From the old architecture of Rome to perfect views by postcard along the Amalfi coast, the varied fantastic sites of Italy have so much to offer the world traveler.
To help you choose where to go to your Trip to ItalyWe have listed some of the country’s best known cities and some of the less visited but just as amazing secret places.
Although this is not a requirement for entry, I strongly recommend buying a Good travel insurance option with COVVI-19 coverage.
1) Florence
The capital of the Tuscan region, Florence, is often called the Alfresco Museum in Italy, with a treasure of architectural jewels, world -renowned artistic collections and essential museums.
Despite being a fairly large city, Florence retains this atmosphere in a small town, with a selection of local restaurants, hidden hidden streets and animated squares ideal for watching the world pass. Exploring the city on foot is one of the best ways to soak up the atmosphere. Here are some essential places to consider for your Florence Tours::
- Basilica di San Lorenzo. A centerpiece in Florence is one of the oldest cathedrals in the city and the place of rest of the Medici family.
- Da Vinci Museum. See the works of Leonardo da Vinci as you have never seen it before in this exhibition of an interactive museum.
- Boboli Gardens. Providing superb views of the city and an overview of the 16th century sculptures, the gardens offer the perfect escape of the lively city.
- Galleria dell’accademia. Perhaps see the most famous sculpture in the world, Michaelangelo David.
Related article: Learn more about Florence on my Road Italia itinerary guide!
2) Rome
Formerly the capital of the powerful Roman Empire, Rome is now a cultural power and, like Florence, is often called a huge outdoor museum. And it is my favorite city in the world. I lived in Rome for three years and I loved it in pieces. If you visit Italy and you do not see Rome, you lack a lot of time!
With its history which dates back almost 3,000 years, the remains of the ancient city, as well as the museums which complement them, are the main sites to see.
In addition to its impressive architecture, Rome is one of the best places in Italy to visit, thanks to its fantastic food scene. What should you not miss if you decide to visit Rome? The list could be so long that this article could become a book 🙂 But for fun, here are (some) of the many sites::
- Colosesum. Built between 70-80AD and used for gladiator tournaments and other entertainment for people, you can now take a ride around these old walls.
- Pantheon. Considered one of the best preserved ancient Roman buildings, the Pantheon offers a fantastic glimpse of the city thousands of years ago.
- Fountain Trevi. Savelisagely decorated with marble sculptures, the Trevi fountain is supposed to give good luck when you throw a penny on your shoulder.
- The Vatican. The smallest country in the world, the Vatican is the Pope’s official residence and one of the most important sites in the Catholic Church.
Related items: Learn more about Rome
3) Sicily
I come from SardiniaThe second largest island in the Mediterranean Sea, but today I want to make a cry to its biggest sister right next to the toe in Italy: Sicily. Often neglected for popular cities on the continent (like Sardinia, to be fair).
However, if you don’t mind exploring a little further, Sicily offers some of the most amazing hikes, idyllic beaches and authentic Italian food around.
Although it can have the reputation of being at home with the mafia (and, alas, we cannot say that these days have been over for a long time), it also offers outdoor exploration, volcanic adventures, calm seaside cities and archaeological sites rarely visited, such as:
- Mont Etna. Jump in a cable car and drive at the top of the most active volcano in Europe, taking advantage of the panoramic views along the way.
- Temples valley. Take advantage of a visit through the ancient Roman ruins and learn more about the Hellenic architecture of the time.
- Dell ‘Alcantara gole. Nestled in the Botanical and Geological Park of Gole Alcantara is a series of natural volcanic canyons created by the power of the sea and the wind.
- San Vito Lo Capo Beach. A kilometer of uninterrupted white sands and crystal clear waters, flanked by imposing cliffs at each end, make it one of the best beaches in Sicily.
4) Lake Garda
Hidden in the heart of northern Italy, Lake Garda is the largest and most popular lake in the country. Surrounded by small villages, endless mountains and bordered by beaches, Lake Garda has long been a favorite of holidays among tourists and inhabitants.
His varied field makes it one of the best places to visit in Italy for anyone looking for outdoor adventures.
At the same time, its relaxed atmosphere and its temperate weather conditions attract families looking for a relaxing getaway. Apart from the myriad of water sports and hiking opportunities, here is what is not lacking while you are there:
- Sirmione and Castello Scaligeri. Sitting on the banks of the southern shore, this 12th century fortress offers superb photo opportunities.
- DESENZANO DEL GARDA. Head to this lively city for local restaurants, picturesque cafes and relaxed bars.
- Riva del Garda. Hosting beaches by the lake and a lively city center, Riva del Garda is an excellent choice for a day.
- Cascata del Varone. Head in the desert and find this superb waterfall that falls from its ice lake above the cave below.
Related article: Learn more about lakes in Italy. Here is a Como lake guide
5) Positano
Spectacular Italy Amalfi coast is full of essential cities, but Positano is perfectly located if you want to explore some different areas while you are there.
It is well known for its pastel houses which pass by the mountain until they arrive in a turquoise blue bay.
Positano lends itself perfectly to lazy days on the beach and the afternoon spent sipping the Aperol Spritz, but it is also an ideal place for one day excursions to some of the best places in the region. Discover some of the best things to do here:
- Large spigigia. The most popular place in Positano for the beach bath, spend your day catching the shelves or taking a kayak and exploring waters.
- Chemin des Dieux. Which was once an old mule road, this four -thousand section along the coast offers a breathtaking view of the Amalfi coast.
- A day excursion to Capri. Jump on a fast boat to Capri Island to explore hidden sites or enjoy a day of shopping.
6) Venice
It is not a secret for anyone that Venice has long been considered one of the best places to visit in Italy. Its winding canals, decorated bridges and romantic open squares attract hundreds of thousands of visitors every year.
Composed of around 120 small islands connected by bridges and canals, it is not uncommon to spend most of your time on the water here.
However, once you are on dry land, superb basilicas, gourmet hidden hot spots and shop hotels await you. Here are some higher points to see while you are there:
- Large canal. More like a river than a channel, it is the largest navigable route in Venice and is an amazing image opportunity when explored from water at night.
- Basilica St Marks. The dome -shaped turrets and hand -painted frescoes make St Marks Basilica one of the city’s striking sites.
- Venice Lido. Avoid the crowd in the center of Venice and find quieter beaches and blue waters in Venice Lido.
- Sigh bridge. Venice is home to hundreds of bridges, but none has the loss history of it. Head here for a last overview of the superb city.
7) Sorrento
In terms of Naples bay, the city of Sorrento is known for its baroque architecture and long warm summers. On the edges of the Amalfi coast, this small town is surrounded by orange groves and flanked by steep cliffs which rise in the bright blue sky.
Once managed by the Greeks, the Romans, the French, the Spanish and the Turks, you will find here a mixed heritage, which can be appreciated in food, wine and culture.
While most of your time here will probably have gone to absorb the atmosphere of the small town, there are a few key things that we recommend:
- Old town. Admire the architecture and find gastronomic gems in the old town of Sorrento.
- Piazza Tasso. The beating heart of Sorrento, Piazza Tasso is an exhilarating buzz of restaurants, cafes and colorful bars.
- Cloister of San Francesco. This place is popular with weddings and a superb 13th century monastery, invaded by vines and leafy shrubs, and makes a fantastic backdrop for a photo.
The point to take away
Italy offers an incredible variety of cities, cities and coastal villages to explore. Whether you are looking for a relaxed beach getaway or a break in town filled with historical delights, Italy will not disappoint.
If you have time, we recommend that you go to a few different places on the list, so that you can discover the two sides of Italy, the history of the old Empire in Rome, and the amazing coastal food and coastal landscapes of the Amalfi coast.
If you want to be Really Prepared to visit the best places in Italy, you cannot ignore my article on the Top Italian hand gestures! 🙂
CE Vediamo in Italia! Go to Italy!
Arrival 😉
