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Vatican Museums

Vatican City, Borgo & Prati

Founded by Pope Julius II in the early 16th century and enlarged by successive pontiffs, the Vatican Museums boast one of the world's greatest art…

St Peter's Basilica

In the city of outstanding churches, none can hold a candle to St Peter's, Italy’s largest, richest and most spectacular basilica. Built atop a 4th…

Roman Forum

Ancient Rome

An impressive – if rather confusing – sprawl of ruins, the Roman Forum was ancient Rome's showpiece center, a grandiose district of temples...

Sandwiched between the Roman Forum and the Circo Massimo, the Palatino (Palatine Hill) is one of Rome's most spectacular sights. It's a beautiful,…

Everyone wants to see the Colosseum, and it doesn’t disappoint, especially if accompanied by tales of armored gladiators and hungry lions. More than any…

Capitoline Museums

Dating from 1471, the Capitoline Museums are the world's oldest public museums, with a fine collection of classical sculpture.

Centro Storico

With its revolutionary design, this awe-inspiring temple has served as an architectural blueprint for millennia.

Piazza Navona

With its showy fountains, baroque palazzi and colorful cast of street artists, hawkers and tourists, Piazza Navona is central Rome’s elegant showcase…

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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.

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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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Touropia Travel

Discover the World

23 Best Places to Visit in Italy

By Becky Griswold · Last updated on June 17, 2024

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

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

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

23. Portofino

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

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

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

22. Bologna

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

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

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

21. The Dolomites

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

17. Sardinia

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

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

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

16. Alberobello

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

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

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

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

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

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

14. Lake Garda

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

See also: Where to Stay in Milan

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

9. Lake Como

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

6. Cinque Terre

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

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

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

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

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

5. Amalfi Coast

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

See also: Where to Stay in Venice

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

2. Florence

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Reader interactions.

May 12, 2017 at 9:28 am

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

July 13, 2016 at 1:02 am

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

September 16, 2015 at 12:58 am

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

August 24, 2015 at 6:28 pm

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

May 7, 2015 at 9:10 am

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

December 10, 2014 at 5:32 am

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

Happy travel, Chris

August 14, 2014 at 8:40 pm

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

Hope this helps Travellers

August 6, 2014 at 7:09 am

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

July 27, 2014 at 1:29 am

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

June 29, 2014 at 12:54 pm

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

April 22, 2014 at 4:21 pm

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

Grazie Ci Vidiamo Presto!

April 18, 2014 at 2:13 am

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

March 17, 2014 at 4:43 am

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

March 10, 2014 at 5:44 am

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

September 19, 2013 at 2:45 am

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

August 16, 2013 at 8:53 am

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

July 23, 2013 at 11:25 am

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

May 21, 2013 at 12:22 pm

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

May 6, 2013 at 6:18 am

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

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Home » Travel Guides » Italy » 25 Best Things to Do in Italy

25 Best Things to Do in Italy

Spectacular Italy needs almost no introduction and is one of the most popular travel destinations in Europe. Italy’s impact on the world can be seen all over the country, in the beautiful artwork, crumbling ruins, and impressive palaces and castles that dot the horizon.

As well as vibrant cities like Rome where old and new mingle seamlessly, you can also enjoy the less crowded coastal areas where you can relax on sandy beaches and swim in limpid seas. In addition to exploring Italy proper, you can also hop over to neighboring Sicily and enjoy a different side of life that also offers some of the best food and drink in the region.

Here are the best things to do in Italy :

1. Visit the Valley of the Temples

If you are going to visit charming Sicily as part of your travels then your first stop needs to be the Valley of the Temples which is located in Agrigento.

Here you will find a huge archeological complex that has some of the most intact Doric temples that were built here in the 5th century.

One of the best things about the temples here is that they overlook the town below and you can take in the stunning views as you tour the historical site.

Recommended tour : Valley of the Temples E-Scooter Tour

2. Climb Mount Vesuvius

Mount Vesuvius is one of the most famous mountains in the world, not least because of its famous eruption that covered the unsuspecting town of Pompeii in volcanic ash.

Nowadays Vesuvius is mostly considered safe to climb and you can trek to the crater of the mountain which looks like something you would find on the surface of the moon.

Needless to say the views from the top are breathtaking and the hike is suitable for a range of abilities.

Tour from Naples: Pompeii Ruins & Mount Vesuvius Day Tour

3. Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site as well as being designated as a national park.

Nestled in Liguria, the ‘Five Lands’ is made up of five distinct villages that sit atop craggy cliffs overlooking the famous Italian Riviera.

The five villages include Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, Riomaggiore, and Monterosso, and each has its own unique charms and sights.

The area of Cinque Terra sprawls between La Spezia and Levanto and you will find romantic olive groves, traditional eateries, and azure sea views all the way along the coast.

4. Take to the waters of Lake Como

Lake Como in Lombardy spans an amazing 146 square kilometers and is the perfect place to get out on the water and explore Italy by boat.

The area around Lake Como has houses owned by some of the richest celebrities in the world, which tells you everything to know about the kind of views you can expect here.

The landscape surrounding the lake is covered with alpine forest and traditional villages as well as dainty ornate houses that make you feel as if you are in a picture postcard version of an Italian masterpiece.

Tour from Milan: Lake Como, Bellagio and Varenna Full Day Tour

5. Enjoy the art at the Uffizi Gallery

Anyone heading to Florence shouldn’t miss the chance to visit one of arguably the most famous galleries in the world.

This museum is stuffed full of the works of Italian greats such as Leonardo da Vinci, Raphael, Michelangelo, and Caravaggio which are all displayed in one of the prettiest buildings in Italy, the Palazzo degli Uffizi.

The palazzo looks over the mighty Arno River and is a must visit for any art lovers.

Book online: Uffizi Gallery Timed Entrance Ticket

6. Stand on Juliet’s Balcony

Verona is home to what is said to be the balcony of Juliet, the character made famous in Shakespeare’s play Romeo and Juliet.

Unfortunately the reality is that the city of Verona bought the home featuring the balcony in 1905 with the purpose of making it into a tourist attraction and sadly the characters in Romeo and Juliet never existed in real life.

Still, the balcony is a pretty spot in the city and couples flock here to declare their love for each other beneath the famous building.

Explore Verona: 2-Hour Guided City Walking Tour

7. Marvel at the Coliseum

You can’t come to Rome and not visit one of the most famous attractions in the world, the mighty Coliseum.

The ruins of what was once a magnificent amphitheater are one of the greatest historical relics of our time and once it would have had a capacity of over 50,000 spectators.

The amphitheater is most well known for the gladiator matches that would have been showcased here and you can sit in the stands and imagine the violent spectacles that used to be performed here for the enjoyment of the crowds.

8. Take a trip to Pompeii

Pompeii is famous for the events that took place here in 79 AD, when Mount Vesuvius erupted and covered the town in ash.

The eruption meant that Roman life was captured and frozen in time, and when the site was excavated it offered a glimpse of a bygone era.

If you visit Pompeii today you can expect a kind of open air museum where you will find preserved houses, baths, and ancient Roman forums, all filled with the relics of the people who were living here when the eruption took place.

9. Take a boat trip along the Amalfi Coast

The gorgeous Amalfi Coast is one of the most scenic spots in Italy and if you want to experience as much of it as possible in the shortest amount of time then consider taking a boat trip along the shore line.

A number of companies offer boat rental and you can take in sights such as the towering Lattari Mountains as well as various cute coves and inlets.

Seemingly out of nowhere traditional Mediterranean villages will appear and boat tours usually come with food and drinks included so that you can snack on local produce as you take in the views.

Book online: Coast and Capri Full-Day Trip by Boat

10. Wander around the Historic Center of Siena

The city of Siena is often overlooked in favor of Florence, although this is unfair as there is a huge amount to see and do here, and parts of the city are as pretty as its neighboring rival.

The Historic Center of Siena in particular is well worth a visit and starts at the Piazza del Campo which leads to a historic district that is covered with Gothic architecture that dates from the 12th century.

This mingles with buildings from the Middle Ages and signature points to look out for include the mighty Duomo, the Pinacoteca Nazionale, and the pretty Palazzo Salimbeni.

11. Go on a pilgrimage to the Vatican

Vatican City is actually its own state within Italy, although you can only visit this landlocked area by first travelling to Rome.

If you are in the region then you should definitely consider swinging by one of the most important religious spots in the world, which is home to powerhouses such as the Piazza San Pietro and St Peter’s Basilica.

You can also take in the majesty of the Vatican Palace as well as the Sistine Chapel which features the Creation of Adam.

12. Visit Saint Mark’s Basilica

Venice has a range of peerless attractions although perhaps the most famous of these is Saint Mark’s Basilica which sits on the famed Piazza San Marco or Saint Mark’s Square.

The basilica is the final resting place of Saint Mark the Evangelist and started life as a Byzantine church before being developed over the years.

The church is a work of art in its own right and you will find glittering mosaics and gorgeous marble decorations all over the complex as well as bas-reliefs and touches of gold leaf.

13. Discover the Roman Forum

The Roman Forum is another one of Italy’s big hitter attractions and lies between the Capitoline and the Palatine hills in Rome.

This would once have been the center of the mighty Roman Empire and you can take in the beautiful complex here as well as enjoy views from the terraces all over the wider city.

14. Climb Stromboli

On a visit to Sicily you absolutely can’t miss the chance to climb at least part way up Stromboli, a still active volcano.

If you are looking for an easy trek then you can walk 400 meters up the sides of Stromboli by yourself, although if you want to continue on to the crater which still billows clouds of ash and fire then you will need a certified guide to take you.

To get to the top takes around 3 hours with the descent coming in at around 2 hours, so all in all you need to allow a five to six hour trek in order to see everything.

It can be quite a slog to the top but it is well worth it for the spectacular views.

Recommended tour: Stromboli: Sunset Trekking at Sciara Del Fuoco

15. Take a boat trip to the Blue Grotto

One of the premium sights in Capri is the Blue Grotto, also known as the Grotta Azzurra.

The grotto is the result of a cavern which is filled with water that glows a luminescent blue when the sun hits it through shafts in the sides of the rock.

The cavern itself rises to 14 meters in height in some parts and is around 60 meters long, and you can take in this amazing light show from a rowing boat inside the grotto which makes for one of the most memorable sightseeing experiences in all of Italy.

16. Take to the water at the Grand Canal

The Grand Canal in Venice is one of the most famous waterways in the world and there are a variety of ways that you can enjoy it.

One of these is to take a water bus known as a vaporetto along the various parts of the canal where you can marvel at the little bridges and traditional Venetian homes that back onto the water.

Another more romantic way to travel around the canal is to take an iconic gondola ride where you can imagine that you are back in the Venice of a different time.

17. Eat pizza in Naples

Naples has a range of pretty attractions in its own right but one of the main reasons to come here is to snack on its most famous foodstuff in the form of delicious pizza.

All over the city you will find pizza parlors and restaurants and wherever you choose to go, know that it is this city that is famed with inventing one of the world’s favorite foods.

18. Climb the Leaning Tower of Pisa

The Leaning Tower of Pisa in Pisa is a fluke of architecture, as when the tower was constructed it immediately started to sink into the marshy ground beneath it.

This gave the tower its signature crooked stance, and at various times in its existence it has been both open and closed to the public as architects struggle to asses if it is safe to enter.

When the tower is open you can climb to the viewing platform at the top where you can look across all of Pisa.

19. View The Last Supper in Milan

Even if you are not an art aficionado you will still be able to appreciate the splendor and religious significance of the mural of the Last Supper.

Painted by Leonardo da Vinci and on display at the Santa Maria delle Grazie, the mural depicts Christ and the apostles at the last supper before Christ’s crucifixion.

Many visitors to Milan consider this a highlight of their trip and it is an extremely moving sight even for those who do not believe the original story from which the mural was inspired.

20. Tour the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore

Florence is one of the most romantic and artistic cities in the world and its crowning glory is the magnificent Duomo or the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore.

The cathedral is best known for its rising dome that can be seen from all over Florence as well as its different hued frescoes and decorations.

One of the best things to do here is to climb to the top where you can look out across Florence and appreciate the might of this amazing feat of architecture.

21. Throw a coin in the Trevi Fountain

No trip to Rome is complete without a trip to the Trevi Fountain, and in fact if you want to return here then it is considered an absolute necessity.

Local legend has it that anyone who tosses a coin into the fountain will get good luck that will mean that they will one day return to this great city.

The fountain is carved in the Baroque style and is made of glittering marble which is lit up at night to spectacular effect.

22. Journey into the Frasassi Cave

The Frasassi Cave is located deep in the grounds of Ancona and descending into this wonderful feat of nature can feel like you are travelling to the center of the earth.

The journey takes 75 minutes and you can expect to find some of the most beautiful karst formations anywhere in the world here.

The inside of the grotto is covered in walkways and lighted areas that let you take in the amazing geology within such as eerie stalactites and stalagmites.

23. Follow the Chianti Wine Route

Chianti is known for its delicious wines and so it would be impossible to come here and not go on a wine tour of this region that is nestled between Siena and Florence.

There are many different wine tours that operate in this area but many of them will take you over rambling hills and through enchanting villages, visiting the local wineries and sampling the various blends on offer.

Top rated tour: Chianti Wineries Tour with Food and Wine Tasting

24. Visit the Acropolis

The Acropolis in Selinunte would once have been a political hub in the region and is made up of five distinct temples.

The most famous of these is known as Temple C which dates from the 6th century and is said to be dedicated to the god Apollo.

Other temples such as Temple D also dates from the same period and is said to be dedicated to Venus and Temple A and O are said to have been constructed sometime between 490 and 480 BC. As they seem to come in a pair, they are often thought to be dedicated to the famous twins Castor and Pollux.

25. Admire Milan Cathedral

Some people may be surprised to know that the largest church in Italy is not in Rome or even in Vatican City, but actually in Milan .

The cathedral here also known as the Duomo took an impressive six centuries to build and is dedicated to Saint Mary of the Nativity.

The interior is simply stunning and features marble decorations and a pretty alter, but one of the main attractions here is actually the roof area and you can climb a staircase to the top of the Duomo and look out across all of Milan as far as the eye can see.

Recommended tour: Fast-Track Milan Cathedral and Terraces Guided Tour

25 Best Things to Do in Italy:

• Visit the Valley of the Temples
• Climb Mount Vesuvius
• Cinque Terre
• Take to the waters of Lake Como
• Enjoy the art at the Uffizi Gallery
• Stand on Juliet’s Balcony
• Marvel at the Coliseum
• Take a trip to Pompeii
• Take a boat trip along the Amalfi Coast
• Wander around the Historic Center of Siena
• Go on a pilgrimage to the Vatican
• Visit Saint Mark’s Basilica
• Discover the Roman Forum
• Climb Stromboli
• Take a boat trip to the Blue Grotto
• Take to the water at the Grand Canal
• Eat pizza in Naples
• Climb the Leaning Tower of Pisa
• View The Last Supper in Milan
• Tour the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore
• Throw a coin in the Trevi Fountain
• Journey into the Frasassi Cave
• Follow the Chianti Wine Route
• Visit the Acropolis
• Admire Milan Cathedral

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

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: October 23, 2023

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

These are the best cities to see in Italy:

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

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

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

What to See & Do

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2. Florence

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in Florence

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in Bologna

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in Milan

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in Ravenna

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in Siena

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

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

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

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

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in Naples

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in Verona

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

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

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

Things to Do & Tips

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What to See & Tips

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

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

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

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

• 4* Hotel Bologna .
• Palazzo Feroci .

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

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

Check it out!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

More travel inspiration for the nicest cities all over Europe:

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

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

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Saturday 2nd of December 2023

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

Thanks, Quin

Monday 4th of December 2023

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

John Signorelli

Sunday 15th of October 2023

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

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

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

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

Monday 16th of October 2023

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

Wednesday 20th of September 2023

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

Thanks! Michele

Thursday 21st of September 2023

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

Mattia Russo

Thursday 10th of August 2023

Napoli (Naples) is in top 3 in my opinion

Friday 11th of August 2023

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

Wednesday 26th of July 2023

Nice write-up.

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

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

Friday 28th of July 2023

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

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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11 Best Cities to Visit in Italy, According to a Local

Everyone should visit these essential Italian cities at least once in their lifetime.

Laura Itzkowitz is a freelance writer and editor based in Rome. She has been contributing to Travel + Leisure since 2014, when she started as a fact checker before becoming a contributing digital editor in 2015 and going freelance in 2016. She has also held positions as a contributing editor at The Points Guy and the NYC cities editor at DuJour Magazine. In addition to Travel + Leisure , her writing has appeared in Architectural Digest , Surface Magazine , Brooklyn Magazine , T Magazine , The Wall Street Journal , Vogue, GQ, Departures, Afar, Fodor's, Town & Country , Condé Nast Traveler , Robb Report , Hemispheres, and others. When she's not jetsetting around Italy and beyond, she can be found in Rome, enjoying some cacio e pepe or relaxing at home with her husband and two dogs. Originally from the Boston area, Laura moved to New York City in 2011 to pursue a master's degree in creative writing and translation at Columbia University. She also holds a bachelor's degree in French from Smith College. * 10+ years of experience writing and editing * Co-wrote "New York: Hidden Bars & Restaurants," an award-winning guide to New York City's speakeasy scene published by Jonglez Editions in 2015 * Contributed to "Fodor's Brooklyn," published by Penguin Random House in 2015, which won silver in the Lowell Thomas Travel Journalism competition * Contributed an essay to "Epic Hikes of Europe," published by Lonely Planet in 2021 * Updated the 2022 edition of "Fodor's Essential Italy"

Evgeniya Vlasova/Travel + Leisure

Italy is home to a seemingly infinite number of beautiful places, from mountain ranges with epic skiing to beach towns and islands where you can soak up the Mediterranean sun. Of course, you’ve got to start somewhere — and Italy is home to some of the world’s most beautiful and fascinating cities that everyone should visit at least once in their lifetime. 

I’ve lived in Rome for more than five years and take every chance I can get to visit Italy’s most dynamic cities. The incredible thing about them is that they’re each so unique and diverse. Travel an hour or two, and you can have a completely different experience. Some cities will leave you rapt as you ogle their historic treasures, while others will inspire you with their contemporary fashion and design scenes. One thing is certain: Anywhere you go in Italy, you can be sure to eat well, especially if you stick to the local specialties, which vary from region to region and even city to city.

It may be tempting to try to pack in as many different destinations as you can into a week’s trip, but if you ask me, these cities all need at least two to three days to visit (and within three days, you’ll only just scratch the surface). Whether you’re planning your first trip to the country or you visit frequently, these 11 essential cities in Italy are definitely worth your time.

Gautier Houba/Travel + Leisure

The Eternal City is often the first place people visit in Italy — and for good reason. With more than 2,000 years of history, this World’s Best Awards-winning city has got more than enough to keep you occupied for weeks. First-time visitors will want to check the Colosseum and Vatican off their lists, but there are countless things to do in Rome , from picnicking in the shadow of ancient aqueducts to peeking inside aristocratic palaces, not to mention tasting local specialties like carbonara and cacio e pepe . You would need a lifetime to do it all.

Evgeniya Vlasova/Travel + Leisure

The cradle of the Renaissance, Florence consistently ranks among the top cities in the world in our World’s Best Awards . The amount of artistic and architectural masterpieces concentrated in this one city is mind-boggling. You can gaze upon Michelangelo’s David at the Galleria dell’Accademia, visit the Uffizi to see Botticelli’s “Birth of Venus,” and admire the Duomo all in one day — and that’s just the beginning. Cross the famed Ponte Vecchio to explore the hip Oltrarno area, which is full of artist studios, vintage shops, and great little cafes, restaurants, and bars. Be sure to try local specialties like panzanella , pappa al pomodoro , and bistecca alla Fiorentina paired with a nice glass of Chianti or Brunello di Montalcino.

Christopher Larson/Travel + Leisure

Sometimes called La Serenissima (“the most serene”), Venice is a must-visit city that everyone should see at least once in their lifetime. Wandering around watching the gondolas ply the canals lined with Renaissance palaces is simply mesmerizing. St. Mark’s Basilica, the Doge’s Palace, and the Galleria dell’Accademia are just a few of the best places to delve into the city’s history, but Venice also comes alive with events like the Venice Biennale and Carnevale. Unfortunately, the crowds can be overwhelming at times, so I suggest visiting during the off- season, from November through March.

Laura La Monaca/Travel + Leisure

Italy’s fashion and design capital sometimes gets overlooked in favor of the country’s art cities, but Milan is well worth a trip. As Italy’s most internationally-minded and cosmopolitan city, it’s a dynamic destination with a fantastic restaurant and bar scene — arguably the best in Italy. Some of the best things to do in Milan include admiring the Duomo and Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, sipping a Negroni sbagliato at the bar where it was invented, and visiting the Prada Foundation and Villa Necchi Campiglio. You should also try local specialties like risotto alla Milanese and cotoletta alla Milanese .

Amanda Blackard/Travel + Leisure

Many people simply pass through Naples on the way to the Amalfi Coast , Capri , or Ischia , but the birthplace of pizza is one of Italy’s most beautiful cities. An old Italian saying goes, “ Vedi Napoli e poi muori ” (“See Naples and then die”), essentially implying that Naples is the ultimate destination and only once you’ve seen it can you die happy. The city may have a reputation as gritty and chaotic, but it’s also home to an incredible archeological museum and masterpieces by Caravaggio, and its tailors are renowned as the best in Italy. Aside from the pizza, be sure to taste Neapolitan specialties like sfogliatella .

Michela Sieman/Travel + Leisure

Bologna has three nicknames: La Dotta , La Grassa , La Rossa (“The Learned, The Fat, and The Red”) and each one speaks to a different quality of the city. “Learned” refers to the university — the oldest in Europe, established in 1088. “Fat” alludes to the rich, heavy food served here ( tagliatelle alla Bolognese , lasagna, and tortellini all hail from Bologna). And depending on who you ask, “red” might be a reference to the color of the brick buildings or the city’s communist leanings. One thing is certain: Bologna is one of Italy’s most liberal, educated, and well-fed cities.

Sicily ’s capital has a mix of Arab, Norman, Byzantine, and Baroque architecture — a testament to the many different groups that ruled the island and each left their mark. You can see their influence in the city’s main cathedral and the Palatine Chapel, a dazzling confection covered in glittering gold mosaics. When in Palermo, you must go to the outdoor markets like Ballarò and Vucciria, where you can taste street food specialties like arancini and cannoli. Don’t be intimidated by how bustling and chaotic the city is — Sicilians are some of the most open and hospitable people around.

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Sometimes called the “Florence of the South,” Lecce is coming onto the radar of savvy travelers. Located in Puglia, the heel of the boot, this small city is characterized by Baroque buildings that take on a golden hue because of the type of limestone that was used to construct them. The historic center is a maze of narrow lanes lined with boutiques, bars, and restaurants. Here you must try local specialties like caffè Leccese (iced espresso sweetened with almond syrup) and pasticciotti (oval pastries filled with custard-like cream). Lecce is also a great base for visiting the fantastic beaches of the Salento Peninsula.

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The capital of Piedmont, Turin is one of Italy’s most quietly elegant cities. Ruled by the French Savoy dynasty for around 500 years, Turin was actually the first capital of the newly unified Kingdom of Italy in 1861, and the Royal Palace of Turin is definitely worth visiting. Travelers visiting the city today will notice a bit of French flair in the architecture and even the food. Don’t leave without trying prized wines like Barolo and Barbaresco and local specialties made with hazelnuts and truffles. Vermouth was also invented here.

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Umbria, sometimes called Italy’s green heart, is a must-visit region in central Italy between Rome and Tuscany. Its capital, Perugia, is a small but charming city that looks much the same today as it did in the Middle Ages, making it a great place to go if you want to immerse yourself in history. Go inside the Palazzo dei Priori to gaze up at frescoes by Perugino inside the Collegio del Cambio, then sit down to a meal of hearty pasta with wild boar ragu or perhaps fresh pasta with shaved black truffle. Perugia is also known for its chocolate, so be sure to visit an artisanal shop like Augusta Perusia.

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About an hour from Bologna, Parma punches far above its weight in terms of cultural and culinary significance. This is where Parmigiano Reggiano and prosciutto di Parma originate, so people take food very seriously here. Prior to Italy’s unification, the Duchy of Parma was extremely wealthy and powerful, so the city is full of artistic and architectural riches. Take it in at the Palazzo della Pilotta complex, which houses the National Gallery, the Farnese Theater, the Palatine Library, the Archeological Museum, and the Bodoni Museum (Italy’s oldest printing museum).

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14 Top Things to Do in Italy

Written by Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated May 3, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Seeing some of the world's most famous sights certainly tops everyone's list when traveling in Italy. But taking part in an activity or trying something new, especially something you can share with locals, adds a special dimension to a trip.

These experiences can be as active as a day's skiing in the Dolomites or as leisurely as a moonlight ride in a Venetian gondola . So between visiting the tourist attractions in Italy , get active! Hike a trail, take a lesson, hop on a boat, and join the locals at some of the best places to visit for memorable travel experiences.

Plan your trip with our list of the top things to do in Italy.

Hike the Cinque Terre

Glide through venice in a gondola, tour tuscan hill towns by bicycle or car, make perfect pasta in florence, see an opera in verona's roman arena, step inside ancient rome, tour lake como by boat, attend a local festival, explore mt. etna on foot, by cable car, or train, go to the beach, ski the dolomites, experience siena's palio, see milan from the duomo roof, trek through sardinia, map of things to do in italy.

For spectacular views, picturesque villages, wild open landscapes and local experiences, it's hard to beat the five towns of Italy's Cinque Terre and the cliff path that connects them. The 12-kilometer Sentiero Azzurro stretches from Monterosso to Riomaggiore , but it's conveniently broken into segments that you can hike from one town to the next, returning or moving on by train.

Hiking the entire route requires stamina, good boots, and a head for heights, as it is carved in places into nearly vertical cliffs above the sea, with no railings. To experience the Cinque Terre without boots or vertigo, choose the shortest and most popular segment, the two-kilometer Via dell'Amore, between Riomaggiore and Manarola.

Also fairly easy, and less crowded, the section from Manarola to Corniglia is the same distance but takes a little longer to hike. Twice as long, the trail between Corniglia and Vernazza reaches the route's highest point after a stiff climb on often-uneven stone steps, but also includes walks through olive groves and some knock-out views.

Longer, rough, and the most vertigo-inspiring is the often narrow trail between Vernazza and Monterosso. You'll be rewarded with the best views, including a panorama of all five towns, and you'll be sharing the trail with only a hardy few.

Read More: Best Hikes in Europe

It may be the number one cliché of Venice , but drifting along a canal in the graceful curve of a gondola is one of the top things to do in Italy. Finding a gondolier is easy. They gather along the Grand Canal by the Doge's Palace and at Rialto Bridge, and you'll see them in their striped shirts and straw hats on bridges and canals as you explore the city. As he (or occasionally she) will be your guide, converse a bit to see if you're comfortable with their style and command of English.

Prices are set, so be sure you're getting the standard rate (pay at the end, with a tip if you're happy), and agree on a route and length of ride before you board.

The choice of route and time of day depend on your personal preferences and on where your ride begins. After dark, lights from the Grand Canal palaces and canal-side restaurants reflect and glimmer on the water, but the Grand Canal is busy with other boats, so it's a less intimate experience.

The smaller canals of Cannaregio and other areas are quieter, and a circle route will probably include parts of the Grand Canal. But at night these are less picturesque, so they are a good choice for a daylight ride. When dusk descends and the lights come on may be the most romantic time of all, as the Venetian day slides into evening.

Probably the least romantic experience begins at the big gondola "parking lot" by the Doge's palace, as rides here begin with a stretch in the widest and busiest part of the Grand Canal. One piece of advice: put away the camera and phone, and make memories instead of pictures.

The hilly countryside of Tuscany is best enjoyed at leisure, stopping to explore tiny settlements between the tourist attractions of the larger medieval towns that crown the hilltops. While a driving tour can cover more of these towns, a bicycle gets you closer to the land and gives you time to notice more details.

A network of little-traveled and unpaved roads and lanes called Strade Bianche (white roads) wind through the orchards and fields of poppies that cover the hills south and east of San Gimignano, perfect for cycling.

Several tour operators offer guided and independent cycling tours for all experience and endurance levels that include lodging, dining, and luggage transfers, as well as arranged visits at local attractions. For a customized experience, you can sign up for a Private Tuscany Cycling Tour and set your own speed.

Drivers may at first be frustrated trying to map a direct route between the star towns such as San Gimignano , Volterra , Montalcino, Cortona , and Montepulciano , but remember that these winding little roads between them are as much the destination as the popular hill towns themselves.

From San Gimignano, for example, SP 1 winds south to SP 36 and picturesque Colle di Val d'Elsa. From here, SP5 continues to Monteriggioni. The distances are not all that great, but in your haste to reach the next landmark town, don't underestimate — or ignore — the many distractions along the way.

Anyone who loves to cook will relish the chance to learn how to make Italy's most famous culinary specialty: perfect pasta. Pasta and other cooking classes are offered throughout Italy, but Florence has a number of them, often combined with a tour of food markets and shops in the company of a food-wise local.

Some are taught in a local family home, where groups of no more than six cook a full meal and enjoy it together. Others are courses that teach a range of classic Florentine dishes. Pasta is at the heart of all these, and you will return home knowing the secrets of perfect pasta, how to make it, and how to cook it.

There are many variations on the theme. One offers transportation from Florence to a traditional Tuscan farm in the hills of Chianti for a customized cooking experience that can include gluten-free, organic, or vegetarian Italian cooking.

For an easy introduction, try a three-hour Homemade Italian Pasta Cooking Course , located right in Florence. All the courses include hands-on experience with an accomplished chef or cook. Other cooking classes are designed especially for families with younger children, who learn how to make pizza and gelato.

A good choice for families staying in Florence are the well-appointed family suites at the Grand Hotel Minerva , opposite Santa Maria Novella and convenient to the train station. Its rooftop pool is especially appealing for children.

You don't need to be an opera lover, or even like music, to be enthralled by the spectacle of a full-scale production in Verona's third-century Roman arena. And for those who do love opera, it's a thrill of a lifetime, right up there with opening night at La Scala.

The arena itself is one of the largest and best preserved Roman amphitheaters, with all its vaulting and full 44 rows of seating intact to accommodate 22,000 opera-goers. The Verona Opera Festival , held each year in July and August, is one of Europe's most important summer music events, ranked with the Salzburg and Bayreuth festivals.

The combination of the darkened arena, the massive stage sets that are able to recreate entire street scenes and multi-storied buildings at the same time, and some of the world's leading singers and musicians all under a starlit sky is pure magic.

The real blockbuster is Aida, when Radamès has been known to float down a recreated Nile in a boat, and the Triumphal March takes up the entire stage with scenes that in past productions have included live elephants, horses, and camels.

Each new production of this biennial favorite brings new surprises. For all its vastness, the arena is surprisingly intimate in its ability to bring the audience into the musical and theatrical moment.

You can hear the music even on nights you're not attending a performance, from the rooftop terrace of the Hotel Milano , overlooking the arena.

With all the ancient sites and attractions to visit in Rome , it's easy just to skim the surface and leave without any real sense of life in the ancient city. An insider tour of one of the landmarks can take you deeper into the history and put the other sites into perspective.

The best place to visit for this is the Colosseum , where the underground areas are accessible by visitors who book in advance and to those on in-depth tours. The latter gives the best introduction to what happened here, as a knowledgeable guide explains the maze of tunnels, passages, and cells deep under the arena floor, where the spectacles delighted Roman audiences.

You'll see where gladiators and wild animals waited before encounters above that would rarely end well for either. Known as the hypogeum, this was where the lions, leopards, bears, and elephants used in battle or circuses were caged before they were lifted on slave-propelled pulleys to the floor of the arena.

Insider tours also include the arena floor for a gladiator view, as well as a spectator view from the upper tiers. More in-depth tours go on to explore the Forum and Palatine Hill for a broad view of ancient Rome.

To get really immersed in ancient Rome, sign on for a two-hour gladiator lesson , where historic reenactors from Historic Group of Rome will teach you the art of wielding authentic weapons used by gladiators in ancient Rome. You'll dress in replicas of the traditional tunic, belt, and leather gloves as you learn the basics of sword fighting.

Special classes are designed for kids, and you can be sure this willbe their most memorable Roman experience – and they'll have a diploma to show off when they get home.

Address: Via Appia Antica 18, Rome

The most beautiful lake in Italy's Lake District, Como is surrounded by steep mountain slopes covered in lush greenery and dotted with compact towns and magnificent villas.

Since Roman times, it has drawn royalty and aristocrats to its lovely shores. A tour of the lake on the lake steamers that act as passenger ferries between towns, as you pass the stunning villas and manicured gardens that surround them, is definitely one of the top things to do in Italy.

Several of the villas and gardens are open to visit, and you can hop off to explore these and the towns, and then board a later boat to continue. The best way is to plan at least two days, stopping for a night in chic Bellagio , at the tip of the peninsula at the center of the Y-shaped lake, where there are two outstanding gardens open. Across the lake on the western shore, known as the Tremezzina, are the gardens of Villa Carlotta , and to the south, on an almost island, is Villa Balbianello .

While the service across the center of the lake between Bellagio and Tremezzo or Menaggio is frequent, it's wise to check schedules before hopping off to visit a town, so you can be sure of a return boat time. Or you can just spend the day on the boat, choosing a route that stops at as many towns as possible, and enjoy the ever-changing panorama of pastel villages, grand villas, gardens, and snow-covered peaks that form the backdrop.

Live in the splendor of the palatial Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni , overlooking the water from the lake's prettiest town, Bellagio.

Read More: Best Lakes in Italy

Everybody has heard of Venice's famed carnival, but that's only one of the hundreds of festivals that Italians celebrate each year. In towns and villages from the Alps to the toe of the boot, you'll find local festivals celebrating centuries-old historic events, the changing seasons, holidays, patron saints, local products, and harvests-from asparagus season to truffles in November.

The most fun are celebrations put on by and for local people. There may not be world-famous entertainers, but there will be superb foods, singing, music, hilarious contests, and a few surprises. Nosh on sausages and sample local cheeses at street-side booths, or savor a hearty dinner at long shared tables in a tent, where a few euros will buy heaping plates of local specialties. Best of all, it's a chance to mingle and share a day or evening with residents, who will do their best to make you welcome and make sure you have a good time.

On the shore of Lake Iseo, tiny Sulzano's Cingale Festival brings a festive dinner of wild boar, while on the Ligurian coast, Camogli welcomes May with the Fish Festival of Saint Fortunato, patron saint of fishermen, and free fried fish on the beach.

In Marostica, a giant chessboard on the main square is the scene of a game using live chessmen in medieval costumes. One of the most colorful is in Noto, Sicily, the third weekend of May, when an entire street is "painted" in intricate mosaics of fresh blossoms.

In addition to Alba's prized white truffles, celebrated in an international food event, November harvests include chestnuts and olives, both celebrated in Tuscany's Chianti region. Look for posters and ask locals wherever you go; you're almost certain to find at least one.

Europe's tallest — and most active — volcano, Mt. Etna dominates the east coast of the island of Sicily . Within the nearly 48,000 acres of Etna National Park are the active crater, volcanic vents, fumaroles, hot springs, lava flows, and an ice cave that remains frozen throughout Sicily's hot summers.

You can visit most of these places on your own or with a tour; others only with a guide. You climb the mountain or ride the Funivia dell'Etna cable car to about 2,500 meters altitude. From here, you can climb or ride a bus or jeep to about 2,900 meters. To climb higher to reach the upper crater, you must have a guide because Etna is never completely inactive.

All the dark and barren terrain you walk on was left here by the violent eruptions that Etna is famous for, so there is always an edge of danger to being close to the crater or lower vents. That's why a volcanologist or other trained guide is essential.

The crater is not the only volcanic attraction of this UNESCO World Heritage Site . On some tours, you can enter a fumarole, a tubular cave left by lava flowing beneath the faster-cooling surface. Experienced and properly equipped climbers can visit the Grotta del Gelo, an ice cave that runs 125 meters inside the mountain. Ice remains here year-round, providing drinking water to villages below as outer portions of it melt in the summer.

You can appreciate and enjoy Etna from other vantage points by riding the Ferrovia Circumetnea, a narrow-gauge railway that travels almost completely around the mountain. For a more adventurous journey around Mt. Etna, you can drive, on a route that takes you through hill towns and past archeological sites in an everchanging landscape, with the volcano forming the backdrop.

On the northern side, visit the spectacular Gole dell'Alcántara (Alcantara Gorge), carved through a long-ago lava flow by the Alcantara River.

The Etna's Summit Craters: Guided Tour + Cable Car + Jeep for Experienced Hikers tour takes you to an altitude of 3,250 meters at the summit craters with a volcanologist guide, who explains the volcano's history and science. Helmets and trekking poles are provided for safety.

To explore the lower reaches of the volcano, take a five-hour Etna 4x4 tour , which takes you to the lava flows and extinct craters of Caldera del Valle del Bove. Equipped with helmets and headlamps, you will also explore a fumarole to learn how these long tube-like caves are formed by lava flowing beneath the surface.

You can reach Mt. Etna easily from either Taormina or Catania , on Sicily's east coast.

Surrounded by water, Italy has a lot of coastline, and some of the finest beaches in Europe, from miles-long stretches of white sand to tiny secluded coves hidden by spectacular cliffs.

In August, it seems as though everyone in Italy heads to the popular beaches of Viareggio, Sanremo, Rimini and the other resort towns on the Adriatic and Mediterranean. Those long strands are literally umbrella to umbrella, and you'll have to rent one and its patch of sand from the hotel or resort that owns them. It's a slice of Italian life like no other, as much a social scene as it is about the sand and sea.

But not all beaches are like that. In Puglia, in the heel of Italy's boot, idyllic beaches hide in coves, protected by the Parco Naturale Regionale Costa Otranto , and there's always plenty of space on the long beaches in the Baia dei Turchi nature reserve.

On Sardinia's west coast, where you'll find some of the best beaches in Italy , the miles of white sands on the Costa Verde seem almost deserted, and even in the waters of the famed Costa Smeralda , the Capo Testa and the Maddalena Islands have plenty of secluded spots.

Sicily is known for its beaches , warm enough for swimming from mid-May through October, with some of the best on the southern shore and at San Vito Lo Capo, adjacent to the Zingaro Nature Reserve , on Sicily's northwestern coast.

If you want to combine sightseeing with your beach holiday in Sicily, choose Cefalù on Sicily's northern coast, where you'll find a beautiful beach at the foot of a historic town. The exceptionally clear water is popular for snorkeling, and you can take sailing cruises and paddleboard tours to visit the nearby sea caves.

Accommodation: Top-Rated Beach Destinations in Italy

Whether it's a day on the sunny beginner slopes of Cortina d'Ampezzo , Arabba/Marmolada, or Alta Badia or a full-day tour covering 35 kilometers of challenging trails, every ski enthusiast should experience the Dolomites.

Twelve different Italian ski resorts are scattered among these mountains along Italy's Austrian border, where more than a dozen peaks reach above 3,048 meters. Together they add up to more than 1,200 kilometers of ski trails. Many of the areas are connected by trails and lifts, and a single Dolomiti Superski pass allows access to lifts and trails at all 12.

The largest resort town is Cortina d'Ampezzo, site of the 1956 Winter Olympics, whose five peaks are reached by more than three dozen lifts. Cortina is famous for its long runs, from the snowfields near the summits right into the town below.

Smaller more intimate villages like Val Gardena/Alpe di Siusi offer a more authentic Alpine atmosphere and a varied terrain, with about 160 kilometers of trails that combine with three adjacent valleys between the Gruppo del Sella peaks to make more than 480 kilometers of interconnected ski trails.

From here, you can also access skiing on the Marmolada Glacier . You'll find terrain here for all skill levels, from learning programs for beginners to ski guides for off-piste adventures suitable for experienced skiers.

Twice during the summer, on July 2 and August 16, the beautiful medieval city of Siena erupts into a frenzy over the Palio , a bareback horserace that has circled its main square since the Middle Ages.

The large, sloping Piazza del Campo is filled to capacity with partisans cheering wildly for one of the 10 horses, each representing a contrada, the rival neighborhood associations that sponsor the contestants. You can identify these by their colorful scarves and banners picturing their mascots: a porcupine, an eagle, a gryphon, even a giraffe.

Among the world's largest churches, The Duomo in Milan is the zenith of the Flamboyant Gothic style. Viewed from below, its soaring roof and towers are swathed in a lacy filagree so delicate that it seems impossible that it could be carved in stone.

To fully appreciate the finesse of the stone carving, take the elevator in the tower at the left side of the transept (you'll need to go outside to find the entrance). From the top of the elevator, climb the 73 stairs to the roof, where you emerge into a forest of stone spires.

A catwalk stretches the length of the roof (you're walking above the cathedral's nave), flanked by the roof sloping gently off to either side. You can walk safely on the slanted part to look over the edge through open-air Gothic "windows" surrounded by intricately carved stone tracery.

Above, tower the rows of carved stone pinnacles, and you are protected by a waist-high stone railing at the roof's edge. Even so, the experience is not for those with acrophobia.

The city of Milan stretches around you, and looking down, you see the roof and façade of the grand Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II and the Piazza del Duomo, where the people crossing it look the size of ants. On a clear day, the northern horizon is a row of snow-covered Alps.

The rugged landscapes and dramatic coastline of Italy's island of Sardinia present some of the most challenging and exciting outdoor adventures in Europe, as well as some of the least known. Many of the best hikes are in the central mountains, in the area known as the Barbagia.

Most dramatic is the trip through Gola Su Gorropu , known as Europe's Grand Canyon. This spectacularly carved gorge is 426 meters deep and eight kilometers long, with the Rio Flumineddu flowing through its floor. Getting there is a demanding all-day hike through a landscape of eroded limestone cliffs above the brilliant blue sea. Cooperativa Gorropu and Cooperativa Goloritzè arrange guided walks to these and other places.

Northern Sardinia has several areas where trails lead through landscapes of huge granite boulders eroded by the wind into fantastic shapes. Hikes on Isola Rossa, Santa Teresa, Costa Smeralda, and Monte Limbara lead to magnificent mountain and coastal scenery, archaeological sites, and these bizarre rock formations.

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Where to Go in Italy: Planning your trip to Italy will be a lot easier with our pages that guide you to its top-rated tourist attractions and point out the best places to visit in Italy . Once you've determined what you'd like to see, have a look at our Italy itineraries to help layout a routing.

Exploring Italy's Top Cities: Between these adventures, you'll want to see Italy's most famous cities, and our pages describing the top attractions in Rome , the highlights of Florence , and the best places to see in Venice can help you plan your trip.

Following Your Special Interests: If you are a skier and planning a winter trip, you'll want to experience the best ski resorts in Italy , and if you're traveling in the spring and summer, be sure to visit some of the most beautiful gardens in Italy .

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The 11 best small group tours of italy (+ day trips).

See Italy's top tourist attractions and stunning cities on these guided excursions.

The Best Small Group Tours of Italy

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There's so much to see and do in Italy that it can feel a bit overwhelming to plan a trip that makes the most of the country's fabled history, art, architecture and cuisine – not to mention its 55-plus UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Guided tours are an efficient, hassle-free way to explore the country's top destinations and attractions . These Italy tours – considered the best by travelers and experts alike – vary by region, focus and method of transportation, but they all have one thing in common: informed guides ready to help you better appreciate your time in this beautiful European country.   While there are plenty of tours across Italy's most popular cities that last a few hours or an entire day, some travelers may be interested in multiday tours that visit several destinations or points of interest. Below are some of the top multiday tours in Italy.

Gray Line I Love Rome – 3 Day Excursion to Naples, Pompeii, Sorrento & Capri

Price: From 645 euros (about $700) Duration: 3 days

If you're interested in exploring some of the best day trips from Rome , but don't want to deal with the hassle of figuring out your own transportation or accommodations, this three-day tour may be for you.

After departing from Rome, your first stop is Naples , where you'll spend an afternoon exploring the UNESCO archaeological site of Pompeii with a guide. From there, it's on to Sorrento for the night. The next morning, you'll either have free time to explore Sorrento (if you've booked the tour between November and March – the low season) or enjoy a boat ride to Capri 's famous Blue Grotto (during peak season). On the third day, you'll head back to Rome. Hotel accommodations are included in the cost of the tour, as are ferry tickets to Capri and skip-the-line tickets to Pompeii, but most food and beverages are not.

A few tourgoers describe the pace of the tour as rushed, but most enjoy the historical commentary provided by the guide throughout the journey and are particularly impressed with the hotel accommodations in Sorrento.

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Italy on a Budget Tours – Amalfi Coast Experience 4-Day Tour

Price: From 490 euros (about $532) Duration: 4 days

Designed for college students, backpackers and solo travelers, this budget-friendly tour spends three nights in Sorrento and visits some of southern Italy's most iconic destinations, including Pompeii, Capri, Amalfi, Positano and Naples . Over the course of four days, you'll enjoy plenty of free time to explore, as well as a guided tour of Pompeii, a sunset walking tour of Sorrento, a guided drive around Naples and a guided walking tour of Amalfi. Plus, you'll hear plenty of history and tips from your local guide along the way. Tourgoers rave about the guides, who they describe as friendly, knowledgeable and enthusiastic. Reviewers say the tour offers a perfect mix of planned activities and free time, and packs in a lot of sights in a short amount of time.

Prices vary based on the accommodation type that you select. You can choose a shared three-bedroom cabin, a private cabin, a traditional hotel room or you can book your own accommodations and pay a reduced fee for the tour. Note that food and drinks are not included in the cost of the tour. The tour begins and ends in Naples; all transportation is included.

Gray Line - I Love Rome – UNESCO Jewels: Best of Italy - Rome, Florence, Venice in 5 days

Price: From $977 Duration: 5 days

Visit some of the most popular destinations in Italy on this five-day coach bus tour. After departing from Rome, you'll stop in the medieval town of Assisi, the city of Siena – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – Florence , Bologna and Venice . The tour includes hotel accommodations for all four nights, skip-the-line entrance tickets to select attractions featured on the tour, a handful of guided experiences and some meals.

Travelers applaud the tour guides and drivers for their professionalism and organization and call out the visit to Montepulciano (in Tuscany's wine region ) as a highlight. For many reviewers, the optional activities, such as the tour to Pisa, are worth the additional cost.

Sicily Activities – Tour of Sicily: Highlights

Price: From 1995 euros (about $2,168) Duration: 8 days

Groups are limited to just eight travelers on this eight-day tour of Sicily 's top cities and sights. You'll travel by Mercedes minivan and spend three nights in Taormina, two nights in Syracuse and two nights in Palermo (at four-star hotels chosen by the company). Highlights include a food and wine tour in Taormina, a guided hike up Mount Etna, and walking tours in Taormina, Noto, Syracuse and Palermo, among other activities. Some meals are included in the cost of the tour.

Tourgoers praise the guides and drivers for their professionalism and friendliness. Reviewers also say the hotels chosen by the company are comfortable and convenient and that this tour is a great choice if you're hoping to explore Sicily with ease.

G Adventures – Local Living Italy—Amalfi Coast

Price: From $2,199 Duration: 8 days

You'll spend the majority of your time on this tour exploring the small towns nestled within the stunning Amalfi Coast . Highlights include a guided tour of Pompeii, two cooking demonstrations, several hikes – including the famous "Path of the Gods" – and a scenic ferry ride along the Amalfi Coast.

Along with the incredible views, tourgoers will also get a chance to participate in the company's commitment to responsible travel through its "G for Good Moment." G Adventures partners with Planeterra to connect travelers with a local migrant who leads a walking tour of Naples that not only highlights some of the city's historic sights and landmarks, but also explains how migrants' culture and religions have influenced modern-day Naples.

You'll spend one night in a hotel in Naples; for the rest of the trip, your home base will be a renovated 16th-century former monastery that's tucked into the hills of the small village of Furore. The accommodations are a particular highlight for some recent travelers, who appreciated not having to pack up their suitcases every few days to move to a new hotel, and say it delivered on the tour's "living like a local" premise. What's more, seven breakfasts and six "farmhouse" dinners prepared by the family who run the agriturismo (guesthouse) are included in the cost of the tour. Other reviewers were most impressed with the guide, who they describe as knowledgeable and organized. Groups are restricted to 16 participants – another highlight for recent tourgoers.

Abercrombie & Kent – Italian Treasures: Rome, Florence & Venice

Price: From $10,995 Duration: 8 days

Travel to three of Italy's most popular cities in luxury with this eight-day tour. The tour starts in Rome, where you'll enjoy early access to the Vatican Museums before exploring the Palatine Hill, the Colosseum and the Montemartini Museum. On your drive to Florence, you'll stop at a winery for a guided tasting. Once in Florence, a local guide who specializes in art will take you to top sites, including the Galleria dell’Accademia di Firenze and the Cappella di San Luca of the Basilica della Santissima Annunziata, where you'll meet with a restorer working on Renaissance art, a project supported by Abercrombie & Kent Philanthropy. Then, it's time for a Tuscan cooking class. Upon reaching Venice, the final stop on the tour, you'll enjoy a private gondola ride before selecting which of the three curated experiences you'd like to participate in: a visit to a gondola-building workshop, a walking tour of Venice's Jewish ghetto or a tour of Venice's famous filming locations.

In addition to stays at luxury hotels, the tour price also includes daily breakfast, select lunches and dinners, all entrance fees, activities, luggage handling and transportation. Reviewers applaud Abercrombie & Kent for its attention to detail and are particularly impressed with the quality of the hotels the company selects. Travelers also appreciate the friendly, knowledgeable local guides and the small group size (this tour is capped at 18 participants).

Collette – Spotlight on Tuscany

Price: From $1,899 Duration: 9 days

If you've dreamt of exploring the Tuscan countryside savoring the region's famous wine and cuisine, this nine-day tour may be for you. Your home base for the tour will be the spa resort town of Montecatini Terme, which sits among Tuscany's undulating hills. Though you'll explore different destinations around the region each day, you'll come back to the same four-star hotel at night (meaning you won't have to pack your bag multiple times over the course of the trip – a particular highlight for past travelers). Highlights include a guided tour of the city of Lucca, a day exploring the top sights in Florence, a cooking class, a visit to a nearby cheese farm and San Gimignano, and optional side trips to Cinque Terre or Siena.

Travelers praise the tour guides for their organization and enthusiasm. Many reviewers call out the cooking class as particularly memorable. Along with accommodations, 11 meals are included in the cost of the tour. 

Kensington Tours – Italy Family Highlights

Price: From $5,396 Duration: 9 days

If you're hoping to make the most of a family vacation to Italy, consider this private tour. The fully customizable tour starts in Rome and ends in Venice. Throughout the nine-day adventure, the itinerary features family-friendly activities that offer a balanced mix of fun, history and cultural immersion.

In Rome, you can enjoy several private experiences, such as a walking tour of the Colosseum, a half-day electric bike tour of the Appian Way and an electric buggy ride through the streets of Rome. In Florence, the second destination visited on the tour, you'll take a cooking class, enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride through Florence and a side trip to Pisa to marvel at its UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The final stop of the tour, Venice, features a gondola ride, a private tour of Doge's Palace and a scavenger hunt around the city.

Reviewers rave about Kensington Tours for its attentive customer service, excellent hotel selections and personable tour guides. Hotel accommodations, transportation, some meals and local private guides are all included in the cost of the tour.

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Firebird Tours – Dolce Italia with Amalfi

Price: From $4,944 Duration: 11 days

Over the course of 11 days, you'll explore four cities, spending up to three days in each destination. Your adventure starts in Venice with a tour of some of the city's top sights, including the Doge's Palace, St. Mark's Basilica and St. Mark's Square . Next up is Florence, where, along with a guided walking tour of the city, you'll also enjoy a wine tasting. After Florence, you'll board the train for Rome. In Rome, you'll hit all the top landmarks, including the Colosseum, the Roman Forum , the Pantheon , the Trevi Fountain and the Vatican. Before traveling to your final stop – Sorrento – you'll tour Pompeii. While in Sorrento, you'll enjoy a scenic drive along the Amalfi Coast with stops in Positano and Amalfi.

Hotel accommodations, daily breakfast, transportation and attraction entrance tickets are included, with options to upgrade your experience in each city (such as a gondola ride in Venice or a guided tour of the Uffizi Gallery in Florence). Tourgoers applaud guides for their passion and knowledge, and say all the transfers are seamless. Reviewers also give kudos to the adept drivers.

Trafalgar – Best of Italy

Price: From $3,850 Duration: 13 days

If you've never visited Italy, this may be the tour for you as it covers a lot of ground in just 13 days. You'll spend time in some of the country's most well-known destinations, such as Rome, Vatican City, Pompeii, Capri, Sorrento, Venice, Milan , Lake Como and Florence. In total, you'll visit 15 cities. Highlights include a private guided tour of Pompeii; the Vatican Museums, St. Peter's Basilica and the Sistine Chapel in Rome; the Basilica of St. Francis in Assisi; a glassblowing factory in Venice; a private cruise to a secluded island on Lake Maggiore; and the Florence American Cemetery and Memorial.

The tour cost includes 12 breakfasts and six dinners, hotel accommodations – including a night at a fully renovated Franciscan monastery in Assisi – and all transportation. Reviewers describe the guides and drivers as top-notch, and say the tour offers a nice balance of big cities and small villages. For many travelers, the convenience of seeing so much of Italy in a short amount of time was worth the cost.

G Adventures – Ultimate Italy

Price: From $3,449 Duration: 14 days   This two-week trip packs in all the highlights of Italy, starting in Rome and finishing in Venice. As you make your way north from Rome to Venice, you and up to 15 other travelers will visit the Tuscan countryside, enjoy guided walks in Florence, hike in Cinque Terre, cruise on Lake Como, and wander the cobblestone streets and romantic bridges in Venice. Accommodations in small, family-run hotels and pensions (guesthouses) are included, as are 13 breakfasts and transportation between and within destinations; all other meals are at your own expense.

Throughout the tour, you'll have free time in each destination and options to tack on additional experiences not included in the overall tour price, such as a food tour in Florence and a Vespa tour around Rome. What's more, as with all G Adventures tours, you'll enjoy a "G for Good Moment," which invites vacationers to participate in the company's commitment to responsible travel. The "G for Good Moment" on this tour takes place in Rome, where participants are treated to a migrant-led walk of Rome. In addition to learning about ancient sites, travelers will see the city from the perspective of an immigrant.

Travelers loved the convenience this tour provides and say it's very organized, even with all the logistics necessary for getting to and around the various cities. Reviewers call the guides exceptional, and say the tour offers a nice balance of planned activities and free time to explore independently. Others appreciate the small group size.

More Popular Italy Tours

If you don't have the time or budget to commit to a multiday tour of Italy, there are a variety of well-reviewed half- and full-day tours offered in Italy's most popular vacation destinations, including Rome, Florence, Venice and Milan. The tours featured below, which highlight everything from Italy's delicious cuisine to its world-renowned cultural sites, earn high praise from travelers and experts alike.

• The Roman Food Tour : Prati by Sunset – Rome Food Tour. Book on Viator.
• City Wonders : Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel Skip-the-Line Tour. Book on Viator .
• LivItaly Tours : Colosseum Underground Tour with Arena, Palatine Hill & Roman Forum. Book on Viator .
• Walkabout Florence Tours : The Best of Tuscany in One Day Trip from Florence. Book on Viator .
• Walks of Italy : Legendary Venice: St. Mark's Basilica with Terraces & Doge's Palace. Book on Viator .
• Blue Star Boat Tours : Amalfi Coast Group Tour. Book on Viator .
• World Tours Italy : Pompeii and Amalfi Coast (with Lunch). Book on Viator .
• Italian Days Food & Wine Tours : Bologna Food and Wine Tour #1. Book on Viator.
• City Wonders : Best of Milan Duomo Cathedral & Da Vinci's 'Last Supper' Tour. Book on Viator .
• Walkabout Florence Tours : Cinque Terre Day Trip from Florence with optional Hiking Tour. Book on Viator .

You may also be interested in:

• The Most Beautiful Beaches in Italy
• The Best International Travel Insurance
• The Best Places to Visit in Europe
• The Best Cheap European Vacations

Tags: Tours , Travel , Vacations , Italy

World's Best Places To Visit

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• # 4 Bora Bora

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