Let’s be honest – trying to narrow down the best places to visit in Italy feels like attempting to choose just one pasta dish for the rest of your life. It’s nearly impossible! From the ancient streets of Rome to the rolling hills of Tuscany, every corner of this country holds something special. Cities packed with history sit next to coastal towns where life moves at the pace of gelato melting on a warm afternoon.
Having spent countless hours exploring Italy’s hidden corners and famous landmarks alike, I can tell you that each destination tells its own unique story. Whether it’s the way sunlight hits the canals in Venice, or how the smell of fresh-baked focaccia fills the air in a tiny Ligurian village, these places aren’t just spots on a map – they’re experiences that stay with you long after you’ve returned home.
While this list of 23 places barely scratches the surface of what Italy has to offer, I’ve tried to include something for everyone – from the history buffs to the food lovers, the art enthusiasts to the nature seekers. Think of this as your starting point for planning that Italian adventure you’ve been dreaming about.
Rome, Italy
Of all the cities I’ve explored in Europe, none captures the essence of human history quite like Rome. This ancient capital feels like a living museum where every cobblestone street and architectural marvel tells a story spanning over 2,000 years. Walking through the city center, you’ll find yourself moving from ruins of the Roman Empire to Renaissance masterpieces within minutes. The Colosseum stands as a testament to ancient engineering, while Vatican City houses some of the world’s most important art collections. It’s not just about the landmarks though – Romans know how to live well, and you’ll find yourself naturally slipping into their lifestyle of long lunches, evening passeggiatas, and gelato breaks between sightseeing.
Florence, Italy
Step back in time when you visit Florence, the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance. Art lovers can spend hours exploring the Uffizi Gallery, home to masterpieces by Botticelli and da Vinci, or marvel at Michelangelo’s David at the Accademia Gallery. For a classic Florence experience, climb the 463 steps of the Duomo cathedral for sweeping views of the city’s terracotta rooftops. When you’re ready to take a break, head to the Ponte Vecchio, the famous medieval bridge lined with jewelry shops, or grab a scoop of gelato and people-watch in the lively Piazza della Signoria.
Venice, Italy
Built across 118 small islands connected by countless bridges, Venice is a city that seems to float on water. Unlike any other place in Italy, you’ll find no cars here – just boats gliding through narrow canals and locals going about their day along cobblestone streets. The city’s unique transport system of water taxis and gondolas tells the story of how Venetians have adapted to life on the lagoon for over 1000 years. Thanks to its powerful trading history, Venice blends Italian and Byzantine influences, visible in places like St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace. As you wander through the maze-like streets and cross over tiny footbridges, you’ll discover hidden squares, local bacari wine bars, and craftsmen still making traditional Murano glass and carnival masks.
Amalfi Coast, Italy
Drive along the winding coastal roads of the Amalfi Coast, where colorful villages cling to cliffsides overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. This 34-mile stretch of coastline features 13 seaside towns, each with its own personality and charm. Stop in Positano to explore narrow streets lined with boutiques and cafes, or head to the town of Amalfi to see its famous Duomo di Sant’Andrea. For a perfect afternoon, grab a limoncello in Sorrento’s main square, then take a boat tour to see the coast’s hidden caves and secluded beaches from the water. The best time to visit is spring or fall when you can enjoy the pleasant weather without the summer crowds.
Tuscany, Italy
Explore the rolling hills and vineyards of Tuscany, Italy’s most famous wine region. You can stay in a charming farmhouse surrounded by cypress trees and olive groves, or base yourself in historic cities like Florence and Siena. Take a cooking class to learn authentic pasta-making from local chefs, then spend your afternoons visiting medieval towns like San Gimignano with its famous towers. Wine lovers shouldn’t miss a tasting tour through Chianti, where you can sample bold reds right where they’re made and learn about centuries-old winemaking traditions.
Milan, Italy
Step into Italy’s fashion and design capital when you visit Milan, a city that seamlessly blends old-world charm with modern luxury. The iconic Duomo cathedral sits at the heart of the city, where you can climb to the rooftop for views across the metropolis and the distant Alps. For art lovers, head to Santa Maria delle Grazie church to see Leonardo da Vinci’s “The Last Supper,” or spend an afternoon exploring the Pinacoteca di Brera art gallery. Shop till you drop in the Quadrilatero della Moda, Milan’s high-end fashion district, or catch a world-class opera performance at the historic Teatro alla Scala.
Cinque Terre, Italy
Italy’s famous Cinque Terre draws visitors to its five colorful seaside villages perched along the rugged Ligurian coast. While most people come for the iconic hiking trails connecting these ancient settlements, the area offers much more than just walking paths. Each village – Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore – has its own character, with narrow lanes leading to small harbors where fishing boats bob in crystal-clear waters. During summer, travelers can cool off at Monterosso’s beaches or sample local specialties like pesto and seafood in family-run restaurants. Though the trails between towns sometimes close due to weather, you can always hop on the local train or take a boat to explore these car-free communities year-round.
Naples, Italy
Many visitors flock to Naples for its pizza – the city is the birthplace of this beloved dish – but there’s much more to discover in Italy’s third-largest city. The historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, features ancient churches, underground ruins, and winding streets that tell stories of the city’s 2,800-year history. Mount Vesuvius looms in the background, serving as both a scenic backdrop and a reminder of nearby Pompeii’s fate. Beyond the typical tourist spots, you’ll find lively street markets, local cafes serving fresh seafood, and authentic neighborhoods where tradition still rules daily life – making Naples a perfect base for experiencing real Italian culture any time of year.
Little-Known Fact:
You might be surprised to learn that Naples is actually the birthplace of one of the world’s most beloved foods – pizza was first created here in the late 1800s, specifically at the famous Pizzeria Brandi where the Margherita pizza was made to honor Queen Margherita of Italy. The city still takes its pizza-making very seriously, with strict rules about ingredients and cooking methods that have earned Neapolitan pizza-making a spot on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list.
Lake Como, Italy
Lake Como draws visitors with its mix of clear blue waters and towering Alpine mountains, making it one of northern Italy’s most popular lake destinations. The Y-shaped lake is lined with old villages, colorful houses, and fancy villas that have welcomed everyone from Roman nobles to modern-day celebrities. While many come for the water activities and boat tours, the surrounding area offers excellent hiking trails and mountain walks that give different views of the lake below. The towns of Bellagio, Varenna, and Como serve as main tourist hubs, where you can find local restaurants, shops, and hotels, but the real charm lies in exploring the smaller lakeside communities and garden villas that dot the shoreline.
Sicily, Italy
Sicily might be at the tip of Italy’s boot, but this Mediterranean island packs a serious punch when it comes to cultural experiences. From the towering Mount Etna volcano to the well-preserved Greek temples at Agrigento’s Valley of the Temples, you’ll find layers of history spanning thousands of years. The island serves up some of Italy’s most memorable food too – think fresh seafood couscous, creamy cannoli, and arancini (those addictive stuffed rice balls) that keep locals and visitors coming back for more.
Interesting Fact:
Did you know that Sicily’s Mount Etna, Europe’s tallest active volcano, erupts so frequently that locals use its ash as natural fertilizer for their vineyards and crops? The volcano’s fertile soil has helped Sicily become one of Italy’s top wine producers, with many vineyards growing grapes right on Etna’s slopes despite the constant threat of eruption.
Vatican City
As someone who’s explored Italy extensively, few places leave as lasting an impression as Vatican City. This independent city-state, the smallest country in the world, packs centuries of art, history, and religious significance into just 121 acres. St. Peter’s Basilica towers at its heart, while the Sistine Chapel draws visitors who crane their necks to take in Michelangelo’s famous frescoes. It’s not just a quick stop on your Rome itinerary – plan for at least half a day to explore the Vatican Museums’ endless corridors filled with masterpieces, and make time to climb to the top of St. Peter’s dome for views that stretch across Rome’s ancient skyline.
Pisa, Italy
Ever wondered what it’s like to pose with a tower that looks like it’s about to topple over? That’s just another Wednesday in Pisa, a charming city in the heart of Tuscany. Home to the famous Leaning Tower that has been tilting since the 12th century, this historic town offers way more than just its wonky landmark. The surrounding Piazza dei Miracoli (Square of Miracles) houses the impressive Pisa Cathedral and Baptistery, where Galileo was baptized. When you’re done with the tourist hotspots, wander along the Arno River, grab a scoop of gelato, and watch university students zip by on their bikes – after all, Pisa is home to one of Italy’s oldest universities, dating back to 1343.
Verona, Italy
About two hours west of Venice sits the charming city of Verona. While many Italian cities boast Roman ruins and medieval architecture, Verona stands out as the legendary home of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. But there’s much more to this city than just star-crossed lovers. Walk through the winding cobblestone streets, and you’ll discover one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheaters in Italy, still hosting opera performances during summer evenings. Thanks to its location between Milan and Venice, Verona became a major trading hub during the Middle Ages, and you can see this wealth reflected in its collection of Gothic buildings, frescoed churches, and elegant piazzas filled with local cafes and wine bars.
Bologna, Italy
I discovered Bologna during a wandering tour of northern Italy in 2019. Nestled in the heart of the Emilia-Romagna region, Bologna stands out with its rich red buildings and endless arcaded walkways. The city’s medieval center swirls around Piazza Maggiore, where the massive Basilica of San Petronio keeps watch over the daily bustle of local life. Two leaning towers – Torre degli Asinelli and Torre Garisenda – pierce the skyline, remnants of the hundreds that once dotted the city’s landscape. But what truly sets Bologna apart is its food scene – this is where tortellini, mortadella, and ragù alla bolognese were born, earning it the nickname “La Grassa” (The Fat One). The city’s ancient university, the oldest in Europe, fills the streets with an energy that perfectly balances its historical charm.
Siena, Italy
Travelers exploring Tuscany shouldn’t miss Siena, a medieval city where time seems to stand still. Built across three hills, this well-preserved Italian gem is home to the famous Piazza del Campo – a shell-shaped main square where the historic Palio horse race takes place twice each summer. Beyond the piazza, you’ll find the black-and-white striped Siena Cathedral, winding cobblestone streets, and countless family-run restaurants serving traditional Tuscan cuisine.
Pompeii, Italy
History buffs and archaeology enthusiasts flock to Pompeii to explore one of the world’s most well-preserved ancient Roman cities, frozen in time by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. The archaeological site lets visitors walk through actual Roman streets, peek into homes and shops, and see artifacts that tell the story of daily life nearly 2,000 years ago. Beyond the ruins, you can hike up Mount Vesuvius for views of the Bay of Naples and the surrounding countryside, or visit the modern town of Pompei for its basilica and local restaurants. While most people come for a day trip from Naples, the site deserves at least a full day to properly explore its temples, amphitheater, and the haunting plaster casts of Vesuvius’s victims.
Capri, Italy
Many travelers head to the island of Capri for its famous Blue Grotto sea cave, but this Mediterranean gem offers much more than just one natural wonder. The island sits off the coast of southern Italy, where limestone cliffs drop into crystal-clear waters and narrow streets wind through charming towns. Take a boat tour around the island to see the Faraglioni rocks rising from the sea, or ride the chairlift to Monte Solaro for views across the Bay of Naples. While summer brings crowds to Capri’s beaches and designer boutiques, spring and fall offer a quieter experience when you can explore the Roman ruins and gardens at Villa Jovis or stroll through the peaceful Giardini di Augusto.
Sorrento, Italy
Perched along the cliffs of southern Italy’s Amalfi Coast, Sorrento holds a special place in my heart as one of the country’s most charming coastal towns. This seaside gem sits where the mountains meet the Mediterranean, creating a natural balcony overlooking the Bay of Naples and Mount Vesuvius in the distance. The streets here are lined with lemon and orange groves that fill the air with citrus scents, while the historic center buzzes with life as locals and visitors wander through narrow lanes filled with family-run restaurants and shops selling limoncello. It’s not just a stop on the way to somewhere else – Sorrento deserves your time, whether you’re exploring its ancient Roman ruins, swimming in hidden coves, or simply sitting at a café in Piazza Tasso watching the world go by with a gelato in hand.
Lake Garda, Italy
If you’re looking to escape the busy cities of Italy, head to Lake Garda in the northern part of the country. As Italy’s largest lake, it sits peacefully between three regions – Lombardy, Veneto, and Trentino-Alto Adige – offering a perfect mix of mountain views and Mediterranean charm. The lake is ringed by historic towns like Sirmione and Riva del Garda, where you can explore medieval castles, stroll through olive groves, and enjoy waterfront cafes serving local Italian dishes.
Positano, Italy
Clinging to the cliffs of Italy’s Amalfi Coast, Positano is a postcard-perfect seaside town that looks like it was painted by an artist. The pastel-colored houses cascade down the mountainside like a waterfall, creating those classic Mediterranean views you see on Instagram. The heart of town centers around the dome of Santa Maria Assunta church, while narrow streets lined with boutiques and cafes wind their way down to beaches dotted with orange and blue umbrellas.
Bet You Didn’t Know:
The colorful houses of Positano weren’t always its claim to fame – this cliffside paradise was actually a poor fishing village until John Steinbeck wrote about it in Harper’s Bazaar in 1953, putting it on the map as a must-visit destination. Today, visitors can climb the same 400 steps between the beach and town center that local fishermen used centuries ago, though most prefer to sip limoncello at seaside cafes instead.
San Gimignano, Italy
I first discovered San Gimignano while wandering through Tuscany’s rolling hills in 2018. This medieval town, perched high above the Italian countryside, is often called the “Manhattan of the Middle Ages” thanks to its collection of ancient towers dotting the skyline. The historic center, now a UNESCO World Heritage site, pulls you back in time with its narrow cobblestone streets and well-preserved architecture from the 13th century. Local wine bars serve the region’s famous Vernaccia white wine, while gelato shops compete for the title of world’s best gelato. The Collegiate Church, sitting in the heart of Piazza del Duomo, houses remarkable frescoes that tell biblical stories through art, making it a must-see stop for history buffs and art lovers alike.
Ravello, Italy
Dreaming of a quiet escape high above the Italian coast? Perched on the cliffs of the Amalfi Coast, Ravello is a small town where ancient villas and lush gardens overlook the sparkling Mediterranean Sea. This peaceful retreat has drawn artists and musicians for centuries, making it feel worlds away from the busy coastal towns below. You can wander through Villa Rufolo’s terraced gardens, where summer concerts fill the air with classical music against a backdrop of endless sea views. The town’s main square, Piazza Duomo, comes alive each evening as locals gather for their traditional passeggiata, and the surrounding olive groves and lemon orchards give you a taste of authentic Italian countryside living.
Matera, Italy
Ever seen an entire town carved into rock? That’s exactly what you’ll find in Matera, one of Italy’s oldest continuously inhabited cities. This ancient settlement in the southern region of Basilicata is famous for its “sassi” – cave dwellings that were hollowed out of limestone cliffs thousands of years ago. Once considered the “shame of Italy” due to its poverty, Matera has turned into a cultural powerhouse, earning UNESCO World Heritage status and serving as the backdrop for movies like “The Passion of the Christ.” Today, many of these caves have been converted into boutique hotels, restaurants, and museums, letting visitors experience what life was like when people lived in these rock-hewn homes. You can wander through the narrow pathways, visit ancient cave churches with faded frescoes, and even stay overnight in a modernized cave hotel.
