Visiting Italy for the first time and not sure where to go? These are the best places to visit in Italy! Be sure to read this before you go.
The Best Places to Visit in Italy
Italy is one of my very favorite countries in the world. I have visited many times to see different parts of the country and every trip I’ve taken has been completely different. Italy is around the same size as California, with just as much diversity too. The country is so big, that choosing where to go can almost be overwhelming. I often get questions like “What is the most beautiful place in Italy?” or “What is the best town to visit in italy?” The simple answer is this: the best places in Italy will be where you leave your heart and want to return to again and again! And it’s hard to. know where that is until you go! Everywhere in Italy is unique and has something special, but I hope this will help you decide where to visit in Italy. If you want a prepackaged Italy itinerary, check out these 5 amazing itineraries I’ve made.
[irp posts=”4474″ name=”How to Spend 10 Days in Italy: 5 Amazing Itinerary Ideas for your Trip to Italy”]If you’re planning a trip to Italy, but don’t know where to start or where to go, take a deep breath and read this incredible list! These are the best places to visit in Italy. Some you may have heard of, but most will be new to you. While visiting the iconic Italian cities such as Florence, Venice, and Rome is essential for your first trip to Italy, it’s great to get off the beaten path a little bit and try some new destinations that will be equally rewarding and at the same time, help with over-tourism in more popular cities. Some of the best cities in Italy may be the ones you’ve never thought to visit! And if you’re taking a complete tour of Italy (lucky), you can hit these stops along your way. I guarantee you will fall in love with this beautiful country. The history, food, culture, architecture, and scenery will entice you to come back again and again. Italy really does have something for everyone! The best way to learn about a country is to actually visit it, but it can be fun and helpful to do some research before you go. I thought I would give you some interesting facts about Italy to help you prepare for your trip!
What we'll be talking about
- The Best Places to Visit in Italy
- Map of Italy cities
- Getting Around Italy
- Itinerary for the Best Places in Italy
- Italy Packing List and What to Wear in Italy
- Alberobello
- Amalfi
- Apulia
- Assisi
- Barbaresco
- Barolo
- Bergamo
- Bologna Italy
- Bologna
- Bolzano
- The Island of Burano
- Cagliari
- Capri
- Carrara Marble Route
- Certaldo
- Cinque Terre
- Cortona
- Courmayeur
- Dolomites
- Elba Island
- Etruscan Coast
- Ferrara
- Fiesole
- Florence
- Garfagnana, Tuscany
- Lago d’Iseo
- Lago Maggiore
- Lake Como
- Lake Garda
- Levanto
- Livorno
- Lucca
- Try My Itinerary for the Best Places in Italy
- Majella National Park
- Maratea
- Marettimo
- Matera
- ——–
- Milan
- Modica
- Monte Argentario
- Orvieto
- Padua
- Pavia
- Perugia
- Pienza
- Pompeii
- Ponte di Legno
- Positano
- Pragser Wildsee
- The Island of Procida Italy
- Ravello
- ——–
- Roccascalegna Castle
- Rome
- Salerno
- San Fruttuoso
- San Gimignano Italy
- San Marino
- Santa Marinella
- Saturnia Hot Springs
- Sicily
- Siena
- Siracusa
- Sorrento
- Trentino
- Trieste
- Turin
- ——–
- ——–
- Tuscany: Al Gelso Bianco
- Umbria
- Vatican City
- Venice
- Ventimiglia
- Verona
- Villa Cimbrone
- Villa Romana del Casale
- Viterbo
- Volterra
Interesting Facts About Italy
- Italy has three active Volcanos: Vesuvius, Etna, and Stromboli. They are the only active volcanos in Europe.
- In Italy, children legally had to attend school until they were only 14. This ended in 1999.
- Fourteen Billion espressos are consumed in Italy each year.
- Batteries were invented in Italy.
- Italy comes from the Greek word “Italos” meaning legendary king.
- The first thermometer was invented in Italy.
- Italy is a relatively new country at only 153 years old.
- Pinocchio, written by an Italian, was originally published in a newspaper.
- Many of Shakespeare’s plays are set in Italy.
- Pizza was invented in Naples.
- Pasta has been eaten in Italy since the 4th Century CE.
- Vatican City is the smallest country in the world.
- Italy has more UNESCO World Heritage Sites than any country in the world (50).
- Italy is the 4th most visited country in the world.
Now you know a few interesting facts about Italy to help get you started on your journey. There are so many places in Italy as well as so many things to do in Italy, that you’re going to have an amazing time no matter where you choose to go or what you choose to do! I honestly have never met anyone who hated their time in Italy. And if they did, they did it wrong! I know this list of places to visit in Italy is long and may seem daunting. Don’t feel like you need to see all of these destinations at once. Decide where to go in Italy…pick one city or one region and spend time getting to know it. Talk to the locals, eat the food, walk the streets, and of course, eat ALL the gelato!
Map of Italy cities
If you’re a visual learner like me, I’ve made this map of Italy with cities from this list to help you decide where to go. You can download this map for yourself if you like.
Getting Around Italy
In my opinion, the best way to get around Italy is by train. Train travel in Italy is super affordable, fast, efficient, and clean. There are even some overnight train options that are great.
[irp posts=”4477″ name=”How to Survive Train Travel in Italy”]
Itinerary for the Best Places in Italy
If you’re wondering how long to stay when you visit Italy and how to best use your time there, you can find my complete itinerary for Italy here.
[maxbutton id=”1″ url=”https://wanderlustcrew.com/italy-itinerary/” text=”Get the Itinerary” ] So without further ado, here are the 70 best places to visit in Italy!
Italy Packing List and What to Wear in Italy
It’s important to be sure you’re packing the right clothes and other items for your trip to Italy. You don’t want to stand out like a tourist and you want to be sure you have the right power adapters. I’ve written a complete packing list for Italy so you won’t forget anything!
[irp posts=”8902″ name=”My Italy Packing List & What To Wear in Italy”]Alberobello
Alberobello is a gorgeous little town in Puglia in the South of Italy that will have the kids’ imaginations firing on all fairy tale cylinders. The UNESCO listed world heritage site is most famous for its traditional houses known as trulli (the plural of trullo) an example of prehistoric construction techniques that have survived and are functioning in the modern era. The 1500 snow white limestone huts dating back to the 14th century are only part of the town’s substantial charm. Narrow walking streets, gorgeous little providores stuffed to the brim with incredible local produce and exceptional kid-friendly al fresco dining add to the experience. One of the best ways for families to enjoy the full Alberobello effect is to book a stay in one of the pretty storybook huts. From Boy Eats World
Amalfi
Apulia
Are you planning a trip to the world’s most famous boot – AKA the Italian Peninsula – and wondering where to go? Well well my dear reader, forget about Florence, Rome, and Venice and come all the way to the south, where a stunning region is waiting for you. Apulia is one of the best cities in Italy!
Ever heard about Apulia? Before you keep reading this paragraph, please bear in mind that I am not saying that it is the most beautiful spot to visit in Italy just because I was born and raised there, but because it really is! Among the most incredible places you should not miss in Puglia, there are Lecce, Bari, Alberobello, Ceglie Messapica, Ostuni, Otranto, and Gallipoli.
Need a piece of advice? Rent a car and drive away! From the Itria Valley and its unique Trulli hubs to the crystal clear waters of Porto Cesario. Once is Puglia every little detail will be just amazing. Do you want another piece of advice? Try to lose some weight before coming here: you will spend so much time eating! From The Lazy Trotter
Assisi
Barbaresco
Barolo
One of the top places to visit in Italy for wine lovers has to be Barolo in the Piedmont region. The Piedmont region is in the northwest of Italy, close to both Milan and Turin. The tiny village of Barolo is well-known for Barolo wine, some of the most prized wines in the world. There are several wineries that you can visit in Barolo including Bruno Giacosa and Massolino. Or, check out AgriLab, which is in the village of Barolo. It’s a small shop and wine education center near the Barolo caste. The AgriLab wine center offers a good selection of Barolo wines. You can purchase a card that allows you to taste several in one visit.Bergamo
Bologna Italy
Locked between Florence to the south and Venice and Milan to the north, the medieval city of Bologna often gets overlooked by many travelers. Bologna nicknamed, “La Dotta, la Grassa e la Rossa” has many things to see and eat! The city, “la Rossa”, is characterized by its red hue that covers all its buildings. “La Dotta”, the wise one, for the University of Bologna, the oldest university in the Western world; this is one of the must-do and is what brings the city alive.
Besides its picturesque red hues and the university, the city has more than 600 porticos which are ranked in the UNESCO World Heritage sights. To get the views from above, climb the countless stairs at the Asinelli Tower.
Finally, “La Grassa” refers to Bologna’s renowned and delicious cuisine. Bologna and its region, Emilia Romagna, are the creators of the world most beloved Italian dishes like pasta al ragù (Bolognese sauce), Tortellini and lasagna, to name a few. Plus, the majority of the streets are pedestrian so get ready to walk around, take pictures and to digest all delightful pasta that you will eat! To read more about the city and its things to do check out this itinerary
From BRB Travel Blog
Bologna
Bolzano
The Island of Burano
Known as one of the most beautiful places in Italy, the island of Burano should not be missed! The bright and beautiful Venetian island of Burano certainly lived up to expectations when I visited it. Arriving on the crowded Vaporetto (water bus) in the early afternoon I was concerned that the island would be overrun with crowds of tourists spoiling any photo opportunities but I needn’t have worried as the tourists kept firmly to the tourist trail leaving me with the equally beautiful backstreets almost all to myself.
Burano is famed for its brightly painted yet rustic looking fisherman’s houses that line its picturesque canals, painted this way so the tale goes, so that the men could find their way back to the right house after one too many a drink! The island is also known for its leaning bell tower and its lace needlework, though sadly this does seem to be a dying art with fewer and fewer old ladies sitting outside their doorsteps working on their handicraft.
If you’re captivated by color, don’t just visit Burano for the day, stay here for a few nights to get the full effect! It has a more down-to-earth vibe than Venice being more artistic than aristocratic, poor rather than pompous but just as enchanting, and in some ways better!
From Visual Wanderers
Cagliari
Sardinia is one of best places to go in Italy if you’re looking for something a little different. Often overlooked for other more famous and easier to reach places in Italy, Cagliari, the capital of Sardinia, the famous island off Italy, never disappoints visitors. Between the Mediterranean sea and the hills, with some incredible archeological sites and easy access to nature, Cagliari is the perfect base to explore the rest of Sardinia and makes for a fantastic long weekend getaway.
Among the many things to do in Cagliari, make sure to head to Castello, the prettiest historical district, to visit the museums, churches and the two watchtowers. Once you are done, head to Bastione for a gorgeous view of the city and the bay, then head to Via Santa Croce for one of the prettiest sunsets you are going to experience in your life.
From My Adventures Across the World
Capri
Carrara Marble Route
The Marble Route near Carrara (northern Tuscany) passes through the marble mountains, tunnels, a local village built for marble diggers, and the Remains of Roman Quarries. Along the marble route, one can see marble quarries and drive on the winding roads that lead to them. Those marble quarries were made even more famous by the film “007 Quantum of Solace”, starring Daniel Craig and directed by Marc Forster. Some of the film’s most memorable scenes were shot there.
We made a self-driving through the marble route. it is quite difficult to find the way without a guide. Some places are not well sign-posted. Besides, an off-road car is recommended for driving on some unpaved roads. Please read our review here.There are many guided off-road tours. The Exclusive Marble Cave Jeep Tour Adventure provides you an inside view of the marble culture and industry. It may offer the chances to visit a working quarry. If you are having a holiday in Viareggio, you can join this tour, Carrara Marble Tour Small Group from Viareggio.
From My Magic Earth
Certaldo
The Tuscan hill towns are justifiably famous, and I think the best one may be one you’ve never heard of: Certaldo. This beautifully preserved Medieval walled town about 35 kilometers southwest of Florence sits atop a hill with gorgeous views of the surrounding olive groves and vineyards. Ride the little funicular up into the old center, where the picture-perfect terra cotta streets are free of traffic and free from the crowds that you’ll encounter elsewhere in Tuscany.Cinque Terre
[irp posts=”4458″ name=”Complete Guide to Cinque Terre With Kids (or without)”]
Cortona
For two summers in a row, my family and I visited Cortona, a beautiful hilltop town in the southeastern part of Tuscany. We loved it so much the first time, that we booked a second trip the following summer. It’s best known as the setting for the movie Under the Tuscan Sun, and it’s said that many filmmakers choose to film in Cortona due to its off-the-beaten-path location, away from the crowds. Indeed, that’s what we loved about this charming fortress town as well – less people, which meant plenty of easy wandering through the picturesque, medieval streets, and plenty of crowd-free views of the valley below.
Cortona is surrounded by exquisite countryside, exactly what you think of when you think of Tuscany: rolling hills, sunflower fields, farmland, and a peacefulness and beauty not quite found anywhere else. We rented a villa in the Cortona valley on both trips, spending our time there as well as jaunting off on day trips to other villages. Cortona is a special place for my family, and I wouldn’t be surprised if a third trip pops up again in the future!
From Fifi + Hop
Courmayeur
Dolomites
One of the most scenic mountains in the world is the Dolomites. It is an amazing place to visit. The hike in the area is very accessible. The trails are clearly marked. The Tre Crème hike is one of the most iconic views in the Dolomites. This day hike can be done in 3 to 5 hours depending on the route. It can be quite busy in the summertime. Another great hike is Lago Sorapis. This gorgeous turquoise lake is a full day hike, but worth the effort. The best part is that on many of the hikes small Rifugios are dotted through the mountains. These mountain huts provide dorm rooms and have restaurants. In the middle of the hike, you can stop for an ice cold draft beer and some delicious food. The Dolomites are one of the best places to travel in Italy and should not be missed if you love nature! From Beard & Curly
Elba Island
Etruscan Coast
Ferrara
They are everywhere, on the streets, locked up on racks, lean up on walls, in backyards —— they are just all over the place. Bicycles that is. Cars may not enter the old town Ferrara so everyone uses bikes for their shopping, for their commute, for their recreation and well just about everything. There are 50+ miles of cycle paths and over 100,000 bicycles for about 130,000 people.
One of the best bike rides in the City of Bicycles is the 5.5-mile route along the wall that encompasses the historical old city. These walls defended the city in ancient times and now form the demarcation for the bicycles only area of Ferrara.
Other suggestions for your visit to Ferrara are:
- Visit the Botanical Gardens with 1300 plant species in the greenhouses and 700 species in the outdoor gardens. After the gardens stop by the nearby Pasticceria Naturale for a coffee and pastry.
- Tour of Castle Estense located in the center of old town. Also known as the Castle of Saint Michael, it was built in the 14th Century and is an impressive example of medieval architecture. This photogenic castle sits on an island surrounded by a moat.
- See Ferrara from the water. Take a boat trip on the longest river in Italy, the River Po. Canals link Ferrara to the River Po. The boats leave from the southern edge of the city.
Fiesole
Fiesole is a little town in the hills above Florence. During the time of the Medicis, it was a retreat from the city, a place to get away from it all. Fiesole still feels like a bit of a getaway from the business of Florence, though it is just a short bus ride or drive away.
We took a 2.5 km loop walk on our trip to Fiesole. This day hike near Florence wanders through the butter-colored town, past the hill where Leonardo Da Vinci did his human-powered flying experiments, and alongside several stone quarries.
After walking the loop, there is still more to explore in Fiesole. Visit the chapel and museum at the Monastery of San Francesco and drool over the art at the Bandini Museum. Entrance to the Bandini also allows you access to the Civic Archeology Museum and the 2nd Century BC amphitheater. Finish the day with a leisurely late lunch and a glass of wine at Il Fiesolano. From TravelingMel.com
Florence
Garfagnana, Tuscany
Lago d’Iseo
Having traveled to Italy several times and falling in love with this country, we began a search to purchase a second home in Italy. We love the Italian lakes and our exploring led us to the 4th largest lake in Italy, Lago d’Iseo. One and half hours from Milan and two and half hours from Venice, the location is perfect. Some may remember when the Floating Piers were located here.
Our experience of seeing Lago d’Iseo for the first time was love at first sight. Not as touristy as the other lakes, surrounded by the Franciacorta wine region and with views that are spectacular! In the middle of the lake sits an island called Mont Isola, Europe’s largest lake island. Mont Isola is only accessible by boat but filled with fun villages to explore. Lago d’Iseo has relaxing restaurants and shopping that surround the island in several different villages. The drive around the entire lake is fun with winding roads and tunnels through mountains. Hikers will love the challenge of hiking by using the old Roman pathway and seeing magnificent views. Lago d’ Iseo is often referred to as the pearl of Italy and we discovered and love its beauty. From Travel by a Sherrie Affair
Lago Maggiore
A road trip through the Italian lake district is a must-have experience in Italy, but not all people visit Lago Maggiore, the smallest of the three main lakes. On Lago Maggiore, you can find some really charming towns to wander like Stresa and Cannobio, but the crowning glory is the Borromean Islands. They are a group of islands near Stresa owned by the Borromeo family since the 16th century. On two of them, you can find beautiful historic palaces and gardens which are the Islands’ main attractions. You can get to the islands by ferry from Stresa, and you’ll need the whole day to explore all of them comfortably.
From My Path in the World
Lake Como
Truth be told, Lake Como in Italy is one of the prettiest travel destinations in the world and one of the best places in Italy. It is one of the most picturesque lakes in Italy and is surrounded by lush green gardens, opulent villas, and sleepy little villages.
No doubt, Como has been a favorite haunt among celebrities of the world. An idyllic atmosphere, gorgeous views, and delicious food and wine make the place a heaven on earth. Lake Como’s legendary villas such as the Villa del Balbianello and Villa Carlotta also provide tourists with an exceptional opportunity to step into the rich history of medieval Italy.
The lake has been a popular tourist destination ever since the time of Romans and continues to evoke the same emotions today. A sip of limoncello, a backdrop of mist-covered mountains, and luxury villas glistening with Italian history – the appealing combination that defines Lake Como.
From Stories by Soumya
[irp posts=”2141″ name=”5 Reasons to Make Lake Como Your Next Family Vacation”]
Lake Garda
Lake Garda definitely deserves to be on everyone’s Italy list. It’s the largest lake in the country, and (in my opinion) the most beautiful of all Italian lakes. There are so many things to do around Lake Garda, and the lake changes so much from North to South that it is worth visiting more than once. For example, the southern part of the lake is hilly and has a Mediterranean atmosphere, making it perfect for holidays dedicated to relax, food, and wine. Bardolino is an excellent choice for wine tasting, Sirmione and Peschiera have beautiful castles and scenery, while Lazise should be the destination of choice for all those that want to relax, thanks to its thermal waters. Yet, my favorite part of Lake Garda is the north, where the lake meets the Alps and you can enjoy great adventures like hiking, mountain biking, sailing, and windsurfing. Places like Riva del Garda and Torbole are ideal for adventure lovers, and provide the ideal base to explore more of the surrounding Alps. From The Crowded Planet
Levanto
Levanto, Italy is in the province of La Spezia and though not technically part of Cinque Terre, it’s a very short train ride away from Monterosso al Mare. Levanto has everything you might be looking for when visiting Cinque Terre, incredible views, a long sandy beach, and hiking.
There is one thing that makes Levanto unique from the other villages of Cinque Terre and that’s the old rail line that’s been converted to a paved pathway for walking or biking. This fun biking path from Levanto to Framura passes through several tunnels and offers some stunning views. The path is flat and not that long, but with sea views and towns to explore along the way, you can make it a full day outing.
If you have extra time, hike the trail back from Levanto to Monterosso, which is also quieter than some of the more popular hiking trails in the area. It’s worth spending an extra day in the area to explore Levanto, if only for the lesser crowds! From Family Can Travel
Livorno
This coastal city is a hidden gem on Italy’s northwest Tuscan coast. Only 30 minutes southwest of Pisa, Livorno’s “small Venice” feel has charming mini canals off the Via della Venezia bridge, which helps to get acquainted with the hustle and bustle one of Italy’s busiest ports. Visit the 500-year-old Fortezza Nuova to see how Italy fortified its coastal city or stroll toward the Mercato Centrale, a bustling marketplace filled with hundreds of stalls. A walk to the beautiful Terrazza Mascagni, a masterpiece of architectural glory that looks out into the sea, creates a sense of peace and reinforces the beauty this small city has to offer.
If the weather isn’t up to par, a visit to the Acquario di Livorno is a great way to spend quality time with the family while experiencing a reconstructed Mediterranean Sea environment that showcases the creatures inhabiting the local sea. And no visit to Livorno is complete without a taste of the local seafood. If you have never experienced Italy’s seafood or Tuscan entrees, Livorno’s food selection will excite even the most critical foodie. From The Elusive Family
Lucca
Try My Itinerary for the Best Places in Italy
Make your trip to Italy stress-free with this complete Italy Itinerary that includes all of my favorite places in Italy!
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Majella National Park
Majella National Park is located in the heart of Italy and one of the popular things to do in Abruzzo region.
The Majella National park is a great destination for hiking, camping and just about anything to enjoy nature. It is one of the most visited attractions close to Rome for nature lovers. Due to its altitude, it is a famous ski destination in Italy and when summer comes, the flora and fauna of the national park are blooming. Making this area of Abruzzo worth visiting and a great day trip destination from Rome. From Everything Zany
Maratea
Marettimo
Marettimo is a tiny island off the coast of Sicily, and one of Italy’s absolute hidden getaways. Only a few tourists get to the island, however, it offers something for everyone. On the island, you can discover ancient Roman ruins, chill on the beach or explore the many hiking trails.
There are a few diving operators offering excellent snorkeling and scuba diving around the island. The operators also offer boat trips around the island for those who don’t want to dive. The little amount of tourists makes it easier to get in touch with the locals and learn more about their culture and customs.
You can easily get to Marettimo by boat from Trapani in Sicily, and the ride only takes about an hour.
From Pack Up and Wander
Matera
Matera is one of Southern Italy’s most sublime and primeval-looking places. It’s most celebrated for its ancient town of cave dwellings, known as the Sassi. In 1993, the Sassi districts were designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site for being “the most outstanding, intact example of a troglodyte settlement in the Mediterranean region” Today, many of the ancient cave dwellings have been regenerated and are currently occupied by booming businesses, hotels, and restaurants. During your visit, you can dine, shop and sleep in caves.
You’ve probably seen Matera without knowing it, as it’s is a favorite destination among Hollywood filmmakers. Scenes from Wonder Woman (2017), The Passion of the Christ (2004), and The Nativity Story (2006) were filmed in this ancient city. I highly recommend staying at least 2 nights here. As you plan your Italy trip, consider exploring the coastal region of Puglia, before heading inland to Matera. From Moon & Honey Travel
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Milan
With so many incredible historical sights and places in Italy, Milan is often overlooked as a more “modern” city lacking any well-known historical attractions. However, I enjoyed my stay a lot and Milan quickly became one of my favorite European cities. If you’re looking for a place to enjoy the “Dolce Vita” for a few days, full of good Italian food, coffee, and fun nightlife, Milan is the place to be.
There are many beautiful spots around the city, such as the canals around Navigli which are perfect for an Aperitivo or a pizza for sunset. Of course, you also shouldn’t miss Milan’s main attraction, the stunning Duomo cathedral. I highly recommend going on the roof of the Duomo, where you can see its incredible architecture and enjoy the beautiful view. If you have an extra day in Milan and want to escape the city for a bit, you could do a day trip to Lake Como, easily reachable by train. One of my best Italy travel tips is not to skip over Milan!
From German Backpacker
Modica
Modica is one of a cluster of Baroque cities in the southeast of Sicily. Along with Ragusa and Scicli, it was rebuilt after an earthquake hit the region at the end of the 17th century. Modica is set in a gorge with narrow lanes winding their way up the steep slopes on either side of the valley floor. It’s worth the hike to the top to take in the views over the surviving medieval stone houses punctuated by majestic Baroque buildings.
If I was going to shoot a movie full of drama, I’d set the opening scenes on the steps of Duomo di San Giorgio. I first visited Modica during an evening rainstorm when the Duomo was lit up against the dark narrow streets surrounding it.
By day, of course, Modica is charming. When I visited the city several years later with my family we enjoyed lunch at the famous Osteria dei Sapori Perduti (meaning “lost flavors”) where the menu includes ancient recipes next to the list of dishes. We visited the city’s oldest chocolate shop, Antica Dolceria Bonajuto, for a kitchen tour and a history lesson on how Modica’s chocolate gained its unique (but delicious) grainy texture. From Smudged Postcard
Monte Argentario
Located just a scenic 90-minute drive north of Rome is this absolutely stunning comune called Monte Argentario. It’s basically a little island off the coast of Tuscany, and is one of the most idyllic and best places to visit in Italy! My cousin has been living there for over 12 years now, and every time I visit her I fall in love with it more and more! While there are a couple major places to visit on the island, I’d recommend staying in the charming town of Porto Ercole. Just make sure you rent a car and drive around the entire island along the Via Panoramica Road! It’s such a remarkable experience, and you’ll be blessed with jaw-dropping views, lovely wineries, and stunning beaches. It’s actually known to Italians as being where the rich Romans vacation, but can also be a fine budget travel destination as well! It may not be a famous place in Italy, but it’s my favorite hidden gem in the country! Buon viaggia!!
Orvieto
If you’re looking for a stunning hill town to visit in Italy, consider Orvieto. This charming Umbrian hill town is just an hour away from Rome by train, so you can explore Orvieto in just one day! Orvieto’s location, on the top of a big volcanic rock, affords awesome views over the surrounding countryside. For even better views, climb to the top of the Clock Tower in the center of town. And Orvieto’s magnificent Duomo is a must visit. With a surprisingly glitzy and ornate façade for a small town, Orvieto’s Duomo is also known for Luca Signorelli’s amazing frescoes inside.
Wandering Orvieto’s charming streets is a pleasure, as is browsing the numerous ceramics shops all over town. And to get a glimpse of life in Orvieto’s vast underground, join a guided tour and learn about its Etruscan past. If that is not enough, go down into the depths of St. Patrick’s well, an engineering marvel that will leave you awe-struck. With its amazing sights and charming small town vibe, Orvieto makes for a memorable addition to your itinerary for Italy!
Dhara from It’s Not About the Miles
Padua
Padua (Padova in Italian) is one of the most underrated cities in Italy. Due to the proximity of Venice, most people focus on the famous city in the lagoon, but Padua should deserve much more attention from travelers. Padua is probably most famous for its religious heritage, being the town of Saint Anthony. In addition, this city also played a key role in the cultural history of Italy having one the oldest and most prestigious universities in Europe.
The most important things to visit in Padua are the Basilica of Saint Anthony of Padua and the Scrovegni Chapel with fascinating frescoes from Giotto in its interior. Padua is also a city of beautiful squares: Prato del Valle, with its lovely canals and statues, is actually one of the largest squares in Europe. If you are in Padua, you can’t miss out on some of the old-school coffee places, and in Café Pedrocchi you can drink espresso in one of the most antique cafés in Italy. From Surfing the Planet
Pavia
Situated in the North of Italy, somewhere between the Lombardy capital of Milan and the seaside city of Genoa, the beautiful university city of Pavia is characterized by its countless churches and many cobbled lanes. Easy to visit all year ’round thanks to its transport links with the rest of Italy, highlights of Pavia include a Duomo that Da Vinci had a hand in designing and the many buildings of the second oldest university in Italy. If you have a little extra time while visiting Pavia, be sure to take the train ride to the nearby Certosa di Pavia. This monastery dates back to the 14th-century and is one of the best examples of Renaissance architecture in the entire country From Solo Sophie
Perugia
Perugia is a classic Umbrian medieval hill town, complete with a long flat pedestrian street Corso Vannucci, which makes Perugia one of the best places in all of Italy to experience a passeggiata (evening stroll). Grab a gelato or down an espresso, then join the locals for a leisurely stroll up and down the street, taking in the sights, enjoying buskers singing and playing music, and watching everyone else do the same thing. Then head to one of the many restaurants for classic local pasta and truffles or Umbrian sausages with torta al testo (Umbrian flatbread). For dessert, try some Perugina chocolates – they come from Perugia, so what better place to eat them.
Historic Perugia is beautiful, with steep, narrow cobbled streets; a large Etruscan gate; and the. The main square Piazza IV Novembre has the gothic Cattedrale de San Lorenzo and the Fontana Maggiore, a beautiful fountain. Nearby is Via Appia, a narrow street that actually goes along the top of a raised aqueduct, cutting right through a local neighborhood. Don’t miss seeing the Etruscan stone cistern discovered underneath a palazzo in town.
From Travel Collecting
Pienza
Pompeii
The ruins of Pompeii have fascinated me since I learned about them in high school, so visiting the archaeological site was a must-do on my trip to Italy. Visitors can explore the massive park via a guided tour or on their own and can easily spend a whole day at the site. Some of the top things to do in Pompeii include visiting sites like the amphitheater (which can still host performances), Temple of Jupiter, Forum, Basilica, and many private residences.
Though most of the famed frescoes and other artifacts have been relocated to museums, some originals remain and others have been recreated. You can also view the heart-breaking plaster casts that were made of the people buried in the ash who left human-shaped voids as their bodies decomposed. The ruins can be reached via train from Naples and make a perfect day trip whether you’re staying in the city or just stopping in the cruise port.
From Nomad by Trade
Ponte di Legno
When I think about a mountain resort in Italy, immediately the name of Ponte di Legno comes to my mind. This is where I learned how to snowboard and where I fell many times on its white covered slopes. I loved to spend my winter there when I lived in Italy and I felt so lucky that my parents bought a small cabin in the small town so that I could go all the time I wanted to. Its variety of ski slopes makes everybody happy, from kids on their first attempt, to expert skiers. And, most important, there is almost always snow even when it’s not snowing. But you cannot ignore the spectacular hikes you can do during the summer.
Amazing and well-marked trails will take you to explore the entire mountain range and you can go on forever and sleep in the free mountain shack that are scattered around the peaks and well equipped and taken care of by the local mountain associations. The little town of Ponte di Legno is also a gem, for an evening stroll, rich in local restaurants where you can try the regional specialties or browse around the fancy clothing shops. It’s definitely a complete destination that makes everybody happy whether you are a lover of outdoor activities or you just want to enjoy the views and the culinary scene.
From Boundless Roads
Positano
As the main protagonist of southern Italy‘s lemon-scented Amalfi Coast, Positano is the epitome of ‘la dolce vita’. This tangle of pastel-hued facades tumbles down a near-vertical cliffside, colliding with an aquamarine sea and soul-stirring scenes the good life. Families flutter from pizzerias to gelato stands, while couples sip Prosecco and twirl seafood pasta onto their forks on restaurant terraces draped in blushing canopies of wisteria.
Take a stroll and explore the little delis, cafes and gift stores or hop on a boat and bounce across the bay to the Isle of Capri. And whatever you do, don’t leave without tipping back a few glasses of limoncello, an uplifting liqueur made with the area’s emblematic lemons. This really is the good life. From Driftwood JournalsPragser Wildsee
Living in Amsterdam, I keep forgetting how much natural beauty can be found only a few hours away from my hometown. There is still a lot of Italy for me to explore; this time I decided to visit the northeast part of the country, also known as the Dolomites. I was transported to a “Sound of Music”-like landscape, with crisp mountains and 50 shades of ochre.
Traveling in November is great if you would like to avoid the tourists, as it’s just after the hiking season and just before the skiing season. Even though it was quite cold in places, the sun was out, making it perfect weather for hiking. Out of the different places my girlfriend and I visited, the Prager Wildsee stood out majestically. We had the painting-like landscape practically to ourselves, partially because there had been a terrible storm just the week before we arrived, which caused a lot of canceled itineraries.
It’s a sight well worth seeing for yourself, with its cyan-colored water (which was a bit murky because of the storm), vast snow-capped mountains, wooden boats and brownish green conifers. It reminded me somewhat of the rugged nature in Alaska. I recommend following the trail around the lake to experience its ever-changing views.
From Victoria’s Travels
The Island of Procida Italy
I can’t choose only one place in Italy as the thing I love the most about this country is how it doesn’t matter where you go, you will always find tons of beauty – and incredible food! But the place that surprised me the most on my last trip to Italy was the Island of Procida, a tiny place that remains untouched from mass tourism – a rare find in Italy! It’s like if Santorini and Burano decided to have a baby in the Gulf of Naples, so no doubt to pay a visit to this piece of heaven if you’re staying in Naples. You can go for a day trip or stay. Do not miss the sunrise from Terra Murata overlooking Marina Corricella. It’s incredibly beautiful.
From Dianamiaus
Ravello
The little towns and villages on the Amalfi coast are heavenly. They are picture perfect gorgeous villages, perched above the turquoise blue waters of the Mediterranean. There are many stunning hikes in the steep mountains towering over the Amalfi coast. I could spend months on the Amalfi coast visiting every village and walking every hike.
Ravello is one of my favorite towns ever. It’s located up high in the mountains further up from the coastal towns of Amalfi and Atrani. We took the local bus from Amalfi up to Ravello. On the way back we walked all the way down, through unbelievable views, lemon orchards, olive groves, and many stairs. Later we felt every strand of muscle in our legs but the walk was worth it. For a small town, Ravello has a lot of history, attractions and amazing Italian food.
My favorite memory is from the visit to Villa Rufolo, one of the two famous villas in Ravello, now revived for patrons of music, arts, gardens, food, and photography. It’s beautiful buildings, towers and gardens from the 13th century was remodeled in the 19th century, making it popular for visitors around the world. It’s gardens overlooking the blue waters are probably the most photographed for its vibrant colors and perfectly manicured flower beds. But the most unique attraction in Villa Rufolo is the outdoor concert setting, with a backdrop of the Mediterranean down below. I can only imagine how gorgeous concert music would sound in this setting.
From Story at Every Corner
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Roccascalegna Castle
Rome
There is nowhere like Rome. It is without a doubt one of the best places to go in Italy. Home to absolutely iconic world treasures (the Colosseum, the Pantheon), beautiful, awe-inspiring neighborhoods (Trastevere and Centro Storico to start), some of the world’s best pasta (bring on the carbonara), and even an entirely separate country enclosed within its borders (hello Vatican City), Rome is a world unto itself. You will literally never run out of things to do in Rome: once you work your way through all the world-renowned attractions, there is still so much to discover beneath the surface (sometimes literally).
Stand among the ruins of public baths, wander through immaculately maintained gardens, take a break from pasta to devour artichokes in the Jewish Ghetto, step inside impressive catacombs, and admire world-class art, all within the truly Eternal City. The sheer breadth and depth to what Rome offers make it an unforgettable and unmissable destination not only in Italy but across the globe. From Our Escape Clause
Discover Where to Stay in Rome
[irp posts=”4817″ name=”Things to do in Rome in One Day”]
Salerno
Salerno is a charming Italian port city located south of Naples. It’s a fantastic city to get a glimpse of the Mediterranean culture and enjoy classic food, architecture and sea views, without the craze of tourists or sky-high prices. Highlights include:
Salerno Cathedral: If you only tour one historical monument in the city, make it this one. This Romanesque church features stunning, ornate architecture and plentiful religious artifacts. A bell tower sits at the rear of the cathedral, under a classic top dome. This is Medieval architectural and history at its finest.
Minerva’s Garden: Nestled into Salerno’s historic district, this oasis serves as both a public park and a botanical garden. With over 200 varieties of plants, herbs, and greenery, it’s a stunning place to walk through, marked by stone archways.
Salerno Harbor: Always bustling, the city’s main harbor is far from a tourist trap. It’s a fantastic spot to watch the port activity, where fishing boats are always coming and going. A scenic stretch of pier lets you view the cityscape in full, which makes for a breathtaking view.
Forte La Carnale: A castle with strong historical roots in Salerno, this fort is perched atop a hill, meaning you can see the entire city from its highest point, as well as learn about Salerno’s military history. When you’re finished exploring, enjoy a glass of wine and classic Italian cuisine at the on-site restaurant.
In Salerno, the rugged Mediterranean coastline, classic architecture and authentic Italian cuisine will have you wondering why you’ve never heard of this place before. It’s southern Italian culture at its best, but with all the perks of a hidden gem! From Coastlines to Skylines
San Fruttuoso
San Fruttuoso on the Italian Riviera is the site of a tenth-century abbey that nestles in a tiny cove, surrounded by steep forested hills on three sides and a pebbly beach on the other. The Mediterranean is bright green here and sparkles in the sun like an emerald. The abbey and beach are accessible only by boat or foot. There are daily boats from Rapallo via Santa Margerita Liguna and Portofino in one direction and Camogli in the other direction.
A recommended option is to take the boat to Portofino and then hike from Portofino across to San Fruttuoso. The hike is steep at the start and end, with steps in Portofino and switchbacks at San Fruttuosso, but most of the trail is fairly flat with gorgeous views of the Mediterranean below. When you get to San Fruttuoso, you can rent beach chairs and take a dip to cool off. There is also a small café in front of the abbey. A few hundred meters offshore, there is a famous sunken statue of Jesus, Christ of the Abyss, that is a great dive site. Dive trips leave from Santa Margherita.
From Travel Collecting
San Gimignano Italy
San Marino
Santa Marinella
Rome is a natural fan favorite for Italy. But, due to its positioning on the globe, Italy can get quite hot in the summer. On those days, escaping Rome for a beach, to cool off and sneak in some tranquility, is everything. Luckily, there is a prime beach an easy day-trip away!
We highly recommend Santa Marinella, as from Rome Central it’s only a short thirty-minute train ride. We found their beach to be clean, relaxing, and just the break we needed from the city. Once in Santa Marinella, it’s merely a five-minute walk from the train station to find ample amenities, food options, and a beach that is attended but not packed to the gills. From Travel for Days
Saturnia Hot Springs
Saturnia hot springs are one of the best hidden gems in Italy. It’s a little challenging to find these thermal baths in the Tuscan countryside, but the journey is well worth it! You can discover how to find the Saturnia hot springs here.Sicily
One of the best places to visit in Italy has to be the island of Sicily. Steeped in history, and the largest island in the Mediterranean, it has everything from the aforementioned history, to stunning beaches, great food and one of the world’s most active volcanoes, Mount Etna.
There are some great places to stay in Sicily including the capital Palermo, but along the coast to the east is another great base for exploring Sicily called Cefalu. Other people holiday in the southern town of Catania, in the plains below Mount Etna.
As for history, take your pick. Must-see places on Sicily include the Roman hunting lodge near the town of Piazza Armerina and the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento, both of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. There are an additional five UNESCO sites on Sicily.
And the best way to experience Mount Etna from all sides is on the back of a motorbike. My hubby and I rode from Cefalu to Catania and rode up the Catania side of Mount Etna and back down the Taormina side (another amazing town on the island), before riding the less-traveled roads at the rear back to Cefalu. It was an unforgettable ride with the volcano in the background. And the day ended perfectly with an amazing calzone pizza and a bottle of Chianti.
From Passports and Adventures
Not only is Sicily gorgeous, it has miles of coastline! Check out the best beaches in Sicily.
Siena
Siracusa
Sorrento
Sorrento is a lovely day trip that is easily accessible by a 1-hour train from Naples. It is a coastal town with several good private beaches costing less than $10 per day for a locker and an umbrella. You could also take a walk along the cliffs to enjoy the views of the sea. If you walk down to the docks, you can also enjoy some seaside dining (think waves lapping up into the restaurant!) for a very reasonable price. Since this is also a fairly touristy town, there are a fair number of shops to buy the usual Italian souvenirs, including limoncello, pottery, and other fun items.
From Renee the Wanderess
Trentino
Trentino is located in the north of Italy and has some of the most spectacular landscapes in the country, with imposing mountains, majestic lakes, and countless numbers of quaint valleys and cute villages.
It’s a destination that you can visit all year round and it will feel different every time. In autumn the colors come out setting fire to the region’s palette, in spring the apple orchards turn it into a blossom lover’s paradise, in summer the mountains are the perfect cool retreat from the heat, and in winter it offers some of the best skiing in Europe.
I particularly love the winter in Trentino, when the valleys and mountains turn in to a winter wonderland. Even if you are not a skier, there is plenty of awesome things to do. Hiking in the snow will bring up surprises like frozen waterfalls and suspension bridges, the cold crispy air will call for a day in a cozy farmhouse learning how to cook local traditional dishes, or spend a day in a spa with breathtaking views over the Dolomites Mountains. But no matter what time of the year you go, Trentino is guaranteed to make you fall in love with it. From Brogan Abroad
Trieste
Turin
I discovered one of my favorite cities in Italy by accident… Turin was merely the closest city with an airport from Alba, where I had spent a week exploring the Piedmont wine region.
But, Italy’s fourth-largest city stole my heart the moment I stepped off the train. Its beautiful architecture, history, and variety of things to see and do – not to mention the food and wine – make it a great spot to soak in Italy when you’re in the Piedmont region.
A few things I suggest you do when you visit include, visiting the Cathedral of Turin in Piazza San Giovanni where you can see The Shroud of Turin – believed to be the burial shroud of Christ. Take in the Roman ruins, they’re everywhere. Visit the Egyptian Museum, the largest Egyptian collection in the world outside of the Cairo Museum. And ride the historic tram – Linea 7 Tram Storici, which takes visitors on a circular tour of the city and many of its sites. If you can steal away to the river for a stroll, then make it happen! Need more ideas? I’ve got a whole slew of them here.
From Carpe Travel
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Turin, or Torino, is often overlooked as one of the best places to visit in Italy. But if you fail to stop by, then you’ll be missing out. Turin is a stunning place, thanks to the Italian Alps acting as a beautiful backdrop to the northwest of the city. A trip up the Mole Antonelliana will give you 360-degree panoramic views and it’s truly breathtaking.
There is also an awesome cinema museum there too. Turin is a city famous for its chocolate making, and you’ll find authentic Italian restaurants, delicious gelato, and jugs of sparkling wine for a lot less money than you’d find in other parts of Italy. Turin is also home to the biggest archaeological collection of Egyptian artifacts outside of Egypt and it’s a fascinating museum.
There are also lots of beautiful gardens and bridges, perfect for packing an Italian style picnic and simply relaxing in the sunshine. Turin is a small city with a unique and authentic Italian charm. It’s one of my favorite spots in Italy and definitely one of the best places to visit; which is probably why I spent my 24th birthday there! From Dream Big, Travel Far
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Tuscany: Al Gelso Bianco
Umbria
Umbria is the perfect place to visit in Italy. It’s easily as beautiful as Tuscany, with half the tourists, full of stunning hilltop towns, gorgeous churches, and picturesque countryside. Though there is plenty to see and do, it’s compact enough that you can enjoy a long weekend in Umbria and manage to take in a couple of towns and sights.
The food isn’t bad either! In Umbria, you can find delicious truffles, amazing wines including eleven DOC and two DOCG wines! Don’t miss the beautiful town of Spello, with narrow lanes full of flowers, still contained within ancient Roman walls, or the impressive castle and Roman aqueduct in Spoleto. End your trip enjoying the views of the Valle Umbra from Montefalco while sipping a glass of Sagrantino de Montefalco!
From A Lovely Planet
Vatican City
As the smallest sovereign state in the world, Vatican City is probably one of the richest countries, monetarily-speaking, as well as in its significance and history. There are simply so many things to see inside the fortification boundaries of Vatican City!
Most visitors are more than happy to visit Vatican City by touring St. Peter’s Basilica or purchasing general admission to the Vatican Museum. Both of these popular attractions offer an overwhelming collection of priceless art, history, and architecture. They can easily occupy you for the whole day
Travelers who’ve done their research know that there are even more unusual Vatican City tours, like exploring the necropolis Scavi tour underneath the Basilica. Qualified researchers and scholars may visit the Vatican Library. These relatively unknown activities require planning, but are definitely worth doing! From The Round the World Guys
Venice
[irp posts=”3540″ name=”Things to do in Venice”]
Ventimiglia
Located in the Gulf of Genoa, the small seaside town of Ventimiglia is the perfect place to enjoy the Italian Riviera. It has the distinction of being the last town of Italy as the French border is just seven kilometers away. Nevertheless, there are quite a few ways to enjoy the city. You can walk along narrow and winding roads in the old quarter that is located over a hill or explore the new town that runs along the coastline.
Apart from the medieval Old Town, other attractions in Ventimiglia include the Roman baths and theatre, Romanesque cathedral, San Michele Archangel church, Hanbury Gardens and the quiet promenade with hardly any tourist infrastructure. The wild experience of just you and the sea alone makes this a place worth visiting in my opinion. On Fridays, there is a huge flea market where you can also sample authentic Italian fare. It is also the perfect venue to interact with the lively locals.
And of course, once you’re done and in the mood for some culture shock, breezing into Menton in France or Monte Carlo in Monaco is just a short hop away.
From Constant Traveller
Verona
No list of the best places to visit in Italy would be complete without mentioning fair Verona. This town made famous by Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, has a rich cultural past and was founded in the 1st century BC. Verona is also known as “Little Rome.” Located in Northern Italy, it’s a perfect place for a day trip. From Outside SuburbiaVilla Cimbrone
Villa Romana del Casale
Viterbo
Volterra
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