Best 23 Places To Visit In Italy

1. Rome

Great food, majestic architecture, rich history, are only few of the things the capital of Italy can offer its guests. Rome boasts famous attractions that have beautiful or haunting backstories. You’ll find here many ancient ruins such as the Colosseum, the Pantheon, and the Roman Forum - which I think all history buffs yearn to visit. If it is art you’re after, you only need to walk around its medieval piazzas, and you’ll see world-class baroque facades.

In case you’re hungry for more art, go to the basilicas and the museums and see Rennaisance paintings and Byzantine mosaics as well as works of well-renowned artists like Michaelangelo, Caravaggio, and Raphael. A trip to Rome wouldn’t be complete without eating in pizzerias and trattorias and having coffee in some beautiful cafe by the street, while you watch people pass by.

Good to know:

• The city stretches across seven historically significant hills, Palatine, Aventine, Campidoglio, Quirinale, Viminale, Esquilino, and Celio.

• Rome is associated with several common proverbs, such as “All roads lead to Rome”. This derives from the accessibility of ancient Rome when many roads in Italy started from and ended in the city.

• For more information about Rome, check out the official tourism website.

Stay here:

• Luxury: Maison Roma Piazza di Spagna UNA Esperienze

• Budget: Villa Ivana

2. Milan

When I hear the word Milan, the first word that often comes to mind is fashion, and I’m sure it’s true for everyone! Milan is the world’s fashion and design capital. It is also where you’ll encounter Italian fashion houses that have branched out into almost everywhere–like spas, bars, hotels, galleries, and more. You’ll almost feel that this is a place where not dressing well is a crime.

Though the metropolis has a connotation of being a workaholic city, the people of Milan know how to have fun, especially when you visit La Scala and experience its prestigious nightlife and get to know its vibrant music scene. As for the artistic side of the city, the most famous contribution of Milan is the Last Supper by Leonardo Da Vinci, which you’ll find in the convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie.

Good to know:

• Make sure to enjoy a tram ride when in Milan. There are many colorful electric trams in the city, some dating back to 1928. You can take tram line 10 to travel from Porta Ticinese to Viale Lunigiana while admiring the city highlights along the way.

• If you’re an environmentally conscious traveler, you’ll love the green initiatives taken by the city of Milan. These include promoting bike sharing, pedestrianized areas, electric vehicles, and more.

• For more information about Milan, check out official tourism website.

Stay here:

• Luxury: The Westin Palace, Milan

• Budget: House Milan

3. Venice

A dreamy place straight out of a fairy tale, Venice is a city composed of 100 little islands in the lagoon of the Adriatic Sea. I think it’s a must-visit for any romantic. In fact, you can even plan your destination wedding here! It is known for its stunning and elaborately designed architecture, beautiful palaces filled with exquisite artworks, and vibrant history that dates back 1,000 years ago.

One of the most famous attractions here is the Grand Canal. It is an iconic waterway where you can experience the famous gondola ride with a singing gondolier to keep you entertained. Two of the must-visit sites here, for its architectural value and its artworks, are the Basilica San Marco and the Palazzo Ducale. Also, you might as well visit the many shops, museums, cafes, and more, which line the largest piazza in Venice, Piazza San Marco.

Good to know:

• For a hassle-free exploration of the city, you can opt for the Venice Pass. This takes care of transportation and helps you get easy access to famous attractions such as Doge’s Palace, Museo del Vetro, and more. The pass fee depends on the number of days you wish to spend here. You can book it directly here.

• There are certain restrictions for tourists in Venice. You must avoid littering and vandalizing public property or diving and swimming in the canals.

• For more information about Venice, check out the official tourism website.

Stay here:

• Luxury: Palazzina Grassi

• Budget: Residence Castello Venezia

4. Florence

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The capital of the Tuscany Region in Italy, Florence is famous for its Renaissance architecture and art, which is very evident in the many attractions the city offers, just like the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore or the Florence Cathedral. You’ll be mesmerized with its terracotta-tiled dome that was designed by Brunelleschi.

Another thing you’ll find stunning in the cathedral is Giotto’s magnificent bell tower. Also, you shouldn’t miss the chance to visit the Uffizi Gallery, where you can view Da Vinci’s “Annunciation” and “The Birth of Venus” by Botticelli.

Good to know:

• Visit the popular San Lorenzo Central Market to shop for local products, souvenirs, and more. You can explore over 100 stalls and other local vendors just outside the market. The market stays open from Monday to Friday between 7 am and 2 pm and on Saturdays from 7 am to 5 pm.

• Nature lovers can stop by Cascine Park, the largest green space in the city. Aside from lush greenery, it offers access to the north banks of River Arno.

• For more information about Florence, check out the official tourism website.

Stay here:

• Luxury: Sina Villa Medici, Autograph Collection

• Budget: hu Firenze Camping in Town

5. Pisa

Famous for the Leaning Tower of Pisa, Pisa is a city located in the Tuscany Region in Italy. This city is more than a stopover when traveling to Florence; it is a place that offers numerous historical sites, museums, and over 20 magnificent churches. Also, the scenic view along the banks of the River of Arno will surely take your breath away, with its gorgeous landscape and beautiful vibrant houses as its background.

Before heading to your next destination in Italy, don’t forget to drop by the Borgo Stretto for high-end shopping and excellent architecture. This street is also a great place for those who, like me, love to connect with new people.

Good to know:

• If you’re in Pisa in late May or early June, make sure to attend the annual Festa Siciliana event and have a wonderful time exploring the area’s food, wine, and entertainment. It’s held at Piazza Sardegna in Marina di Pisa.

• A must-visit for history buffs in Pisa is Bagni di Nerone (Baths of Nero). This place features the ruins of Roman thermal baths dating centuries back. You can also find Brunelleschi’s Bastion nearby.

• For more information about Pisa, check out the official tourism website.

Stay here:

• Luxury: The Rif - Boutique Hotel

• Budget: Casa Betania

6. Tuscany

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Recognized as the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance, Tuscany is a region in Italy that is known for its beautiful landscapes, colorful history, influential art scene, and most especially its impact on high culture. It is home to many world-class museums just like the Uffizi Gallery and the Pitti Palace. Also, the region features beaches, mountains, vineyards, and olive groves, which you can all explore when you visit Tuscany. Don’t forget to try Italian wine while here - I know I won’t!

Good to know:

• Visit Chianti to explore the rolling vineyards and don’t forget to try the famous Chianti DOCG red wine, produced in the region.

• If you’re an explorer through and through, experience biking on the historic Via Francigena while savoring breathtaking landscapes on the way.

• For more information about Tuscany, check out the official tourism website.

Stay here:

• Luxury: Agriturismo Il Macchione

• Budget: Eremo dei Poeti

7. Verona

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Located in the Veneto Region in Italy, Verona is famous for being the setting for Shakespeare’s play “Romeo and Juliet”. According to locals, you’ll find here a home with a small balcony from the 14th century, complete with a gorgeous courtyard, which is said to be the residence of Juliet.

As much as its association with Shakespeare’s play intrigues me, I’d also love to explore Verona’s other attractions, including its beautiful piazzas, countless remarkable churches, and the many picturesque bridges over the river of Adige.

Good to know:

• Verona is a UNESCO World Heritage City, so it’s ideal for culture enthusiasts.

• Verona is not just for solo travelers or couples, it has various family-friendly attractions. Take your kids to Children’s Museum Verona to help them learn new things in a fun manner.

• For more information about Verona, check out the official tourism website.

Stay here:

• Luxury: Hotel Indigo Verona - Grand Hotel Des Arts, an IHG Hotel

• Budget: Residenza CuordiVerona

8. Capri Island

There are many reasons why well-known celebrities throughout the world often talk about wanting to have a holiday in Capri. Capri is an island in Italy located in the Bay of Naples and features picture-perfect beach clubs dotted with chairs and umbrellas, making a remarkable image of order. Also, the island is famous for its upscale shopping options, leather sandals, luxury hotels, and many more.

One of the most-visited attractions here that I’d love to check out is the Blue Grotto. It is a cavern where you’ll see electric blue waters that seem to glow, because of the light that reflects on the cave walls, making a wondrous optical impression.

Good to know:

• Capri Island can be accessed by plane, train, and car. You can take a train from any major Italian city to Napoli Centrale station. From there, board a bus or hire a taxi to reach the port. There are three transport options from the port to the island, high-speed ferry, regular ferry, and private boat transfer.

• While you easily explore the island by bus, taxi, or boat, opt for the funicular or the Monte Solaro chairlift to make the most of your visit. These two options allow access to incredible views.

• For more information about Capri Island, check out the official tourism website.

Stay here:

• Luxury: Hotel La Minerva

• Budget: R&D Rest and Dream Capri

9. Naples

In the shadows of the still active Mt. Vesuvius, Naples is the third-largest city in Italy and an epic tourist destination for its rich history, vibrant nightlife, and outstanding architecture, which you can see in its churches, squares, and historical structures.

If you’re a fan of new and unique experiences like me, you’ll surely want to visit the San Gennaro Catacombs. It is an underground world that has numerous passageways lined with crypts and graves that can be traced back to ancient times. It has two floors, where the lower deck look like a haunted place with its dim lights and 3,000 graves, while on the upper level, you’ll find beautiful frescoes and artworks.

Good to know:

• Visit the Posillipo neighborhood in Naples to admire stunning sea views in a charming hilly setting. The area also boasts upscale eateries and Area Marina Protetta and Gaiola’s Park.

• The best time to visit Naples is between the months of April and November, as it guarantees access to more open-air activities. However, the city enjoys pleasant weather throughout the year!

• For more information about Naples, check out the official tourism website.

Stay here:

• Luxury: The Britannique Hotel Naples, Curio Collection By Hilton

• Budget: ATAROOMS Suites Napoli

10. Sicily

Have you seen Italy on the map? It looks like a boot, right? On its toe is the island of Sicily, the largest in the Mediterranean. It is known for its rich and colorful history which I’m sure you can see in its numerous historical sites just like the Valley of the Temples, Greek temples, Cappella Palatina, and more. Also, never forget to visit its capital of Palermo, which is dotted with palazzos, a great indication of the glamour and affluence of earlier times.

In case you’re here for its beaches, the island of Sicily features more or less 600 miles (956.61 km) of coastline, giving each type of traveler a choice, such as Mondello if you opt for something within reach, Scale Dei Turchi for postcard-ready pictures, and Lo Zingaro for the wild souls that need adventures.

Good to know:

• Check out some of the 21 underwater routes in Sicily if you’re into diving or snorkeling. There are opportunities for both novice and expert divers; the former can try exploring the underwater treasures from Pantelleria, while the latter can head to Scopello.

• Choose from seven UNESCO Heritage Sites in Sicily. Nature lovers can admire Mount Etna, while architecture enthusiasts can explore the Baroque buildings of Val di Noto.

• For more information about Sicily, check out the official tourism website.

Stay here:

• Luxury: Hotel Politeama

• Budget: Maison Ortigia

11. Siena

Also located in the Tuscany region in Central Italy, Siena is famous for the Palio di Siena, a horse race that happens twice a year, every July 2 and August 16. Apart from the horse race of 17 city wards, Siena is also known for its medieval cityscape, numerous museums, vibrant art scene, and its local cuisine.

One more thing that makes me want to travel to the city is its romantic ambiance and relatively smaller crowds, unlike Florence. One of the most visited attractions here is the fan-shaped medieval square, Piazza Del Campo. You can spend time here drinking coffee at local coffee shops or bars while you watch people continue with their daily lives.

Good to know:

• Siena can be visited at any time of the year, so you can plan your trip according to the activities you want to enjoy. Summertime is perfect for outdoor activities such as fishing, exploring vineyards, or riding a Vespa through the city, while winter is ideal for a cheerful time in the nearby Christmas Markets of Montepulciano.

• The best way to soak in the vibe of Siena is by exploring it on foot. You can also hop on Thumbelina, a minibus!

• For more information about Siena, check out the official tourism website.

Stay here:

• Luxury: Palazzetto Rosso - Art Hotel

• Budget: Attilio Camere

12. Sardinia

An island in the Mediterranean Sea, Sardinia is a popular summer destination in Italy. With its 2,000 km (1,242.74 mi) of coastline, there is surely something in store for each type of beachgoer. Aside from its sandy beaches, the island also offers mountainous hiking trails.

One of the unique features of the Sardinia is its landscape dotted with Nuraghi, Bronze Age stone ruins that resemble a beehive. One great example of this landscape is Su Nuraxi, which is located in Barumini and dates back to 1,500 B.C.

Good to know:

• The island is accessible by air and the sea. You can access it from several charming ports such as Porto Torres in the northwest or Port of Arbatax in the east. If you wish to explore souther Sardinia, take a flight to Cagliari - Elmas Airport.

• Outdoor enthusiasts visiting Sardinia are in for a treat as it offers opportunities for mountain biking, canyoning, kite surfing, and more.

• For more information about Sardinia, check out the official tourism website.

Stay here:

• Luxury: Cervo Hotel,Costa Smeralda Resort

• Budget: Sighientu Resort

Su Nuraxi

Address: Viale Su Nuraxi, 09021 Barumini VS, Italy

Website: Sardinia

Opening hours: 9am - 7pm (daily)

Price: 12 EUR (13.03 USD)

13. Ravenna

Haven’t heard of Ravenna, unlike other popular cities in Italy such as Verona, Florence, and Venice? Well, it’s time for you to get to know this elegant city in the region of Emilia-Romagna. It is famous for its many buildings adorned with colorful, early Christian and Byzantine mosaics, just like what you’ll see in the 6th-century Basilica di Sant'Apollinare Nuovo, Basilica di San Vitale, and the Mausoleo di Galla Placidia.

Apart from architecture and arts, the city also offers beautiful beaches, great local cuisine, and the famous sparkling red wine, Lambrusco.

Good to know:

• Explore Ravenna by bike by taking advantage of the abundant cycle routes against scenic backdrops. bike rental services are easily available in the city; you can also go for the electric scooter sharing service.

• The city has over 100 parks! These include Parco della Pace and Speyer Gardens.

• For more information about Ravenna, check out the official tourism website.

Stay here:

• Luxury: Palazzo Bezzi Hotel

• Budget: Hotel Centrale Byron

14. Sorrento

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Overlooking the Bay of Naples, Sorrento is a town in Southwestern Italy that is known for its small shops that offer numerous handicrafts like lacework, ceramics, and marquetry. This coastal town is set atop a cliff, away from the busy marinas, which are often packed with tourists and locals.

Given its cliff-side location, Sorrento has uninterrupted water views, giving you a fabulous backdrop for your photos. Also, you should visit the Piazza Tasso, a square that is lined with cafes and where you can try the town’s cuisine and other delightful treats.

Good to know:

• To get around Sorrento, you can avail the bus or train service. Circumvesuviana Station is the central train station connecting several bus routes.

• You can catch a glimpse of the infamous Vesuvius Volcano from this town.

• For more information about Sorrento, check out the official tourism website.

Stay here:

• Luxury: Grand Hotel Capodimonte

• Budget: MelRose Sorrento

15. Cinque Terre

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Composed of five fishing villages, Cinque Terre is an underrated tourist destination in Italy, which is equally romantic and picturesque just like its many cities. When you visit the area, you’ll see vibrant-colored houses and beautiful vineyards that are set in terraces. Another attraction not to be missed here is the fishing boat-filled harbor that is also lined with trattorias which serve fresh seafood dishes and pesto.

If you’re into more active things, then try hiking at the Sentiero Azzurro cliff-side hiking trail, which connects the five fabulous villages and gives you striking sea vistas.

Good to know:

• The rocky coast of Cinque Terre stretches for about 18 km (11.18 mi) and provides stunning mountain views.

• Enjoy a glass of Sciacchetrà when in Cinque Terre. The region takes pride in producing this sweet wine, perfect for desserts.

• For more information about Cinque Terre, check out the official tourism website.

Stay here:

• Luxury: The Railway 74

• Budget: About Italy Holiday Rooms and Apartments

16. Italian Lake District

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The Italian Lake District is composed of five popular lakes–Lake Como, Lake Garda, Lake Octa, Lake Maggiore, and Lake Iseo. If you’re an American, you’ll surely choose Lake Como as a holiday destination; as for Germans they often opt for Lake Garda, while Lake Octa is the go-to vacation spot for Italians. Lake Como is famous for its beautiful villas, Lake Maggiore is the largest among the four, and Lake Iseo is the underdog and seems like a hidden treasure which few only know about.

Visit the Italian Lake District and learn about each of the lakes’ unique charm and discovery why tourists love this area.

Good to know:

• Lake Garda boasts a unique microclimate. Its waters are colder than the air in summer and warmer than the air in winter. So, no matter when you visit the lake, you’ll enjoy a pleasant weather.

• Lake Iseo is known for its water sports opportunities. You can try diving, windsurfing, canoeing, and more.

Stay here:

• Luxury: Al Molo 5 - Lake Front, Oliveto Lario

• Budget: Villa Camporosso, Colà di Lazise

17. Pompei

Located in Southern Italy in the lovely region of Campania, which overlooks the majestic Mt. Vesuvius, Pompei is a city that is popular for the ancient ruins of Pompeii. When Mt. Vesuvius erupted in 79 AD, the town was buried in ashes, killing approximately 3,000 people.

Today, the town of Pompeii has become an outdoor museum that exhibits the ruins of the ancient city. It serves as proof of how developed the Roman Civilization is as you see the city’s amphitheater and the Villa of the Mysteries. Another great attraction in Pompei is the Sanctuary of the Madonna of the Rosary, which is a catholic pilgrimage site that features an ornate cupola and impressive mosaics.

Good to know:

• While visiting the Archaeological Park, make sure not to carry any professional recording device such as a video camera, microphone, or audio mixer without acquiring formal permission from the administration.

• Most of the significant sites of Pompeii are accessible to all, including guests with disabilities. You can find the inclusive Pompeii for All itinerary here.

• For more information about Pompeii, check out the official tourism website.

Stay here:

• Luxury: Resort & Winery Bosco De Medici

• Budget: B&B Studio83 Pompei

18. Turin

Situated in Northern Italy, Turin is the capital of Piedmont, which is the financial an business hub of Italy. This city is known for its refined architectural style and mouthwatering cuisine, which you can sample at the many excellent local restaurants in town.

When you are here, you should visit Turin’s boulevard, where you’ll be amazed by the baroque-style buildings and old-fashioned cafes. It is also where you’ll find the Piazza Castello and Piazza San Carlo, two grand squares of the city that are worth your time exploring.

Good to know:

• Turin is not just for foodies and culture enthusiasts but also nature lovers. It boasts several parks, access to the River Po, and 300 km (186.41 mi) of tree-lined avenues against the backdrop of the western Alps.

• Go for the historic Sassi-Superga tramway to explore the city. This century-old tramway is an affordable way to cover the attractions. Rates starts from 2 EUR (2.17 USD) on weekdays and 3.50 EUR (3.80 USD) on Saturdays and holidays.

• For more information about Turin, check out the official tourism website.

Stay here:

• Luxury: Corte Realdi Luxury Rooms Torino

• Budget: Golden Eagle

19. Positano

Do you want to know why Positano is a popular holiday destination in Italy? The reasons vary for everyone–one may say, because of its picturesque landscape, given that it is a cliff side village, while others may tell you that they are after its pebble beachfront or the narrow street dotted with charming boutiques and cute cafes. There’s a lot of interesting and marvelous things this city in Amalfi Coast has to offer, all you need to do is explore.

Good to know:

• Hop on a ferry from Positano to explore the rugged but beautiful Amalfi Coast.

• Visit Santa Maria Assunta Church to admire it’s gorgeous dome. The church is also adorned with wonderful artwork.

• For more information about Positano, check out the official tourism website.

Stay here:

• Luxury: Hotel Marincanto

• Budget: Hotel Rooms 14/7 in Positano

20. Como

Located in Northern Italy, Como is a picturesque city in the southern point of Lake Como. A lot of tourists flock here to explore the beauty of Lake Como as well as the unique natural landscape. Apart from nature, the city also boasts of impressive architecture which you can see in the Gothic-style Como Cathedral and the Romanesque Basilica of Saint Addondio.

As for Como’s art scene, they have here the Como Archaeological Museum, where you can find artifacts that date back to the Greek times, and Museo Storico Giuseppe Garibaldi, which exhibits lavishly restored rooms that showcase traditional living in Italy through the ages. Explore the city, and you’ll find more reasons to come back here.

Good to know:

• Como takes pride in being the filming location of various movies and TV series. One of them is the Adam Sandler and Jennifer Aniston starrer, “Murder Mystery”!

• Cinemaholics will also enjoy attending the annual event, 35mm Under the Sky. It will be held on the courtyard of Garibaldi Museum. You can attend it between late-July and mid-August this year.

• For more information about Como, check out the official tourism website.

Stay here:

• Luxury: Palazzo Albricci Peregrini

• Budget: Agriturismo Cascina Mirandola

Visit incredible Italy

A country with a lot of character, Italy offers you romantic cities, historical sites, beautiful architecture, world-class art, and more surprises when you visit. Before planning your itinerary, read our list of the best places to visit in Italy, as your guide. Have a happy and fun-filled holiday.