italy cities to travel

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

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

12 of the best cities to visit in Italy

By Jaclyn DeGiorgio

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

Bologna, Emilia-Romagna

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

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

Genoa, Liguria

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

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

Naples, Campania

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

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

Milan, Lombardy

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

By Teddy Wolstenholme

By Trish Lorenz

By Marti Buckley

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

Ravenna, Emilia-Romanga

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

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

Rome, Lazio

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

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

Turin, Piedmont

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

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

Tropea, Calabria

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

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

Florence, Tuscany

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

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

Venice, Veneto

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

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

Catania, Sicily

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

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

Merano, Trentino-Alto Adige

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

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

More great stories from Condé Nast Traveller

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

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

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

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

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

Must-Try Foods

Two-Week Itinerary

Things to Do

Best Beaches

Best Museums

Dolomites Guide

Where to Go Hiking

Where to Go Skiing

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Best Destinations

Top Cities to Visit

The 15 Best Cities in Italy

TripSavvy / Christopher Larson

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

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

TripSavvy / Taylor McIntyre

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cinque Terre

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

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

Traveling by Train in Italy

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

The Top 23 Things to Do in Italy

The Most Romantic Places in Italy

The 15 Best Destinations in Italy

Where to Go on Italy's Mediterranean Coast

5 Must-See Towns on Italy's Amalfi Coast

The 14 Best Day Trips from Rome

Top 6 Tourist Attractions in Italy

Best Places to Go in Northern Italy's Veneto Region

Best Italian Lakes to Visit on Your Vacation

The Most Beautiful Castles in Italy

Your Trip to Milan: The Complete Guide

Italian Nativity Displays and Christmas Scenes

20 Best Things to Do in Florence, Italy

Siena Guide: Planning Your Trip

Your Trip to the Amalfi Coast: The Complete Guide

Italy UNESCO World Heritage Sites - Southern Italy

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

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: February 4, 2024

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

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

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

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

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

READ ALSO: 2-Weeks Italy Itinerary

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

Here are the best places to visit in Italy:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in Rome

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

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

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

LEARN MORE: Tips for Planning a Trip to Rome

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

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

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

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

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

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

READ ALSO: Best Things to Do in Venice

3. Florence

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

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

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

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

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

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in Florence

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

LEARN MORE: Best Towns in Tuscany & Tuscany Itinerary

5. Cinque Terre

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

6. Amalfi Coast

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

LEARN MORE: Amalfi Coast Itinerary & Amalfi Coast Travel Tips

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

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

7. Lake Garda

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

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

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

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

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

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

LEARN MORE: What to See at Lake Garda

8. Lake Como

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

LEARN MORE: Info & Tips for Visiting Lake Como

9. Italian Dolomites

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

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

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

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

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

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

READ ALSO: Most Beautiful Lakes in the Italian Dolomites

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

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

LEARN MORE: Dolomites Itinerary

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

READ ALSO: Best Hikes in the Dolomites

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in Verona

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

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

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

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

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

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in Milan

12. Italian Riviera

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

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

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

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

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

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

LEARN MORE: Most Beautiful Towns of the Italian Riviera

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Nice to see: Pisa town center.

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

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

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

15. Emilia Romagna

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

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

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

Not to be missed: Ravenna , Bologna .

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

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

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

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

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

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

LEARN MORE: San Marino

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

18. Sardinia

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

READ ALSO: Tips & Useful Info for Traveling to Europe

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

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

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

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

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!

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

Wednesday 12th of June 2024

My mom and I are planning a trip to Italy in the summer and this has been 100% helpful. THANKS!!!

Glad to hear this, Kat. Have a wonderful time in Italy with your mom!

Thursday 30th of May 2024

Are you familiar with xxx tours? xxx tours? What do you think about a European cruise? We are planning a trip Italy celebrating our 40th Anniversary. We have traveled to London with friends, but no where else "across the pond". I admit, I'm a tad bit nervous traveling to Italy not knowing the language etc. Thank you for your suggestions.

Hi Lencia, no, I'm not familiar with any of those tours (and I deleted their names since I can't vouch for them) and we have never done or even considered a cruise in Europe. So I'm afraid I can't really help you with that. All I can say is that all of these amazing places in Italy deserve a longer visit than a few hours and that there are thousands of ways to plan a trip. If you are mostly interested in Italy, take a look at our article with a suggested 2-week Italy itinerary.

Sunday 30th of July 2023

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

Tuesday 1st of August 2023

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

Bruce Ogilvie

Wednesday 14th of June 2023

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

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

Tammy Hamilton

Friday 3rd of March 2023

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

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

Touropia Travel

Discover the World

17 Best Cities to Visit in Italy

By Alex Schultz · Last updated on May 4, 2024

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

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

17. Perugia

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

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

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

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

15. Syracuse

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

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

14. Trieste

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

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

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

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

12. Cagliari

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

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

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

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

10. Bologna

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

See also: Where to Stay in Milan

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

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

See also: Where to Stay in Naples

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

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

See also: Where to Stay in Venice

2. Florence

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

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

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

See also: Where to Stay in Rome

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

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

Map of Italian Cities

Share this post:

10 Most Beautiful National Parks in Italy

33 Top Tourist Attractions in Italy

10 Most Underrated Destinations in Italy

11 Most Amazing Hotels in Italy

10 Most Beautiful Italian Islands

14 Gorgeous Small Towns in Italy

How to Spend 2 Weeks in Italy: DIY Itinerary

23 Best Places to Visit in Italy

10 Best Beaches in Italy

20 Most Beautiful Regions of Italy

Reader interactions, leave a reply cancel reply.

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

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

12 amazing ways to experience Italy

Jan 11, 2024 • 8 min read

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

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

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

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

1. Glam it up on the dramatic Amalfi Coast

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

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

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

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

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

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

3. Tour Rome, the epicenter of empire

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

5. Help to save Venice

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

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

6. Get off-grid in rural Abruzzo

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

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

7. Follow the Via Francigena pilgrim trail

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

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

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

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

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

9. Savor slow food in Piedmont

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

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

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

10. Soak up the timeless beauty of Sicily

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

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

11. Harvest grapes in the Cinque Terre

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

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

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

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

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

This article was first published Oct 21, 2021 and updated Jan 11, 2024.

Explore related stories

Apr 19, 2024 • 4 min read

A new walkway will make it easier to navigate Rome's ancient sites. But what does it mean for the locals?

Apr 5, 2024 • 10 min read

Mar 21, 2024 • 8 min read

Mar 16, 2024 • 6 min read

Mar 11, 2024 • 8 min read

Mar 6, 2024 • 8 min read

Feb 29, 2024 • 13 min read

Feb 28, 2024 • 12 min read

Feb 27, 2024 • 6 min read

Feb 21, 2024 • 4 min read

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

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

How to Choose Where to Go in Italy

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Alberobello

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

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

Cinque Terre

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Polignano a Mare

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

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

Montepulciano

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

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

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

Val di Noto’s Baroque Towns

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Lago di Braies

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

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

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

Tuscan Countryside

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

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

The Amalfi Coast

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

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

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

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

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

Mount Vesuvius

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

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

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

[convertkit form=828904]

About Kate Storm

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

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

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

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

You’re welcome! 🙂

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

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

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

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

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

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content

Compass & Pine

The Ultimate Travel Guide

The 25 Best Places to Visit in Italy

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

Cinque Terre

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

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

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

• Michelangelo

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Do You Love Art?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Heading to Venice?

No Venetian trip is complete without visiting these top sights.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Planning On Using Uber in Italy?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Perfect Day Trip to Amalfi

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How to Visit Pompeii From Rome

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Frequently Asked Questions

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Recommended Booking Resources

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

Kayak for Flights, Hotels, and Cars

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

Varied Accommodation Options with Booking.com

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

Cheap Flights with Going.com

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

Hostelpass for Budget-Friendly Stays

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

Plan Your Excursions with Get Your Guide

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

Efficient Train Travel in Italy with Trainline

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

Pocket-Sized Wisdom: Venice Travel Guide 2023 Book

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

Sustainable Tourism: LifeStraw for Reusable Water Bottles

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

Walks of Italy for Culturally Rich Walking Tours

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

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

About Todd O'Rourke

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

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

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

LinkedIn | About Us

Reader Interactions

November 25, 2022 at 11:42 pm

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

November 27, 2022 at 10:37 am

Hi Kathryn,

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

Best, Todd & Leg

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

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

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

Explore more

Campiglia Marittima-  Discover the Top 4 Must-Visit Sights

Castel del piano – tuscany’s enchanting escapes revealed, what is rome famous for – 28 things that make rome…, coffee shop in florence – 14 choices for your caffeine fix, northern vs southern italian food – 14 rich culinary delights, sorrento food – cuisine with rich history and tradition, amalfi coast food – 13 typical dishes to taste, tuscan food – a wealth of pasta sauces, soups, and sweets, tuscan desserts – sweets, cookies, cakes, and wines, what to wear in rome – where fashion meets history, rome to tuscany – navigating the best travel route, italy in january – your winter guide for 10 things to…, rome in january – visiting the eternal city in winter, rome to amalfi coast day trip- everything you need to know.

The 20 Best Cities To Visit in Italy For the First Time

If you’re looking for the best cities to visit in Italy for the first time, you may be feeling overwhelmed with options! There are so many wonderful towns, cities, beaches, and geographies to explore on this beautiful peninsula, how can you possibly choose?

We’re here to help! Below are our top recommendations for places to visit on your first trip to Italy. From cities to small towns, to geographical regions, and even little-known hidden gems, we’ve got tons of suggestions and recommendations to help you make the most of your time in Italy!

Let’s take a look at the best options, as well as some important travel secrets to keep in mind while planning.                                                                                          

Italy for First-Time Visitors: Choosing Your Trip Destinations

When choosing trip destinations, consider your priorities. Do you prefer to spend more time on the go and see as much as possible with the time you have, or do you prefer to travel slowly and really take in the views?

In general, give yourself time to explore. Day trips and focusing on specific geographical areas are always helpful! Consider blending the “must-see” spots that everyone will ask you about with the lesser-known, more obscure options in whatever balance suits your interests and travel style.

Above all, follow your own inspiration and goals for your trip. See which places pique your curiosity or inspire you most, and plan around that!

The Best 5 Cities to Visit in Italy For The First Time

Rome is the capital of Italy, and this city rich in ages of history is definitely one of the best cities to visit in Italy on your first trip. From the Colosseum to the Vatican Museums, all eras have left their mark on Rome. Traveling in the off-season – October through March – will help you beat the crowds.

The most popular sites that require tickets, like the Sistine Chapel or Colosseum, Pantheon, will sell out quickly. Book in advance! If you need to go last minute, try booking a group tour. Those companies will often buy the tickets in advance of the tour and before all spots in their group are sold. Group tours will also often allow you to skip the line.

Travel Secret: The Trastevere neighborhood offers less crowds and tons of charm – not to mention tons of incredible restaurants, cafes, and bars.

Not much beats the magic of the floating city and Venetian canals on your first trip to Italy! This car-less city is incredibly walkable, and small enough to be explored thoroughly. The city is made up of 6 sestieri or neighborhoods, each with their own attractions. Santa Croce is where the main port, trains, buses, and parking can be found. Tourist draws like the Peggy Guggenheim Collection and St. Mark’s Square are found in San Marco, Dorsoduro , and San Polo . Cannaregio and Castello offer quieter neighborhoods for a stroll or bite to eat.

Travel Secret: Venice is a must-see for many travelers, but the Veneto region also offers a ton of day trips to other islands in the lagoon – try Murano, Burano, and Lido – or to charming towns on the mainland – perhaps the medieval Treviso, or the literary-famous Verona.

3. Florence

At the heart of the Italian Renaissance, Florence is famous for its art and architecture. Due in part to the influence and patronage of the Medici family , a number of master artists were from or spent time working in Florence including Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, Benozzo Gozzoli, and Giotto. On your first trip to Italy, be sure to visit the Duomo, many art museums, Ponte Vecchio, and the Boboli Gardens.

Travel Secret: Avoid dining in famous tourist spots, as the costs are extremely high! Food in Florence is relatively inexpensive, look for lower prices and local patrons to indicate authenticity.

Read More: The Top 12 Books About Florence

The fashion capital is full of shopping, but also history, culture, and great food! Don’t miss the Duomo of Milano, and the piazza surrounding it, as well as the many churches and castles. The city is also home to Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper .

Travel Secret: It can be nearly impossible to get tickets to see The Last Supper . But there’s a workaround: tour agencies get the first claim, so booking a group tour may be key if the famous site is important to you.

The vibrant city of Naples is found on Italy’s southwestern coast. Famous for Neapolitan pizza, Naples is located in an area that has been inhabited since ancient times. The nearby Pompeii ruins and Amalfi Coast towns make Naples an excellent base for your first trip to Italy. Don’t miss the famous Toledo Metro station, Spaccanapoli, and the historic center with its grottos to the Madonna.

Travel Secret: Check out the nearby Vesuvius National Park for an intimate glimpse into the volcano that has defined the culture and ecology of this region for thousands of years.

Read more: How Many Days in Naples Does it Take to Explore the City?

The Top 5 Places to Visit on Your First Trip to Italy

1. cinque terre.

Cinque Terre is a special place to visit on your first trip to Italy. It is a coastal chain of five small towns, located in Liguria: Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. These popular villages are colorful and gorgeous, offering seaports, fresh seafood dining, local wines and dishes, and relaxing beaches. The hiking trails between the town offer sweeping views and easy transportation.

Travel Secret: If you want to travel without a car, base yourself in Levanto. The train station there runs frequently to each of the five towns, and it’s also more affordable.

Sicily is the island at the bottom of the “boot” of Italy. This is a must-see place on your first trip to Italy if you love nature, ancient history, and beaches. Mount Etna, a very active volcano, towers over the island’s horizon line. Don’t miss the bustling markets of Catania and Palermo, incredible local food, hikes on Mount Etna, and the gorgeous shoreline and beaches.

Travel Secret: Don’t miss the small islands nearby. For example, Ortigia is connected to Sicily by a small bridge, and is easy to navigate on foot.

3. Amalfi Coast

Located on the Tyrrhenian Sea, the Amalfi Coast sits on the Gulf of Salerno. Close to Naples, the coastline offers tons of gorgeous towns, beaches, and hikes. Known as a luxury travel destination, the Amalfi Coast caters to tourists and offers many private beach clubs and resorts.

Travel Secret: If you want to visit the Amalfi coast but want to avoid the crowds, try the smaller fishing villages of Minori or Cetara.

Read more: Amalfi Coast Food – Indulge in the Best Italy has to Offer!

4. Val d’Orcia (Siena)

The valley that surrounds the Orcia River is full of castles , cypress trees, hotsprings, vineyards , olive fields, and old mills. This quintessentially-Tuscan region is easily explored by car or bicycle, or on foot for the adventuresome traveler! This is really one of the best places to visit in Italy for the first time.

Travel Secret: Don’t miss out on the incredible local products of this area, especially wines and Pecorino Val d’Orcia sheep cheese from Pienza .

Read more: San Quirico d’Orcia – A Medieval Escape You’ve Been Craving for

5. Dolomites

An incredibly popular destination for hikers, climbers, and roadtrippers on their first trip to Italy, the Dolomites are located in the northeastern Italian Alps. Small towns and hiking trails abound in this stunning mountain range. Don’t miss the popular town Cortina D’Ampezzo, and the scenic drive to the nearby Corvara in Badia.

Travel Secret: Even in the summer, pack for the mountains! Many favorite spots are at high altitudes where there is snow year round.

5 Small Towns to Not Miss if You Visit Italy For The First Time

1. bellagio.

A favorite destination in Lombardy, Bellagio is located on promontory between the two southern parts of Lake Como. The quaint alleys, local food, and lake views quickly make it clear why this town is a traveler favorite! Don’t miss the beautiful Gardens of Villa Serbelloni and Villa Melzi.

Travel Secret: The nearby fishing village Pescallo is easily overlooked, but offers a smaller scale respite and its viewpoints and beach.

Read more: Italy Day Tours – 20 Most Memorable Sightseeing Tours

2. Sorrento

Namesake of the Sorrentine Peninsula, Sorrento is located near the Amalfi Coast. Check out all the amazing shops and restaurants in the main square, Piazza Torquato Tasso and in Marina Grande. Its proximity to Naples and the Amalfi Coast make it ideal for a first trip to Italy.

Travel Secret: There’s a lemon grove in the center of town! Check out I Giardini di Cataldo for local products and limoncello.

3. Taormina

Located on the beautiful island of Sicily, Taormina sits atop a cliff below Mount Etna and overlooking the Ionian Sea – an unbeatable combo! Pay a visit to the Teatro Antico di Taormina, an amphitheater from 3BC that is still in use today, you might even be able to catch a play or concert! The main square of Piazza IX Aprile is bustling with activity, shops, bars, and restaurants.

Travel Secret: Connected to the mainline of Taormina by a strip of sand, the peninsula of Isola Bella offers gorgeous beaches, clear water, and a nature reserve home to rare Sicilian flora. 

Probably best known as the birthplace of Saint Francis, Assisi is located in the Umbria region, on Monte Subasio. First settled around 1000BC, Assisi is full of ancient and medieval history that makes it a great stop when you’re visiting Italy for the first time. The Basilica di San Francesco is a visitor favorite and consists of a cathedral built above a smaller church.

Travel Secret: Though outside of Assisi, the fortress of Rocca Maggiore offers sweeping and incredible views of the town and surrounding foothills.

5. San Gimignano

This medieval town is found high in the hills near Siena, Tuscany. Its skyline of Tuscan towers is impressive – 14 still standing! – and will easily catch your eye from the road. Its nickname is even “San Gimignano delle Belle Torri ” (San Gimignano of the Beautiful Towers). In addition to the usual Tuscan charm of this region’s towns, the towers have unique origin stories and eras, offering a glimpse into the town’s history through the ages.

Travel Secret: San Gimignano makes a great day trip or tour stop from Siena. But to avoid the crowds, work around the tour schedules. The most calm time to visit San Gimignano is in the morning.

5 Hidden Gems Worth Exploring on your First Trip to Italy

1. the park of the monsters.

Officially called the Sacro Bosco, the sacred wood, the Park of the Monsters is a garden full of surreal and monstrous sculptures commissioned in 1552 by Prince Pier Francesco Orsini. The prince was likely in a state of grief following a brutal war, hostage situations, and the death of his wife upon returning home. The layout of the garden is much more chaotic than the Renaissance norms of the time, which could echo the emotions of its benefactor.

Travel Secret: Plan ahead for the details on this one! The line can be long to enter, so bring some entertainment. Keep in mind that pets aren’t allowed in the gardens, but there are kennels where they can stay while their owners visit. There is a restaurant in the park, but it’s usually only open for lunch. Lastly, the roads through the garden aren’t paved, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes and clothes.

2. Bolgheri

The town of Bolgheri is located in Tuscany just 10 miles from the Etruscan coastline, and is famous for its fine wines. Not only is the town itself charming (don’t miss the castle!) but it’s surrounded by vineyards and olive groves offering tours and tastings galore. This is a “must” for wine-loving travelers. 

Travel Secret: Take the Viale dei Cipressi on your route into Bolgheri! This 5km long straight road from the 1800s is lined with ancient cypress trees and leads right to the castle of Bolgheri.

3. Basilicata’s Ghost Towns, Craco and Aliano

These little-known towns in the region of Basilicata, Craco and Aliano, are located near the more well-known Matera. These hidden gems are definitely worth a stop on your first trip to Italy! Both towns were built near calanchi , mounds free of vegetation. Craco was built on a very steep incline for defense purposes and was completely abandoned following massively destructive landslides in the late 1900s. Aliano is nearby and has a declining population, following an earthquake in 1980 that destroyed most historic buildings. Both towns are surrounded by unique landscapes and are near the coast of Taranto.

Travel Secret: Don’t miss the signs of lives past in the ghost towns: market squares, political symbols on the roads, homes for farm animals… these towns are compelling and have inspired a lot of movie locations, but they also demand respect and attention to their tragic histories.

4. Civita di Bagnoregio

Just a couple hours from Rome, Civita di Bagnoregio is a “storybook” town in population decline, but increasing in popularity for tourists. Home to only about a dozen full-time residents, the town is sustained by visitors seeking its (very) small-town charm. Life here is slow and quintessential, even if a trip to the grocery store means leaving town to the nearby Bagnoregio, connected by a footbridge.

Travel Secret: If you can, visit during a traditional festival! Palio della Tonna is a donkey race that happens in August and September, Civit’Arte is a summer cultural event series, and Festa della Castagna is a festival of chestnuts in October.

5. La Scarzuola, Montegabbione

In the hamlet of Montegiove in Umbria, you’ll find the architectural complex of La Scarzuola. Originally a convent related to Saint Francis of Assisi, it was partially abandoned and then purchased by Tomaso Buzzi, an architect from Milan, in the 1950s. He restored the convent and added buildings – his “ideal city” including amphitheaters, statues, and a miniature tower of Babel.

Travel Secret: Tomaso Buzzi passed away in the 1980s and left the complex to his nephew who now runs the park. It can be visited only by reservation , so make sure to book in advance.

RELATED ARTICLES MORE FROM AUTHOR

What is rome famous for – 28 things that make rome unique, popular articles, towns in tuscany – 15 jewels of italy’s rich culture, bolgheri – exploring the charm of tuscany’s wine country, val d’orcia – valley of castles, hot springs, and vineyards, popular posts, pitigliano – guide to southern tuscany’s best kept secret, sorano – guide to the ancient hill town in tuscany, giglio island, italy – 11 things to do and where to..., popular category.

• Campania 24

15 Most Beautiful Cities in Italy for Travelers

Written By: The Planet D

Updated On: April 5, 2024

Italy is filled with beautiful cities and the list could go on forever. But are these cities good for travelers? We delve into the things to see and do from the major cities of Rome and Milan to the lesser-visited gems like Rimini and Siena. Italy is filled with incredible architecture, world-class museums, and incredible cuisine. Find out which cities in Italy are on the list and what put them there below!

Table of Contents

The Very Best cities in Italy

Italy is a relatively small country by area (about the size of Arizona) but what it lacks in size it makes up for in culture, museums, food, and experiences. Some of the best experiences we had in the country were definitely in its urban centers.

Whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned Italian expert, these are the best cities to add to your Italian travel bucket list. Each Italian city has its own unique flair and identity. Some are popular with the tourists and some are lesser know. Read on to see which one is right for you.

The most popular city for tourists is without a doubt Rome. It is often considered one of the best cities in Italy for first-time visitors. At its height, this capital city ruled the Roman Empire , and the ancient ruins scattered throughout put that power on display. With famous landmarks like The Colosseum, the Pantheon, The Roman Forum, Vatican City, and the Trevi Fountain, one could visit again and again getting lost in its architecture. Follow our Ultimate One Day in Rome Itinerary: How To Maximize Your Visit for the most time efficient way to see everything.

Not only are there many things to see, but the Eternal City is also one of the most beautiful cities in all of Europe blending the ancient with the new. Plus, where else do you find a sovereign nation inside a city? Saint Peter’s Basilica, The Sistine Chapel is located within The Vatican and is one of Rome’s top attractions.

Once you have explored its main attractions, enjoy its vibrant food scene with a Rome Food Tour , sit on the Spanish steps and relish in the lively atmosphere or sip cappuccinos at one of its many cafes. Rome needs at least three days to explore and we have the complete three-day itinerary to help you out. 3 Days in Rome – The Ultimate Rome Itinerary

Plan a Rome trip with our in-depth travel guides:

• How to Visit Rome on a Budget
• Where to stay in Rome – A Guide To The Best Neighbourhoods
• 23 of the Best Things to do in Rome
• 20 of the Best Free Things to do in Rome

Venice is the city of dreams. You may have heard people say to not go to Venice, but if you spend some time there (not just on a cruise or day trip) you too will fall in love with its Grand Canal and beautiful old town housing Saint Mark’s Square, Doge’s Palace, Rialto Bridge and the Bridge of Sighs. (Ah, sigh).

Known for its canals, cathedrals, and the odd gondola or two, Venice is a place for romance especially after the crowds disappear. When the cruise ships and day tours leave, you have the streets and alleyways to yourself in the wee hours of the morning or after sunset. We suggest three days in Venice. There is a lot more to see than you think. Follow this guide to help plan: 3 Days in Venice – The Complete Venice Itinerary

Read more Venice Guides

• 25 of The Best Things to do in Venice, Italy
• Venice A City Tour By Boat – The Way it Was Meant to Be
• Where to Stay in Venice, Italy: 5 Best Areas for First-Time Visitors

Bologna may be overlooked by the bigger cities of Italy, but after spending nearly a month exploring it and the Emilia Romagna region, we feel it should be put at the top of your list. Known as the culinary capital of Italy, there are plenty of things to do in Bologna besides eating. The old city walls that date back to the middle ages can still be seen and the city’s unique porticoes remain intact. Make sure to visit the main square of Piazza Maggiore where you’ll see the Fountain of Neptune.

We spent nearly a month exploring this city in Northern Italy and it alone is worth visiting in its own right. But there are so many day trips to surrounding villages, you will fall in love with the region of Emilia Romagna. Bologna is also home to the oldest University in the world, churches, and its own leaning tower that gives Pisa a run for its money! Bologna has plenty of attractions and day trips to keep you busy for at least a week. We suggest exploring the Emilia Romagna region for at least a few days.

More guides for Bologna and the Italian Apennines

• The 26 Best Things to do in Bologna, Italy
• 17 Reasons to Visit Emilia Romagna
• Lamborghini Museum Tour with Fabio Lamborghini
• Hiking the Italian Apennines

4. Florence

Florence is the heart of Tuscany with renaissance art including masterpieces by Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci. Visit the Galleria dell’Accademia to marvel at the statue of David and witness The Birth of Venice by Botticelli in the Uffizi Gallery. Walk through the Piazza del Duomo and view the Florence Cathedral.

The UNESCO historic center of Florence is easily known as one of the most romantic cities in Italy with heart-melting views over the Arno River from Piazzale Michelangelo where you can see a replica of David, ( Read our Walking Tour of Florence – A tale of two Davids here ). 

If you are looking for romance, Florence is the city for you. Walk hand in hand along its cobblestone streets toward Ponte Vecchio, and visit the romantic cafes at Piazza Della Signoria. We think that Florence only needs two days to visit, but Tuscany requires a week.

More Florence Travel Guides

• Where to Stay in Florence, Italy – An Insider Guide to the Best Neighborhoods
• Top 10 Things to do in Florence
• Florence in Photos, A City of Art

As a music theater major in college Verona always intrigued me. The city came up once or twice while studying Shakespeare and even today the city attracts romance lovers to follow in the footsteps of Romeo and Juliet.

Crowds flock to the balcony of Juliette’s house for a glimpse of the famous balcony scene leaving love letters on the walls. But Shakespeare isn’t the only reason to visit Verona. The Verona Arena is one of the best-preserved Roman Amphitheatres in the country. There are churches and bridges, basilicas, and the old medieval bridge of Ponte Scaligaro which leads to Castelvecchio.

Genova (Genoa) is another Italian port city with a popular waterfront. One of the lesser-visited cities in Italy, it still boasts a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a historic center housing one of Europe’s largest medieval quarters. With its long maritime history, Genoa is Italy’s main seaport. Tour the UNESCO-designated Via Garibaldi to marvel at the palace facades, see the Acquario di Genova (Aquarium), one of the largest aquariums in Europe, and visit the Roman Cathedral of San Lorenzo.

7. Palermo 

Palermo is Italy’s fifth-largest city and the capital of Sicily with a population of just over 600,000 inhabitants. According to guest blogger Robert Connor, Palermo doesn’t really feel like ‘Italy’ at all. Its bustling markets and numerous motorbikes whizzing past give the city a real North-African flavor.

Like all Italian cities, Palermo boasts a grand cathedral, Cattedrale Di Palermo but this cathedral stands apart with its unique Arab/Norman architecture. After exploring the historic center and shopping at the markets, be sure to hit Mondello Beach, one of the most famous beaches in Sicily. Read more: 10 Of the Best Things to Do In Palermo, Sicily

The second-largest city in Italy should not be missed. The fashion capital of Italy (heck it’s the fashion capital of the world) and a center of finance, Milan is filled with countless things to see and do. Milan has no lack of Italian art in fact, Leonardo Da Vinci’s Last Supper is on display at Santa Maria Delle Grazie. The beautiful Porta Sempione City Gate stands proud as trams whisk you from one grand landmark to another. Plus Milan houses one of the largest cathedrals in the world.

Naples isn’t a place we spent a lot of time in, but it is a city that is worth visiting for its pizza alone. Pizza was invented in Naples and as you make your way to the Amalfi Coast, make a pit stop in Naples to try what most consider the best pizza in the world. Plus, Pompeii is located near Naples. The UNESCO World Heritage Site was buried by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius and is the area’s main attraction.

Naples (Napoli) is the third-largest city in Italy making it a must-stop on an Italian trip. This highly-rated tour of Naples gives visitors a chance to discover Naples, from the bay to its historic city center. You’ll explore all the major attractions including the Royal Palace, Naples Cathedral, Galleria Umberto, and Piazza del Plebiscito. Learn of its rich history as you also explore the underground Roman ruins with a local guide.

Famed for the leaning tower of Pisa, it is often this one attraction that draws tourists to Pisa, but there are plenty of other reasons to visit and to spend a night or two. Located in the Tuscany region, Pisa is often overlooked as a city to visit as most simply go on a day tour to see the famous leaning tower, but with historic cathedrals and palaces and bridges, it is a wonderful place to visit.

Many people visit Pisa en route from Rome to Florence on a day trip, but we suggest spending at least a night to delve deeper into its top attractions. Read more: Tips for Visiting the Leaning Tower of Pisa

Siena is another gorgeous city in Tuscany that we stumbled upon during our third visit to the region. In fact, it was in Siena that we received a traffic ticket by driving too close to Piazza del Campo after getting lost in its maze of streets.

Siena is home to the oldest bank in the world but it is the square that is truly the draw. Climb to the top of Torre del Mangia for dramatic views from the 85-meter high tower at Siena Cathedral or sit back and relax at one of its many restaurants and patios to enjoy an Aperol Spritz as you people watch the day away.

• Tuscany Dreams – Stay in a Tuscan Villa
• 7 Unforgettable Reasons to Visit Tuscany

Another city located in Emilia Romagna is the coastal town of Rimini. Most of the Italian cities we’ve been talking about boast historical sites, cathedrals, castles, and art, but even though Rimini is a beautiful beach town it isn’t without art.

Known as the birthplace of Fellini and hosting artists throughout the ages including Leonardo Da Vinci it also houses Roman monuments such as the Arch of Augustus and the Tiberius Bridge. With endless sand and beaches located along the Adriatic Sea, it is one of Europe’s most popular seaside resorts. We visited Rimini on a weekend escape from Bologna to bask in the sun and relax at its divine spa. Read more: Riminiterme Spa – Rimini Italy

13. Pompeii

Okay, so it may not be a functioning city in Italy, but the ancient city of Pompeii is a place in Italy that you cannot miss. This city was preserved by a volcanic eruption in 79 AD. Grand buildings were frozen in time and visitors can explore the complex to see glimpses of life dating back to the third century BC.

This Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius day tour takes you to the site of the eruption of 79 AD that buried Pompei freezing it in time to 2000 years. Learn of the Forum, Thermal Baths, the Lupanar, and the Greek Theatre. Plus enjoy a Naples pizza lunch.

14. Amalfi Coast Towns

The Amalfi Coast hosts a cluster of smaller cities to visit in Italy. Starting with nearby Sorrento, this is a great base to explore Naples and Pompeii. Being a gateway to the Amalfi Coast, it is also an affordable base to base yourself when exploring the Amalfi Coast towns.  Read more at 10 Most Romantic Italian Coastal Towns for Couples

While the Amalfi Coast doesn’t house the large cities of Italy, the towns that line this iconic stretch of highway are legendary. The cities that are not to be missed are Positano, Sorrento, Ravello, Sorrento and Minori.

Our favorite and the most beautiful town of Positano is where you should make a base and don’t miss driving out to the historic cobbled streets of Ravenna, exploring the UNESCO designated coast along the Northern coast of the Salerno Gulf on the Tyrrhenian Sea in southern Italy is a must.

When visiting Italy take a road trip along the Amalfi Coast to see the amazing cities dotting the coast. From its shores you will see Capri, so make sure to get on a boat and take a tour of this lovely stretch of the country. Read more: The Best Things to Do in Amalfi Coast, Italy

15. Cinque Terre

The Cinque Terre is comprised of 5 villages and while they may not be considered cities but they are still urban centers we loved walking from village to village, so we are going to include them as a bonus.

Similar to the Amalfi Coast, but on a smaller scale, the Cinque Terre consists of five picturesque villages that make for some of the most scenic views in all of Italy. The villages of the Cinque Terre are: Monterosso al Mare, Corniglia, Riomaggiore, Manarola, Vernazza. Located not far from the Cinque Terre is La Spezia which is a popular place to make a base. .

• Hiking Cinque Terre – The Beautiful Five Villages in Italy
• Where to stay in Cinque Terre, Italy: The Best Towns And Villages

When is the best time to visit Italy?

The best time to visit Italy is during the shoulder seasons of Spring and Fall. During the summer months, temperatures can get quite hot and crowds are at their highest. Plus, summer is where you will see higher prices for accommodation and tours. Be aware that many people take their summer vacations during August so many places will be closed.

The most populated cities in Italy are Rome with a population of 2.7 million, Milan with 1.3 million inhabitants, Naples has a population of 959,470 followed by Palermo , and Turin.

The first city you should visit in Italy is Venice . Not only because it is sinking, and we have no idea how long it will last, but it truly is breathtaking. It is everyone’s dream to take a gondola ride through the canals and get lost in the back alleys. It is a city that deserves more than a day.

Rome is the most beautiful city in Italy because of its incredible mix of modern and ancient. Nowhere on earth do you see ancient monuments and historic architecture at every turn.

Rome, Venice, and Florence are some of the most popular cities to visit in Italy, and with good reason. They are filled with art, historic architecture and famous attractions. These are usually the first places people visit in Italy.

Planning a trip to Italy? Read more of our Italian travel guides to get travel inspiration and information.

• 3 Days in Rome – The Ultimate Rome Itinerary
• 3 Days in Venice – The Complete Venice Itinerary
• Fun Facts About Italy
• Italy Travel Guide

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Book Your Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner. We have used them for years and have found that they have the best flight deals.

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor.

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Safety Wing - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Book Your Activities: Looking for walking tours, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more? Then we recommend Get Your Guide.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

You May Also Like

Where to Stay in Rome: Our Favourite Places And Neighbourhoods (2024)

Where to Stay in Venice, Italy in 2024: 5 Best Areas for First-Time Visitors

23 Best Things to Do In Sicily, Italy in 2024

About The Planet D

Dave Bouskill and Debra Corbeil are the owners and founders of The Planet D. After traveling to 115 countries, on all 7 continents over the past 13 years they have become one of the foremost experts in travel. Being recognized as top travel bloggers and influencers by the likes of Forbes Magazine , the Society of American Travel Writers and USA Today has allowed them to become leaders in their field.

Join thousands of others who get our monthly updates!

Leave a comment cancel reply.

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

25 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Italy

Written by Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated Aug 17, 2023

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

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

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

1. Colosseum, Rome

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

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

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

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

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

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Rome

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Florence

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

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

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

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

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

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Venice

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: Valle dei Templi, Agrigento, Sicily

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Sicily

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

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

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

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

Address: Piazza del Duomo, Milan

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Milan

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Ravenna

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

More on Italy

Map of Italian Cities

The best cities for italian destination planning, mapped.

• Italy Maps >
• Map of Italy showing cities

Italy is wonderfully diverse; below is a map of it. If you're just starting to plan your Italian vacation, you'll need to know the proximities of the cities best to visit. Our map shows Italy and its two largest islands, and the main cities to consider visiting.

Table of contents

• Italian Cities Map

Accommodations in Italy

• Smaller cities and Rural Areas
• Italian Guidebooks

Taking the Train

• The Geography of Italy

Map of Italy Showing Cities to Visit

Italy is composed of 20 regions, which are outlined in gray on the map. Each region has a different cuisine, and many regions and and provinces have their own dialect of Italian. This makes a trip to Italy like a trip to many different countries. You can access region maps by using the drop down list on the toolbar at the top of this page.

There are four main attractions in Italy on the map. Rome , Venice , and Florence make up the three most-visited cities, and the little villages of the Cinque Terre are the most popular rural attraction.

Major cities and towns in Italy are linked by rail lines, which is usually the recommended way to get between the larger ones. Trains usually drop passengers in the middle of a city, and that's usually where the historic core is found--the place you want to be. To plan a rail trip, see our Rail Map and Transportation Guide .

The cities are also linked be toll roads called autostrade , the plural of autostrada . We have an interactive autostrada map as well. 

If planning a rail trip seems too daunting and you don't wish to drive, check out Viator's Extended tours . From the big cities you can take 1-3 day excursions to many popular destinations.

Italy has many forms, styles, and degrees of luxury in accommodations. Here's how I choose a hotel in Italy. I often prefer an apartment or vacation house to stay in, and I have compiled a list of extraordinary places to stay , called self-catering.

You can use the Booking.com box below to check out the range of accommodations in Italy. If you enter your dates, you can see prices as well.

Italy's Smaller Cities and Rural Areas

Many people miss the joys of Italy's rural villages. My little corner of Italy, La Lunigiana , includes the marble mountains of Carrara, where you can take some interesting tours .

Rural food in Italy is amazing. The quality of the ingredients makes for simple dishes that bring out the best of local foods.  See our video on the quality of ingredients grown where they like to grow: Culinary Ingredients .

Did you know there are special places in Italy that are protected against building speculation and mass tourism? Off the beaten track tourism is practically guaranteed in the Cilento , for example. And the greater part of it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site!

Speaking of world heritage sites, did you know that the first Italian site so honored with the Valcamonica just north of Lake Iseo ? The Valcamonica is stunningly beautiful, the ancient rock carvings it's known for (petroglyphs) are quite interesting, and the valley has numerous hiking trails to discover.

Many folks travel to experience the food and wine of Italy. Lunch in Italy, called pranzo , is often an Italian's big meal of the day, can start at noon but really gets going after 1pm, when the stores close until late in the afternoon. A pranzo di lavoro or "worker's lunch" can sometimes be had for as little as 10 euro in rural areas, and generally includes wine and coffee plus two courses, pasta and a meat course.

Generally, a service charge is included in the bill. It is customary to leave a few coins for a tip, or up to five percent of the total bill if the service is good (some say 10 percent in a fancy  ristorante  where the service is impeccable). In rural areas where one eats in a simple trattoria or osteria, tipping is usually not customary.

To find out more about eating out in Italy, see our guide to Italian food. Eating can be in interactive adventure, especially if you can converse in Italian. To find out what's best on the menu, see: How to Get Good Food in Italy .

Italy Guidebooks

If you're looking for an online source of books, we've partnered with bookshop.com, an online bookshop that supports your local bookstore as well as indy writers. Use the button below to see our recommended guides, cookbooks and maps.

Italy Maps and Guides

Each of the cities marked on the map above is easily accessible via Italy's vast rail network. Fast trains like the Frecce series (arrow in English) whisk you between the major cities like Rome and Naples at speeds over 150 km per hour. That's faster then you can drive--and without traffic jams or tolls. The train generally takes you from city center to city center, exactly where you want to be. International trains take you further. Venice is a mere three hours and forty one minutes from Zurich, for example. The smaller towns? You'll be surprised how well served they are by Italy's regional trains.

If you have a ticket or rail pass you can just arrive at the station, find the "binario" or track your train is on by reading the departures board and wait for or board your train if it's waiting at the station. There's no "arrive two hours early to assure your space on the plane" warnings when you ride the rails. If I'm going to a big city, I always choose the train, even when I have a car at my disposal.

Below are some resources you might find useful if you are considering taking the train on your Italian vacation.

How to Ride the Rails in Italy Italy Rail Map Do Italian Rail Passes Save You Money?

A Little About The Geography of Italy

Italy is about the size of New Mexico, but very differently configured. About 40% of Italy is mountainous, with the alps arcing across northern Italy and the Apennine Mountains becoming the 405 mile "backbone" of Italy from the western Alps to the eastern Adriatic. Sicily and Sardinia form the largest islands. The largest Italian lake is Lake Garda. Agriculture takes up over 50% of the rural land.

Read More: The Geography of Italy

Italy is simply amazing. If you're planning a trip for the future, sign up for our free newsletter , which includes destinations and discoveries as we travel around the boot.

Planning a Trip?

Here are some travel planning tools that are especially useful if you're planning your first or second trip to Italy.

• Travel Planning Timeline : Learn what you need to plan when.
• What Will an Italy Vacation Cost? : Tools for budgeting your Italian vacation.
• Unplanned Attractions : Save time for the good life in Italy.

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes

8 Best Places to Retire in Italy, According to Local Experts

From gorgeous islands to the idyllic countryside, here are some of the best places to retire in Italy.

Santiago Urquijo/Getty Images

Retiring in Italy is a dream for many and a reality for quite a few, too. From major cities to small towns, the sea to the mountains, and the Mediterranean to the Adriatic, Italy offers a variety of lifestyle and cost of living options. In preparing this list, Travel + Leisure spoke to residents of Italy as well as travelers who visit multiple times a year. We also joined a Faceboook group called Retired Expats in Italy, in which members from around the world share experiences, answer questions, and discuss taxes, housing, driving, and more.

According to Expatica , approximately five million foreigners were living in Italy in 2023, about 8.8 percent of the population. European Union citizens don't need a visa to retire in Italy, and they're able to access the country's public health care system. Others, however, need an Italian residence visa and a stable minimum income in order to stay longer than 90 days. High-quality health care is available for retirees who establish residency, and in the meantime, a private policy is recommended. Pension income is taxable, and in some regions, residents may qualify for a flat seven percent tax.

When it comes to choosing where to retire, other factors like climate, housing costs, lifestyle, health care, and activities might come into play. Then, there's the decision of whether to rent, buy, or invest in a building to renovate. While every retiree has different needs and preferences, we're here to help you get started. Here are some of the best places to retire in Italy, according to experts.

Laura La Monaca/Travel + Leisure

An island off mainland Italy’s toe, Sicily offers a low cost of living and a variety of landscapes, from beaches and mountains to deserts and historic cities. On Sicily’s eastern coast, the popular tourist area of Taormina has restaurants, resorts, beach clubs, and an ancient amphitheater where concerts and events are held. Catania, home to the international airport, is located at the base of Mount Etna, and Siracusa is known for its Baroque architecture and archaeological sites.

The capital of Sicily, Palermo, is a dynamic city on the northern coast with an international airport, and nearby Cefalù is a beautiful seaside town. The island is also home to well-preserved archaeological sites in Agrigento, Segesta, Selinunte, and Siracusa. Sicily's interior consists of wheat fields, olive groves, farms, and villages, including many of the places where houses are selling for one euro to those who are willing to refurbish and live there.

During my many trips to Sicily, I experienced several of its mountain towns where my grandparents emigrated from, as well as the more popular coastal tourist destinations. The Sicilian people are welcoming, the food is delicious, the wines are superb, and the scenery is stunning. English is commonly spoken in the cities most visited by tourists, and in the small towns, most residents speak Italian or the Sicilian dialect. Retirees in Sicily enjoy a laid-back lifestyle, fresh produce, affordable rent and home prices, and a strong sense of community.

Michela Sieman/Travel + Leisure

Located along the heel of Italy’s boot, Puglia features coastlines on both the Adriatic and Ionian seas. Warm weather, small towns, olive groves, beaches, and a relaxed atmosphere make the towns here lovely places to visit and live. The main airport is in Bari, the region’s capital and a major seaport. One of the lower cost areas for retirement in Italy, Puglia is also home to historic cities, beautiful architecture, and UNESCO World Heritage sites, like the hilltop Castel del Monte. Using Bari for comparison, the overall cost of living is about 47 percent lower than New York, and rents are about 84 percent lower.

Last September, I traveled to Puglia , landing in Bari and driving south to Lecce , where there’s a well-preserved Roman amphitheater, the Baroque Basilica di Santa Croce, and the beautiful Old Town. In Otranto, we toured the 15th-century Aragonese Castle and shopped at the many boutiques in town selling everything from handmade ceramics to clothing. In Alberobello, we walked among the trulli, the white buildings set on curved hilly lanes, recognizable by their conical stone roofs. Many are occupied by full-time residents, and several are available through Airbnb or rental agencies.

Retirees living in Puglia can choose to live near the coast or inland in an agricultural area. According to Italy Property Guides, “In Puglia, you can have a quiet rural location and be near a town with all the facilities you might need. Road links are good, some towns are on bus and train routes, and fares are cheap. Big towns such as Bari, Brindisi, Lecce, Ostuni, and others have hospitals and industrial zones with large supermarkets.”

Alexander Spatari/Getty Images

Located in central Italy on the west coast bordering the Tyrrhenian Sea, this region includes mountains, valleys, and coastal plains. The main city is Rome , home to one of Europe’s busiest international airports and the port of Civitavecchia. Retirees can choose Rome, with its museums, restaurants, ancient sites, and sophisticated atmosphere, or a nearby small town .

Laura Itzkowitz , a resident of Rome for several years, says, “The Castelli Romani would be a good place to retire since they offer small-town life, beautiful rural surroundings, and easy access to Rome ." Historically, many noble Roman families built villas in the area to escape the hectic pace of the city. Frascati, for example, is surrounded by vineyards and has a charming town center with plenty of restaurants, bars, and shops. There are also other idyllic towns like Grottaferrata, Castel Gandolfo, Ariccia, and Nemi.

The cost of living varies among the cities in Lazio, with Rome being the priciest, but even at that, the overall cost of living is about 44 percent lower than New York, while rent is about 73 percent lower. In the pedestrian-friendly city, residents don’t need a car, and access to the international airport provides another advantage of living in the area.

Francesco Riccardo Iacomino/Getty Images

This area in central Italy lives up to its romantic reputation with rolling hills, vineyards, rivers, forests, castles, and charming towns. The region also offers 250 miles of Mediterranean coast and beachfront towns like Viareggio, Livorno, Massa, and Carrara. The culturally rich destination includes Florence, Siena, Pisa, Lucca, Arezzo, San Gimignano, and more.  According to International Living , the area is one of the most popular with expats, and there’s an English-speaking presence in most towns.

On a visit to Tuscany, I spent a few days in Lucca, a walled city and one of my favorite places in Italy. “The people in Lucca stick to their traditions, so it’s the perfect location to immerse yourself in the culture and get lost in the food, drink, and people,” chef Luca Moriconi , who grew up there, told T+L.

I've also visited popular tourist destinations like Pisa, Siena, and San Gimignano, as well as quieter small towns that are still conveniently located near these destinations and ideal for retirement. In Viareggio, on the coast, my husband and I enjoyed lunch and browsed the shops where we saw many versions of Pinocchio and a beach club named for the story’s puppet. For retirees who love Tuscany and wish to live near the sea, the Viareggio area is the perfect location.

LucaLorenzelli/Getty Images

Located in the center of Italy, about 30 miles east of Rome, the Abruzzo region is bordered by the Adriatic Sea on the east, offering coastline, lakes, hills, mountains, vineyards, and three national parks. According to a 2023 article in International Living , “Abruzzo is a region for bargain hunters because it has managed to stay off the expat and trendy radar, despite its allures. You’ll find everything from rock-bottom priced village homes to country villas, at prices that will appeal to all budgets. Of course, the lowest prices are in small villages, but even many of those have castles and monuments, everyday services, and access to larger towns.

Livingcost.org compared the cost of living in Abruzzo with the other regions in Italy, and only Umbria showed a slightly lower figure. The website also detailed other expenses, and estimated rent for a three-bedroom apartment in a city center to be $753 a month and a cappuccino to be $1.48. International Living pointed out that the area’s rural farms provide excellent seasonal produce and local fishermen bring fresh catches to the region’s markets. Their estimate for a typical Italian breakfast, including a cappuccino and a cornetto, costs just $2.50.

Places to consider for retirement include coastal Pescara, historic and culturally rich L’Aquila, Teramo on the Adriatic (home to Roman ruins and medieval churches), and tranquil Schiavi di Abruzzo. With three national parks, there’s hiking, skiing, and mountain biking, as well as water sports and golf. Universities in Teramo, Chieti, Pescara, and L’Aquila offer cultural opportunities, too.

Yasonya/Getty Images

This area in northern Italy includes Venice — known for its canals, history, hotels, and restaurants — but it also serves up Roman ruins, medieval castles, beaches, mountains, beautiful small towns, and cities like Verona, Padua, and Vicenza. The hilltop town of Asolo has cobblestone streets and a medieval castle. Conegliano, a medieval walled town, is located in the heart of Italy’s Prosecco region. And Bardolino, on the shores of Lago di Garda, hosts several festivals each year.

While most retirees in Veneto have the opportunity to conveniently visit Venice, they will likely choose to live in one of the towns or cities nearby. For those who want to be near the canals, there’s the island of Burano in the Venetian Lagoon, beloved for its colorful houses. Nearby, seaside Caorle features similar pastel dwellings as well as sandy beaches. In the medieval walled town of Cittadella, there's an annual historic event featuring a torch-lit parade, music, fireworks, and archery competitions.

I spent a few nights in the beautiful city of Verona where I saw (like every tourist) Juliet’s balcony and statue, attended an opera at the Arena di Verona, and strolled across the bridge over the Adige river. I loved the city, and would agree with Expatra that Verona is an excellent retirement destination. According to Numbeo , Verona is about 44 percent less expensive than New York, and rent is about 80 percent lower.

This region in northern Italy is known for fashionable Milan , glamorous Lake Como, and many of the towns around Lake Como, including Bellagio, Menaggio, and Como. The health care system is excellent, and retirees who enjoy city life or smaller towns will find both in Lombardy. According to Livingcost.org , the cost of living in Lombardy is 1.35 times more expensive than other regions of Italy. For Milan, Numbeo indicates that the cost of living is about 31 percent lower than New York, and rents are about 61 percent lower.

Giammario Villa , Italian wine and food historian, spends much of the year in Italy and describes the Franciacorta area of Lombardy as "offers a rare natural beauty and gorgeous landscape, made of pre-Alpine mountains, glacier lake views, gently rolling hills, and, of course, plenty of vineyards." He adds, “This charming northern Italian scenario is completed by perfectly preserved castles, historical villas, and millenarian monasteries, perfect for idyllic walks, glorious biking, and horseback riding. Besides that, Franciacorta offers advanced, high-quality services for senior citizens in both public and private facilities.”

Villa points out that the area’s proximity to Lake Iseo guarantees mild winters and a moderate climate. Franciacorta is one hour from Milan, a plus for retirees who enjoy the city’s shopping and cultural opportunities, as well as convenience to medieval destinations like Brescia and Bergamo. Orio al Serio Airport, the third-largest in Italy, is nearby. Wine lovers will appreciate living among the vineyards, and as Villa notes, “Franciacorta is known to be the very best area in Italy for elegant, classic sparkling wines, with sustainable agriculture at the core of winemaking.” He mentions the excellent local cuisine, too, with examples like saffron risotto, lake fish polenta, and ossobuco.

Maremagnum/Getty Images

Located in northwestern Italy along the Ligurian Sea , this region is often called the Italian Riviera. Known for the five towns of Cinque Terre , the port of Genoa, olive oil, and cuisine that includes seafood, focaccia, pesto, and vermentino wine, Liguria offers mild weather and a beautiful coastline. The charming seaside town of Camogli features colorful homes, and Sanremo’s medieval old town features historic villas.

According to Expat Exchange , “There are several retirement communities in Liguria, offering a variety of amenities such as swimming pools, fitness centers, and social activities.” The 2023 article adds, “The cost of a nice two-bedroom home in Liguria can range from $150,000 to $400,000 USD, while a nice three-bedroom home can range from $200,000 to $500,000 USD.” Retirees in the active expat community have cultural attractions to explore, including Cinque Terre, Genoa’s Palazzo Ducale, and the area’s cathedrals and churches.

Livingcost.org indicates the cost of living in Liguria is 1.08 times more expensive than other regions in Italy. According to Numbeo , the cost of living in Genoa, Liguria’s capital, is about 39 percent lower than New York, and rents are about 81 percent lower.

Related Articles

All products and listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

15 Underrated Places to Travel This Summer, From Kosovo to Quebec

By Jamie Spain

Planning the perfect summer trip can take weeks of research, preparation, and organization to ensure it goes off without a hitch. But before you get to the planning and booking phase, you'll need to decide where to go. There's a seemingly endless amount of great options out there, and while there's nothing wrong with heading to the same familiar spot over and over again, sometimes you want to get a little off the beaten path and go somewhere you haven't been before. Whether you're in the mood for a nature escape with jaw-dropping vistas, hiking paths, and secluded lodges, or are looking for a big city excursion surrounded by trendy restaurants, unique neighborhoods, and great shopping, we've got ideas for you.

From islands to national parks , here are 15 underrated summer travel ideas, perfect for avoiding the crowds while you explore someplace new.

Domestic destinations:

Finger Lakes, New York | Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota | Isle Royale National Park, Michigan | Catalina Island, California | San Juan Islands, Washington | Crystal River, Florida

International destinations:

Kosovo | Budapest, Hungary | Copenhagen, Denmark | Buenos Aires, Argentina | Sardinia, Italy | Mauritius | Kyoto, Japan | Bora Bora | Quebec, Canada

Domestic destinations

Finger Lakes, New York

A fan-favorite of New York City residents, the New York Finger Lakes are unquestionably idyllic. The perfect destination for a summer weekend , or a weeklong trip with the family, this region is home to some of the most beautiful waterfronts. Dotted with adorable small towns , the 11 long, slender lakes that make up this area are exactly what East Coast summer dreams are made of. Spend your trip navigating nearby state parks; hiking, biking, and exploring; and enjoying everything that lake life has to offer, from jet-skiing to swimming.

Where to stay: Check out the Gould Hotel , a modern boutique property in Seneca Falls; book a night at The Lake House on Canandaigua for an airy, design-forward stay; or head east to the Inns of Aurora .

Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota

Completely immerse yourself in nature at Minnesota's Voyageurs National Park. This gorgeous destination is ideal for getting in some of the best stargazing you could ever imagine. Just like dozens of other national parks , this one has an International Dark Sky Park certificate, designating it as a location that is particularly good for viewing the night sky and stars. Unlike the others, however, Voyageurs is one of the least-visited national parks in the country, meaning you'll be able to truly connect with nature and enjoy seclusion. It's ideal for boat rides and swimming, as it's primarily made up of waterfronts and islands—almost 40 percent of the park is water.

Where to stay: Nearby Cantilever Hotel is great for those interested in exploring the park, but not wanting to stay too far away from civilization. Those who are a little more daring will enjoy the Kettle Falls Hotel , a property that is only accessible by boat or seaplane. If you're really looking to be one with nature, you can rent a canoe and camp at a tent site.

Isle Royale National Park, Michigan

If you're looking for a summer vacation where you can explore an area relatively untouched by civilization, look no further than Isle Royale National Park . A favorite of my family, this park is uniquely difficult to get to (the main island is best reached by ferry), so the only other travelers you'll find here are extreme adventurers and in-the-know locals. It's best to visit during the summer months since Lake Superior is quite cold and foggy throughout the rest of the year. My family heads to this park in the summer months in hopes of spending a few days backpacking , canoeing, and hiking through the near-untouched environment—admiring the nature and wildlife along the way.

By Sarah James

By Melissa Liebling-Goldberg

By Laura Fowler

By Jessica Puckett

Where to stay: While the actual park is best experienced through camping, those who aren't interested in totally roughing it can stay at the Rock Harbor Lodge , centrally located on the main island. Or, book this nearby rustic Airbnb cabin with panoramic views of Lake Superior for the days leading up to your national park visit.

Catalina Island, California

Just a hop, skip, and a jump from Los Angeles , Santa Catalina Island is quite literally heaven on Earth. Hopeful travelers can either take the one-hour Catalina Express ferry over to the island (it departs daily from San Pedro, Long Beach, and Dana Point) or charter a private yacht to get them there in style. Whether you're looking to hike the Trans Catalina Trail or simply indulge in some tasty seafood while wandering through the quaint town of Avalon, Catalina Island is a great break from the hustle and bustle of LA. Head a bit farther inland to explore El Rancho Escondido , the acclaimed Arabian horse ranch that's also home to Rusack Vineyards.

Where to stay: For day-trippers or those who plan to extend their vacation to include a stay in Los Angeles, there are a variety of hotels and Airbnbs to choose from, including The Beverly Hills Hotel, Dorchester Collection , The Malibu Beach Inn , and the luxe Chateau Marmont Estate on Airbnb. If you're hoping to stay on-island, the plush Bellanca Hotel is the way to go.

San Juan Islands, Washington

A 2019 Readers' Choice Award winner, named one of the best islands for beautiful scenery, this collection of more than 400 islands off the coast of Washington is ideal for a Pacific Northwest weekend getaway. The three most popular (and largest) islands to explore are Orcas , San Juan, and Lopez—all easily accessible by ferry. Travelers can enjoy a laidback vacation with comfortable temperatures and a relaxed atmosphere: hop on a bike and explore the area; spend time sailing, hiking, and fishing; or take a walk to admire all of the islands' natural beauty, from the mountains to the lakes.

Where to stay: Glampers, campers, and regular hotel-goers will all adore the Lakedale which has accommodations for every type of traveler.

Crystal River, Florida

Home to one of the best beaches in Florida , Crystal River is unlike most other cities you'll find in the Sunshine State for one major reason: It's one of the only places in the world where people can swim alongside manatees . If you've ever wanted to truly get up close to these gentle giants, this is the city to visit. Head to the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge to see your fill of the endangered animal, and spend some time taking in the natural beauty of the nearby springs and parks.

Where to stay: The Plantation Resort on Crystal River is home to a variety of different activities including a 27-hole championship golf course and a family-friendly resort with 196 accommodations.

International destinations

There's a reason Kosovo is on our list of the Best Places to Go in 2024, and it has everything to do with the jaw-dropping scenery that can be found in every corner of this country. Outdoorsy folks who want to spend their time hiking and biking through untainted valleys, mountains, and countryside will appreciate the chance to explore the newest European country. Travelers who who are looking for a taste of the young nation's history can head to the national museum; afterward, explore the streets of Prizren taking in the architecture as well as the historic mosques and churches.

Where to stay: Book a night at the Hotel Gracanica in the quiet suburb of Prishtina, or pamper yourself at the luxe Ujevara e Drinit Resort near Peja. For something a little more traditional, enjoy tasty Kosovo dishes as well as classic comforts at the rural Ariu Guesthouse . (Check out our guide on where to eat, play, and stay in Kosovo for even more recommendations.)

Budapest, Hungary

Skip Western Europe and instead head to the beautiful capital of Hungary . Luxuriate in the mineral-rich thermal baths you'll find around the city , or spend your days exploring the historic Castle District, walking along the Danube, and meandering through the city streets. You can even take a faux hot air balloon trip to enjoy the best view in the city. If you plan your trip for August, it may coincide with the Sziget Festival , one of the largest music and cultural festivals in all of Europe.

Where to stay: Book a night at 2024 Gold List winner, The Four Seasons Gresham Palace Budapest , or spend a few nights at the adults-only Hotel Clark Budapest . (Check out our guide on where to eat, play, and stay in Budapest for more recommendations.)

Copenhagen, Denmark

There's no better time to visit Copenhagen than during the summer months when the weather is warm, the days are exceptionally long, and the waterfront views are breathtaking. Aside from being ranked as one of the happiest countries in the world , sustainably-minded travelers will appreciate how eco-focused the place is, and enjoy a trip to CopenHill, the multi-use waste-to-energy plant with a ski slope, climbing wall, and cafe. It's also worth checking out the Tivoli Gardens, Rosenborg Castle, and the picturesque Nyhavn harbor .

Where to stay: Check out our favorite hotels in Copenhagen , including the grand and historic Hotel d'Angleterre , the Nimb Hotel which was originally built as a castle in 1909, and the modern Villa Copenhagen .

Buenos Aires, Argentina

From awe-inspiring museums to culture-packed tours to dance halls perfect for learning to tango , there's no shortage of amazing things to do and see in Buenos Aires . Whether you're spending the day simply walking the streets and taking in the sights; exploring the colorful La Boca; watching a soccer match; learning to tango; or going to the Colón Theatre to see the opera, this will be a trip to remember.

Where to stay: Some of our favorite hotels in Buenos Aires include the luxe Palacio Duhau ; the Jardín Escondido , once home to Francis Ford Coppola; and the Faena Hotel Buenos Aires located right by the water in Puerto Madero.

Sardinia, Italy

There's so much more to Sardinia than just a beautiful coastline and wonderful beaches. While the long, warm days are perfect to spend by the crystal blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea, travelers who want a little more substance to their vacation can head inland to experience the island's charming towns, rustic cuisine, and ancient ruins.

Where to stay: Rest your head at the Cascioni Eco Retreat , set on a 90-acre nature reserve with gorgeous views of the surrounding land. The colorful Su Gologone Experience Hotel is another great option, as is the luxurious, high-end Hotel Cali de Volpe .

Another location on our list of the Best Places to Go in 2024, Mauritius is about 1,200 miles east of Madagascar . From its gorgeous coastlines with pristine beaches to the luxury accommodations and unparalleled nature, this island destination is nothing short of paradise. Head here during the Northern Hemisphere's summer months to avoid wet season. Your main activities on Mauritius will be water-based, from diving and snorkeling to sitting on the beach and admiring the coastline. If you need a break from relaxing, take a trip to the Bel Ombre Nature Reserve, the Botanic Gardens, or the capital city of Port Louis.

Where to stay: Check out our favorite hotels in Mauritius , including the four-time Readers' Choice Award winner and two-time Gold List winner, One&Only Le Saint Géran . You can also book a stay at the legendary resort, Lux Belle Mare , or the kite-surfers' paradise of Riu Palace Mauritius .

Kyoto, Japan

Instead of heading to the mega-popular Tokyo or the bright and lively Osaka, consider touching down in Kyoto , one of the best cities to experience traditional Japanese culture. Spend the day exploring the temples and shrines that are dotted throughout the city; take a walk through Gion, the “Geisha District;” or while away a few hours in the Kyoto National Museum. The best times to visit Japan are at the very end or beginning of summer when the season overlaps with spring and fall, and while it'll certainly be a bit warmer during the peaks of summer, it's no less beautiful.

Where to stay: From the Ace Hotel to the Shinmonzen , there is no shortage of great hotels in Central Kyoto. If you're interested in something a little different, tour guide Sara Aiko from Traveler 's Ask a Local series recommends taking a trip to Moksa , a gorgeous property in the north of Kyoto surrounded by temples and nature.

Nothing says romance like staying in an overwater bungalow in Bora Bora. The winter in French Polynesia corresponds with the summer in the Northern Hemisphere, meaning June, July, and August experience less humid and more comfortable temperatures. This time period also falls during Tahiti 's dry season, so you don't have to worry about being rained out. You could easily spend your days simply lounging in your bungalow and slipping into the crystal waters whenever you feel, but Bora Bora is also ideal for snorkeling, scuba diving, and taking a boat or a 4x4 island tour.

Where to stay: Bora Bora is particularly known for its luxury overwater bungalows. Conrad Bora Bora Nui is a more private option with exceptional snorkeling and coral, The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort is perfect for honeymooners and families alike, and the Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora is home to over 100 bungalows, fine dining, and an exceptional spa.

Quebec, Canada

When you think of summer travel, your first thought is probably an island getaway or a far-flung destination that you've only read about in books. But, don't overlook all of the beauty that our northern neighbor has to offer. Quebec City is home to all the same type of charm you'll find in Europe but without the exceptionally long flight to get there. Spend some time in Old Quebec City —home to some of the oldest streets in North America—taking in the history and culture that make this city worthy of its title as a UNESCO World Heritage Site . Or, head to Montreal , where you can enjoy a variety of museums, the open-air market, and great culinary options. Don't forget to explore the nature and French architecture found in the greater province.

Where to stay: For a wonderful stay in Quebec City, Hotel 71 is a six-time Readers' Choice Award winner while Auberge Saint Antoine Quebec City and Le Germain Hotel Quebec are both five-time winners. For a wellness-focused retreat , head to Monastère des Augustines . In Montreal , check out the Auberge du Vieux-Port on the St. Lawrence River, or Hotel William Gray in Old Montreal.

Firework content

This content can also be viewed on the site it originates from.

2024/25 UEFA Champions League: Bologna and Dortmund secure next season's European Performance Spots

Sunday, June 2, 2024

Article summary

Bologna from Italy and Dortmund from Germany have both earned league phase places for next season via the new new European Performance Spots.

Article top media content

Article body

The 2024/25 UEFA Champions League will be the first under the new 36-team league phase format, with Italy's Bologna and Germany's Dortmund gaining two of the additional four places to be filled by the European Performance Spots.

Last updated at 19:00 CET on Sunday 2 June .

What are the European Performance Spots?

The European Performance Spots go to the associations with the best collective performance by their clubs in the previous season's UEFA men's club competitions (i.e. the association club coefficient of the previous season, which is based on the total number of club coefficient points obtained by each club from an association, divided by the number of clubs from that association, in accordance with Annex D of the competition regulations).

Those two associations each earn one automatic place in the league phase ('European Performance Spot') for the club ranked next-best in their domestic league behind those clubs that have already qualified directly for the league phase.

Which associations have benefited from the European Performance Spots next season?

Italy and Germany finished in the top two of the 2023/24 association club coefficients and each earned a European Performance Spot.

2023/24 association club coefficients 1. Italy : 147.000 points / seven clubs = 21.000 average 2. Germany : 135.500 / seven = 19.357 3. England : 139.000 / eight = 17.375 4. France : 97.500 / six = 16.250 5. Spain : 128.500 / eight = 16.062 6. Belgium : 72.000 / five = 14.400 7. Czechia : 54.000 / four = 13.500

Which clubs take the European Performance Spots?

Both Italy and Germany have four automatic league phase spots for the 2024/25 campaign, meaning the teams that finished in the top four of both the Serie A and Bundesliga standings are assured of a place in the league phase.

Bologna, fifth in Serie A, will take Italy's European Performance Spot, while Germany's will go to fifth-placed Dortmund.

European Performance Spots

Italy : Bologna Germany : Dortmund

Who else will qualify for the league phase?

The European Performance Spots make up two of the additional four slots for next season's competition. The other additional places are awarded as follows:

Slot three : This place goes to the club ranked third in the championship of the association in fifth position in the access list (France), which is determined by the five-year UEFA association club coefficient ranking up to the end of the 2022/23 season .

Slot four : This place goes to a domestic champion by extending from four to five the number of clubs qualifying via the champions path of the competition's qualifying process, which will consist of three qualifying rounds and the play-offs.

The 36 spots for the 2024/25 league phase will therefore be determined as follows:

2023/24 UEFA Champions League winner (1) 2023/24 UEFA Europa League winner (1) England (4) Spain (4) Germany (4) Italy (4) France (3) Netherlands (2) Portugal (1) Belgium (1) Scotland (1) Austria (1) European Performance Spots (2) Qualifying rounds – champions path (5) Qualifying rounds – league path (2)

Selected for you

2024/25 Champions League details

2024/25 league phase as it stands