The Best Places to Visit in Italy
Italy - one of the most historic, iconic and beautiful countries in the entire world. It’s a nation filled with colorful seaside towns, renowned global cities, an incredible cuisine and some amazing countryside with breathtaking mountain ranges. The infamous boot shaped country lies with coastlines along four different seas. This fashionable country is one of the most visited places on the planet, and essentially is divided into 3 main parts - The North (Alps and Lakes), The Center (Legendary cities, and the capital), and The South (Mediterranean coast and sunshine). Plus, the island of Sardinia which is a special place in itself. You can see everything you’ve ever wanted in life if you just stayed in Italy, you can really never run out of things to do.
Capital: Rome
Currency: Euro
Language: Italian
When to visit: May to November
1) Dolomites
The Dolomites are Italy's most spectacular mountains, known for the incredible sharp and jagged peaks blended in with aesthetic meadows. You can find them in the northeast of the country, and they possess some of Europe’s best hiking routes which become super special during the sunset or sunrise. The Dolomites are undeniably photogenic, and truly the perfect postcard place.
Things to do:
Because the Dolomites spans over nearly 16,000 square kilometers, it’s best if I just share some of the best spots, so you can use a site like Alltrails to find which route suits you best. The first spot on my list is Seceda, as it’s easily accessible for what is one of the most beautiful spots in the range, showcasing the jagged peaks. My second spot is going to be Lago Di Braies. You hardly even need to hike for this one, it’s just a gorgeous emerald lake you can do a loop around. Another lake high on the list is Lago di Sorapis, and it’s just as gorgeous as the last, with the towering mountain in the back. An iconic spot is Tre Cime di Lavaredo, AKA the 3 peaks of the Dolomites. You can hike around them it shouldn’t take longer than half a day, worth it to get the postcard shot. Alpe di Siusi is also 100% worth a mention, it’s a large alpine meadow which is wide and green, a place you can soak up the Dolomites in peace. While there's a million beautiful spots, if I had to choose one more I’d pick Gardena Pass.
How to get there:
Fly into either BZO, INN, VCE, or VRN for the best accesiblity close to the Dolomites.
Take the train into Bolzano, where you can then use Südtirol Mobil buses to connect villages.
2) Como
Como is a beautiful Italian city which sits on the southwestern tip of the world-famous Lake Como. It’s the main settlement built on the lake, with a population of around 83,000. It gets very busy and filled with tourists from all around the world who come to see the magic of the lake and it’s breathtaking views.
Things to do:
After arriving in the city, head into the stunning main square of Piazza Duomo, where you’ll find the Como Cathedral plus a bunch of shops and food spots. Then after you’ve explored the town, walk out onto the waterfront and along Lungolago, the lakefront promenade. The lake is so beautiful, and if you want better views then take the cable car up to Brunate, then make your way to Faro Voltiano for the best views of everything. For a display of impeccable neo-classical architecture, Villa Olmo is east of Como and has gardens you can walk around in and admire the grand style of the villa. Many love to take trips on a boat to get out onto the water, which is a great idea and they can take you up to scenic towns like Bellagio or Varenna. Many visit Como as a day trip from Milan, but if you stay overnight you’ll see the crowds decrease as the sun sets.
How to get there:
Take an easy train or bus from Milan, depending on what you prefer.
3) Rome
Italy’s historic capital is one of the most famous, iconic cities in the entire world. It’s a place filled with ancient ruins and memorable art pieces, plus it’s known worldwide as being the origin destination of The Roman Empire. It’s always unbelievably crowded in Rome, and combined with the high levels of heat the city gets, it’s really a good idea to come at the right time. However, no matter when you’re here you’re going to see some of the most acclaimed ancient sites.
Things to do:
Of course, the big one is the Colosseum. You can head inside this ancient arena to see where gladiators fought and animals were released. The Roman Forum sits right next to the Colosseum, and it was where life passed by every day in Ancient Rome. You’ll see Ruins of temples, basilicas, and emperors' palaces. Walk the main path from the Arch of Titus to the Arch of Septimius Severus to explore in full. Palantine Hill is also next door, which has views over the Forum and Circus Maximus. Behind the forum is my favorite building in the whole city, Monument to Victor Emmanuel II (AKA, the Vittoriano). It’s a truly incredible gigantic monument/building you can go up and inside, made out of white marble taking 50 years to build. You literally cannot miss it, it’s huge. Walk northwest and head past Largo di Torre Argentina, the ruins where Julius Caesar himself was killed. Keep going and make your way to Pantheon, it’s the best preserved Roman temple. It has a massive dome with a hole in the roof, you can go inside and see for yourself. Further west is Piazza Navona. This is an awesome plaza area with three fountains, some incredible historic buildings and a lively atmosphere. I have to mention these two places, but bear in mind you’ll hardly be able to move because there will be so many tourists in the summer. Trevi Fountain and the Spanish Steps are beautiful and for sure a must see, just very busy. Now across the river is the area of Trastevere - a decorative neighborhood with ivy covered buildings and picturesque streets. Also, don’t forget to visit The Vatican City, involving St. Peters Basilica and the massive space out front.
How to get there:
Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino (FCO) is the big international airport, whilst Ciampino (CIA) is the smaller low cost airport. Both work for getting to Rome.
You can also take a train or bus from mainly all the cities in Italy.
4) Florence
Florence is the capital of Tuscany in central Italy and one of the most beautiful cities in the world. It's the birthplace of the Renaissance, home to some of the greatest art ever made, and still feels like a living museum. The city has about 380,000 people, but the historic center is small and compact. You can walk almost everywhere. It is one of the best cities in the world if you love art.
Things to do:
The city’s greatest masterpiece is Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, which truly dominates Florence’s skyline. You can book tickets to go inside and see views from up top. Right in front of it also sits the Baptistery of St. John, which is iconic in itself. Now for the art - Uffizi Gallery is one of the best art museums on earth, with tons of stuff from Renaissance-era painters. Accademia Gallery is also a must-visit, as it features Michelangelo's iconic Statue of David. There are only 4 remaining old bridges with shops built inside, and Ponte Vecchio is one of them. It’s picturesque and built over the River Arno. The city’s political heart can be found in Piazza della Signoria, which contains the City Hall, plus stylish architecture and sculptures. And for the best view of Florence’s beautiful skyline, go to Piazzale Michelangelo at sunset. It’s across the river, and yes it is pretty packed most of the time but still worth it.
How to get there:
Florence Peretola Airport (FLR) is great for direct flights from Europe low cost airlines, mainly.
Otherwise take a train or bus from any of the cities around the area in Italy.
5) Amalfi Coast
It’s not a city or a town, but the Amalfi Coast is a stretch of coastline just south of Naples on on the southern side of the Sorrento Peninsula. It’s an incredibly romantic place, with dramatic seaside towns built on the steep terraced hills next to the stunning waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea. The villages are known for being colorful and pleasant, and the Amalfi Coast is very popular and busy especially in the summer.
Things to do:
There are so many towns on the Amalfi Coast, but the main one is the town of Positano. It’s the one you see on most of the photos with vertical layers of pastel houses tumbling down to the sea. At the bottom you’ll find the lively beach of Positano Spiaggia, which is incredible with the houses in the backdrop. The next best town is the namesake town - Amalfi. It’s the biggest on the coast with stunning streets and the St. Andrew's Cathedral which has an impressively luxurious interior. Higher up in the hills is the ‘hidden’ gem of the region, Rovello. It’s not exactly on the coast, which works in it’s favor as the peaceful, yet gorgeous Villa Rofulo has some of the greatest views of the beauty down below. I’d really recommend this one. Between the popular Positano and Amalfi is the more quaint town of Praiano, so if you want an option with fewer tourists and cheaper stays, this would be my choice. Plus, not far from Praiano is Fiordo di Furore, a very popular and amazing swimming spot inside a narrow cave. It’s popular for a reason. Overall, you can basically visit anywhere else as a day trip as different towns are built all along the coast close to one another.
How to get there:
Take a train, from Naples or Rome to Salerno then take a bus to your desired town.
Otherwise, take a bus from Rome or Naples straight to Amalfi or Positano.
6) Venice
The city of Venice is one of a kind. A car-free city made up of 118 small islands, connected by about 400 bridges and over 170 canals. It’s one of Italy’s most visited cities, and it gets very packed and expensive in peak tourist season. It’s connected to the mainland (Mestre) by a bridge, and the old streets of the islands are truly special. The buildings are mostly from the 13th-18th century, and you’re bound to get lost exploring every little corner.
Things to do:
Lots of tourists like to do a gondola ride through the canals - it’s probably the most expensive and touristy thing you can do, but it’s still special. Walk until you make it to St. Mark's Square, you’ll see the iconic Saint Mark's Basilica and Doge’s palace, two displays of beautiful architecture. Another spot which gets very busy is Rialto Bridge, which is built over the Grand Canal. It’s picturesque and has a bunch of shops and restaurants around it. If you get a vaporetto pass, you get unlimited rides on all the water boats around Venice, connecting you to all the islands in the area. You can use it to get to Murano Island, the glass making island, or even further to Burano Island, where very vibrant colorful houses draw in tourists. And if you want a different view of Venice, go to Giudecca island where you get looks over to the main islands plus a look into local life, too. It’s extremely peaceful there if you’re sick of the crowds. Overall Venice has so many different narrow streets and canals to look at, you can walk round for a long time and see it all.
How to get there:
Marco Polo Airport (VCE) has good European flight options, and from there you can water bus to the island.
Otherwise you can take a train or FlixBus from other big cities in Italy and neighboring countries.
7) Palermo
Palermo is the first city on this list which is located in Sicily, the energetic island of southern Italy. It’s the island’s capital and found on the northwestern coast right on the Tyrrhenian Sea. It’s highly recommended that if you do make your way down to Sicily, Palermo should be your first stop thanks to the historic and unique aspects it contains after being ruled by so many different ethnic groups over time. It’s very full of character and not as ‘polished’ as somewhere like Florence. It really showcases a different vibe to Italy.
Things to do:
Base yourself near the great Historic Center of Palermo, and visit the baroque crossroads in the heart of town, Quattro Canti. It has Four fountains, four statues, and four buildings with matching facades, it’s a very cool spot. Walk further down the street until you get to Palermo Cathedral, and the piazza in front of it. It’s a massive church and you have the option to go in and climb the roof terrace. A few streets down and you’ll find Palazzo dei Normanni, and Cappella Palatina which has gold mosaics covering every inch. For some proper Sicilian chaos, Ballarò Market is the biggest of them all and worth a visit especially in the morning. Some other districts of Palermo you can visit which are the Kalsa District, and also Mondello which is the beach district further north of the city.
How to get there:
Falcone-Borsellino Airport (PMO) is a good airport with direct flights all around Europe and Italy.
The trains and buses usually go to the port of mainland Italy, where you then board a ferry to Sicily and continue to Palermo.
You can also take a ferry from other places on the mainland like Genoa or Naples.
8) Cinque Terre
Cinque Terre is a stretch of small towns on the rugged coastline of northwest Italy. It’s quite similar to the Amalfi Coast in the respect that it has some colorful and picturesque houses perched on the cliffs above the sea. The name literally means "Five Lands,” as there are 5 main tiny settlements which are connected by epic hiking paths.
Things to do:
The first of the five villages is Monterosso al Mare, the biggest and flattest. It also has the longest beach of them all. Further along is Vernazza, which is probably the most photographed thanks to it’s colorful houses right next to the small harbor. Next is Corniglia, which is not exactly directly on the sea, instead further up the hill. Then we have Manarola, definitely a contender for the most beautiful especially from the viewpoint across the bay. And last of them all is Riomaggiore, where you can start the trail (if not at Monterosso al Mare). The trail is called the Blue Trail, and is a 12km path connecting all five villages. It’s an amazing experience done in just a single day, making Cinque Terre a great spot on any itinerary.
How to get there:
Take a train or bus from La Spezia or Genoa to Cinque Terre, OR from any city in Italy to La Spezia then a bus to Cinque Terre.
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