How about talking about the best places to visit in Italy, this absolutely incredible country that I call home?

You know when you are so excited about something that you literally don’t know where to start? That’s exactly how I feel every time I sit down to write about Italy!

Let me tell you – there’s a reason why Italy makes everyone’s travel bucket list (and why my camera roll is eternally full!)

Whether you’re dreaming of getting lost in bustling city streets or sipping wine in a quiet Tuscan vineyard, trust me, Italy has that special something for every type of traveler.

I still remember my first time exploring as a wide-eyed traveler myself, completely mesmerized by how the urban areas just buzz with this incredible energy – imagine sipping your morning cappuccino in a piazza that’s older than most countries!

And don’t even get me started on our countryside… those rolling hills and charming villages? They’re even more breathtaking in person than in those Instagram photos you’ve been saving (and yes, I know you have a folder full of them!).

From world-class food that will ruin you for pasta anywhere else (sorry not sorry!), to art and architecture that literally stops you in your tracks (I still catch myself staring up at church ceilings like a tourist), to our famous dolce vita lifestyle – there’s a reason why people fall head over heels for Italy.

And as someone who gets to experience both sides – as a local and as an eternal tourist in my own country – I’m here to help you discover the Italy that will steal your heart.

So, are you ready to discover 10 absolutely unforgettable places that should definitely be on your Italian itinerary?

Whether you’re drawn to the ancient magic of Rome (with the chance to literally have breakfast next to a 2000-year-old monument) or the romantic canals of Venice (yes, they really are as dreamy as you imagine) or somewhere wonderfully off the beaten track, I’ve got just the thing for you!

Before we dive into the programme, I would like to know what attracted you to Italy.

Is it the food? The history? That legendary Italian lifestyle? Drop me a comment below, and I’ll make sure to include extra tips just for you!

Andiamo (let’s go)!

Best places to visit in Italy

Rome: The Eternal City

Let me tell you about Rome, our magnificent capital, which really does look like an open-air museum.

It is the incredible combination of ancient history and eternal art that, despite its modesty, really deserves a place at the top of your travel wish list! 

Right in the centre of the city is the iconic Colosseum and, let me tell you, no picture will prepare you for the first live one!

It is not just a great tourist attraction, an ancient amphitheatre; it is a testament to how ingenious our ancient Roman ancestors were when it came to engineering.

Immerse Yourself in Culture 

Then there is the Vatican City. Did you know that this is considered the world’s smallest sovereign state, covering just 110 acres in the centre of Rome?

It is the home of the Pope and houses a museum complex in the Vatican; it is something that, in my opinion, you should not miss.

You will have the opportunity to see an impressive collection of works of art and other objects from the past, including Michelangelo’s work in the Sistine Chapel. Be amazed!

And then, of course, there is the Pantheon: the fact that this ancient temple is so incredibly well-preserved makes it one of my favourite places to take refuge in to cool off during the hottest part of the afternoon, admiring the magic of Roman engineering.

Walking around Rome, you have the feeling of being in an art gallery: in fact, beautiful churches, palaces and museums appear literally around every corner.

The Galleria Borghese (for which I recommend to book in advance!) houses the most astounding Renaissance and Baroque works of art you will ever see.

And of course there is the Trevi Fountain, don’t forget to toss a coin! I still do every time I pass by. 

Indulge in Roman Cuisine

But there’s one thing about Rome: it’s not just about the old things.

It has a vibrant energy that pulls you in! Here you will find some of the best dishes of your life – seriously, wait until you try the real pasta carbonara, amatriciana or my favourite, cacio e pepe – in a cosy little trattoria.

And as if that wasn’t enough, the gelato is to die for! 

Nightlife and shops in Rome

From designer boutiques to extravagant markets selling handmade treasures, for all shopaholics Rome is heaven on earth.

And then, when the sun goes down?

That’s when Rome comes alive with its bars, clubs and music venues that mix historical grandeur with modern entertainment. 

Want some honest advice?

Although it is entirely possible to visit Rome independently, hiring a local guide for part of your visit can make all the difference.

They will help you appreciate every little detail and those often overlooked stories that make this city so special.

They will turn every meal and every moment into an unforgettable experience. 

Florence: Cradle of the Renaissance

Florence, the city that steals my heart every time I go there and, believe it or not, I have lost count of how many visits I have made.

You know that feeling you get when you turn a corner and you are literally speechless because everything is too beautiful? Well, that is practically every street in Florence!

Must-See Attractions

• Duomo: Don’t miss the stunning dome designed by Brunelleschi.
• Ponte Vecchio: Enjoy picturesque views and explore the charming shops.

No guidebook can prepare you for the first sight of the Duomo. That huge cathedral with its pink, white and green marble façade?

It’s like a wedding cake designed by giants!

And here’s my favorite insider tip: climb to the top early in the morning (book your tickets in advance, trust me on this!).

Yes, it’s 463 steps, and yes, you’ll probably question your life choices halfway up, but oh mamma mia, that panoramic view of Florence’s terracotta roofs will make you forget all about your burning legs!

Artistic Influence 

Now, let’s talk about art, because Florence is basically one giant museum!

You can come face to face with Botticelli’s ‘Birth of Venus’ at the Uffizi Gallery (tip: book your ‘skip the line’ tickets at least a few days in advance in high season).

And don’t even get me started on Michelangelo’s works, I could well get goosebumps every time!

Speaking of art, take a walk on the iconic Ponte Vecchio.

You know those perfect pictures you see on Instagram? It’s even more fascinating in person!

Fun fact: it is the only bridge in Florence that survived World War II. Today it is lined with beautiful jewellery shops where you can find extraordinary pieces (or just window shop, as I usually do).

But here’s something most tourists don’t realise: Florence is not just about the big attractions. Some of my favourite moments have been getting lost in the less touristy streets and discovering hidden gems like the Biblioteca Nazionale Centrale.

And if you want to experience Florence like a real local, head to the Mercato di San Lorenzo or the Mercato Centrale.

The freshest ingredients can be found on the ground floor of the Mercato Centrale, but upstairs? That’s where the magic lies – food heaven!

Speaking of food (my favourite subject), promise to try the bistecca alla fiorentina. Yes, it is huge. Yes, it is meant to be shared. And yes, it has to be rare (don’t even think of asking for it well done, or the butcher might cry).

Pair it with a glass of Chianti from the surrounding hills and you will understand why Tuscan cuisine is world famous.

Tuscan Countryside 

And if you have an extra day or two?

Oh, please, go to the Tuscan countryside!

Imagine this: rolling hills sprinkled with cypress trees, vineyards as far as the eye can see and small hilltop villages frozen in time.

A pleasant counterbalance to the Renaissance grandeur of Florence, a great place to sample some more fresh pasta and some more of that wonderful Chianti wine!

Want my insider tips for the best time to visit the Duomo? The secret spot for the perfect sunset photo of Ponte Vecchio? Or maybe where to find the best ribollita in town?

Drop me a comment below – I’m always excited to help fellow Florence lovers!

The best way to explore the city and learn about its history and details is through the eyes of a professional local guide.

Venice

Venice is a unique and beautiful city in Italy, known for its canals, gondolas, and unique architecture.

The city is built on a group of small islands and is connected by a network of canals, which are lined with beautiful buildings and are a great way to see the city. 

You can take a gondola ride through the canals, which is a unique and romantic way to experience Venice.

The architecture of Venice is also quite unique and worth seeing. The city is famous for its colorful, ornate buildings, many of which are adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures.

You can explore the city’s many palaces, churches, and museums, such as the Basilica di San Marco and Palazzo Ducale, both located in Piazza San Marco, and the Gallerie dell’Accademia.

A guided tour that includes St. Mark’s Basilica with Terrace and the Doge’s Palace with the Bridge of Sighs is highly recommended.

Venice is also a city with a rich cultural heritage. 

You can explore the city’s many art galleries and libraries, such as the Peggy Guggenheim Collection and the Galleria Giorgio Franchetti alla Ca’ d’Oro.

Venice is also famous for its delicious seafood and traditional Venetian dishes such as sarde in saor, risotto al nero di seppia, and baccalà alla veneta. 

The local wines, such as Chardonnay, Cabernet, and Merlot, are also a must-try.

Venice is also known for its many festivals and events, such as the Venice Film Festival, the Venice Carnival, and the Biennale di Venezia, which is a major international contemporary art exhibition.

To avoid long lines, it’s essential to pre-book your tickets.

The Amalfi Coast

The Amalfi Coast, of course, could not be left out of this list of the best places to visit in Italy. It’s a stretch of coastline located in the Campania region of southern Italy. 

It is known for its picturesque towns, beautiful beaches, and stunning coastline.

The towns of Amalfi, Positano, and Ravello are some of the most popular destinations on the Amalfi Coast. 

They are famous for their colourful houses, narrow streets, and beautiful churches. The towns are located on cliffs overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, providing you with breathtaking views.

The Amalfi Coast is also known for its beautiful beaches, such as the Spiaggia Grande in Positano, which is a popular spot for sunbathing and swimming. 

The coast is also popular for boat trips and ferries, which provide an excellent opportunity to explore the coastline and the nearby islands of Capri and Ischia.

Additionally, the Amalfi Coast is also a great place for hiking, as it offers beautiful trails with panoramic views and great natural landscapes, like the Path of the Gods (Sentiero degli Dei) that links the towns of Bomerano and Nocelle.

The Amalfi Coast is also known for its delicious local cuisine and wines. 

You can enjoy traditional dishes such as seafood, pasta with seafood, and pizza margherita, as well as the local wines, such as the Aglianico and the Falanghina.

The Amalfi Coast is also a great place for shopping, with a wide range of shops selling everything from handmade ceramics and lemon-based products to fashion and jewelry.

You can book a guided tour here or private transfer service here.

Cinque Terre 

Cinque Terre is a collection of five villages located along the coast of the Italian Riviera in the Liguria region of Italy: Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore.

Each village has its own unique character, but all are known for their colourful houses and buildings, charming streets, and beautiful coastal views.

Monterosso al Mare is the largest of the five villages, known for its long beach, lemon groves, and wine production.

Vernazza is considered one of the most picturesque villages, known for its historic castle and picturesque harbor.

Corniglia is the only Cinque Terre village that is not directly on the coast, but rather perched on a hilltop overlooking the sea.

Manarola is known for its colourful houses and picturesque fishing harbor.

Riomaggiore is the southernmost village, known for its narrow streets, colourful houses, and stunning views of the sea.

You can take a train or boat to travel between these villages, which allows you to enjoy the different landscapes, cultures, and traditions of each village.

You can also book a boat tour at sunset that includes a tasting of local delicacies such as pesto and focaccia.

Or you may love to paddle alongside an expert guide, exploring hidden coves and rugged cliffs.

Lake Como

Lake Como, located in the northern part of Italy, is known for its stunning scenery, elegant villas, and luxurious resorts.

You can enjoy activities such as boating, hiking, and biking along the lake’s shores, as well as exploring the charming towns and villages that dot the area. 

Some of the top places to visit on Lake Como include:

Como, which is the largest town on the lake, is located at the southern end of the lake. 

You can explore the historic city centre and visit the Cathedral of Como, the Basilica of San Fedele, and the Broletto.

Bellagio, known as the “pearl of the lake,” is a charming town located at the point where the three branches of Lake Como meet. 

You can explore its winding streets, enjoy the views of the lake, visit the Villa Melzi gardens, and perhaps learn to make ravioli while sipping wine with a beautiful view.

Varenna is a charming village located on the eastern shore of Lake Como and is known for its narrow streets, picturesque houses, and beautiful views of the lake. You can take a boat ride to the nearby village of Menaggio or visit the Villa Monastero.

Tremezzo is a village located on the western shore of the lake and is known for its grand villas and beautiful gardens, such as the Villa Carlotta. 

You can also take a boat to the nearby village of Lenno.

Cernobbio is a town located on the western shore of the lake and is known for its luxurious resorts and the famous Villa d’Este. 

You can also explore the town’s historic centre and take a stroll along the lakefront promenade.

The Borromean Islands

The Borromean Islands archipelago is a group of small islands located in northern Italy, in the Piedmont region, on the shores of Lake Maggiore.

There are three islands (Isola Bella, Isola Madre, and Isola dei Pescatori), one islet (Isolino di San Giovanni), and one rock (Malghera).

Isola Bella is the most famous of the three islands, and it’s known for its beautiful Baroque palace, Palazzo Borromeo, which was built in the 17th century. 

You can explore the palace and its beautiful gardens, which are filled with exotic plants and sculptures. 

The palace also features several art collections, including paintings by famous artists such as Tintoretto and Titian.

Isola Madre is known for its lush botanical gardens and its beautiful 19th-century villa. 

Here you can wander through the gardens and admire the many different types of plants, including camellias, azaleas, and rhododendrons. 

The villa is also open to visitors and features several rooms decorated with beautiful frescoes and antique furniture.

Isola dei Pescatori, or the Island of the Fishermen, is the smallest of the three islands and it’s known for its charming fishing village.

It’s also known as Isola Superiore and is the only permanently inhabited island in the Borromean Archipelago.

You can stroll along the narrow streets and enjoy the picturesque views of the lake. The island also features several small restaurants where you can try the delicious local fish specialties.

All islands are connected by ferry, and you can take a boat tour around the islands to appreciate the beautiful panoramic views of the lake, the surrounding mountains, and the charming villas and gardens on the shore.

Please note that the ferry ticket does not include access to the islands’ villas, which must be purchased separately.
If you are short on time, I recommend this private guided tour for a more in-depth experience.

You can also take a leisurely stroll along the lakeshore, or enjoy water sports like paddleboarding, kayaking, or sailing. 

The islands are also a great place to relax, taking in the natural beauty and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere.

The Dolomites

The Dolomites are a large mountainous region in northeastern Italy that is known for its natural beauty, outdoor recreational opportunities, and unique geological formations.

They offer a variety of activities such as hiking, rock climbing, skiing, and mountain biking, as well as picturesque villages and breathtaking views.

Additionally, the Dolomites have been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to their unique geology and natural beauty.

Some popular and centrally located towns in the Dolomites that may make good bases for your stay include:

Cortina d’Ampezzo, also known as the “Queen of the Dolomites,” is a popular resort town with a charming pedestrian-only center and great access to outdoor activities such as skiing and hiking.

Bolzano is the largest city in the Dolomites and serves as a great base for exploring the surrounding towns and villages.

It has a rich cultural heritage and is home to the famous Ötzi the Iceman, a Copper Age mummy discovered by chance by two mountaineers in 1991 on the Val Senales glacier. It’s on display in the Museo Archeologico dell’Alto Adige (South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology), complete with all of its clothing and equipment.

Canazei is a charming mountain village that offers great access to skiing and hiking, as well as other outdoor activities such as rock climbing and paragliding.

Selva Gardena is a ski resort town that’s known for its beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and its ski-in, ski-out accommodation.

It’s a good idea to research the activities you want to do ahead of time and find a location that best suits you and your plans.

Keep in mind that during peak season, lodging may be difficult to find and more expensive. 

You may even prefer to take a full-day tour of the Dolomites and the charming town of Cortina from Venice.

Val D’Orcia

The Val d’Orcia is a beautiful valley located in the southern part of Tuscany. 

It’s known for its picturesque landscapes, charming towns and villages, and rich cultural and historical heritage. 

The area was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2004 for its exceptional aesthetic qualities and for the way in which human activity has shaped the landscape over the centuries.

The Val d’Orcia landscape includes rolling hills, cypress trees, vineyards, olive groves, and picturesque towns like Pienza, Montalcino, and San Quirico d’Orcia. 

The valley is also home to several beautiful villas and castles that are open to visitors. 

The area is also known for its hot springs, and the towns of Bagno Vignoni and Bagni San Filippo are popular spots to soak in the hot springs.

Val d’Orcia is a great place to visit for those who enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and horseback riding, as well as for food and wine lovers, as the area is renowned for its delicious wines such as Brunello di Montalcino and the traditional Tuscan cuisine.

Val d’Orcia is also known for its beautiful views, and the famous scenic road called “Strada della Crete Senesi”, which is a must-see for photography enthusiasts.

Join a Brunello di Montalcino wine tasting tour with lunch from Siena.

Urbino la Culla del Rinascimento ( the Renaissance Cradle)

Urbino is a town located in the region of Marche, which is known for its picturesque towns and rolling hills, making it a great base for exploring the surrounding area.

Specifically, Urbino is located in the province of Pesaro e Urbino in the northeastern part of the region.

It’s a popular destination for several reasons, one of which is its well-preserved Renaissance-era architecture.

The town was a major cultural centre during the Renaissance, and many of its buildings, including the Palazzo Ducale, were built during this time.

This palace was the residence of the Duke of Urbino and is now a museum that houses an art collection and frescoes by the famous Renaissance artist, Raphael.

Urbino is actually the birthplace of the artist Raphael, and the town has several museums dedicated to his life and work.

Furthermore, Urbino is also known for its University of Urbino, which was founded in 1506, is one of the oldest universities in Italy, and is the cultural centre of the town.

Additionally, Urbino is surrounded by beautiful countryside, making it a popular destination for hiking and nature activities.

All of these factors combined make Urbino a popular destination for art lovers, history buffs, and nature enthusiasts.

The Italian Islands

Italy is also home to many beautiful islands, many of which are popular tourist destinations during the summer months. 

Sardinia and Sicily are both known for their stunning beaches, crystal clear waters, and picturesque towns. 

The Tuscan Archipelago, which includes Elba and Capraia, offers a mix of rugged landscapes, charming villages, and historic sites. 

Other popular Italian islands include the Aeolian Islands, the Tremiti Islands, and the Egadi Islands. 

Each island has its own unique character and attractions, making them all worth visiting.

In conclusion, Italy is a country that offers something for everyone, from history and culture to art and natural beauty. 

The places mentioned in this blog post are must-see destinations for any traveller visiting Italy. 

Each of these destinations offers a unique and unforgettable experience, and they are the perfect starting point for your Italian adventure.

Ciao and safe travel planning!

This post may contain affiliate links or sponsored links, which are useful experiences that I would like to recommend to you. If you purchase from them, I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. This will help fund my project and allow me to continue providing useful and up-to-date information about visiting Italy.