20 Best Places To Visit In Italy

Written by Joeri Van Overloop

Whether you're planning a trip to Italy, or are merely considering Italy as a vacation destination, there are a few things you should know. First, Italy is a European country, located along the Mediterranean coastline. This country is rich in culture and has left a lasting mark on Western civilization. From its landmark art to its food, Italy has something to offer traveler. So let’s have a look at a list of the best places to visit in Italy.

1. Rome

Whether you're on a tight schedule or have a few days to spare, Rome is a great place to visit. The city has been around for more than 2000 years and Rome has a lot to offer. With its ancient history and delicious Roman cuisine, it's no wonder Rome is a top tourist destination.

If you're not in the mood for visiting churches, you can also explore the nooks and crannies of Rome. A trip to the Vatican for instance, is a must. You'll find incredible art and grand halls. You can also check out interactive installations that tell the story of ancient Rome.

If you're looking for the best views in Rome, you may want to try a Tiber River Cruise. These Rome tours include four stops, including the Colosseum, the Forum, the Pantheon, the Pallatine Hill and the Vatican. You can also opt for a deluxe VIP tour that requires a little advance planning.

The Pantheon is an ancient temple that's also a church. It's one of the best-preserved ancient structures in Rome. It is also the oldest public art gallery in the world and features works by Tintoretto and Titian.

2. Florence

Located between Rome and Venice, Tuscany is one of the most beautiful regions of Italy where you will find a rich variety of cities and towns. These include Siena, Arezzo, Lucca, and Florence. It is a great place for art and architecture lovers to go in Italy.

One of the places in Italy to visit in Florence is the Uffizi Gallery. This famous art gallery contains works of the famous Renaissance artists such as Leonardo Da Vinci. This gallery is located near the Piazza del Duomo and contains some of the best known masterpieces of architecture and art.

Another important attraction is the Vasari Corridor. This corridor is one of the most popular icons of Florence. It begins at Palazzo Vecchio, crosses over Ponte Vecchio, and continues to Palazzo Pitti. You can also visit the Boboli Gardens and explore the artisans' studios and workshops of the Oltrarno, or shop for leather in Santa Croce.

Another beautiful place to visit in Florence is the Piazza Della Signoria. This L-shaped square is home to some of the most famous attractions in Florence. The Basilica Di San Lorenzo is located in the center of the market. This 15th century church was designed by Filippo Brunelleschi, and features marvelous architecture and Renaissance neo-classical interiors.

3. Venice

Located on the Adriatic Sea, Venice is a city of canals and islands. It is a very popular destination for travelers and can get very crowded. Venice is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Among the popular tourist attractions in Venice is the Campanile. The campanile is a bell tower that offers views of Venice. The clock tower is surmounted by a pair of bronze Moors that strike a large bell each hour, while the clock face shows the phases of the moon.

A great way to see Venice is by taking a gondola. This is a fun way to avoid the crowds and enjoy the scenery. In addition, there are water buses that transport you across the Grand Canal. One of the most famous landmarks in Venice is the Rialto Bridge. It's the oldest of four Grand Canal bridges and it's also one of the most popular attractions in Venice besides the Doge’s Palace, San Marco square and the San Marco Cathedral.

4. Tuscany

Whether you're looking for a beach vacation or a cultural adventure, Tuscany is the perfect spot for your next getaway. This region of Italy offers a variety of stunning Tuscan towns and a breathtaking landscape. The best way to experience Tuscany is by exploring the region by foot. You'll learn about the history of Italy, as well as Europe, while enjoying the natural landscape and delicious food.

One of the places to see in Tuscany is Siena. Siena is a historic ancient city in Italy that is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are many attractions in the city, including the Cathedral of Siena and the Palazzo Pubblico.

Another great Tuscany town to visit is Pitigliano, which is built over a steep rock face. The town is filled with hidden squares and red-brown townhouses. There are several galleries and a plethora of cafes and restaurants.

A medieval town, San Gimignano has a central piazza that is full of medieval architecture. Its 14 medieval towers are a major attraction.

5. Milan

Located in Lombardy, Milan is one of the biggest cities in Italy. The city is a major financial hub and is a center for high-end shopping. It is also the home of the national stock exchange. The city has a number of shopping centers and Milan tourist attractions, and is a popular getaway for art lovers.

The Gothic Cathedral is one of the most important sights in Milan and was built over six centuries, inspired by the Pantheon in Rome. The facade is decorated with carved sculptures, and the central dome is covered in gold.

Another must-see in Milan is the Arch of Peace. The Arch of Peace was commissioned by Napoleon in honor of his victories. The Arch of Peace is 25 meters tall and is smaller than the famous triumphal arches in Paris.

The Sforzesco Castle is a medieval fortification. The castle was once home to the First Duke of Milan. Today, the castle is a museum and is located next to Milan's largest park, Parco Sempione.

6. Lake Como

Located in northern Italy, Lake Como is a stunning alpine lake and really worth the visit. Its unique shape is the result of melting glaciers. It is one of the deepest Italian lakes in Europe, at 410 meters. Its banks are lined with quaint towns and lakefront promenades.

Como is an eponymous town that revolves around the lakefront promenade. It is a great town for tourists, because most attractions are within walking distance. The historic center is paved with stone, and includes an orderly grid of streets. Its medieval wall has been preserved and includes the Porta Torre gate.

One of the most famous attractions is Villa Carlotta, a 17th century neo-classical style villa. It is surrounded by one of the most beautiful gardens in the Lake Como area. This garden is filled with rare plants, and has an impressive art collection.

Another popular attraction is Villa del Balbianello. It was built for the English queen Caroline of Brunswick. Its beautiful gardens offer great views of the lake. The park also hosts events, such as the Ambrosetti Forum.

7. Amalfi Coast

Located in the Campania region of Italy, the Amalfi Coast is a stunning coastal area. It overlooks the Tyrrhenian Sea and features many picturesque towns. The Amalfi Coast is also known for its warm summers and mild winters.

The most popular Amalfi Coast town along the coast is Positano. It is home to some of the best hotels in the area. It is also known for its gorgeous views and colorful buildings. There are many restaurants and boutique shops to explore, along with a Path of the Gods.

Another popular Amalfi Coast town is Maiori. It is a historic town, featuring beautiful art-filled churches and several castles that were once owned by wealthy merchants. It also has a long esplanade that offers stunning sea views.

One of the best things to do in Amalfi Coast is visit the Duomo of Amalfi. The church rises at the top of a long staircase. The building has a beautiful geometric facade, as well as a Majolica dome and beautiful frescoes.

Another beautiful Amalfi Coast town is Vietri sul Mare. It is a coastal town with beautiful Italian beaches and majolica domed churches, and is also known for its handmade ceramics.

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8. The Cinque Terre

Located along the Ligurian Sea, Cinque Terre is a small group of five charming villages. Each village has its own unique personality. Each one has its own style of architecture and a certain charm. However, there are similarities that unite each village.

The Ligurian Sea offers opportunities to swim in peace and solitude. There are also secret coves and vineyards that offer breathtaking views. A trip to Cinque Terre should be planned well in advance to make the most of your vacation.

The towns in Cinque Terre have been developed around the fruits of the sea and land. You can sample local delicacies like white wine and pesto. If you have time, try to walk through the villages and try to capture them on camera.

Cinque Terre is a World Heritage Site and is unique from other parts of Europe. In addition to the colorful houses clinging to the sea cliffs, the area also boasts lush green national parks and a turquoise sea.

The best time to see Cinque Terre's best features is during the golden hour. The most popular town is Vernazza. The town is made up of meandering streets and a small port. This town also hosts the annual Santa Margherita festival.

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9. Pisa

Located along the Arno River in the northwestern Tuscany region, Pisa is a small town famous for its iconic Leaning Tower, and home to a number of other attractions, including exhibits and other historic sites. In fact, it is one of the best spots in Italy.

The Leaning Tower of Pisa is a popular sight, with many tourists flocking to it every year. It has a history that dates back 700 years. Originally built as a bell tower for the adjacent cathedral, it now stands as one of Italy's most famous landmarks.

The tower itself is a spectacular structure. It features 300 marble stairs and provides stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the sea. You can visit the tower for a tour, which includes an ascent of the 251 steps. It is possible to get tickets online, or purchase them at the ticket office. Children under 8 are not allowed to visit the tower.

The University of Pisa is the oldest university in Europe, and has a lively cultural scene, with over 60,000 students. The University hosts a variety of events and cultural exhibitions.

10. Verona

Located in the north of Italy, Verona is a historic and cultural city that is a popular tourist attraction. The city is home to many ancient Roman ruins and musea. Verona is known for its gothic churches and beautiful architecture, and is really worth a visit.

One of the most popular things to see in Verona is the Torre dei Lamberti, a medieval tower which offers visitors spectacular views of the city. The tower was built in the 12th century, and it was later expanded and raised several times. In 1436, it reached its final height of 275 feet and can be reached by traditional steps or an elevator.

Another popular tourist attraction in Verona is the Basilica of San Zeno, which is renowned for its stunning architecture and its fictional marriage of Romeo and Juliet. It has a bronze statue of Juliet, which is on display in the courtyard below the balcony. There are also walls that have notes from lovers around the world.

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11. Pompeii

Located between Naples and Sorrento, Pompeii is an archaeological site that attracts more than 3.5 million tourists per year. It is one of Italy's best-known landmarks, and has earned a spot as one of the most important archaeological sites in the world.

It is the site of ancient games, gladiator fights, and circus shows. It is also one of the most preserved Roman amphitheatres in the world. The amphitheatre was built in 70 BCE, and is the oldest of its kind still standing. It seats about 20,000 people, and was built to host gladiator fights in the region.

The Temple of Apollo was once the most important religious building in Pompeii and was used for ceremonial functions such as sacrifices, and was a venue for musical concerts.

The House of the Vettii is another one of Pompeii's grandest establishments. It has an enormous image of fertility god Priapus in the entrance hall. The house also has beautiful frescoes and an impressive mosaic fountain in the back room. It also has a sloped roof which was meant to collect rainwater.

12. Siena

Located in central Italy, Siena is a beautiful city with many historical sights and monuments. It is a nice place to visit if you are an art lover. It is a city filled with beautiful churches, palaces, fountains, and countless other beautiful buildings.

The best way to visit Siena is by taking a walking tour. This will take you through the city's historic center. This is the heart of the city, and is pedestrian-only. Here you will find the city's best sights, such as the Cathedral and Palazzo Pubblico. You will also be able to explore the alleys, shops, and color-filled nontrade districts. You can also take a tour of the city's Duomo.

The Duomo, also known as the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, is one of the most famous attractions in this town. Built in 1245, the Duomo is an impressive structure and one of those iconic places that combines classical architecture with Romanesque architecture. The Duomo is where you will find many works by artists such as Michelangelo and Donatello.

Another important attraction in Siena is the Basilica of San Domenico. This church is renowned for its beautiful frescoes and is also the home of the Piccolomini Library. Its library houses artistic paintings and handwritten manuscripts.

13. Bologna

Located between Venice and Florence, Bologna is a wonderful city and one of the best places in Italy to explore. Not only does it offer a rich culinary tradition, but Bologna also has plenty of attractions to go and see.

Bologna is home to the oldest botanic garden in Italy and it has a museum that exhibits artifacts from ancient Egypt and is the third largest Egyptian collection in Europe. They also exhibit a huge collection of oil paintings, ranging from the 13th to 18th centuries.

Located near the center of the city, the Archiginnasio of Bologna is the former main building of the University of Bologna. This building is considered one of the most important buildings in Bologna. The interior of the building is stunning and has an unusual classroom.

One of the most famous paintings in Bologna is Titian's 'Jesus Christ and the Good Thief'. Other famous paintings include Vasari's 'Feast of St. Gregory the Great' and Raphael's 'Ecstasy of St. Cecilia'.

The Basilica di San Petronio is a gothic masterpiece. The church contains several buildings, including a crypt under the presbytery stairs. It has been renovated several times and includes several courtyards.

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14. Naples

Located in southern Italy on the Bay of Naples, it's a popular place to visit. It is a city with many attractions that can be reached by public transport. There are buses, trains, and trams. It is also served by the Metro. The best thing about Naples public transportation is that it is safe and quick.

Naples' historic center is a great place to visit. It is full of impressive architecture and archaeological treasures. The main attractions are located around the seafront. you can also take a funicular that will take you to the top of the city.

One of the best places in Italy to visit is the Museo Cappella Sansevero in Naples. This tiny chapel is a popular landmark because of its beautiful frescoes. It is a good idea to buy a ticket in advance.

Another attraction in Naples is the Catacombs of San Gennaro. These catacombs are a two-level network of tunnels and graves from the 2nd century. They are located below the Basilica di Santa Maria della. You can visit these catacombs by foot, on the funicular, or by bus.

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15. Sicily

Whether you're in search of a daytrip or a weeklong holiday, there are a number of must-see scenic locations in Sicily. You can choose from a variety of historic buildings, beautiful Sicily beaches, a rich Sicilian cuisine, and stunning scenery. If you're looking for a little more adventure, check out one of the Aeolian Islands, an unspoiled, volcanic group of islands in the Tyrrhenian Sea just north of Sicily.

One of the most famous archaeological sites in Sicily is the Valley of the Temples. This UNESCO site contains eight temples that were built between 510 BC and 430 BC. The Temple of Hera is the best preserved. You can also visit the Temple of the Olympian Zeus and the Temple of Castor and Pollux. The best time to visit is in the evening, as the sun sets.

The Valley of the Temples is located near Agrigento. Other major landmarks are the archaeological park, which has an amphitheater, the Ear of Dionysius, and the largest Greek Theater in Sicily. If you plan on visiting, consider hiring a guide.

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16. Turin

Located at the top of the Italian boot, Turin is a fine Baroque city. It offers a great mixture of Italian beauty and French charm, and has lots of greenery and palazzo-laced squares.

One of the best museums in Turin is the Museo Egizio, which displays relics from ancient Egypt such as  the Turin Shroud, which is kept in the Cappella della Sacra Sindone.

Turin also houses the National Automobile Museum, which has an incredible collection of cars which also includes interactive displays.

There are also many palaces in Turin, each with its own lavish interior and priceless artwork. One of these palaces is the Palazzo Madama, which houses art treasures from medieval times to modern decorative arts.

The city is also home to the Museo Civico di Arte Antica and the Lavazza Museum, which is dedicated to the history of the coffee empire. It also has a modern food hall, il Mercato Centrale, which serves fine Italian restaurants and gourmet food.

Another major landmark is the Gallery of Modern Art, which has over 5500 works of art, which include paintings by Modigliani and Chagall.

The best time to visit Turin is in the spring or fall when the weather is usually mild. This is also the time to enjoy the city's chocolate festival. And if you are a food lover you can also explore the Porto Palazzo, which is one of the largest food markets in Europe.

From Turin it's easy to make day trips to the Italian Alps as they are close by. And those who are interested in a more adventurous trip when traveling to Italy can hike Gran Paradiso, which is located in the Aosta Valley.

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17. Sardinia

Located in the Mediterranean Sea, Sardinia is one of Italy's most diverse regions to visit. Whether you're looking for sun and sand, history or a taste of the country's rich culture, there are plenty of places to visit in Sardinia.

Costa Verde is the wildest and most isolated area of Sardinia. You'll find 47 km of pristine beaches and sand dunes, as well as the country's most daring surfers. The sea around the Maddalena Islands is a fantastic snorkeling location. You can also explore untouched bays by renting a boat. You can also explore the rugged interior, which is crossed by hiking trails.

The Maddalena Archipelago National Park is located on the north coast of Sardinia. It's home to a series of tiny archipelagos, most of which are inhabited. These islands are full of colorful fish and are an amazing snorkeling spot. The best way to visit the islands is by taking a sailing tour, which takes tourists around the archipelago.

If you're looking for an authentic foodie experience, visit Trattoria Sa Cariasa. You'll find authentic food and traditional wine here, next to cheese ravioli , which is a favorite dish among locals.

Nuraxi di Barumini is one of the best-preserved examples of prehistoric architecture in the world. It's worth taking a bus to this remote area of Sardinia. There's a free entrance to this cave, which is home to stalagmites and stalactites. It's located four kilometers from Domusnovas.

The city can also be reached by boat from Alghero. There's a small museum in Nuoro, which is worth a stop, as it's packed with Sardinian costumes and accessories. It also has an exhibit featuring Nuragic bronze figures.

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18. Puglia

Like many of the best places, and located in the heel of Italy's boot, Puglia is a land of whitewashed hill towns, unique architecture and centuries-old farmlands. It is famous for its hundreds of kilometers of scenic Mediterranean coastline.

The capital Bari is a vibrant port. The area around the capital is known as the Valle d'Itria, which is dotted with trulli, which are stone huts with conical roofs. It is also hosts natural thermal springs that are used to help rehabilitate muscular systems.

Polignano a Mare is a picturesque town on the Adriatic coast. It has caves cut by the sea and beautiful cliffs. It is a popular tourist destination about 35 kilometers southeast of Bari, easy to reach by car.

Ostuni is known as the white city, with its lime-based coloring. It has a whitewashed citadel that is still surrounded by ancient walls and a church covered with frescoes.

Lecce, also known as the "Florence of the South," is a city nearby with a rich cultural history. It has a baroque architecture that is influenced by the Baroque style of the 17th century and is a great day trip from Bari or Ostuni.

The Salentine Peninsula is located at the southern tip of Puglia, and has a strong identity and a unique landscape, while home to several Puglia beaches with fine sand and turquoise waters.

The trulli in Alberobello are a highlight of the town. There are about a hundred of these unique structures scattered around the town.

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19. Ravenna

During the Roman period, Ravenna was the capital of the Western Roman Empire. This city is renowned for its mosaics, and you can easily spend a few days here, enjoying the historical buildings and the delicious food. You can even take a day trip to Ravenna from Bologna.

Ravenna's mosaics are the best examples of Byzantine style mosaics in Italy. You'll see mosaics, depicting apostles, evangelists, and martyrs dotted throughout the city.

One of the most popular sites for Ravenna mosaics is the Basilica di San Francesco. This church was originally built in 450, but it was rebuilt in the 10th century. It is home to a sunken crypt and exceptional acoustics.

Another popular site for Ravenna mosaics is the Basilica of San Vitale. This church contains mosaics that depict Jesus being baptized by John the Baptist. You can also find mosaics of the Virgin and Child evangelists and apostles. The ceiling dome is decorated with a mosaic that depicts 12 apostles.

Ravenna's Archbishop's Palace is the home of the Archbishopric Museum, which contains relics and early Christian treasures. Here you can also view the ivory chair of Maximian.

This city is full of beautiful buildings and architectural details. You'll see some imposing structures such as the Palazzo Rasponi delle Teste and the mausoleum of Dante Alighieri. He died in Ravenna in 1321. The mausoleum is decorated with gold and deep blue mosaics. You can also see his tomb in the Basilica di San Francesco.

20. Genoa

Whether you are a history buff or simply looking for great food and architecture, Genoa has something for everyone. The city is an old port town that has had a major role in the history of the country, and you can see many of Genoa's famous sights along the harbor.

Genoa is home to a number of famous museums, such as the Museo d'Arte Orientale, for instance, this is a house museum that is dedicated to the art of the Far East. Its garden is beautiful and there are regular exhibitions. You can also visit the National Gallery in Palazzo Spinola, which is located in a large palazzo and houses an extensive collection of paintings from the 16th to 18th century.

Another must see attarction is the Castello d'Albertis, which is a beautiful 19th-century castle with library of 1,300 volumes, as well as ethnographic artifacts from all over the world. You can take a tour of the building, which will give you a great overview of the city.

Genoa has also long had a major role in the maritime industry since the Roman Empire. In the 16th century, it was one of the most powerful naval cities in the world. The port is still very important for commerce and tourism, as well as a major cruise ship port.

The city also hosted the Italian troups, who landed at the Vatican in 1870 and ended the temporal power of the Pope. Today, you can visit Genoa's Rolli Days, which are held twice a year.