples, the Amalfi coast is famous for being one of the most beautiful coasts of Italy. With its wild coast and amazing cliff-side villages, no doubt you will love it!

Overview of the best places to visit:

• Sorrento , standing on a cliff with a view over the bay and the island of Capri.
• Positano, a colorful cliffside village. It’s popular jet-set destination for its fashion boutiques and trendy cafes.
• Nocelle: if you go to Positano, you should really do the Path Of Gods Trail, it start from Nocelle, a bit above Positano.
• Amalfi and its magnificent Duomo
• Ravello and the villa Cimbrone: with its 6 hectares garden overlooking the sea, it’s a must-do in Ravello.

Located in Puglia region, Gargano Natural Park is the largest natural park in Italy. The coast is famous for the limestone rocks the sea has carved over time. You will be able to see numerous caves, wild coves and faraglioni .

The center of the Gargano is a great place for peaceful hikes, especially in the Umbra forest, literally “the forest of shadows”. Stroll under the hundred years old trees and enjoy the flora and fauna.

The small town of   Vieste is also a must in the region!

Sicily, the biggest island in the Mediterranean sea, is the ideal place to visit if you want to mix relaxation at the beach and discovery of world class archaeological sites. Add the delicious Italian cuisine to the mix and the result is a perfect combination for unforgeable holidays!

Best places to see in Eastern Sicily:

• Catania and the Piazza del Duomo with the Cathedral of Santa Agatha
• Syracuse and the island of Ortigia : Take a walk the small alleys of the historical center, admire the grandiose Piazza del Duomo and enjoy the view of Castello Maniace
• Baroque towns: Noto, Modica and Ragusa
• Taormina : For the famous Greek theatre, the view over the Etna and its magnificent pebble beach: “Isola Bella”.
• Etna, the most active volcano in Europe.

Places to visit in Western Sicily: 

• Palermo , with the beautiful palatine chapel , the Norman palace and the unusual Capuchin Catacombs
• Cefalu, a small traditional fishing village
• Agrigento and the valley of the temples
• The beaches of “Scala dei Turchi” and Eraclea Minoa
• The Egadi Islands , a paradise on earth.

Discover all of my articles about Sicily .

You love beautiful beaches and you’re wondering where to go in Italy?

Sardinia , the 2nd biggest Italian island, is famous around the world for its stunning beaches. It’s the perfect destination if you want to enjoy holiday in the sun.

Best places to visit in Sardinia:

• Cagliari , the capital of Sardinia which stretches over several hills. Visit the Castello district , most of the tourist attractions are located there.
• Maddalena Islands , with beautiful wild beaches.
• Costa Smeralda : the perfect jet-set destination for a luxury holiday. The road, all along the coast, offers a spectacular view.
• The Gulf of Orosei : Huge and impressive limestone cliffs, hosts some of the most beautiful beaches of Sardinia.

You’re planning to visit Sardinia during your next trip? Have a look at my article about the best things to do: The 20 best places to visit in Sardinia.

And you, what do you plan to visit in Italy? What are your favorite places?

So, you want to go to Italy? In order to get the best price, I highly recommand you to check flight prices now. It’s quick and easy, just use our flight comparator below!

Once on the results page, feel free to compare several sites, to make sure that no fees are added to the final rates.

Italy travel Guides

• Buy the Lonely Planet Italy guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk
• Buy the Rick Steves Italy guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk

Discover all my articles about Italy : All my articles to help you plan your trip to Italy are listed there.

• The 20 Best Things to do in Italy – All the must-see places!
• Cinque Terre: The definitive guide to plan your visit
• Florence: The 27 best things to do and must-see attractions
• Milan: The Top 15 things to do in the city and around
• Pisa: Top 21 must-see attractions + Tips
• Rome: The 25 best things to do and see
• Siena: Top 20 best places to visit
• Turin: The 20 must-see attractions
• Venice: The 31 best things to do (+ Tips)
• 2 days in Florence
• 3 days in Florence
• 4 days in Florence
• 5 days in Florence
• 2 days in Milan
• 3 days in Milan
• 4 days in Milan
• 2 Days in Rome – How to visit Rome in 48h
• 3 Days in Rome – The best itinerary to visit Rome in 72h
• 4 Days in Rome – The best places to visit in 4 days
• 5 Days in Rome – How to spend 5 days in Rome
• 6 Days in Rome – The ultimate Itinerary + Where to stay
• One week in Rome – The perfect 7-day itinerary
• 2 Days in Venice – An Epic 48h itinerary
• 3 Days in Venice – The perfect 72h itinerary
• 4 Days in Venice – Itinerary + Best Things to do + Tips
• Where to stay in Milan? My guide to the best areas and hotels for a perfect stay
• Where to stay in Rome? – The definitive guide of the best areas!
• Where to stay in Venice? My selection of the best hotels and districts for an epic stay
• Omnia Card: The definitive guide
• Colosseum: The 7 best skip the line tickets
• Trevi Fountain: History, Secrets and Facts
• Rome’s Hidden Gems : The Definitive Guide with 17 secret spots!
• The 20 Best museums in Rome – With all my best tips!
• Rome in May: The definitive guide to plan your visit: weather, things to do, itineraries and more!
• Rome in June: Guide + All my best tips

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Creator of the Voyage Tips blog, travel and photography lover. I give you all my best tips to plan your next trip.

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Top 22 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Italy

Italy is a truly special, incredibly diverse and magical country where I think you are just as likely to find beauty in a quiet, cobbled backstreet or traditional trattoria as in its stunning beaches or extraordinary countryside.

I’ve lived in Italy for many years, and I’d love to share my favourite destinations. Some will be well known, others not so much…

1. Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre’s rugged, rustic, but breathtaking beauty perfectly sums up why Italy is so revered as a travel destination!

Located on the stunning Italian Riviera coastline, five brightly coloured medieval villages cling jaggedly – and almost impossibly – to the inhospitable coastal rocks.

It’s such an important place; it was declared a Unesco World Heritage Site in 1997. I suggest meandering around the narrow streets, wandering the ancient vineyards that cling to steep terraces, and then heading for a pesto pasta lunch (a regional speciality) at one of the local trattorias! Pure bliss! 

My must-do highlights…

• Enjoy a hike along the Blue Trail that overlooks the ocean and takes you to five Insta-worthy villages.
• Spend a day at Cinque Terre’s only sandy beach, Monterosso al Mare, to soak up the blissful sun or cool down in the sea.
• Book a boat sunset tour and uniquely explore the coastline whilst watching the sun go down.
• Experience the mouth-watering fresh fish caught by locals who live on the island.

Book A Trip!

We can book your trip hopping around Italy’s beautiful places through our free, top-rated travel planning service !

2. Lake Como

Famously home to George Clooney’s Italian villa, Lake Como is the third largest lake in the country and a hot spot for tourists and locals alike.

Traditionally, Lake Como has been known as a place for wealthy people and political entities to retreat occasionally, but I would still recommend a visit to anyone!

Lake Como is home to several castles and luxurious accommodations. If you need to get around the lake, its state-of-the-art water transport ferry system has been an important part of the lake since its induction in 1826.

• Visit one of the most iconic cathedrals in Italy, The Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, where you can see a breathtaking panoramic view of the city from the top.
• Explore the museums to learn about the history of Lake Como and how it has evolved over the years.
• Enjoy a day filled with fun at the Lake Como Adventure Park set in the mountains surrounded by nature.
• For those who love water sports, hire a kayak and spend the day out on the beautiful lake, exploring around the island.

3. Tuscany Countryside

I honestly think there is no other place on earth like the Tuscan countryside. I highly recommend driving away from the cities and heading into some of the most extraordinary scenery in the world! 

This is a truly magical place where you’ll find impossibly picturesque rolling hills and scenic drives where the odd roaming wild hog or two will suddenly come into view.  

Also, expect breathtaking sunflower fields, olive groves that have been here for hundreds of years, medieval ruins and some of the most incredible vineyards in the world.

• Take a trip to the natural hot springs in Bagno Vignoni and bathe in the idyllic waters.
• Explore the romantic vineyards in Chianti to experience a unique wine tasting.
• Book a hot air balloon tour in Lucca and enjoy the breathtaking views overlooking the picturesque countryside.
• Visit the leaning tower of Pisa and capture an Insta-worthy shot next to this famous landmark.

My hotel choice for Tuscan Countryside – Il Castro Luxury Apartments San Gimignano

• To book, check prices or dates for Il Castro Luxury Apartments San Gimignano

4. Camogli, Liguria

In the northern portion of the country, the peninsula of Portofino houses small fishing villages. Among the most notable and famous villages is Camogli in Liguria.

This small port maintains a modest population of around 5,500 people and remains protected within the Portofino Marine Protected Area .

Strolling through the marketplace or basking in the sun on Comogli’s coast is a welcomed activity for tourists and locals alike. I recommend bringing your camera and taking many pictures of every nook and cranny of this endearing and picturesque part of the coast! 

My must-do highlights

• Indulge in the abundance of delicious fresh seafood on offer at an array of establishments on the main harbour.
• Slow down and take some time to relax at Camogli’s rocky beach where you can enjoy the glistening sun.
• Rent a speedboat with a skipper to explore the beautiful gems only reachable by water, the Natural Park of Portofino and Paradiso Gulf.
• Take an E-bike tour along the stunning coastline to visit the unique and charming churches and castles.

5. Calabria

Located in the country’s south, Calabria is part of the land separating the Tyrrhenian Sea from the Ionian Sea and the sun-baked toe of Italy’s boot!

Some attractions in this country can seem like a dressed-up show put in place for tourists’ enjoyment, but that is not something you will find in Calabria.

This portion of the country is quintessentially Italian, and I’m always charmed by it. Calabria has lovingly escaped the tourist game to provide an unspoiled and seemingly untouched view of classic Italy.

If you want to see Italians as they are rather than a scripted rendition, I personally think Calabria is the place to go! 

• Explore the Pollino National Park where you can discover the magnificent Raganello Canyon and walk along streams, bridges and gorges.
• Visit one of the most prestigious monuments in Calabria, the Aragonese fortress of Le Castella, where you can admire the remains of ancient castles.
• Enjoy the clear blue waters at Tropea which is well-known for being a unique and beautiful experience.
• For those who feel adventurous, book a double parasailing flight and unforgettably view the island’s landscape.

6. Lake Garda

Considered to be one of the most jaw-dropping places in the world, this is a large and impossibly picturesque lake nestled in Northern Italy surrounded by the pretty fortress town of Sirmione, the resort town of Riva del Garda, and many charming and laid-back villages in between.

Head further North and get to the famous Dolomites Mountain range.  

I highly recommend boating, wind-surfing, eating at the many charming and cosmopolitan restaurants, and generally taking in the wonderful vibe and jaw-dropping scenery.

• Visit one of the most famous hot springs in Garda Thermal Park, where you can experience naturally formed historic spas.
• Enjoy a family day at Gardaland Park, which features over 30 exciting rides, show-stopping musical performances and spectacular light shows.
• Explore the charming and picturesque town of Sirmione with a unique drawbridge entrance.
• Cycle around the lake and take in the breathtaking views on a path suspended 50 metres above the water.

7. The Dolomites

If you head further north from Lake Garda, you’ll find some of Europe’s most spectacular mountain scenery. Located in northeastern Italy, with gorgeous scenery and beautiful resorts aside, there is also plenty to do.

Head there in winter and find well-coordinated ski networks, the legendary circuit Sella Ronda, and plenty of people who cross-country skiing and snowboarding. Visit in summer and go hiking amongst stunning views and fresh mountain air.  

• Take a hike around the impressive Tre Cime di Lavaredo, famous for its three magnificent and distinctive peaks.
• Capture an Instagrammable shot at Lago di Carezza where the panoramic backdrop of the Latemar mountains reflects onto the lake.
• For an adventurous experience, climb via Ferrata in one of the best-equipped locations.
• Enjoy the culture and history that the Dolomites have to offer with a visit to Bolzano.

8. Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast

I love this area! The most famous area is the resort town of Sorrento, where you’ll find the addictive liqueur limoncello and, of course, plenty of great wine.

The city can also be used as a base to visit Pompeii, which was buried by Mount Vesuvius’ volcanic eruption in 79 AD.

Further along the ruggedly beautiful coast, you will find the impossibly picturesque and affluent town of Positano and the small, pretty town of Amalfi. The area offers one of the world’s greatest coastal drives so be sure to hire a car if you can, Fiat 500s are always an apt choice!

I would also recommend taking a boat from Sorrento to the romantic island of Capri, where you can see the gorgeous Blue Grotto, a sea cave flooded with brilliant blue or emerald light.

• Explore the picturesque Old Town of Sorrento with its beautiful pastel-coloured houses.
• Take a trip along the Amalfi Coast, which is well-known for being one of the most stunning coastlines in the world and overlooking crystal clear turquoise waters.
• Hike the four-mile stretch of the Path of Gods which provides you with the most breathtaking views of the Amalfi Coastline.
• Enjoy watching a sunset over the bay of Naples whilst listening to the musical delights of a busker in Villa Communale Park.

My hotel choice for Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast – La Casa di Peppe Guest House & Villa

• To book, check prices or dates for La Casa di Peppe Guest House & Villa

Puglia is located in the southern region of Italy , in the heel of Italy’s boot. Initially ignored by tourists for decades, it has become quite the fashionable place to take a vacation in recent years! 

Here, you can expect hill towns filled with pretty white ‘Trulli’ houses, centuries-old farmland and a spectacular Mediterranean coastline.

This region is perfect for those wishing to taste real Italy and the fabulous blue sea and glorious sandy beaches.

Aside from the varied Italian experience, you’ll have other reasons to visit this region, including the excellent regional cuisine, picturesque olive groves, and lush green orchards.

• Wander around the historic city of Leece and admire the gorgeous Baroque architecture made from unique stone and interesting features.
• For those who love food, the restaurant at Masseria Il Frantoio is a must-stop to taste its ever-evolving menu of authentic dishes.
• Visit the iconic landmark of Sant at Torre Sant’Andrea and enjoy a swim through the archway in picturesque waters.
• Take a hot air balloon ride overlooking the natural landscape of Gravina, which is filled with canyons, hills and stone houses.

10. Verona City

Verona is a lovely, relaxed city famous for Shakespeare’s story of Romeo and Juliet. It has the third-largest Roman Arena in Italy, and I highly recommend catching an opera during your visit.

UNESCO has awarded the city a World Heritage site status because of its urban structure and architecture, which include Roman remains and ancient castles.

As you can imagine, Verona is a very romantic city, so if you take a partner, you never know. They might end up proposing! The Italian lakes are accessible from Verona, Lake Garda, Lake Como, and Lake Maggiore, some of the most well-known.

The mountain lakes offer classically beautiful images of this country and are flanked by sleepy cobblestone villages and secluded gardens.

• Climb up to the top of Torre dei Lamberti to experience the panoramic and best view across the city.
• Enjoy a shopping trip at Piazza Delle Erbe which is also a perfect outdoor dining spot on a sunny day.
• Take a stroll along the stunning Ponte Pietra bridge which connects the city to Teatro Romano and Castel San Pietro.
• Wander around the magical Giardino Gusti Gardens located on the grounds of the historic palace.

11. Venice 

Venice is one of the most famous cities in Italy, and it’s built on water. It’s also often cited as one of the world’s most romantic travel destinations. In the middle of the city, you’ll find the grand square ‘Piazza San Marco,’ where the even more impressive basilica resides.

If you’re a culture seeker, you’ll be spoilt for choice here; Venice has the world’s most artistic masterpieces per square kilometre, and numerous churches, museums, and palaces are worth visiting.

Another highlight is the Bridge of Sighs (Ponte dei Sospiri), an enclosed bridge that crosses the Rio di Palazzo.

If you’re a romantic and want to ride in a gondola, remember to take plenty of money—you will be charged a small fortune for the privilege.

• Visit one of the most famous Piazza, St Mark’s Square, located in the heart of the city along the Grand Canal.
• Experience a unique way of getting around by taking one of the famous gondola rides through the city.
• Taste an array of fresh flavours at the Mercati di Rialto and see how the local Italians create their signature dishes.
• Climb the spiral staircase of Scala Contarini Del Bovolo which has a viewpoint at the top overlooking the city.

12. Bologna

Bologna is a stunning city known for its beauty, left-wing politics, wealth, and, most importantly, cuisine. It is the capital of the Emilia-Romagna region in northern Italy. If you arrive by train, move swiftly away from the station to take in the city’s most beautiful sites.

Many arcades allow you to explore the city even if it’s raining. I recommend wandering around the backstreets until you stumble upon one of the many beautiful squares where you can stop for a cafe or gelato.

Bologna also boasts the oldest university in the world, founded in 1088. Most people visit the city to discover its renowned culinary delights, which include tagliatelle al ragù, lasagne, tortellini served in broth, and fried gnocchi.

• View the spectacular art at Bologna National Gallery which features paintings dating back as far as the 13th century.
• Experience the historic markets at La Piazzola where you can buy an eclectic range of items in a lively atmosphere.
• Indulge in a traditional tortellini dish at one of the many authentic restaurants throughout the city.
• Explore one of the coolest places in the city, Ghetto Ebraico, filled with shopping, bars and restaurants.

13. Florence

Florence is a magnificent and fascinating place and an art lover’s dream. A popular city nestled in the rolling hills of the Tuscany region, Florence has plenty to offer its many visitors.

For starters, there are numerous museums filled with famous paintings and sculptures and two places I recommend are the Pitti Palace and the Uffizi.

The latter hosts works by Caravaggio, Leonardo da Vinci, and Michelangelo and receives approximately 1.6 million tourists a year (you should book before you go, or you will unfortunately face a long wait).

Also, take your time to explore the rest of Tuscany. Known as the Renaissance country, the region offers some of the world’s most beautiful and romantic natural scenery.

The extraordinary countryside and coastline keep the relaxed vacationers happy, and the ever-flowing supply of fine wine and cuisine will certainly please the food connoisseurs.

• Climb 414 steps to the top of Giotto’s Bell Tower and experience the magnificent views overlooking the city.
• Enjoy a day of shopping at San Lorenzo outdoor market where you will find some unique goods and souvenirs.
• Visit one of the most famous art masterpieces in the world, the Statue of David created by Michelangelo.
• Finish off a day of exploring by watching the sunset cast a sensational light across the city at Piazzale Michelangelo.

My hotel choice for Florence – 25hours Hotel

• To book, check prices or dates for 25hours Hotel Florence Piazza San Paolino

It’s impossible to tour Italy without visiting its famous capital, Rome. This truly incredible city is full of history spanning over twenty centuries—you could say Rome is the world’s best open-air museum.

As you wander the streets, the architecture will leave you in awe, so pack your camera.

There are many sites to discover, the most famous being the Coliseum, the Vatican, St. Peter’s, the Trevi Fountain and my personal favourite, the Pantheon.

You probably won’t get to see them all in a weekend but it will give you a reason to go back! Rome’s cafe culture is also world-famous, and for a real Rome experience, choose from one of many piazzas and watch the world go by with (an expensive) expresso. 

• Admire the structural architecture at the historic Colosseum, one of Italy’s iconic landmarks.
• Walk up the 135 Spanish Steps and capture an Insta-worthy shot between the Piazza di Spagna and the Piazza Trinita dei Monti.
• Make a wish at the most famous fountain in the Europe, Trevi Fountain.
• Visit San Crispino to enjoy some gelato, arguably one of Italy’s best ice cream places.

15. Sardinia

This large island off the coast of Italy is a favourite holiday spot for Italians and rich footballers. Most of the time, it’s a quiet and relaxing island, but popular areas can get very busy in the summer, so you must book early to stay at the best places. To reach Sardinia, you can sail or fly into Alghero, Cagliari, or the port town of Olbia.

The island is beautiful, and compared to many holiday island resorts in Europe, it remains relatively unspoiled.

There are no high-rise concrete hotels here; even the resort areas are surprisingly tasteful. I would personally recommend Sant’antioco and San Pietro, as these are the most remote and traditional areas.

Sardinia’s coastline is world-renowned, so you won’t have to search far for amazing beaches and clear water wherever you stay.

• Take a boat tour for a unique and picturesque way to explore the coastline.
• Visit the petite and beautiful town of Bosa which features some top tourist attractions.
• Spend the day relaxing on a Sardinia beach, choose between a long sandy stretch or a small hidden cove.
• Discover the caves located at different spots around the island.

The largest island in the Mediterranean Sea makes an excellent holiday destination. Like Sardinia, it has excellent beaches and wonderful cuisine, only far cheaper.

You will also have the luxury of going island-hopping—the Aegadian Islands, Aeolian Islands, and Pantelleria Lampedusa are all nearby and accessible. Sicily is a traditional and rustic island with a rich culture and a potent mix of architecture, arts, cuisine, literature, and music.

Here, you can sit on beaches, visit archaeological sites, or sample the locally caught fish. Make sure you include a visit to the Selinunte, an ancient building containing five temples centred on an acropolis.

The east coast of Sicily is more developed and tourist-friendly, and the west coast is more untouched.

As you travel down the ladder, you’ll be amazed at how friendly the Sicilian people are and how pleased they are that you chose to visit Sicily.

• Visit the petite fishing town of Cefalù filled with vibrant boats and take a dip in the picturesque turquoise waters.
• Discover one of the island’s most popular attractions, the Etna volcano, and experience an unforgettable moment.
• Watch the sunset by the white limestone cliff of Scala dei Turchi which is famous for its unique shape.
• Enjoy authentic Sicilian cuisine and taste their mouth-watering flavours created from locally sourced ingredients.

A favourite with honeymooners and well-heeled tourists, this resort island has been attracting visitors since the Roman Times and has maintained its stunning beauty.

It’s a small island in Italy’s Bay of Naples and is home to rugged landscapes, yacht-filled coves, upscale hotels and plenty of boutique shops stocking everything, from Italian wine to designer fashion.

You can’t leave without visiting the Blue Grotto, one of the most beautiful places in Italy. It’s a natural dark cavern where the sea is a stunning electric blue (actually sunlight passing through an underwater cave).

• Take a chairlift or climb up to the peak of Mount Solaro and capture a breathtaking view that reaches as far as the Calabria mountains.
• Have a romantic dinner filled with local traditional cuisine and unique island dishes.
• Visit the Grotta Azzurra where the sun reflects an unusual blue glow throughout the cave.
• Admire the spectacular sea cliffs surrounding the island by taking a boat trip to explore.

18. Portofino 

Portofino is one of my favourite under-the-radar gems! This picturesque fishing village is one of the most famous holiday resorts on the Italian Riviera. This destination is ideal for a romantic escape with your loved one! 

Portofino offers tranquillity, charming architecture, and true nature. This beautiful village has been a top spot for the rich and famous since the 1950s.

• Have a shopping day in the luxurious boutiques hidden down narrow alleys and on the marina front.
• For those who love sports, take a bike tour and soak up the panoramic views of the Gulf.
• Visit the open-air museum, where you can admire contemporary artwork and the Mediterranean Sea at the same time.
• Experience the famous diving spot near San Fruttuoso Beach and discover the unique bronze statue underwater.

This is the Italian city to head to for shopping, fashion, and beautiful (and very well-dressed) people!. It’s a cosmopolitan, fast-paced city that attracts designers, artists, photographers, and models worldwide. There are also many other reasons to visit.

People aside, Milan is also famous for its extraordinary architecture, art, history, and food and for its love of football—its two main clubs have made the city one of the most football-loving places in Europe.

There is also great architecture, including the Duomo di Milano, excellent art galleries (Milan is home to one of the most famous Renaissance paintings in history—Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper), and incredible shops, operas, bars, and restaurants.

Milan is quite the foodie city and is famous for its typical Italian dishes like Risotto, minestrone and polenta, and I would suggest trying them all! 

• Watch a football match at San Siro Stadium, one of the largest in Europe, and be part of the roaring atmosphere.
• Explore the Sforzesco Castle which features several museums and a beautiful courtyard.
• Spend a day shopping in the fashion capital of the world at the Golden Triangle filled with luxury brands.
• Wander through the creative street art in Isola and capture some Instagrammable shots.

20. Elba Island

Just north of the Tuscan Archipelago sits Elba Island, it’s remained a fairly under-the-radar destination in Italy but it’s an increasingly trendy place to holiday.

Around 30,000 people populate the gorgeous Italian island, but that number significantly increases during its tourist-filled summer months.

Elba Island is located in Italy’s Archipelago Toscano National Park and is known as the country’s third-largest island. Sardinia and Sicily are the only larger islands in Italy. Cavo Beach and Spiaggia Delle Tombe are among the most popular and picturesque beaches on Elba Island.

Like most islands, snorkelling and diving are popular tourist activities.

• Explore one of the most ancient buildings located on Elba Island, the Fortress of Volterraio, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Gulf of Portoferraio.
• Experience a sunset boat tour around the island whilst taking in the magnificent scenery and enjoying an aperitif created from local products.
• For those who love an adventure, hike up to the Capanne Mount, the highest peak of the island which is well known for capturing the best panoramic pictures of the island.
• Kayak around the beautiful island and take the chance to swim in their crystal-clear waters.

21. Lake Orta 

Lake Garda and Como are the most famous lakes in Italy, but if you want more relaxation than a tourist-ridden destination, Lake Orta is the place to go! 

Locals tend to gravitate to Lake Orta when they need to recharge. At the centre of Lake Orta is a small island, Isola San Giulio, home to a century-old monastery and basilica.

Take a ferry to the island and soak up the wonderful and tranquil atmosphere!

• Try the unique fragrance of Orta which is inspired by the stories of the land and is a great souvenir to remember your trip.
• Slow down and enjoy a stroll around the lake that is surrounded by a collection of Insta-worthy photo spots.
• Enjoy the beach clubs located along the sandy shores and swim in one of the cleanest lakes in Europe.
• Explore the famous Villa Taranto gardens and admire the vibrant colours across spectacular flower beds.

22. Ischia Island

Located on the Tyrrhenian Sea, Ischia Island is one of the many volcanically formed islands. Located about 30 km from Naples, tourists travel to this unbelievably beautiful island as it is the largest of the Phlegreen Islands in Italy. To get out to Ischia Island, visitors must take a ferry.

Two ferries bring people to the island. One takes 1.5 hours while the other is just one hour travel time, so choose the right one for your needs.

Once there, I recommend just kicking back and enjoying the beauty of this island while watching the daring cliff jumpers!

• Take a boat tour around the island and discover hidden coves whilst admiring villages along the cliffs.
• Taste the iconic arugula liquor as a digestive after enjoying a traditional dinner.
• Visit one of Ischia Island’s top attractions, the Aragonese Castle, where you can experience Insta-worthy views.
• For those who love adventure, spend a day at Ischia Adventure Park and take part in several exciting outdoor activities.

Scott Balaam - writer and photographer Scott started his travelling life back in 1999, when he headed off on a solo jaunt to South Africa, Australia, New Zealand and South East Asia with just a backpack, a camera and a spirit for adventure. After that, the travel bug bit hard and now he is always seeking to head off somewhere new. Over the years he has lived in Italy, Qatar, Australia, Ireland, UK and the USA but his spiritual home will always be Rome as this is the city which most satisfies his unrelenting thirst for culture, good food and great football. In his spare time Scott loves nothing better than to be behind the camera and also runs his own blog and Instagram page. He also counts Melbourne, the rest of Italy, Amsterdam, USA, Athens, Cape Town and Tel Aviv among his favourite places. Find Scott on Linkedin , Instagram , or Twitter . Hotel Reviewing Experience –Asked by many tourist boards and many high-profile travel brands to formally review hotels including Visit Sweden ,  OET (Spanish Tourism Office) , Sultanate of Oman and  Travel Alberta . Also travelled around the world scouting out and reviewing all the most unique hotels in the world, check out our Instagram page for photos . Also mentioned as a top UK travel journalist .

57 thoughts on “Top 22 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Italy”

Absolutely fantastic Blog to read. The few places which are there to visit are Milan known for city structure, Venice for its wonderful scene outlook and Rome for its outstanding landscape. Thanks for the wonderful Information we have addressed a Great Blog.

Italy has some of the most spectacular old cities in the world. It’s not just the countryside that’s beautiful – so many of the cities! Not only are they stunning, but cities are also incredibly fascinating, full of art, history, ancient ruins, and more. Some of the important sights in Rome are Sistine Chapel and Michelangelo’s Pieta.

Want to visit Venice one day, this country is the most beautiful country in the world thank u for sharing!

I truly admire you explorers, we only get to sit in an office behind the desk and read about the beauty of the world. Thanks Scott

Everyone should try and camp in Sicily, near the volcano! I can’t recommend this enough

The only places I was able to visit while in Italy were Rome and Venice! Loved them, but I would love to visit Tuscany and places like that. Take me outside of the city!

Really Italy is one of the most beautiful places to visit and I really love the Venice place. Initially, I was having difficulties to communicate with the loving people of Italy. However, one of my friends suggested me to take basic Italian courses from Easy Spoken Italian and now “Mi Manchi Italy!”

Great list. My only question is why aren’t there any stops in the Dolomites in Italy? I’ve heard that mountain region is incredibly beautiful and very different than any on the list.

I love Italy I went there few years ago and it was fascinating. Bologna is beautiful!

There sure are a lot of lovely places in Italy, I hope to have time to see more of them 🙂

It’s impossible to make a list of top ten in Italy. This country is the most beautiful country in the world and has hundreds of the most beautiful places! 🙂

I adore Italy and have visited twice. No matter where you are, it’s quite charming, especially Florence. It is so full of antiquities, ancient architecture, and lovely people. Everywhere you look, there is a sight to behold! I especially appreciated walking everywhere…and a coffee bar on every corner to sit and reflect the Italian way of life. I could get use to living there too!!!

While the food in Italy is reason enough to visit, the country is filled with famous works of art, exceptionally beautiful cities, and gorgeous lakes and mountains. A very romantic place.

They all look beautiful!

Love Italy – such a beautiful place!

love this list – have been to rome and venice and venice is one of the most beautiful places in the world. I am going at the end of the year and will visit milan as well. I can not wait, however, i do want to visit a bit more of the country side.

i’ve only made it to rome, would love to see the rest of the country and eat and drink!

Love to see these places…….you people have described the beauty of italy……Amazing country to visit…….I would love to highlight about the place for my local audiences on my blog @www.culturenheritage.com

I must say this article is very well written and very helpful. I will be travelling in Sept. Hope I get to see everything mentioned…….

This is a beautifully written and enticing article. The combination of eloquent descriptions and stunning photos makes me what to visit all 10 destinations immediately! Thanks Scott for sharing your appreciation and knowledge of Italy.

Where in the Milan is that canal from pictures? I was there and I doesn’t see it.

Florence!!! I NEED TO BE THERE!!

Beautiful places.I want visit Venice in near future.

Wow! Thanks for this woderful post. I live in Italy and love all the places you mentioned. This country is fabulous (but leaded by awful people…)

Great places..I’d like to visit Venice the most!

I live in Sardinia and I think that our beaches are among the finest in the world. I’m glad to see that they are in the list.

Thanks for featuring this! Exploring Italy is my dream and to read something like this helps in picturing my holiday!

I’m so glad to see Bologna on this list as I feel it is often overlooked. I loved it there 🙂

My husband and I are planing to go to Italy for our 30th anniversary. I would like to visit Venice, but I’ve heard that it has a bad smell because of the water in the canals. Is it true? I would hate to go there and not being able to enjoy my trip because of the smell.

We visited ourselves last July and on our visit it wasn’t smelly in the slightest. However it can get very, very crowded during the summer months and very humid. Spring and autumn are probably the best times to visit. Hope this helps!

We will be in Italy later this year so thank you for all the fantastic information.

Really looking forward to the Florence and the Tuscany region.

u must av mentioned ‘Poveglia’ too.. Lolz

Love the Sicily shot! Amazing!

My friends went here last January and they had a great time.Next time also I will in italy

Great article! adam

Oh.. wow! will be there in May.. I want to see it all! but won’t have enough time.. only 2 weeks

This post makes me want to go back to Italy! Someday I’m going to spend several months there I know it… and I want to jump into your photo of Sicily too lol!

I agree with some commentators here, Cinque Terre should be definitely included. I would suggest to replace it with Milan.

Italy iz da best place i eva visited…… Love it.<3

I have never seen the kind of beautiful Italy places. Really it’s looking like a dream places. Thanks.

There are far more prettier towns than the ones in Cinque Terre. It’s amazing how they managed to make such a big deal out of it for tourists.

The list is great, but I certainly would have put Amalfi coat and Capri as the number one. I agree to exchange Cinqu Terre with Milan. Yes, so many beautiful spots in Italy….very difficult!

And great photos! Really enjoyable to look at.

ITALY IS ONE OF THE MOST BEAUTIFUL PLACES I EVER SEEN, EVERY PLACE IN ITALY HAS A HISTORY, AND IS EXTREMLY ROMANTIC, GREAT PLACE TO HONEYMOON!!!!

how romantic this place, how I wish I could find my true love & perfect partner whom I can say he is my God’s Gift for my entire life 🙂 this is a LOVE place for me!

The one that I like most from your list is Sardinia for the blue incontaminated sea and for the people that are particolary friendly there. Venice instead for me is by far the most original city in the world.. Ciao from Italy 🙂

Great post and amazing pictures!!! Really, Italy is the beautiful country. Go on to explore the world and be careful!

OMG…. What a beautiful place. I just love that. Thanks for sharing it with us,

The photos are awesome! I am planning to spend 10 days in Italy and will visit Venice/Milan/Rome/ Florence. Not sure if I can cover all the ten places your recommended.

My parents went here last January and they had a great time. They will have another trip this October and I hope I can go with them. I will have this post handy. Thanks!

Why isn’t Cinque Terre mentioned? Sorry, I think it should replace Milan. The pictures are great by the way!

Want to visit Venice one day, it’s just so romantic!

Florence was a big disappointment. The bridge was just a flea market for jewels and such. But the Amalfi Coast was beautiful. Sicily was nice, Venice was cool as well as Verona, but give me the Amalfi Coast any day. Rome, of course, was large and bustling.

Looks like I have to consider Florence in my next visit to Italy, the photo looks like a shot from fairytale land.

Florence is a beautiful place full of history, it gets very busy but well worth visiting.

I hope to get back either this summer or next year.

All the best

What was your favorite thing to do in Sicily? Great post!

Hi Stephania,

I’m glad you liked the article.

We spent 16 days driving around the West Coast.

We really liked Trapani, Selinunte and Eraclea Minoa beach.

But our favourite was Sciacca, we loved the place. The people were so friendly, we started in an excellent hotel outside town and then got a flat in the centre.

By the time we left we were considering living there!!!

Glad to hear you liked the article, what are you doing in Florence?

Sadly, I agree it’s hard to get everywhere.

Where are you planning to go in Sicily?

I spent a year in Latina (didn’t make my list!!!), then two years in Rome where I was teaching English and then I went to Sicily for our honeymoon.

Once again, glad to hear you liked the article.

This makes me want to live in Italy. Oh wait, I do! Beautiful photos and great pics for where to visit. I’m based in Florence but making my way around. Crossed off the list: Florence, Rome, Sardegnia, Amalfi, Venice… next up Easter weekend in Varese by the lakes, Sicily in May, Puglia after that… Too many places, too little time.

As you said about Florence, there are often long waits for the museums. But if people need help, I suggest contacting the agency I use Apartments Florence (www.apartmentsflorence.it) for apartment rentals and help reserving museum tickets. You definitely want a reservation in the summer months.

Great article!

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12 of the best cities to visit in Italy

By Jaclyn DeGiorgio

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

Bologna, Emilia-Romagna

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

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

Genoa, Liguria

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

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

Naples, Campania

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

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

Milan, Lombardy

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

CNT Editors

Adam Turner

Connor Sturges

CNT Editors , CN Traveller

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

Ravenna, Emilia-Romanga

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

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

Rome, Lazio

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

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

Turin, Piedmont

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

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

Tropea, Calabria

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

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

Florence, Tuscany

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

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

Venice, Veneto

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

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

Catania, Sicily

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

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

Merano, Trentino-Alto Adige

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

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

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Europe , Italy , Travel

The best places to visit in italy.

Visiting Italy for the first time and not sure where to go? These are the best places to visit in Italy! Be sure to read this before you go.

Here's a Short Cut

Interesting Facts About Italy

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• Italy has three active Volcanos: Vesuvius, Etna, and Stromboli. They are the only active volcanos in Europe.
• In Italy, children legally had to attend school until they were only 14. This ended in 1999.
• Fourteen Billion espressos are consumed in Italy each year.
• Batteries were invented in Italy.
• Italy comes from the Greek word “Italos” meaning legendary king.
• The first thermometer was invented in Italy.
• Italy is a relatively new country at only 153 years old.
• Pinocchio, written by an Italian, was originally published in a newspaper.
• Many of Shakespeare’s plays are set in Italy.
• Pizza was invented in Naples.
• Pasta has been eaten in Italy since the 4th Century CE.
• Vatican City is the smallest country in the world.
• Italy has more UNESCO World Heritage Sites than any country in the world (50).
• Italy is the 4th most visited country in the world.

In my opinion, the best way to get around Italy is by train. Train travel in Italy is super affordable, fast, efficient, and clean. There are even some overnight train options that are great.

So without further ado, here are the 70 best places to visit in Italy !

Ever heard about Apulia ? Before you keep reading this paragraph, please bear in mind that I am not saying that it is the most beautiful spot to visit in Italy just because I was born and raised there, but because it really is! Among the most incredible places you should not miss in Puglia, there are Lecce, Bari, Alberobello, Ceglie Messapica, Ostuni, Otranto, and Gallipoli.

Need a piece of advice? Rent a car and drive away! From the Itria Valley and its unique Trulli hubs to the crystal clear waters of Porto Cesario. Once is Puglia every little detail will be just amazing. Do you want another piece of advice? Try to lose some weight before coming here: you will spend so much time eating! From The Lazy Trotter

From With Husband in Tow

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One of the most scenic mountains in the world is the Dolomites. It is an amazing place to visit. The hike in the area is very accessible. The trails are clearly marked. The Tre Cime hike is one of the most iconic views in the Dolomites. This day hike can be done in 3 to 5 hours depending on the route. It can be quite busy in the summertime. Another great hike is Lago Sorapis . This gorgeous turquoise lake is a full day hike, but worth the effort. The best part is that on many of the hikes small Rifugios are dotted through the mountains. These mountain huts provide dorm rooms and have restaurants. In the middle of the hike, you can stop for an ice cold draft beer and some delicious food. Another famous and picture-perfect place in the Dolomites with great hiking is Alpe di Siusi , also known as Seiser Alm. The Dolomites are one of the best places to travel in Italy and should not be missed if you love nature!  From Beard & Curly

• Visit the Botanical Gardens with 1300 plant species in the greenhouses and 700 species in the outdoor gardens. After the gardens stop by the nearby Pasticceria Naturale for a coffee and pastry.
• Tour of Castle Estense located in the center of old town. Also known as the Castle of Saint Michael, it was built in the 14th Century and is an impressive example of medieval architecture. This photogenic castle sits on an island surrounded by a moat.
• See Ferrara from the water. Take a boat trip on the longest river in Italy , the River Po. Canals link Ferrara to the River Po. The boats leave from the southern edge of the city.

From Travel Boldly

Fiesole is a little town in the hills above Florence. During the time of the Medicis, it was a retreat from the city, a place to get away from it all. Fiesole still feels like a bit of a getaway from the business of Florence, though it is just a short bus ride or drive away.

We took a 2.5 km loop walk on our trip to Fiesole. This  day hike near Florence  wanders through the butter-colored town, past the hill where Leonardo Da Vinci did his human-powered flying experiments, and alongside several stone quarries.

After walking the loop, there is still more to explore in Fiesole. Visit the chapel and museum at the Monastery of San Francesco and drool over the art at the Bandini Museum. Entrance to the Bandini also allows you access to the Civic Archeology Museum and the 2nd Century BC amphitheater. Finish the day with a leisurely late lunch and a glass of wine at Il Fiesolano. From  TravelingMel.com

Having traveled to Italy several times and falling in love with this country, we began a search to purchase a second home in Italy. We love the Italian lakes and our exploring led us to the 4 th largest lake in Italy, Lago d’Iseo. One and half hours from Milan and two and half hours from Venice, the location is perfect. Some may remember when the Floating Piers were located here.

Our experience of seeing Lago d’Iseo for the first time was love at first sight. Not as touristy as the other lakes, surrounded by the Franciacorta wine region and with views that are spectacular! In the middle of the lake sits an island called Mont Isola, Europe’s largest lake island. Mont Isola is only accessible by boat but filled with fun villages to explore. Lago d’Iseo has relaxing restaurants and shopping that surround the island in several different villages. The drive around the entire lake is fun with winding roads and tunnels through mountains. Hikers will love the challenge of hiking by using the old Roman pathway and seeing magnificent views. Lago d’ Iseo is often referred to as the pearl of Italy and we discovered and love its beauty. From Travel by a Sherrie Affair

Lake Garda definitely deserves to be on everyone’s Italy list. It’s the largest lake in the country, and (in my opinion) the most beautiful of all Italian lakes. There are so many things to do around Lake Garda , and the lake changes so much from North to South that it is worth visiting more than once. For example, the southern part of the lake is hilly and has a Mediterranean atmosphere, making it perfect for holidays dedicated to relax, food, and wine. Bardolino is an excellent choice for wine tasting, Sirmione and Peschiera have beautiful castles and scenery, while Lazise should be the destination of choice for all those that want to relax, thanks to its thermal waters. Yet, my favorite part of Lake Garda is the north, where the lake meets the Alps and you can enjoy great adventures like hiking, mountain biking, sailing, and windsurfing. Places like Riva del Garda and Torbole are ideal for adventure lovers, and provide the ideal base to explore more of the surrounding Alps. From The Crowded Planet

There is one thing that makes Levanto unique from the other villages of Cinque Terre and that’s the old rail line that’s been converted to a paved pathway for walking or biking. This fun biking path from Levanto to Framura passes through several tunnels and offers some stunning views. The path is flat and not that long, but with sea views and towns to explore along the way, you can make it a full day outing.

If you have extra time, hike the trail back from Levanto to Monterosso, which is also quieter than some of the more popular hiking trails in the area. It’s worth spending an extra day in the area to explore Levanto, if only for the lesser crowds! From Family Can Travel

If the weather isn’t up to par, a visit to the Acquario di Livorno is a great way to spend quality time with the family while experiencing a reconstructed Mediterranean Sea environment that showcases the creatures inhabiting the local sea. And no visit to Livorno is complete without a taste of the local seafood. If you have never experienced Italy’s seafood or Tuscan entrees, Livorno’s food selection will excite even the most critical foodie. From The Elusive Family

Make your trip to Italy stress-free with this complete Italy Itinerary that includes all of my favorite places in Italy!

Majella National Park is located in the heart of Italy and one of the popular things to do in Abruzzo region .

The Majella National park is a great destination for hiking, camping and just about anything to enjoy nature. It is one of the most visited attractions close to Rome for nature lovers. Due to its altitude, it is a famous ski destination in Italy and when summer comes, the flora and fauna of the national park are blooming. Making this area of Abruzzo worth visiting and a great day trip destination from Rome. From Everything Zany

Matera is one of Southern Italy ’s most sublime and primeval-looking places. It’s most celebrated for its ancient town of cave dwellings, known as the Sassi. In 1993, the Sassi districts were designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site for being “the most outstanding, intact example of a troglodyte settlement in the Mediterranean region” Today, many of the ancient cave dwellings have been regenerated and are currently occupied by booming businesses, hotels, and restaurants. During your visit, you can dine, shop and sleep in caves.

You’ve probably seen Matera without knowing it, as it’s is a favorite destination among Hollywood filmmakers. Scenes from Wonder Woman (2017), The Passion of the Christ (2004), and The Nativity Story (2006) were filmed in this ancient city. I highly recommend staying at least 2 nights here. As you plan your Italy trip , consider exploring the coastal region of Puglia, before heading inland to Matera. From Moon & Honey Travel

Modica is one of a cluster of Baroque cities in the southeast of Sicily. Along with Ragusa and Scicli, it was rebuilt after an earthquake hit the region at the end of the 17th century. Modica is set in a gorge with narrow lanes winding their way up the steep slopes on either side of the valley floor. It’s worth the hike to the top to take in the views over the surviving medieval stone houses punctuated by majestic Baroque buildings.

If I was going to shoot a movie full of drama, I’d set the opening scenes on the steps of Duomo di San Giorgio. I first visited Modica during an evening rainstorm when the Duomo was lit up against the dark narrow streets surrounding it.

By day, of course, Modica is charming. When I visited the city several years later with my family we enjoyed lunch at the famous Osteria dei Sapori Perduti (meaning “lost flavors”) where the menu includes ancient recipes next to the list of dishes. We visited the city’s oldest chocolate shop, Antica Dolceria Bonajuto, for a kitchen tour and a history lesson on how Modica’s chocolate gained its unique (but delicious) grainy texture. From Smudged Postcard

The most important things to visit in Padua are the Basilica of Saint Anthony of Padua and the Scrovegni Chapel with fascinating frescoes from Giotto in its interior. Padua is also a city of beautiful squares: Prato del Valle, with its lovely canals and statues, is actually one of the largest squares in Europe. If you are in Padua, you can’t miss out on some of the old-school coffee places, and in Café Pedrocchi you can drink espresso in one of the most antique cafés in Italy. From Surfing the Planet

Situated in the North of Italy , somewhere between the Lombardy capital of Milan and the seaside city of Genoa, the beautiful university city of Pavia is characterized by its countless churches and many cobbled lanes. Easy to visit all year ’round thanks to its transport links with the rest of Italy , highlights of Pavia include a Duomo that Da Vinci had a hand in designing and the many buildings of the second oldest university in Italy . If you have a little extra time while visiting Pavia, be sure to take the train ride to the nearby Certosa di Pavia. This monastery dates back to the 14th-century and is one of the best examples of Renaissance architecture in the entire country From Solo Sophie

As the main protagonist of southern Italy ‘s lemon-scented Amalfi Coast, Positano is the epitome of ‘la dolce vita’. This tangle of pastel-hued facades tumbles down a near-vertical cliffside, colliding with an aquamarine sea and soul-stirring scenes the good life. Families flutter from pizzerias to gelato stands, while couples sip Prosecco and twirl seafood pasta onto their forks on restaurant terraces draped in blushing canopies of wisteria.

Take a stroll and explore the little delis, cafes and gift stores or hop on a boat and bounce across the bay to the Isle of Capri. And whatever you do, don’t leave without tipping back a few glasses of limoncello, an uplifting liqueur made with the area’s emblematic lemons. This really is the good life. From Driftwood Journals

There is nowhere like Rome. It is without a doubt one of the  best places to go in Italy.  Home to absolutely iconic world treasures (the Colosseum, the Pantheon), beautiful, awe-inspiring neighborhoods (Trastevere and Centro Storico to start), some of the world’s best pasta (bring on the carbonara), and even an entirely separate country enclosed within its borders (hello Vatican City), Rome is a world unto itself. You will literally never run out of things to do in Rome: once you work your way through all the world-renowned attractions, there is still so much to discover beneath the surface (sometimes literally).

Stand among the ruins of public baths, wander through immaculately maintained gardens, take a break from pasta to devour artichokes in the Jewish Ghetto, step inside impressive catacombs, and admire world-class art, all within the truly Eternal City. The sheer breadth and depth to what Rome offers make it an unforgettable and unmissable destination not only in Italy  but across the globe. From Our Escape Clause

Discover Where to Stay in Rome

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Salerno Cathedral: If you only tour one historical monument in the city, make it this one. This Romanesque church features stunning, ornate architecture and plentiful religious artifacts. A bell tower sits at the rear of the cathedral, under a classic top dome. This is Medieval architectural and history at its finest.

Minerva’s Garden: Nestled into Salerno’s historic district, this oasis serves as both a public park and a botanical garden. With over 200 varieties of plants, herbs, and greenery, it’s a stunning place to walk through, marked by stone archways.

Salerno Harbor: Always bustling, the city’s main harbor is far from a tourist trap. It’s a fantastic spot to watch the port activity, where fishing boats are always coming and going. A scenic stretch of pier lets you view the cityscape in full, which makes for a breathtaking view.

Forte La Carnale: A castle with strong historical roots in Salerno, this fort is perched atop a hill, meaning you can see the entire city from its highest point, as well as learn about Salerno’s military history. When you’re finished exploring, enjoy a glass of wine and classic Italian cuisine at the on-site restaurant.

In Salerno, the rugged Mediterranean coastline, classic architecture and authentic Italian cuisine will have you wondering why you’ve never heard of this place before. It’s southern Italian culture at its best, but with all the perks of a hidden gem! From Coastlines to Skylines

Rome is a natural fan favorite for Italy . But, due to its positioning on the globe, Italy can get quite hot in the summer. On those days, escaping Rome for a beach, to cool off and sneak in some tranquility, is everything. Luckily, there is a prime beach an easy day-trip away!

We highly recommend Santa Marinella, as from Rome Central it’s only a short thirty-minute train ride. We found their beach to be clean, relaxing, and just the break we needed from the city. Once in Santa Marinella, it’s merely a five-minute walk from the train station to find ample amenities, food options, and a beach that is attended but not packed to the gills. From Travel for Days

Trentino is located in the north of Italy and has some of the most spectacular landscapes in the country, with imposing mountains, majestic lakes, and countless numbers of quaint valleys and cute villages.

It’s a destination that you can visit all year round and it will feel different every time. In autumn the colors come out setting fire to the region’s palette, in spring the apple orchards turn it into a blossom lover’s paradise, in summer the mountains are the perfect cool retreat from the heat, and in winter it offers some of the best skiing in Europe.

I particularly love the winter in Trentino , when the valleys and mountains turn in to a winter wonderland. Even if you are not a skier, there is plenty of awesome things to do. Hiking in the snow will bring up surprises like frozen waterfalls and suspension bridges, the cold crispy air will call for a day in a cozy farmhouse learning how to cook local traditional dishes, or spend a day in a spa with breathtaking views over the Dolomites Mountains. But no matter what time of the year you go, Trentino is guaranteed to make you fall in love with it. From Brogan Abroad

Turin , or Torino , is often overlooked as one of the best places to visit in Italy . But if you fail to stop by, then you’ll be missing out. Turin is a stunning place, thanks to the Italian Alps acting as a beautiful backdrop to the northwest of the city. A trip up the Mole Antonelliana will give you 360-degree panoramic views and it’s truly breathtaking.

There is also an awesome cinema museum there too. Turin is a city famous for its chocolate making, and you’ll find authentic Italian restaurants, delicious gelato, and jugs of sparkling wine for a lot less money than you’d find in other parts of Italy . Turin is also home to the biggest archaeological collection of Egyptian artifacts outside of Egypt and it’s a fascinating museum.

There are also lots of beautiful gardens and bridges, perfect for packing an Italian style picnic and simply relaxing in the sunshine. Turin is a small city with a unique and authentic Italian charm. It’s one of my favorite spots in Italy and definitely one of the best places to visit; which is probably why I spent my 24th birthday there! From Dream Big, Travel Far

As the smallest sovereign state in the world, Vatican City is probably one of the richest countries, monetarily-speaking, as well as in its significance and history. There are simply so many things to see inside the fortification boundaries of Vatican City!

Most visitors are more than happy to visit Vatican City by touring St. Peter’s Basilica or purchasing general admission to the Vatican Museum. Both of these popular attractions offer an overwhelming collection of priceless art, history, and architecture. They can easily occupy you for the whole day

Travelers who’ve done their research know that there are even more unusual Vatican City tours , like exploring the necropolis Scavi tour underneath the Basilica. Qualified researchers and scholars may visit the Vatican Library. These relatively unknown activities require planning, but are definitely worth doing! From The Round the World Guys

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No list of the best places to visit in Italy would be complete without mentioning fair Verona . This town made famous by Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, has a rich cultural past and was founded in the 1st century BC. Verona is also known as “Little Rome.” Located in Northern Italy, it’s a perfect place for a day trip.  From Outside Suburbia 

Wanderlust Crew

16 thoughts on “ the best places to visit in italy ”.

Love this post! This is definitely my go-to if in ever go back to Italy!

Thanks Shel. So much goodness here! My bucket list keeps growing! I need to get back to Italy ASAP!

Thank you for a fantastic summary. More bucket list cities in Italy.

Thanks so much Jennie. Seriously sooo many incredible places in this beautiful country. It could take a lifetime!

Verona didn’t make the list?!

Ah you are so right! That definitely needs to be added!

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Thanks for sharing information about visiting places in Italy.

Definitely enjoy this post, keep up the good work!

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Thanks You for help. It’s really guide me a lot. Sad Poetry

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All the images attached here in this blog are mesmerizing and I am amazed by these beautiful pictures. I am a huge fan of photography and like to take unique and beautiful pictures, recently I have got an assignment for Italy and now I will be travelling to Italy for it. One of my colleagues has helped me with the process to apply for Italy visa and once I am stamped I will book the itinerary required for my stay and travel.

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Italy is really a beautiful country in the world. It has beautiful history, culture and gorgeous costlines. Love Cinque terre, Amalfi coast, Venice, Rome.

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40+ best places to visit in Italy

Last updated on January 12th, 2024.

There are plenty of posts floating on the internet about the best places to visit in Italy.

And while there is no wrong answer, this post stands out from the rest for 2 main reasons.

For one, it’s written by a local (me), and the second is its format.

Presented in an A to Z style, I’m sharing 40+ of the best places in Italy and some of the top Italy destinations.

I’ll also be adding local tips on Italian culture and regional dishes to try at these must-see Italy spots.

Perfect material for your Italy bucket list , use this post to help plan your Italy trip .

Amalfi Coast

You’ve seen the photos, the movies and the travel shows, and you now want to experience the Amalfi Coast for yourself.

The stunning Amalfi Coast is popular for good reason. This 50km coastline along the Tyrrhenian Sea is home to picturesque towns such as Positano, Ravello and Sorrento .

Popular as a day trip from Naples or Sorrento , it’s easily one of the top places to visit in Italy.

The coast’s namesake town, Amalfi, was my favorite that we visited on our 4-day Amalfi Coast itinerary . A walkable, and breathable, town, at its heart is the glorious Amalfi Cathedral ( Duomo di Sant’Andrea ). A church embracing Norman, Gothic, Baroque and Renaissance architectural styles, it’s unmissable when visiting Amalfi.

One of the best places to visit in Italy, get in the know with these Amalfi Coast travel tips before you visit.

Boutique hotel in Amalfi Coast — Villa Magia

I love everything about Villa Magia , beginning with its name. This magical hotel has a prime spot, overlooking the blues of the Mediterranean.

Fornilo Beach is just 700 yards from the property, and its Luna Terrace is perfect for enjoying outdoor Italian breakfasts.

Probably the best place to visit in Italy for epicureans is Bologna. The capital city of the Emilia-Romagna region in the north-west of Italy is a food lover’s paradise.

Its most famous dish, and export, is the Ragù alla Bolognese . It’s usually served with tagliatelle pasta — and a good-sized napkin to wipe away any excess sauce.

One of the city’s several nicknames is ‘la grassa’, meaning ‘the fat’. It’s a good indication to Bologna’s rich and calorific cuisine.

Plenty to see and eat

Piazza Maggiore is the city’s principal square. Get to know Bologna’s historic center better by booking a walking tour or a fun food tour .

From here, you can visit the 10th largest church in the world (by volume), San Petronio Basilica. The former city hall turned museum, Palazzo d’Accursio , is also within walking distance.

To catch a great view of Bologna, head to the Sanctuary of the Madonna of San Luca. The church sits atop a forested hill, and is about 300m above the city.

‘B’ is also for Bistecca alla Fiorentina

This succulent joint of meat comes from the Tuscany region and is a must try for greedy carnivores. The steak comes from the Chianina cow — an ancient Tuscan breed known for its high quality and superb flavor.

Boutique hotel in Bologna — Hotel Corona D’Oro

The historic Hotel Corona D’Oro has everything you need for a relaxing Bologna stay. Check into a double deluxe room with a terrace and enjoy an Italian breakfast while admiring the red rooftops.

The hotel’s located in a traffic-free zone of the center ( learn more about the ztl ) meaning no disturbance from oncoming traffic. Guests are given free bikes to explore the city during their stay.

Cinque Terre

When many visitors think about places to go in Italy, Cinque Terre usually sits in the top 5.

Colorful houses, steep terraces and centuries old fishing villages, Cinque Terre is an Instagrammer’s dream.

The province in the Liguria region of Italy literally translates as ‘5 lands’. Its coastline, 5 villages and the surrounding area form part of the Cinque Terre National Park.

The village of Manarola holds the title of being the second smallest in Cinque Terre, with a population of just 353. Via dell’Amore, or the ‘love trail’ is a popular walk that runs between Manarola and neighboring village Riomaggiore.

The smallest national park in Italy, Cinque Terre is also a UNESCO attraction , covering an impressive 4,300 acres.

‘C’ is also for Catania. With Cinque Terre attracting over 1 million visitors each year, it might be worth considering another Italian alternative.

The Sicilian city of Catania has plenty of historic sites to visit, as well as a mouthwatering Sicilian food scene . What’s more, Mount Etna is nearby, offering ample opportunities to book an unforgettable volcano day or sunset trip .

Cinque Terre hotel with the best views — Hotel Porto Roca

In the village of Monterosso is a 4-star hotel with terraces overlooking the Ligurian Sea. Hotel Porto Roca is just 5 minutes from the center, offering guests incredible views and fresh seafood.

The most popular path, the Blue Trail, also begins here. Check for any restrictions before visiting, as limits and restrictions sometimes occur.

Map: best places to visit in Italy

Dolomites .

This incredible mountain range, primarily in Italy, also shares one region, Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol, with neighboring Austria. Come winter, the snow-capped peaks of the Dolomites create a dramatic sight; even more so when the sun sets.

One of the best places to spend winter in Italy , the Dolomites are ideal for skiing or relaxing. For the jetsetters among you, Cortina D’Ampezzo is glamorous, with flashy sports cars and expensive boutiques in sight.

A full-day tour from Bolzano to the Dolomites offers a memorable experience in a short amount of time.

Alternative rustic and traditional towns to visit include Corvara and Ortisei.

Boutique hotel in the Dolomites — Berghotel Ladinia

Set in the picturesque town of Corvara in Badia is the 4-star Berghotel Ladinia . Bag a room with views overlooking the Dolomites and one that also embraces a South Tyrolian style.

Some rooms come with a terrace and all come with complimentary WiFi. The Col Alt ski slopes are just 30 yards away from the hotel’s front door.

Feast on local dishes in Berghotel Ladinia’s on-site restaurant. During winter, the hotel provides guests with a voucher to use in its restaurant.

D is also for Duomo

Duomo . It’s a word you’ll come across often when traveling throughout Italy. A Duomo is a city or town’s principal church or cathedral. Typically, they’re located in the city/town center and are usually surrounded by other buildings of importance.

If asked personally, my 5 top Duomo in Italy are:

• Siena Cathedral
• Florence ( Skip-the-line entrance ticket )
• Milan ( Fast-track entry ) 

Inside and out, the Duomo in Italy are a work of art and are a must see in Italy.

Get your best walking shoes on, as you’ll need them for visiting the Sicilian hilltop town of Erice . Situated 800m above sea level, most travelers come to visit Castello di Venere (Castle of Venus). Steep lanes from the Porta Trapani gateway will take you all the way to the top.

The 12th century castle is a prime location for catching the best views of the sea and coastline below. Erice is also a doable day trip from Palermo .

Gather your breath, and energy, on the way up at one of the cafes in Piazza Umberto. The castle park’s cafe is a good choice for getting some shade, panoramic views and a robust cup of coffee.

E is also for Etna

This active volcano hovers over the east coast of Sicily , and is the largest of the three in Italy. Join a Mount Etna sunset jeep tour to see some of the best views of Catania, Messina and beyond.

Florence (Firenze)

A city overflowing with locals and tourists alike, Florence is one of the best places to visit in Italy. A city I recommend to first-time travelers visiting Italy, two days in Florence is a good starting point.

The river Arno runs through this historic city, with medieval churches and sculptures filling its historic center. Add to this the impressive number of museums in Florence’s center .

Be sure to keep your wits about you when visiting Florence. There are several well-known scams that target tourists in Florence.

Along with visiting Michelangelo’s David and its jaw-dropping Duomo , Florence also has a tantalizing food scene. Buca Lapi isn’t just the oldest restaurant in Florence, it also serves up a mean Bistecca alla Fiorentina (see ‘B’ for Bistecca ).

For a delicious bite on the go, Osteria All’Antico Vinaio is where to go for a social media-loving filled panini.

Boutique hotel in Florence

Minutes from the Ponte Vecchio, Gallery Hotel Art is a fitting choice in Florence. With the central theme of elegant minimalism running throughout the hotel, it’s a sophisticated stay in the city of art.

F is also for Ferragosto

Avoid traveling on the days before, and on, 15 August. It’s a public holiday in Italy called Ferragosto . Essentially, the holiday marks the halfway point of the summer season.

Nothing in particular happens, but many Italians spend the day with family, friends or at the beach.

Roads are busier than usual in the days leading up to Ferragosto , and some services may be closed. Saying that, try to travel on 13 or 17 August to avoid getting caught with the crowds. 

Garda (Lago di garda)

One of the best Italy vacations, Lake Garda is another of Italy’s most popular destinations. Come here for boating, walking, picnics (summer) and for the awesome landscape.

The largest lake in Italy, Lago di Garda is shared by 3 regions: Lombardy, Veneto and Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol.

Towns to visit around Lake Garda

There are several towns and villages surrounding the lake, with Sirmione being one of the most popular. It’s home to many hotels, restaurants, as well as a market, and the impressive Scaliger Castle. A short boat cruise around Sirmione is an idyllic way to visit, and one that offers a different perspective.

The lake’s namesake town, Garda, along with Bardolino are equally popular with visitors. The town center has a harbor, as well as bars and restaurants with colorful façades.

If you prefer to visit a town on Lake Garda that’s not as touristy, consider seeing Salò. The town sits on the Lombardy side and has plenty of things to do to make up a day trip.

Boutique Hotel near Lake Garda — La Zarraba Boutique Hotel

Wake up to views of the mesmerizing Lake Garda at La Zarabba Relais de Charme . Rooms are elegant and decorated in an Italian Renaissance style. The hotel’s located in Ponti Sul Mincio, a commune in the province of Mantua in Lombardy.

If visiting in summer, save your spot on one of the sunbeds by the swimming pool. From here, you get the best of both worlds: a pool with a lake view. La Zarabba Boutique Hotel also has a garden and terrace for guests to enjoy. Take advantage of the free WiFi and on-site private parking.

G is also for gondola — Italy vacation ideas

In one of the same regions as Lake Garda is the legendary, and ultra romantic, boat transportation that’s the gondola.

While they can be expensive, and considered a novelty, gondolas are part of the Venice experience. Book a private gondola ride , or with a small group , and soak up the Venetian vibes.

Haunted (Italy)

Add some macabre to your Italy travels by visiting some of the country’s most haunted castles and haunted hotels .

Plagued by ghostly sightings and legendary fables, these historic buildings are some of the creepiest places to stay in Italy. Take the Castello di Montebello. This 14th century historic castle in Rimini, north-west Italy, may look beautiful, but there’s a chilling tale behind its walls.

Historic and haunted

Its most famous story is of the owner’s missing daughter, Azzurina — named after her piercing blue eyes. One day in June, the day of the summer solstice, she mysteriously vanished.

Her disappearance remains a mystery and is unsolved to this day. However, every five years during the summer solstice, people have reported sightings of a young girl fitting Azzurina’s description.

Boutique hotel in Rimini — Rimini Suite Hotel

From the scary to the sublime, Rimini Suite Hotel is a modern hotel in Rivabella. Just 100 yards from the coast and some of Rimini’s best beaches, the hotel has modern rooms and free WiFi. Some rooms come with a private hot tub.

Other amenities also include a swimming pool, and guests receive discounts for a nearby private beach. A continental-style breakfast is provided daily and features sweet and savory products.

Another place in the south of Sicily, Ispica is the classic image of a quaint Sicilian town. Along with examples of fine Sicilian baroque architecture , it’s also home to the Ispica caves ( Cava d’Ispica ).

When we visited during the height of summer the center was deserted. However, this gave us plenty of time to explore the city and take unlimited photographs.

Measuring 13km in length, the caves stretch from Ispica to the neighboring town of Modica. Its most interesting feature are the homes carved into the mountains.

They were inhabited until the end of the 19th century and are something unique to Ispica.

I is also for Infiorata di Noto

Every May, a spectacular floral festival descends upon the southern Sicilian town of Noto.

A blanket of flowers, embracing that year’s theme, covers one of its central streets. Taking place over 3 days, the Infiorata di Noto is a festival for travelers that enjoy flowers and art.

One of the coolest places to travel in May in Sicily, it’s worth booking that flight for.

I is also for Isola delle correnti

Plan a trip to Italy, more specifically, to the southernmost point of the country at Isola delle Correnti . Wade across waist-deep water to reach the island in Sicily with an abandoned lighthouse and far-reaching views.

With Caribbean-style beaches, climates and a laid-back energy, you’d be forgiven for thinking you weren’t in Italy.

Technically, Jesolo shouldn’t really be here, given that ‘J’ doesn’t exist in the Italian alphabet.

However, for non-Italians speakers for whom the letter ‘J’ does exist, you’ll see mentions of Jesolo — just not in Italy.

Instead, Italians know it as Iesolo with an ‘I’. This seaside town north of Venice is one of the largest resorts in Italy. Jesolo receives around 4 million people each year, and that also includes visitors from overseas.

Its main attraction is the 15km (9 mi) beach called Lido di Jesolo. There are several ways to get there from Venice, the quickest route being by renting a car (about 45 minutes). You can also take the ferry to Punta Sabbaioni and then a bus onwards to Jesolo.

The K Boutique Hotel

Similar to ‘J’, the letter ‘K’ also doesn’t exist in the Italian alphabet.

However, I’ve a valuable contribution to add under ‘K’ and that’s the fabulous K Boutique Hotel in Rome.

Located in Rione Monti, luxury features in this 4-star hotel include a private terrace, hot tub and spa. Rooms are modern, bright and come with all the amenities for a comfortable stay. Staying here means an easy 10-minute walk from sights like the Colosseum and the shopping street of Via Nazionale.

Lake Como (Lago di Como)

Immerse yourself in the natural beauty and landscape of Lake Como. Explore much loved towns like Bellagio, Como and Varenna , along with lesser visited places like Lenno and Sorico.

One of the top things to do in Italy, Lake Como also has plenty of free attractions to fill up an itinerary.

Another incredible lake to visit in northern Italy is Lago Maggiore. An ideal weekend break, we had a blissful 2 days visiting Lago Maggiore and exploring its natural beauty.

L is also for Lecce

A city full of good vibes and good food, Lecce is one of my favorite cities to visit in Puglia . Over 2,000 years old, Lecce is also one of the most important cities in the region.

The city has a strong connection with its Greek founders. In fact, the griko language is still spoken in a group of towns not far from Lecce.

Wander around the city taking in the many baroque monuments and Lecce limestone sculptures. At night, enjoy the laid-back vibe, sampling the local olive oil, cured meats and wine.

L is also for Lipari

North of the mainland of Sicily is a cluster of islands that evoke memories of long summers by the sea. The Aeolian Islands (Isole Eolie) consist of 7 in total, the largest of the group being Lipari .

A destination with the perfect blend of sandy beaches, blue waters and traditional cuisine, Lipari has it all.

The best viewpoint in Lipari is from the Chiesa Vecchia di Quattropani , a church atop a hill. You’ll need a car or motorbike to get there, but once you arrive, prepare to be treated to the best views.

Probably the most visited city in the Lombardy region, Milan is important for several reasons. The second-most populous city in Italy after Rome, Milan is known for being the capital of art, commerce and fashion.

One of the best places to visit in Italy, Italy tourist attractions are in abundance in Milan.

The city’s cathedral, the incredible Duomo di Milano , showcases a fine example of Italian Gothic architecture. Pinacoteca di Brera and Castello Sforzesco  (Sforza Castle) are other two notable sights to see in Italy.

In December, Milan becomes one of the best places to spend Christmas in Italy . Visit the Christmas markets in Piazza Duomo and see the larger-than-life Christmas tree.

Prepare for your Milan trip by familiarizing yourself with these top Milan travel tips . Wake up to a view of the Duomo at one of these centrally-located hotels or stay close by to Malpensa Airport .

Boutique hotel in Milan — Matilde Boutique Hotel

With a penchant for fashion and sophisticated living, you’re spoiled for choice in Milan. Matilde Boutique Hotel is in a central part of the city, and just 200 yards from Piazza Duomo square.

Other main attractions like La Scala Theater and San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore are also within walking distance.

M is also for Modena

Situated on the southern side of the Po Valley is the city of Modena. It’s renowned for its thriving sports car industry and the production of exceptional balsamic vinegar.

You can comfortably explore Modena’s city center in one day keeping a well-paced itinerary.

M is also for Modica, Marzamemi and Mazara del Vallo

I couldn’t write about ‘M’ places in Italy without mentioning these 3 Sicilian destinations. Chocolate lovers need to highlight, circle and underline Modica.

The southern Sicilian city’s famous for the sweet, brown stuff, which I can personally say, is sublimely delicious.

Mazara del Vallo on the north-west coast is well known for its former Arabic influences. From the buildings, the food, to even the wine, you’ll feel like you’re almost in a North African city like Essaouira in Morocco .

Third is the coastal town of Marzamemi . A picturesque spot filled with seafood restaurants and plenty of charm, it’s one of my favorite Italy trips.

N is for Naples 

Best places in Italy don’t get any better than Naples.

The city of pizza and historic landmarks beneath the watchful gaze of Mount Vesuvius, one day in Naples is not long enough.

Boasting the largest historic city center in Europe, Naples is home to some of the most impressive churches in Italy. Take the Cathedral of St. Mary of the Assumption (Duomo di Napoli). Housing 4th century mosaics and relics, it’s a sight that few photos can do justice.

Naples in and around

Not far from Naples’ city center are other famous places in Italy to consider visiting.

The Roman ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum are around 25 minutes’ drive.

Pompeii met its tragic end when it was engulfed and preserved by volcanic ash during the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD.

It’s highly advisable that you book your Pompeii ticket in advance . It won’t just save you time, but it’ll also spare you the hassle of having to wait in long lines.

Palace of Caserta

The former royal abode in Caserta was once the main residence of the kings of Naples. One of the largest royal palaces in the world covering an area of 47,000 m², it’s the Italian version of Versailles.

This skip-the-line ticket includes entrance to the royal palace and parks. Also included is the option to have an audioguide app and a train ticket to Caserta from Napoli Central Station (if selected).

Boutique hotel in Naples — Artemisia Domus

The gorgeous 4-star Artemisia Domus is 1,000 yards from Castel Nuovo (Maschio Angioino). Boasting elegant suites, it’s also in a prime location in Naples.

N is also for Noto

We’re frequent visitors to the Sicilian city of Noto . The historic center may be small but it’s filled with striking baroque architecture and cobbled streets.

A beautiful city for a vacation in Italy, consider spending a few nights nearby at IUTA Glamping & Farm . The best place in Italy to try glamping in Sicily the site is just a few minutes’ drive from the center.

Ortygia (Ortigia)

It’s not often that you come across a historic center that also happens to be an island. But this is the norm in the Sicilian city of Syracuse (Siracusa).

Separated by a narrow channel, there are 3 bridges that connect Ortygia to the mainland. One of the best places to visit in Italy, the island is one of the top Italy tourist attractions.

At the center of the old city, or ‘ città vecchia ‘, is Syracuse Cathedral (Duomo di Siracusa) . Awarded UNESCO status in 2005, the church’s structure was originally a Greek Doric temple.

O is also for Olbia and Orgosolo

In the north-east of the island of Sardinia is the city of Olbia. Close to the dazzling and glitterati Costa Smeralda, Olbia is also known for its sandy beaches and picture-perfect sea.

In the center of Sardinia is the commune of Orgosolo. This municipality’s most famous for its political murals that adorn the city’s walls. They represent the island’s political struggles as well as international issues.

Busy and buzzing, the Sicilian capital of Palermo is a great example of Sicilian life in action. Loud, passionate and exciting, there are plenty of things to do in Palermo .

Palermo has plenty of must-see sights, many of which are free to visit . The Norman Palace (Palazzo dei Normani), and its chapel, La Cappella Palatina , with its golden mosaic interior will blow you away.

Palermo Cathedral, Teatro Massimo and the city’s gritty, yet historic, neighborhoods are also worth adding to the list.

One of the best places to visit in Italy, I never miss the opportunity to revisit Palermo.

Quartu Sant’Elena

Located 6.4km (4mi) from the Sardinian capital of Cagliari is Quartu Sant’Elena. It’s the third largest city in Sardinia with plenty of historic churches, mesmerizing coastlines and sandy beaches.

Sardinia has some of the best beaches and cleanest waters in the world. Some examples in Quartu Sant’Elena include the sandy Is Canaleddus , and nearby Is Mortorius with its natural pools.

Q is also for Quattro Canti

One of the top tourist attractions in Italy, Quattro Canti typically tops visitors’ travel lists. Loosely meaning ‘four places’, the octagonal square has four baroque buildings with almost identical façades. 

Each has a fountain and statues representing the four seasons. You’ll also see sculptures of the Spanish kings of Sicily and the patronesses of Palermo.

One of the best places to visit in Italy the Italian capital should need no introduction.

Home to dozens of attractions like the Colosseum , the Spanish Steps and Trevi Fountain, Rome tops the Italy beautiful places list.

Another good reason to visit Rome is to tour the Vatican City . It may be the smallest country in the world, but it’s home to the most magnificent buildings.

Skip the lines by booking in advance for the Vatican museum and the Sistine Chapel . Nearby is the magnificent St Peter’s Basilica, from which you can visit its jaw-dropping dome and explore the underground grottos .

Should you need advice on where to stay in Rome , maybe one of these Colosseum view hotels will meet your needs.

R is also for Ragusa

In the south of Sicily is the ancient city of Ragusa. An earthquake in 1693 split the city of Ibla in two, leading to some of the buildings being re-built in Baroque style.

The city’s home to several impressive Duomo, which ranks Ragusa as one of the best places in Sicily to visit. Both are fine examples of Sicilian Baroque architecture, and places in Italy to add to your Italy trip planner.

Boutique hotel in Ragusa — Locanda Don Serafino

Book into a 4-star hotel that was built into the side of a cave. Locanda Don Serafino has elegant rooms, striking suites and delicious food.

R is also for Ravenna

The Italian city of mosaics isn’t one that features on many Italy travel itineraries. Personally, I consider Ravenna to be one of the best places to visit in Italy.

A city with plenty to see in 1 day , Ravenna has some of the most spectacular sights to see in Italy.

My heart skips a beat every time I think of Siena. The historic city is one of the most beautiful places in Tuscany and a must see in Italy.

No cars are able to enter the center of Siena. Streets are narrow, historic and all lead to Piazza del Campo. The fan-shaped square is home to the Palazzo Pubblico, the town hall and the 14th century Torre del Mangia.

Piazza del Campo is also where the famous Palio horse race happens twice a year.

One of the most famous attractions in Italy is Siena’s grand cathedral (Duomo di Siena) . It’s not easy to take pictures that do justice to this Italian Romanesque-Gothic masterpiece. The only solution is to visit and see it for yourself.

S is also for Scicli

A lesser-known city in south-east Sicily, Scicli, for me, is one of the most beautiful places in Italy. With plenty of things to do in 1 day , Scicli has Sicilian baroque churches and a TV detective to its name.

Home of ‘Inspector Montalbano’, you can visit locations from the show by joining the enigmatic Inspector Montalbano tour .

S is also for Syracuse (Siracusa)

I’ve previously covered some of the best sights to see in Ortygia , which is located off the coast of Syracuse.

Back on the mainland, signs of the city’s Ancient Greek past are everywhere. Probably the number one landmark to visit is the Greek Theater of Syracuse. First built in the 5th century BC, the theater’s on a sloping hill, focusing on the stage below.

The Greek theater is part of the complex within the Neapolis Archaeological Park. You can buy tickets at the entrance or join a tour with an expert guide .

The cultural and business hub of Turin is an important city center in north-west Italy.

One of the best places to travel in Italy, Turin was the first capital of Italy.

Piazza Castello is Turin’s principal square. It’s here that’ll find the 16th century Royal Palace of Turin of the House of Savoy. They were the ruling dynasty of the period, eventually expanding their reign to Sicily.

Also, in the square is Palazzo Madama, the building of the first Senate of the Italian kingdom.

Boutique hotel in Turin — TownHouse 70

Stay at a hotel that’s within minutes from Turin’s best attractions.  TownHouse 70  has rooms and suites that are chic and modern, with soft colors and minimalist design.

T is also for Taormina

The hilltop town of Taormina in southern Sicily is a popular spot to vacation in Italy. It’s where you’ll find, among other things, the Greek amphitheater, along with stunning views overlooking the Ionian Sea. 

Taormina has garnered a reputation for being one of the most famous places in Italy.

With its charming town center and the enchanting island of Isola Bella, Taormina’s popularity has spread further afield. The Sicilian town was used as one of the filming locations of the American TV show, The White Lotus .

T is also for Treviso

Make a detour to the northern Italian city nicknamed ‘mini Venice’ and discover the best things to do in Treviso . With canals running through the city and a delightful historic center, Treviso makes an ideal Venice day trip .

When deciding on where to visit in Italy, the city of Udine is one of the lesser known Italy tourist spots. Situated between the Adriatic Sea and the Alps in Friuli Giulia Venezia, Udine has several attractions worth visiting.

The city’s castle that sits high atop a hill (Castello di Udine) was once a former military building. Today, it runs as a history and art museum.

In the Piazza della Libertà is the 15th century town hall ( Loggia del Lionello ) and the grand clock tower (Torre dell’Orologio).

Hotel choice in Udine — Astoria Hotel Italia

Close to the town’s tourist attractions and shopping streets, Astoria Hotel Italia is a sound choice for a stay in Udine.

Elegant, spacious and with a modern décor, you’re in for a comfy stay. The hotel can also organize visits for guests to wine, ham and grappa producers in the nearby area.

U is for Umbria

Take a trip to the heart of Italy with a visit to the green and historic region of Umbria.

One of the best places to visit in Italy is Orvieto. Spend 1 day in Orvieto visiting its spectacular Duomo and stopping by its former papal residences.

The city of canals, architecture and art, Venice is easily one of the best places to visit in Italy. It’s typically busy all year round, but summertime is when visitor numbers reach their peak.

It’s because of this, that I actually prefer visiting Venice in winter . The crowds are fewer, meaning less time lining up for attractions, and more time exploring.

Must-see sights in venice

Italy tourist attractions don’t get anymore famous than in Venice.

Take St. Mark’s Square (Piazza San Marco). The grand plaza is home to the basilica, its towering Campanile, Renaissance clock tower and Doge’s Palace . From here, you can also take a morning walk through the Merceria . It’s a busy shopping street that leads directly to the famous Rialto Bridge.

While visiting Venice, make time to visit other parts, like taking a day tour of Murano, Burano and Torcello . The islands just outside Venice are some of the prettiest places to see in Italy.

Boutique hotel in Venice — Corte di Gabriela

With just 13 rooms, Corte di Gabriela  is my Venice boutique hotel pick. Providing luxury comfort, spacious showers and generous breakfasts, the hotel’s within walking distance to Venice’s main attractions. 

I detail more places in where to stay in Venice including the different neighborhoods and the closest to Venice’s attractions.

V is also for Verona and Vicenza

Within the same region of Veneto are 2 more ‘V’ cities that are places in Italy to consider visiting.

Verona is one of the most romantic cities in Italy . The setting for Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, the Casa di Giulietta is a tourist favorite. Located near Piazza delle Erbe — the city’s main square — the house is worth a quick look (depending on the crowds).

Other attractions in Verona like The Arena di Verona and Castel San Pietro make Verona one of the best Italy vacations.

Detour to Vicenza

Chances are you’ve never heard of Vicenza but my small home city has plenty of things to do . At its heart is the Basilica Palladiana in Piazza dei Signori .

Designed by renowned architect, Andrea Palladio, the Renaissance building is one of his most notable works. 

Also, in Vicenza’s historic center is the Olympic Theatre ( Teatro Olimpico ). It’s another of Palladio’s works and was also the first closed theater of its time. It was his last project before he died in 1580.

Within the province of Vicenza is where you can also find the REAL castles behind Romeo and Juliet . Montecchio Maggiore is home to the 2 castles behind the tale of the star-crossed lovers, and with dramatic views to match.

Zafferana Etnea

We’re skipping straight to Z as letters W, X and Y don’t exist in the Italian alphabet.

There’s a slight clue in the name as to this last town’s location.

Sitting among the hills that lead up to Mount Etna, Zafferana Etnea is a meeting point for volcanic tours. The town’s home to some of the best Sicily hotels with a remarkable view . From Zafferana Etnea, there are roads and trails leading to the national park.

More than a pit stop

About 500m above sea level, the town’s located between the mountain and the Ionian Sea. Many visitors don’t realize that Zafferana Etnea has seaside, as well as winter sports tourism.

The town takes its name from the pricey, yet fragrant, saffron ( zafferano ). It was once an important source of income for Zafferana Etnea, hence its homage to the costly spice.

What are your thoughts on this post listing the best places to visit in Italy? Has it helped you decide on where to visit in Italy? Let me know in the comments below.

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that I’ve recommended. Thank you for your support.

*Prices correct at time of travel

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36 thoughts on “ 40+ best places to visit in Italy ”

There are so many places to visit in Italy and this break down is really useful for planning! I hope to go there someday and explore some of these beautiful destinations.

Me too! I’m glad you enjoyed this list 🙂

I am going to bookmark this post. We are planning to visit Italy next year and this post has all important information.

That’s great! It’s a good post to help start the planning process

This is such an amazing list. However, I admire you for being able to choose mesmerizing places in Italy since everything is so beautiful and unique – starting with the language. As a matter of fact, you should add Italiano 😉 ! Is Jesolo really so pretty? I’ll be back to Venice for the Biennale in 2024 and will probably spend a couple of hours on the beach there. Last time I went to the Lido and liked it a lot 🙂

You’re right I should add it to the list! We love Lido, more than Iesolo. But it all comes down to preference 🙂

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More From Forbes

Travel to italy like an insider with the best local experts.

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A trip to Italy is too special to get wrong. Here's how to do it right. (San Gimignano, Tuscany)

I absolutely love Italy, for many different reasons. But I hate the way in which many Americans go about planning trips there. Survey after survey shows it is the number one dream destination for U.S. leisure travelers, but the way those travelers get their information and advice gives me nightmares.

Throughout the years I’ve heard people say over and over that “I was told to do this in Italy,” or “I was told not to do this in Italy.” By who? “A friend.” I have close friends who recently planned their entire 12-day trip on the basis of another couple they knew who gave them advice—after their first visit. I’ve heard of many people who skipped Rome because “we heard it was too busy, just another big city.” Or passed on Venice, one of the world’s most magical destinations, because, “I heard it was touristy.”

There are American tourists who say you should skip Venice. They are wrong.

It goes on and on, but suffice to say, I have been to Italy in the neighborhood of two dozen times, summer and winter, for food, wine, skiing, golf, hiking, cycling and more food, from north to south and east to west and islands too, and I know a lot about Italian cuisine, but I still ask real experts for advice every time I go. I specifically ask for advice on where to eat, what to see, and who to choose as guides. And by experts, I mean people how live in Italy, specialize in particular areas of travel, and know their subject matter.

“We get multiple guests a year who want to wing it,” says Cherrye Moore, owner of My Bella Vita travel. Moore moved to Calabria two decades ago after falling in love with the region on a visit, and opened a bed and breakfast, learning about what her visitors were looking for. Her company now specializes in planning trips—especially foodie and ancestry trips—to the area in Southern Italy where many Italian Americans trace their heritage. “They say, ‘My neighbor just showed up in their family’s hometown and it went great for them,’ or, ‘Our friends went to Italy last year and said we don't need a driver.’ It’s true that you can rent a car and drive to your family’s hometown, but that experience is vastly different from having a dedicated driver and a heritage specialist who has done research on your family’s history, who has already identified the home your grandfather was born in, and who has arranged meetings with locals upon your arrival.”

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Anyone can tour the Vatican, but only the right guides can get you a private visit.

I just got back from an exploration of Turin followed by a weeklong hiking trip in surrounding Piemonte, Italy’s most prestigious wine region, which included multiple winery visits. For restaurants and guides and sightseeing in Turin I used an Italian-based travel specialist that is the choice of many of the best luxury travel agents/advisors in this country (the best travel agents are savvy enough to know what they do not know and regularly rely on local experts). For the hiking trip, I used an Italy-based active travel specialist that does nothing else, and does it with a food-centric spin. It was another fantastic Italy trip, one amazing day after another, featuring many meals, wineries and experiences I never would have found by myself, especially by asking random friends or watching You Tube influencer videos by people with far less Italy experience than myself.

“We don’t focus on stars or diamonds, we focus on really special one-of-a-kind experiences and lodging that lets you discover our Italy,” said Heather Dowd, who lives in Turin and along with her Italian husband Beppe Salerno. They run Tourissimo , the active travel company we used. We had several friends hiking with us who were on either their very first or second trip to Italy, and when we reviewed our experiences at the end for the trip, one place we stayed, an 18 th century castle turned boutique hotel, was the overwhelming favorite. It did not have whirlpool tubs or Frette linens, it did not have a concierge or room service, but it had excellent food and beautiful gardens in which we had an epic dinner. It had cooking classes, a great location, a fun aperitivo evening cocktail session, and most of all, incredible charm..

Everyone wants the perfect meal in Italy, but not everyone knows where the locals go to find it.

It was exactly what my first timers dreamed Italy would be like, and it was a place we never would have found online. It was perfect, and even in Italy not every place is, but the reality is that Heather and Beppe and their guides spend a lot of time behind the scenes visiting small hotels and vetting them, way more time than the people who rate their stays on booking websites. One of my friends was so impressed he is already planning an extended family hiking trip to Sicily with Tourissimo next year.

If you want to have an insider experience in Italy, and see the places locals go, you need a local insider to help you out.

“Our goal is for guests to experience Calabria like we do, so we’ve built experiences that aren’t available online,” said My Bella Vita’s Moore. “Nowhere else can you find a multi-course lunch hosted at Zia Pina’s or a picnic prepared and delivered by Signora Francesca. Lunch in the home of our friend, Chef Massimo, isn’t available on Google. When creating or reviewing experiences I always think of my sister in Texas. If she were visiting, would I take her here? If that answer is yes, I know we have a winner.” That is exactly the standard by which I’d like my Italy travels to be judged.

A trip to Italy is a beautiful, special, and almost sacred experience, so don’t screw it up by taking bad advice. I do not know every local specialist—and I hope to keep finding more—but I know several experts I would recommend for different kinds of travel. Or use a good travel advisor, something I recommend for all travel (Read my article Why You Need A Travel Agent More Than Ever here at Forbes ), and communicate with them to ensure they are on the same page in terms of sourcing these kinds of local experts. If they are good, they will already be familiar with several of these companies.

Active Travel

All of Tourissimo's cycling and hiking trips in Italy emphasize food and wine, which is how it ... [+] should be.

Italy has long been the dream destination of cyclists, with Tuscany atop the Bucket List for global road riding destinations. But for the past few years the fastest growing sector of cycling has been “gravel grinding,” and with hundreds of miles of its stunning unpaved “white roads,” Tuscany has also emerged as the world’s top travel spot for gravel lovers. There are also plenty of other amazing places to ride in Italy, including Piemonte, Sardinia, Puglia, the Lakes region, and many other areas. World class hiking abounds, especially the stunning Dolomites—a UNESCO World Heritage Site of beauty unmatched by most other mountain regions on earth. Beyond this there are the Alps in the east, the Cinque Terre, Sardinia, and many other great options.

Italy is so well known for cycling and hiking that every major active travel company in the world runs trips there. But for my last two active trips, one hiking and one biking, I chose a tour operator that is actually based there, founded by an Italian with a passion for cycling and food. Tourissimo may be Italian, but they cater to the American market, and founder Beppe Salerno worked for am American cycling company as a guide before realizing he could do the real Italy better himself—to me, the perfect startup rationale. Over the years since, Tourissimo has grown its library of offerings, with both with an array of scheduled group trips and private custom options. While they do mostly road riding, they are notably one of the only tour operators scheduling gravel trips, and can also arrange custom mountain biking itineraries, with years of expertise in cycling and hiking.

Superstar Chef Mary Sue Milliken has led about galf a dozen Chef's Cycling Tours in Italy for ... [+] Tourissimo.

In addition, Tourissimo has also been a pioneer in “Active Culinary Travel,” a hot new category I have written about here at Forbes (and for other magazines and newspapers). They offer an annual series of six group rides (and a hike) each hosted by an acclaimed chef like Mary Sue Milliken, an award-winning chef, restaurateur, cookbook author (five!) and co-host of the popular PBS cooking show Two Hot Tamales . She is also an avid cyclist and has led the Tourissimo Chef Bike Tours for several years, along with other big names. These trips are a unique option for serious foodies who also ride, while the other trips cater to just about anyone. Otherwise they offer several styles of trips, from Bici Basics for new riders to Ambitious Tours for the more hard core.

Tourissimo puts a focus on local, choosing small and often historic hotels that they have curated and vetted (like the castle I just stayed at in Piemonte), places that you would never be able to distinguish from hundreds of other non-chain options online. Same for restaurants, wineries, and all the other ways they take you behind the scenes and into their real Italy. Their Mission Statement? “We don't want to be the biggest adventure travel company. We want to design and run the best tours in Italy. We strive to be the most authentic and the most beneficial to local communities.” Fantastico!

Bellagio on Lake Como is one of the most famous destinations in Italy — and the perfect place for a ... [+] food-centric bike tour!

Bike It! Bellagio offers another insider biking experience on a much different scale, providing a great one-day experience for visitors to Italy’s most famous lake town. This bike shop on Lake Como is run by a former pro racer and his wife. They rent bikes (road, mountain and e-bikes) out, but also offer one-day guided tours with multiple food and drink stops. Given that the owner grew up here and knows everyone, it’s not surprising that the food and drink spots are insider picks. The shop sits near the iconic Madonna del Ghisallo climb, the most famous in the Giro di Lombardia, a race more than a century old, and several days a week the shop offers guided group rides with a climb of the pass, on road or e-bikes—Bianchi bikes of course!

There are scheduled tours Monday through Saturday, as well as wide range of customizable private tours. These are often taken by families with mixed ages, but for more aggressive riders they offer longer road tours, mountain biking and gravel riding, along with a wide range of less demanding e-bike tours, including some even more focused on food and wine. They also offer a handful of multi-day tours and can put these together as custom on demand, usually for groups, including an iconic coast to coast traverse of Italy. If you are a guest of one of the many stunning (and pricey) ultra-luxury hotels around Bellagio, and ask the concierge to arrange a bike tour, they are likely going to call this shop anyway (and mark it up) so just do it yourself.

Luxury Travel in Italy

From planning your entire itinerary with flights, hotels, and transfers to just booking the best tours, guides and VIP access (often to non-public highlights), it pays to use a top local specialist.

Last year I attended the annual Virtuoso Travel Week in Las Vegas, which has been called “the Oscars of the travel industry.” Virtuoso is the leading global luxury travel consortium, and many of the best travel advisors on earth belong, So does just about every top hotel, resort, safari lodge, cruise line, and luxury tour operator. Virtuoso CEO Matthew Upchurch was explaining the many advantages of using a travel advisor (I wholeheartedly agree) and something he said really stuck with me. He explained that with all of the new online tour booking companies, it was easier than ever to book a tour or guide in just about any destination on earth, but harder than ever to judge the quality. The caveat was that, “you can book a guide, but you can’t book my guide.”

One of Italy's greatest hidden gems, Turin was the nation's first capital and a Winter Olympic host. ... [+] It's worth getting a good guide if you visit.

The Vatican is the Vatican and the Colosseum is the Colosseum, so when you opt for a guided tour, what really matters and makes it a good, bad or great experience is the guide—and their special access, like a tour of the Vatican when no one else is there.

For my recent trip to Turin, I called Imago Artis Travel , an Italy-based luxury travel specialist. They are what is known in the travel industry as a destination management company or DMC, the same companies luxury travel agents call to arrange local details for their clients. There are great DMCs all over the world, and local knowledge is valuable everywhere, but many of them do not deal directly with travelers, while in Italy the best ones do.

I wanted a private day tour of Turin and its surrounding attractions for my wife and I, most importantly the Reggia di Venaria Reale, aka the “Italian Versailles” (one of two places in Italy with this lofty but accurate nickname). The guide they got for me was a licensed guide, and lifelong resident of Turin, and spoke excellent English, which was all good, but she was also an architect, which was great in a city where so much is driven by architecture. That’s not so easy to find on global tour aggregator website. Imago Artis also gave me a list of their favorite restaurant recommendations, which were spot on, then made my reservations for me. At a minimum this eliminates the language barrier of calling or the technology barrier of booking through often tricky (or non-functional) Italian restaurant reservation websites, but in many cases it also gets you a better table and instant VIP treatment—which definitely does not happen when I book myself.

Italy is rich in world-class crafts, and companies like Imago Artis can take you behind the scenes ... [+] to meet the makers.

Imago Artis Travel is a Virtuoso member, which means when you book through them, if you book your luxury hotel, you get extras like room upgrades, late checkout, spa credits etc., one of the big advantages of working with Virtuoso travel advisors. If you have a bigger budget than I do, they can handle all sorts of luxury transport, private jets, helicopters, boat charters, and also offer VIP Meet and Greet services at just about every airport in Italy. They can even arrange private security details. On a more accessible luxury level, they specialize in exclusive experiences, unlocking historic buildings and art collections not open to the public, and taking you behind the scenes with many artisans of Italy, from custom shoemakers to sculptors to jewelry designers. They know food, they know the guides, and I especially like their mission statement, “Our mission is simple: Getting You to the Heart of Italy.” That’s what it is all about.

Another top luxury DMC that is also a member of Virtuoso that I have used in the past with great success is IC Bellagio . They offer a similar array of luxury services and are very well connected, but they also specialize in Villa rentals as well as 5-Star hotels. Differentiating villas in Italy may be the single biggest challenge, more so than restaurants, with so many options and so few valid reviews. IC Bellagio has also boldly acknowledged the overtourism problems some of the most popular parts of Italy face, and are pushing “Slow Season Travel,” which varies in each of the country’s 20 regions but is something they are expert in. Last winter I went to Venice in the off-season, and it was spectacular, and I just traveled in a slow season to Piemonte. It was much, much better than fighting the crowds.

Skiing in Italy is awesome, and it's the best place in the world to stay in mountain rifugios — but ... [+] you need help for the perfect trip.

Skiing in Italy remains a bit under the radar for Europe, especially compared to France and Switzerland. Well, let the crowds go to other countries, because Italy has two different major ski regions, both of which have hosted the Winter Olympics, and the Games are returning to Milan and Cortina in 2026. The interconnected Dolomiti SuperSki lift and trail network in the Dolomites is arguably the largest “ski resort” in the world, and inarguably one of the most beautiful mountain landscapes on the planet. The towns are charming, the food is great, there are spectacular hotels from non-chain independent hidden gems to world-class luxury (Aman, Mandarin Oriental, Relais & Chateaux, etc.) and it’s cheaper than much of the rest of Europe. Did I mention the food?

I first went to the Dolomites to go hiking, and was so wowed I thought, “I have to come back and ski here.” I came back the next winter and skied, and the following year I got a group of friends together and went back. I have skied all over the U.S., and all over the world and never had the same compulsion to return to the same place immediately. That’s how good skiing in Italy is ( read much more in my Italy skiing piece here at Forbes ).

I’ve only used one company for ski travel in Italy and see no reason to switch gears, especially since the local logistics (a great guide/instructor, transfers, the best on-mountain meals and staying a couple of nights in the region’s unique on-mountain rifugios) is very hard to organize on your own. The company is Dolomite Mountains , a specialist in both resort ski vacations and backcountry touring trips (using skins and alpine touring or AT gear). They too are a U.S. facing company with mainly American clientele.

Like many active travel companies, they offer both group trip scheduled departure options and private custom trips to fit whatever you want. The group option is called the Dolomites Ski Safari and is a 7-day trip mixing stays in amazing rifugios with in-town hotels (4 and 5-stars on the Italian system) and includes all breakfasts and dinners, a full-time guide, ski pass, luggage transfers and more. Custom options include the same kind of trip for your own group, or anything you want, and while its name suggests local expertise—quite true—Dolomite Mountains also handles ski trips in the rest of Italy, like Courmayeur, and connected border regions of France, Switzerland and Austria, as many lift systems here know no national boundaries (ski with your passport!). They are also a Virtuoso member.

Calabria & Southern Italy

Many Italian Americans trace their ancestry to Southern Italy's Calabria, and if you want to visit, ... [+] make sure you do it right.

My Bella Vita travel focuses on this area, including both small group trips and custom privates. Their specialties include “Heritage Tours” for those interested in their ancestry, and a food focus for the rest of us. For instance, Taste of the South is a 12-day gastronomic journey through Calabria, Basilicata and Naples—the birthplace of pizza! Food & Wine of Calabria is an 11-daty trip and just what it sounds like.

These are some of the scheduled small group tours offered, but the rest of their business is private trip planning and custom options.

“Italy is deceivingly large, and travelers think two weeks is enough time to see everything. It isn’t,” insists Moore. “You can’t even experience all of Calabria in two weeks. Our team collectively spends about six months a year scouting new hotels, restaurants, and experiences in Calabria and we are constantly re-evaluating and tweaking our recommendations.”

There are some other Italy specialists I have not personally experienced, but that come highly recommended by some of my other experts:

My Bella Vita’s Cherrye Moore says, “ In Sicily, I recommend Lucia Davies of Sicily Tour , one of a trio of British expats who have lived in Siracusa, Sicily for decades.” A family-owned tour-guiding company based in Siracusa, they have nearly 40 years of experience on the island and create trips fostering cultural exchange between Italy and English-speaking visitors, specializing in small group and custom tours.

Food & Wine

Life is too short to go to Italy and not eat well.

Beppe and Heather Dowd of Tourissimo recommend Lazy Italian Culinary Adventures , a company that has also earned kudos from other travel industry folks I know. Owner Francesca Montillo grew up in Southern Italy where her father was greengrocer. An Italian-American cookbook author, she launched the company a decade ago, and she personally leads the tours. She does numerous scheduled tours to different regions each year, and also offers custom private itineraries.

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Discover Italy: The 20 Best Places to Visit

Italy's diverse landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture make it a captivating destination for travelers from around the globe. Whether you're exploring ancient ruins, indulging in world-class cuisine, or simply soaking up the beauty of its natural wonders, Italy never fails to enchant and inspire. Not sure what to add to your bucket list? Here are the 20 best places to visit in Italy.

The Amalfi Coast

Cinque terre, the dolomites, castelmezzano.

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Related:  Italy Travel Guide: Everything You Need To Know

Rome is a living museum. Walking through the streets feels like a journey back in time, from the monumental Colosseum to the majestic Roman Forum. Piazza Navona, with its beautiful fountains, and the Pantheon, with its ancient architectural prowess, remind visitors of the city's glorious past.

Related:  The 25 Best Things To Do in Rome

The medieval city of Siena is known for its fan-shaped piazza, Il Campo, and the historic Palio horse race. The remarkable Duomo di Siena boasts intricate marble floors and an impressive art collection. Strolling through the ancient streets, visitors are transported to the Middle Ages.

Related:  Explore Italy: Top 5 Day Trips From Florence

The birthplace of the Renaissance, Florence boasts an unparalleled artistic heritage. Marvel at masterpieces by Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, and Botticelli, and wander through the charming streets of this cultural capital.

Related:  The 20 Best Things To Do in Florence

A city like no other, built on a network of canals and adorned with exquisite palaces and churches. Lose yourself in the maze of narrow streets, take a romantic gondola ride, and experience the magic of St. Mark's Square.

Related: How Many Days Do You Need in Venice? 3 Itineraries To Plan Your Trip

Milan, the world's fashion capital, offers an exhilarating mix of contemporary style and historic charm. Its impressive Duomo is a Gothic masterpiece, and Leonardo’s Last Supper, tucked away in Santa Maria delle Grazie, is a must-visit. For shopping enthusiasts, the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II provides an extravagant retail experience.

The Amalfi Coast is famed for its extraordinary beauty and coastal cliffs dotted with pastel-hued towns like Positano and Amalfi. Travelers can indulge in local limoncello, explore sun-drenched vineyards, or enjoy a relaxing day at the beach with stunning views of the turquoise Mediterranean Sea.

Cinque Terre, comprised of five villages nestled on rugged cliffs, is a hiker's paradise. The villages are connected by scenic coastal paths, each providing a serene escape with terraced vineyards, colorful houses, and a mix of tranquil harbors and beaches.

An island of contrasts, where ancient ruins, Baroque architecture, and stunning landscapes converge. Explore the majestic Valley of the Temples, hike Mount Etna, and savor Sicilian cuisine bursting with flavor.

A paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, the Dolomites are a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for their jagged peaks, pristine lakes, and picturesque alpine villages. In the summer, hiking and cycling are popular pursuits, while in winter, the area becomes a prime skiing destination. The towering peaks and serene lakes paint a picture of alpine perfection.

Lake Como has charmed visitors for centuries with its elegant villas and lush gardens set against the backdrop of the Alps. The towns of Bellagio, Varenna, and Como each offer distinctive vibes — from upscale shopping and dining to quiet, cobblestoned streets perfect for a leisurely stroll.

Related: Milan to Lake Como Day Trip: Everything You Need To Know

The vibrant city of Naples is the birthplace of pizza and the gateway to the ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum. Its Historic Center is a UNESCO World Heritage site, with imposing castles, and the dazzling Spaccanapoli, a street that seems to split the city in two.

Puglia, the "heel" of Italy's boot, is an increasingly popular destination. With its whitewashed hill towns, ancient farmland, and hundreds of kilometers of Mediterranean coastline, Puglia delivers the genuine charm of southern Italy.

A paradise for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts, Sardinia boasts crystal-clear waters, rugged coastlines, and ancient ruins. Relax on the stunning beaches of Costa Smeralda or hike through the scenic landscapes of the interior.

Related: The 20 Most Beautiful Islands in the World

Step back in time and explore the ancient city frozen in the shadow of Mount Vesuvius. Wander through remarkably preserved ruins, including temples, villas, and amphitheaters, and gain insight into daily life in ancient Rome.

Related:  Rome to Pompeii Day Trip: Everything You Need To Know

A gastronomic delight, Bologna is renowned for its rich culinary tradition and medieval architecture. Explore its historic center, home to the oldest university in the western world, and savor the flavors of Emilia-Romagna cuisine.

Verona is forever associated with the tragic love story of Romeo and Juliet. Visitors can explore the alleged residence of Juliet, with its famous balcony. Beyond this lore is a wealth of Roman history, including the Arena — a well-preserved Roman amphitheater still in use today.

A lush island retreat in the Bay of Naples, Ischia is renowned for its thermal spas, verdant landscapes, and scenic coastline. Relax in natural thermal pools, explore picturesque villages, and soak up the island's laid-back atmosphere.

Trieste, at the crossroads of Latin, Slavic, and Germanic cultures, offers an intriguing mix of history and architecture. Its grand Piazza Unità d'Italia is Europe's largest sea-facing square and provides a majestic setting for evening passeggiata (casual stroll).

Famous for its iconic Leaning Tower, Pisa offers much more than a single architectural marvel. Explore the beautiful Piazza dei Miracoli, visit the impressive Cathedral and Baptistery, and stroll along the Arno River.

Tucked away in the rugged landscape of Basilicata, Castelmezzano is a hidden gem known for its breathtaking scenery and adrenaline-pumping activities, such as zip-lining through the Lucanian Dolomites.

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VARENNA Lake Como

Varenna is a picturesque and traditional village, located on the eastern shore of Lake Como, Italy . It is an essential stop for anyone wishing to visit one of the most typical and peaceful towns of the lake. 

This small village, where you can still breathe in the traditions of yesteryear (above all, fishing), is home to elegant villas with botanical gardens (such as Villa Monastero and Villa Cipressi ) and beautiful walks between history and nature ( Castle of Vezio and Sentiero del Viandante ).

Here’s my guide to the best things to do in Varenna , where everything is located within walking distance.

Discover what awaits you in Varenna, on Lake Como!

THE TOWN CENTER Picturesque walks, tradition, and a bay not to be missed

If you arrive in Varenna from another town on the lake, most likely via ferry , you will land near the Passeggiata degli Innamorati (Walk of lovers), one of the most inspiring and romantic walks along Lake Como.

You will enjoy a beautiful view of the lake and begin to notice, after a few minutes’ walk, the charming little streets going up into the interior of the village.

Another of the most beautiful things to see in Varenna is Piazza San Giorgio, the town’s central square that houses the Church of San Giorgio .

The church was built in the 14th century in a style somewhere between Romanesque and Gothic and houses numerous paintings from the late 15th and 16th centuries. As you look down, you can see the solid pavement, made entirely of traditional local black marble .

Are you looking forward to visiting Varenna, Italy? Find your ideal stay before it’s too late!

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VILLA MONASTERO & VILLA CIPRESSI Two lush and elegant botanical gardens

Villa Monastero

A visit to  Villa Monastero is definitely one of the best things to do in Varenna. The villa, located a stone’s throw from the central Piazza San Giorgio, was once an old monastery that later became a patrician residence.

When visiting this famous villa, you will also have the opportunity to see Casa Museo , a museum that collects four centuries of history in an elegant setting with fine decorations and furnishings.

Keep in mind that Villa Monastero is open to the public only from March to November (except for some special winter openings ). The cost of a regular ticket is €10 . Learn more about Villa Monastero !

Villa Cipressi

Adjacent to Villa Monastero is  Villa Cipressi , a 4-star hotel near the town center of Varenna.

The complex is surrounded by centuries-old terraced gardens  that reach the shores of Lake Como, a perfect location for unforgettable weddings and holidays.

Villa Cipressi’s name comes from the beautiful and ancient cypress trees that are still found in its gardens.

Unlike Villa Monastero, this villa is currently a  luxury hotel that you can book for your vacations on Lake Como. For this reason, unless you are a guest of the hotel, you will only have the opportunity to visit the extensive gardens, full of Mediterranean and exotic plants . 

The cost of a regular ticket is €8 (€19 for the combined ticket that includes admission to Villa Monastero).

A few tips for your stay in Varenna

CASTLE OF VEZIO Breathtaking views, ghosts and... legends!

The Castle of Vezio is a medieval fortress that has stood for more than a thousand years on the promontory overlooking Varenna. 

The terrace adjacent to the castle offers a breathtaking view of Lake Como and is home to the “ ghosts ,” which are white plaster sculptures made each year in the summer with the help of people who pose for an hour.

Also noteworthy is the permanent exhibit dedicated to the Lariosaurus , an extinct marine reptile from the Middle Triassic, which gave rise to a legend similar to that of the Loch Ness monster.

In addition, on Friday and Saturday evenings in summer (usually from early June to early September) the castle organizes aperitifs on the panoramic terrace at a cost of €35 per person.

The castle, open from March to November, can be reached by two roads:

• the shorter but rather steep road starts next to the hotel Montecodeno and the walk takes about 20-30 minutes, also offering shelter from the sun
• the more scenic alternative is the Scabium trail , the beginning of which is almost in front of Villa Monastero; it takes 40 minutes and is also rather steep, but offers splendid views of Lake Como (although it is mostly under the sun).

FIUMELATTE & SENTIERO DEL VIANDANTE Two must-see places for nature lovers

The hamlet of Fiumelatte and its river

At a 10-15 minute walk from the south of Varenna is the hamlet of Fiumelatte , crossed by the river of the same name.

Fiumelatte is a very special river: besides having a white appearance that makes you think of milk, this short watercourse flows only between March and September  (except in cases of drought), while in the other months it is perfectly dry.

An easy walk of about 15 minutes from the hamlet of Fiumelatte leads to the source of the river , allowing splendid views of Lake Como and Bellagio.

Sentiero del Viandante

The Sentiero del Viandante is a stage trek that runs along the entire eastern shore of Lake Como. It has a length of 45 km (30 miles) and is suitable for everyone , but due to its length it is recommended to divide the route into at least 4 stages. 

If you want to get a taste of this beautiful nature trail, I recommend visiting the Varenna tourist website , which describes some possible routes to take starting from the town center.

BOAT TOURS & BEACHES Sit back, relax and enjoy the view!

Private boat tours.

If you are looking for private boat tours from Varenna, here are some options that may be right for you!

Public boat tours

❗Looking for information about public boat service? Read my guide to boats and ferries on Lake Como !

Varenna’s pier is located in Via Imbarcadero . Here you can catch boats to any town on the lake (as anticipated, central lake towns such as Bellagio, Menaggio, and Tremezzo are only 15-20 minutes away by boat).

Plan your trips on the Navigazione Laghi website and, when possible, purchase tickets online or go to the ticket office in advance of the boat departure time.

Beaches in Varenna

Varenna’s main beach is called Olivedo Lido – Lido di Varenna and is equipped with sunbeds, deck chairs and a boat dock.

As throughout Lake Como, there are several small public beaches in various areas (e.g., here ), but being free beaches, they are often occupied by tourists and locals especially in summer.

Discover the best beaches in Lake Como !

Places to stay in Varenna

Top reviewed on Booking.com from travelers

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS about Varenna, Italy

Is varenna in italy worth visiting.

Varenna is definitely worth a visit! It has everything that you are looking for:  villas, beaches, places to hike and typical restaurants .

Also, thanks to the public boat service you can easily reach other popular  Lake Como’s towns  such as Bellagio (15 minutes away by ferry),  Tremezzina  or  Menaggio .

How to get to Varenna from Como?

Given the distance, the best way to  reach Varenna from Como  is definitely by  ferry service .

Alternatively, you can split the trip into two parts, first reaching Bellagio by bus and then taking the ferry from there, which takes 15-20 minutes to Varenna.

Where to swim in Varenna?

In Varenna, you can swim at the Lido di Varenna-Perledo . Located in Perledo (next to Varenna), the lido has everything you’re looking for: a sandy beach  equipped with  sunbeds, deckchairs , and a boat dock , as well as a restaurant-bar for breakfast, an aperitif or an after-dinner drink.

Which is better: Bellagio or Varenna?

The choice between Bellagio and Varenna depends on your preferences and what you are looking for in your visit. Both cities are charming and offer unique experiences, so the "better" option is subjective .

If you love a lively atmosphere , upscale amenities and closer proximity to the city of Como , Bellagio may be the preferred option. If, on the other hand, you prefer a quieter, more romantic setting with a focus on natural beauty , Varenna might be the better choice.

Many visitors choose to explore both towns to experience the unique charm of each.

This Post Has 4 Comments

Where can I leave the luggage in Varenna?

Hello Lynn, a luggage storage is available at the Tourist Info Point in Varenna (Via 4 Novembre, 7) during office hours (please check them online).

How far is the walk from the train station to the luggage storage area? thank you!

Hi Leigh, it’s a 12-minute walk

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LAKE COMO Beaches Weather and climate Accommodations Experiences

LAKE COMO’S TOWNS Como Bellagio Varenna Tremezzina

LAKE COMO’ VILLAS Villa Balbianello Villa Melzi Villa Monastero Villa Carlotta

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Lake Como Travel | A personal blog by Alessandro Manzi

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18 Secretly Perfect Places In Northern Italy

• Explore the hidden gems of Northern Italy, including historic towns, architectural wonders, and stunning landscapes.
• Visit Trezzo Sull'Adda for its UNESCO World Heritage Site and architectural masterpieces like Visconti Castle.
• Discover the picturesque town of Moltrasio on Lake Como, known for its historical significance and natural beauty.

Italy is home to classic and truly sophisticated places many travelers dream of visiting! Indeed, there are many things to see that are unique to North and South Italy , including handfuls of Italian towns and cities that tourists might have never heard of. This notion becomes particularly apparent when exploring the hidden gems in Northern Italy, though.

The hidden gems Northern Italy has in store for travelers adventuring off the beaten path deserve attention because they offer everything from landscapes to chocolate spreads and race cars. For those hoping to stray away from the crowds and discover a different side of this stunning European country, here's a list of eighteen of the best but hidden gems in Northern Italy that tourists should consider visiting.

UPDATE: 2024/04/24 10:16 EST BY LAURALYN BROWN

Go Off the Beaten Path in Northern Italy!

Discover even more of the best hidden gems in Northern Italy! This list has been narrowed down and updated with amazing hidden gems in Northern Italy that should be explored in 2024! These fairytale towns and villages are stretched over lakes, rivers, and the Italian Alps and showcase incredible history and architecture. Plan a vacation itinerary for Italy around these secret spots!

These Are The 10 Best Hidden Travel Gems In Italy

Enjoy the beauty and simplicity of life in this village at the heart of lake como.

The small village of Varenna is considered one of the most beautiful hidden gems in Northern Italy! Varenna is planted right in the heart of Lake Como in the Lombardy region and boasts beautiful lakeside villas, endless walking paths, and peaceful rolling hills on all sides of the lake.

This Italian village is only one hour and 30 minutes away from Milan and can easily be reached by car or train.

Visitors can spend their days exploring the town's historic architecture, such as the Romanesque Church of San Giorgio and the Castello di Vezio , and try the Valtellina region's local cuisine and delicious wines.

• When to visit: May-September
• Attractions: Villa Monastero , Orrido di Bellano , In Vinis Veritas

A riverside village on the Mincio with castles, forts, and old bridges

One of the many hidden gem destinations in Northern Italy, Borghetto is a small village in the Province of Verona, renowned country-wide for its charming beauty.

Many find Borghetto a strong contender for the title of Italy's most beautiful village. Borghetto is a riverside village that sits along the River Mincio and parts of it are even built over the water body.

Visitors will find that Borghetto retains much of its medieval glory; its forts, castles, and bridges have weathered the test of time surprisingly well.

The only word of advice? While the village has cafés and small hotels, Borghetto lacks things like post offices and pharmacies. It is one of the secret places in Italy, after all!

• When to visit: Spring and fall for beautiful weather for sightseeing and outdoor fun
• Attractions: Sigurt Garden Park , Scaliger Castle , Mantova Strada

Visit These 12 Underrated Places In Italy This Summer

Explore this fishing village's colorful houses, promenades, and medieval castles rising from the sea.

Open seas, fresh seafood, colorful buildings, and wide beaches may all seem like things better left to the coastal villages of Southern Italy, but that's only because visitors overlook the lesser-known seaside town of Camogli in the north.

Another one of the secret places in Northern Italy, Camogli, is a fishing village located on the west side of the famous Portofino, close to Genoa. Much like the towns along the Amalfi Coast , Camogli's pastel-colored buildings rise from the sea and are flanked by medieval castles, small trattorias, and breezy promenades.

When searching for lesser-known Italian places to visit, head to Camogli and discover one of the most beautiful towns in Italy that are not on the Amalfi Coast for a change!

• When to visit: May to September for warm weather ideal for hiking and other activities
• Attractions: Basilica Santa Maria Assunta , Portofino Natural Park , Abbazia di San Fruttuoso

Enjoy hot springs, summer skiing, and snow-capped mountains in this ancient spa town

Bormio is the best of both worlds: it offers the icy adventures of the neighboring country Switzerland but with the dolce vita of Italy.

The ancient spa town, with its snow-capped mountains and natural hot springs, is one of the many Northern Italy hidden gem towns nestled between the Alps of the Lombardy region.

Bormio has the rustic charm that is expected of ski towns but with the warmth of Italy, where alpine resorts and spas sit next to pizzerias, trattorias, and aperitivo bars.

• When to visit: June to September and December to February for summer and winter action respectively
• Attractions: Stelvio Slope , Parco Nazionale dello Stelvio , Routes & Trails

Saturnia Hot Springs

Soak in healing warm waters heated by surrounding volcanoes.

The Saturnia hot springs are located in the spa town of Tuscany . It is dubbed Italy's best-kept secret, but it has gained in popularity, and it’s not exactly a secretive spot anymore.

It has streams of sparkling blue water that are heated by the surrounding volcanoes in the area.

The stream of water keeps the spring at 37 degrees. A peaceful dip in one of the many pools of the spring is exquisite, especially if tourists visit at sunrise and sunset. Don't worry; this place is free to visit and open 24/7!

• When to visit: Spring and fall; milder temperatures and serene ambiance
• Attractions: Cascate del Mulino , Terme di Saturnia

This Gorgeous Village May Be Italy's Most Affordable

Passo gardena, a stunning alpine pass connecting val gardena with val badia.

There are plenty of beautiful towns in Italy with amazing views of the Dolomites . However, for fans of driving, the Passo Gardena can rival them all, as it's easily one of the most scenic drives in Northern Italy.

One of the hidden gem places in Northern Italy, "Passo Gardena" translates to "Garden Pass" , which is a road loved by road trippers and bikers. As its name suggests, the road is a mountain pass that provides an overlooking view of mountain ranges, including the magnificent Dolomite mountains.

The Passo Gardena was originally constructed in World War I, but today, on top of the pass, there are accommodations where travelers can stay, along with other shops for convenience.

• When to visit: June to September for vibrant landscapes and perfect weather for outdoor activities
• Attractions: Dolomites Via Ferrata Experience , Sellaronda Ski Tour , Trail Arena Val Gardena

A historic alpine retreat with a vintage feel, medieval buildings, and nearby islands

North of Milan, only a local Milanese would recognize this lake because, just like how the elites pledge to Lake Como, a villa near Lake Orta is a status symbol.

This lake features a vintage and historical vibe amid its surroundings, starting from the Alpine mountains wrapped around it and the buildings in its midst constructed in medieval times.

Classic to lavish, the island of Orta offers various accommodations. The grand palazzos on the nearby islands are often rented by vacationers from Italy and other neighboring countries during summer.

• When to visit: May to September when the weather is mild and blooming landscapes
• Attractions: Sacro Monte di Orta , San Giulio Island , Omegna

Italy Summer Bucket List: 10 Things To Do In This Beautiful Country

A "little venice" with charming canals and preserved 15th-century buildings.

Treviso is another one of Northern Italy's hidden gems; it's dubbed one of the "Little Venices" because of its system of canals mirroring the popular canals of the city.

This town is the definition of vintage because of its well-preserved buildings built in the 15th century. Tourists can stroll through Piazza Dei Signori , where the Renaissance palace, Palazzo Protorio, stands.

There are also plenty more sites to visit in Treviso, including Treviso Cathedral , the City Walls and Gates , and Treviso Casa dei Carraresi .

Just like in Venice, visitors must not skip out on strolling along the picturesque water canals in Treviso.

• When to visit: April to June for lovely weather and fewer crowds
• Attractions: Piazza Dei Signori , Palazzo dei Trecento Treviso , Walls of Treviso Gates , Treviso Cathedral

Aosta Valley

Hot springs, vintage accommodation, ski mountains, and epic hiking.

The Aosta Valley is another one of the many hidden gems in Northern Italy to visit, where vacationers can experience the natural beauty of Valle d’Aosta .

It is easily among the best secret destinations in Northern Italy for anyone seeking a remote vacation with fewer crowds but with hot springs for winter, vintage vibe accommodations, and popular hikes in the Aosta Valley, all topped off with a splendid view of the region's ski mountains.

The Aosta Valley offers world-class attractions and activities all year round; it promises some of the best skiing in Italy in the winter and stunning vistas of mountain ranges on its hiking trails in the summer.

• When to visit: June to September for summer activities and December to February for winter action
• Attractions: Teatro Romano, Aosta , Parco Nazionale Gran Paradiso , Osservatorio Astronomico della Regione Autonoma

One of the largest producers of coffee in Italy, filled with Austro-Hungarian Empire buildings

There are many reasons to visit Trieste , one of which is that it's one of the most beautiful hidden gems in Northern Italy. It's known as the country’s forgotten city yet now serves as one of the largest producers of coffee.

Hence, this town oozes coffee shops and houses, and caffeine is a scent that every tourist would naturally associate with the town.

Because of its diversity, the town is also home to various cultural buildings built by the Austro-Hungarian Empire. One of the more hidden places in Trieste is Catello di Miramare , a palace built in 1855 that overflows with history.

• When to visit: May to September for the best weather for outdoor activities
• Attractions: Piazza dell'Unita d'Italia , Historical Museum of the Miramare Castle , Civico Museo della Risiera di San Sabb

Discover historic art and gothic buildings in the heart of the Italian Alps

This pretty little town is yet another one of the many beautiful hidden gems of Northern Italy; it has some of Italy's earliest art scenes, which date back centuries.

Chiusa also boasts medieval beauty, with gothic churches, vintage accommodations, colorful buildings, and retro landscapes.

What's more, the town flaunts its museum that houses valuable pieces and Loreto treasures, from paintings to ceramic works of Italian and Spanish artists from centuries ago.

Chiusa also offers delicious cuisines, from Alpine to Mediterranean flavors, within its classic to luxurious restaurants, such as Turmmwirt and Walther von der Vogelweide .

• When to visit: May to September for pleasant weather and vibrant landscapes
• Attractions: Chiusa - Klausen , Kloster Sben - Monastero Di Sabiona , Maso Johannser Hof

10 Small Towns In Italy To Visit

An enchanting medieval town with historic buildings and a stunning basilica.

Cities like Bergamo are secret places that Italians like to keep to themselves. The streets in this little town are gorgeous, with vintage facades in the surrounding buildings and alleys.

Overall, there are many reasons to visit Bergamo , one of which is that it features the classic Basilica , which is embellished with gold ceilings and accessories.

Another sophisticated building is the Casa Palma Camozzi Vertova , along with many more to be viewed when strolling the town's historic streets.

• When to visit: May to September for lovely weather and festivals
• Attractions: Colleoni di Solza Castle , Basilica S. Maria Maggiore , Palazzo Agliardi

South Tyrol

A rich cultural appeal and alpine beauty.

South Tyrol is a unique region of Northern Italy. The reason why this region as a whole is a gem of Northern Italy is that it is a German-speaking alpine region.

Up until World War One, this region was part of Austria, and today, it preserves much of its German character and traditions, which is one of the reasons to visit South Tyrol (its beautiful mountain scenery is another).

The stunning mountainous region is a world apart from much of Italy, and it should be on anyone's bucket list. It feels completely different from the rest of Italy and boasts epic hiking, skiing, and many more outdoor adventures.

• When to visit: May to October for temperate weather excellent for outdoor activities
• Attractions: Val Gardena , Bolzano , Merano , Dolomites

Campione d'Italia

A unique enclave surrounded by switzerland, with lake views and a rich culture.

Campione d'Italia is another odd gem of North Italy. It is an Italian exclave in neighboring Switzerland, meaning that it's a small piece of Italy broken off from Italy and is completely surrounded by Switzerland.

Campione d'Italia is less than a kilometer from the rest of Italy, but visitors must travel 14 kilometers along winding roads through Switzerland to get there.

• When to visit: May to September for mild weather and vibrant events
• Attractions: Sanctuary of S. Maria dei Ghirli , The Oratory of San Pietro , Church of S. Zenone

An Instagrammable haven famed for white truffles, Michelin-star restaurants, and Nutella!

Alba, with its historic streets and rolling vineyards, is a retro Instagram filter in reality because of its lovely brownish lands, coupled with the alluring presence of thick hanging fog in the morning and at night.

This town is also popular for its aromatic and garlicky flavor underneath its grounds - Italy’s most popular product, white truffles. Hence, over the years and with its growing white truffle industry, this town and its neighboring areas have unsurprisingly birthed some of Italy’s Michelin-starred restaurants. Moreover, Alba is the home of the world’s most popular chocolate hazelnut spread, Nutella !

• When to visit: May to October when mild weather, festivals, and vibrant landscapes prevail
• Attractions: Abellonio - Cascina Piccaluga , Centro Storico , Langhe landscapes

Trezzo SullAdda

A historic unesco world heritage site just a short drive from milan.

Even though Trezzo sull'Adda is only 19 miles from Milan, it's a charming Italian village that is easy to overlook. It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site with many architectural wonders, including Visconti Castle, a 14th-century citadel.

Villa Cavenago, one of the most exquisite and stunning monuments in Trezzo, is another must-see sight.

• When to visit: Spring and fall for ideal weather and picturesque landscapes
• Attractions: Castello Visconteo , Villa Cavenago , Taccani Hydroelectric Power Plant

Known for Bugatti race cars and exquisite Italian cuisine

Racecars and vinegar are two things that one could associate with Modena. Despite being unpopular with tourists, it's widely known for its Bugatti race cars since Bugatti once had a factory in the city.

However, the deserted factory never stops tourists from getting closer looks at the city’s collection of Maserati cars owned by the Panini family. Modena is also the home of some of the best Italian cuisines, like the tagliatelle ragu and the best Frutti di Mare.

• When to visit: April to October for its beautiful weather and a range of festivals
• Attractions: Duomo di Modena , Acetaia Villa San Donnino , Museum Enzo Ferrari Modena

A historic town with medieval watch towers and ancient churches on the Adda River

Located a few kilometers northeast of Milan in the Province of Lecco is the nondescript commune of Imbersago (but it can be considered a hidden gem of Northern Italy). With ancient churches, medieval watchtowers, and 17th-century shrines, Imbersago has a rich artistic and architectural heritage.

The highlight of the town, however, is its location; Imbersago is perched on the banks of the Adda River and is connected to Villa d'Adda on the opposite side via a ferry. This is no ordinary ferry, however.

The Villa D'Adda Reaction Ferry is believed to be the only reaction ferry in Italy. That is, the boat runs on an overhead cable that is adjusted based on the river's currents rather than a motorized engine. Fascinatingly, it's believed that the ferry was designed by the great Leonardo Da Vinci himself!

• When to visit: May to June for moderate weather and blooming landscapes
• Attractions: Villa D'Adda Reaction Ferry , Sanctuary of Our Lady of the Woods , Monsereno Horses

10 Unforgettable Things You Must Do On Your Next Trip To Italy

If you're jet-setting off to Italy this summer, we're here to give you a few insider tips on where to go and what to see.

Sure we’re experts on all things NYC , but we’ve got friends all around the globe keeping us up to date on the best happenings in the world’s biggest cities.

When traveling, it’s important to make time for the typical tourist spots and landmarks, but we understand wanting to travel like a local. So if you find yourself in Italy on your next trip abroad, be sure not to miss hidden gems that are only found off the beaten path, like beautiful concerts in jaw-dropping venues that are illuminated by candlelight or hole-in-the-wall pizza shops.

Be amazed by Italian architecture

Italy is a country full of history, and with it some of the world’s most famous landmarks and monuments. Here are some of the most important monuments, alongside under the radar venues, showcasing Italian architecture that you can’t miss while traveling around the country.

1. Chiesa di Santa Maria Donnaregina Vecchia, Naples

Uniquely explore this breathtaking church full of historic works of art through beautiful candlelit concerts hosted within the space. Whether you prefer the classics or more modern music, there are numerous shows to choose from here .

2. Villa Clerici, Milan

An iconic residence in Milan, Villa Clerici features a massive Hall of Mirrors, two chapels, eighteenth-century statues and opulent fountains. See more here .

3. Colosseum, Rome

Receiving more than four million annual tourists, the Colosseum is definitely worth the crowd. You’ll be transported nearly 2,000 years back into a time in history when gladiator games were the entertainment of choice.

Explore Italian culture through the palazzos and their museums

What’s a visit to Italy without roaming its many palazzos and historic works of art? These are some of our favorites we think are definitely worth a visit.

4. Palazzo Pucci, Florence

This brilliant palace located in Central Florence dates back to the 16th century. Its interiors boasts expansive frescoes, sculptures and paintings that will make scouring every inch on the Italian mansion a necessity. See it for yourself here .

5. Palazzo de Gregio, Palermo

Italian hospitality meets neoclassical style at this stunning complex open for galas, weddings, concerts and more.

6. Accademia Gallery, Florence

Home to the Statue of David, missing the Uffizi Gallery if you’re ever in Florence is like never ordering pizza or gelato while you’re in Italy.

7. Scuola Grande San Giovanni Evangelista di Venezia, Venice

Examples of Renaissance, Gothic and Venetian Baroque architecture and art is showcased in this imaginative museum in Venice. Beyond being a school and a museum, Scuola Grande San Giovanni Evangelista di Venezia hosts weddings, conferences and performances .

Immerse yourself in the Dolce Vita

Life in Italy is sweet! Get used to taking things a lot slower than you would in NYC, so be sure to stop and smell the  lemons. 🍋 

8. Festa del Limone (Lemon Festival)

Attend the Festa del Limone that honors the gorgeous lemons of Monterosso. This year’s festival will be on May  18th, 2024. The annual event always occurs on the third Saturday in May. Peruse endless lemon products on the streets, observe the biggest lemon competition and enjoy the lovely lemon-themed decorations that will be everywhere.

9. Bar Elena Dolce, Piana degli Albanesi

Grab one of the best cannolis in the world at this shop found in a small town outside of Palermo. Truly, you’ll never be able to eat another cannoli in New York after this.

10. Mercato Campo de’ Fiori, Rome

Known as one of the best farmer’s market in Rome, Mercato Campo de’ Fiori dates back to 1869. Shop everything from fresh produce to rich artisanal products from sellers who have been operating at the market for decades.

And if you’re not planning on visiting Italy anytime soon, there’s still so much going on in NYC to explore !

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Go on a dream trip: These are the best places to visit in May

Where should you vacation in may.

In May, the weather’s sweet, and the prices are reasonable, giving you abundant travel options. In the Northern Hemisphere, the world awakens from its winter slumber, birds sing, and nature blooms, creating a rejuvenating mood. 

Our favorite May destinations around the world

Nantucket, massachusetts, louisville, kentucky, sicily, italy, yellowstone national park, travel in may: easy on the wallet and good for the soul.

Not only that but with thin crowds, you’ve got everything to yourself, so you can explore in peace and get the most out of your trip. So, where should you go? We’ve compiled a list of the best places to visit in May, from coastal retreats to cultural hubs. Here’s where we’d go.

May isn’t the most popular month to travel. But maybe it should be. Summer months bring dense crowds and high costs. Winter ski trips can bring the same, along with a corresponding chill. But May makes things easy with its refreshing mood, sparse travelers, and palatable pricing.

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Picking a May destination is like perusing a color palette, with various shades to suit your fancy. Maybe you need a place to unwind by the ocean, take in the salty air, and enjoy fresh seafood. Or if you want to get closer to nature, going on safari in pristine wilderness could be the ticket. Either way, we’ve got something for you.

During May in Nantucket, you’ll have mile after mile of coastline to yourself, letting you soak in the ocean air in peace. Three million blooming daffodils capture the springtime feeling, and temps in the mid-50s to mid-60s are just right for relaxing. 

Then there’s the food. Visit local markets like Nantucket Seafoods or Glidden’s Island Seafood, and pick from fresh lobster, Nantucket Bay scallops, oysters, and much, much more. Or, check out the Nantucket Wine & Food Festival from May 15-19, with a curated selection from local artisans and chefs. 

In our changing world, truly unspoiled places become more and more scarce. That can be especially true with regard to wildlife, with animals in zoos replacing those in their natural habitat. But Zambia lets you get up close and personal with elephants, lions, zebras, rhinos, and more.

With the Emerald Season ending, May is the perfect time to go on safari, providing mellow weather on long days and ideal lighting for vivid photographs. Besides that, Victoria Falls along the Zambezi River provides a stunning natural sight.

The Kentucky Derby lasts around two minutes. During that span, there’s unmatched tension and excitement as thoroughbreds strain and race toward the finish line. But the competition isn’t the only attraction on derby day. The track at Churchill Downs becomes a cultural hub with a vibrant atmosphere, celebratory mood, and unique Kentucky fare.

Try a mint julep cocktail — composed of whiskey, sugar, water, and mint — while you take in the festive hats worn by race attendees. Get up close with magnificent horses, whose athleticism and power are a sight to behold. Then, when the starting gate opens, get ready for two minutes like you’ve never experienced.

Italy is an epicenter of history, culture, art, and cuisine. Sicily offers that and more. Just off the toe of Italy’s boot, the island has warm Mediterranean waters, an active volcano, and fascinating ruins. Of course, there’s cuisine options in abundance, from Arancini — deep-fried Risotto rice balls — to Caponata — a salad containing eggplant, capers, olives, and more.

We’d visit the Mount Etna volcano for its continual eruptions that date back 500,000 years. After that, we’d take in Sicily’s ancient ruins, like those found in Agrigento and Selinunte. To cap things off, we’d explore Catania’s street food vendors for a mix of textures and flavors.

As spring takes shape and nature awakens, what better place to visit than this national gem? Toward the end of May, the park’s mostly open, letting you explore trails and attractions and bask in the pure environment. Since temps hover in the mid-50s, it’s neither cold nor hot, and you can savor the season’s spirit of renewal.

We’d venture to the Grand Prismatic Overlook Trail , then look for Bison in Lamar Valley. At Yellowstone Lake — 20 miles long and 14 miles wide, at 7,500 feet elevation,  — we’d hop in a kayak and take it all in. Then we’d set up camp and settle in for stargazing. 

For a mix of pleasure, thrift, and peace, traveling in May is hard to beat. You have pleasant weather that encourages relaxation. Light crowds and low prices let you enjoy on a budget. Nature’s bounty is on full display.

These destinations offer a little of everything, whether you’re after natural wonders or a rich cultural experience. Whichever you choose, you’re in for a memorable trip. Happy exploring.

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• Destinations

Red-eye flights, named for their tendency to depart late at night and arrive early in the morning, offer a wide range of benefits for travelers looking to save money and optimize their time. From the luxury of saving daylight hours to the chance for lower rates, red-eyes are an appealing option for many. These flights often feature less congestion at airports and shorter security lines, leading to a more relaxed overall travel experience.

Despite their advantages, red-eye flights can also cause issues such as disrupted sleep patterns, cramped quarters, and fatigue upon arrival. However, with the right strategies and a little bit of preparation, you can turn your red-eye experience into a smooth and stress-free adventure. These are just a few red-eye flight tips to consider. 1. Match your flight to your sleep habits

When speaking of national parks, two often dominate the conversation: Yellowstone and Yosemite. While both are crown jewels of the National Park System, each offers a distinctly unique experience. These parks attract millions of visitors annually, but which one reigns supreme for the summer traveler? Let's compare these iconic destinations. Yellowstone National Park

Established in 1872 as the first national park in the world, Yellowstone National Park sprawls across three states: Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho. Covering over 2.2 million acres, it’s a vast land of natural wonders. Here's what it's famous for: Geothermal geysers Yellowstone is home to over 10,000 hydrothermal features, including more than 500 geysers. The star of the show is Old Faithful, a geyser famous for its predictable eruptions. Besides geysers, the park boasts multicolored hot springs, fumaroles, and mud pots. An abundance of wildlife Yellowstone’s ecosystem is a sanctuary for a diverse array of wildlife. Visitors marvel at herds of bison roaming the valleys, spot elusive wolves in the Lamar Valley, and observe grizzly bears in their natural habitat. Just make sure that you're following the rules when it comes to interacting with animals. The park is a living showcase of wildlife management and natural balance. Unparalleled views The park's landscape varies from rolling grasslands to dense forests and high-altitude lakes. Yellowstone Lake is the largest high-altitude lake in North America, offering stunning views and fishing opportunities. Hiking trails range from easy walks to challenging backcountry adventures, catering to all levels of outdoor enthusiasts. Yosemite National Park

• Food & Drink

If you're known as The City That Never Sleeps, you probably have a few good bars to your name. New York is the ultimate beehive, going strong regardless of the borough or time of day. That makes for a pretty rich NYC bar culture.

Sure, there are trending establishments that draw huge lines—look at you, Double Chicken Please. But there are also excellent dives, tremendous wine bars, and watering holes that make you reexamine the definition of a great cocktail.