Italy doesn’t make it easy on travelers. One minute you’re dreaming about sipping wine in Tuscany, the next you’re convinced Sicily’s beaches are the only answer. With so much history, food, and scenery packed into one country, narrowing the top places to visit in Italy is half the battle. We cut through the chaos and ranked the must-see Italy destinations—so you’ll know exactly which stops are worth your time.
Map of the Top Places to Visit in Italy
This list of the top places to visit in Italy runs coast to coast, so wherever your trip lands, something nearby makes the cut. If you’ve locked in Rome, Florence, or Venice, scan for quick day trips that fit right in—and find the best places to visit in Italy without reshuffling your itinerary.
Top Places to Visit in Italy — Ranked #36 to #1
We’re mixing beloved heavy hitters with under-the-radar gems—no filler, just the good stuff. Start at #36 and see how long your to-do list gets.
36. San Polo dei Cavalieri, Lazio
San Polo dei Cavalieri is a stone-built hill village that began as a medieval fortress guarding the Sabina approach to Rome. Over centuries, it shifted between noble estates (think Orsini to Borghese), and the rocca still crowns lanes of stair-stepped houses. It’s quiet, scenic, and authentic—exactly the counterpoint to Rome that earns it a place on this list of the top places to visit in Italy.
How to get to San Polo dei Cavalieri: You’ll want a rental car for this one, and expect the drive to take around 50 minutes from central Rome.
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How long to stay: Half-day
Things to do:
- Wander the picturesque cobbled streets of the historic center
- Climb to the Rocca dei Cavalieri for panoramic views of the countryside.
- Indulge in an authentic farm-to-table meal at a local agriturismo.
35. Murano Island, Veneto
In 1291, Venice exiled all of its glassmakers to Murano. This move wasn’t a punishment, but rather to keep fire hazards away from the main city and to stop its artisans from sharing trade secrets. The move turned the island into a glassmaking powerhouse, and centuries later, you can still watch masters at work. It’s one of the top places to visit in Italy for a quick hidden-gem experience close to Venice.
Getting There: Take a vaporetto (water bus) from Venice. Or, book a tour and let someone else organise transport for you.
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How Long to Stay: Half-day
Things to Do:
- See a master craftsman create glass art in a live workshop.
- Visit the Basilica of Santa Maria e San Donato and its impressive Byzantine mosaic pavement.
- Stop for a bite to eat at one of the best restaurants on Murano.
Not ready to book a tour? Check out our guide on how to visit Murano Island.
34. Palombara Sabina, Lazio
It’s rare to find a place with a hulking medieval castle, thermal baths, and a major olive oil festival that still feels completely under the radar—but Palombara Sabina does. Perched in the Sabine Hills, this stone village is defined by its impressive 11th-century Castello Savelli and the spectacular views it offers toward the Apennine mountains. It’s a genuine taste of old Italy, where daily life still outshines tourism and authentic experiences are the norm.
Getting There: You’ll need a rental car for this one, and expect the drive to take around 50 minutes from central Rome.
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How Long to Stay: Half-day
Things to Do:
- Explore the massive Castello Savelli, an 11th-century fortress that dominates the town.
- Wander the town’s quiet, stair-stepped lanes and seek out its historic, frescoed churches.
- Experience the regional flavor by sampling local DOP olive oil.
33. Palermo, Sicily
Palermo is loud, colorful, and unfiltered—exactly what you’d expect from Sicily’s capital. The city has seen it all, from Arab traders to Norman kings, and you’ll spot the mix in its architecture, food, and traditions. Come for the churches and palaces, and don’t miss out on the street life that makes this city one of the top places to visit in Italy.
Getting There: Palermo has its own international airport and is also reachable by ferry or train from mainland Italy.
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How Long to Stay: Two to three days
Things to Do:
- Visit the Palermo Cathedral and the Norman Palace with its Palatine Chapel.
- Explore Ballarò or Vucciria, the city’s busiest street markets.
- Climb Monte Pellegrino for sweeping views of the city and sea.
Not ready to book accommodation? Check out our article on the top things to do in Palermo.
32. Caiazzo, Campania
Caiazzo is a quiet Campanian hill town that would likely stay off this list of the top places to visit in Italy if not for one man: Franco Pepe. His restaurant, Pepe in Grani, is widely regarded as the best pizzeria in the world, drawing food lovers from across Italy and beyond. The setting only adds to the experience—narrow streets, a Norman castle, and countryside views that make the journey feel worthwhile.
Getting There: Take a regional train from Naples to Caiazzo (about 1.5 hours), or drive in just under an hour.
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How Long to Stay: Half-day to overnight
Things to Do:
- Dine at Pepe in Grani—but book your table well in advance.
- Walk the medieval lanes and stop into local churches.
- Climb up to the Norman castle for sweeping valley views.
31. Assisi, Umbria
Assisi is a hill town in Umbria best known as the birthplace of St. Francis, one of Italy’s most beloved saints. The Basilica di San Francesco is the big draw, filled with frescoes that changed the course of European art. But beyond the pilgrims, you’ll find fortress ruins, quiet stone lanes, and sweeping views across the Umbrian valley.
Getting There: Take the train to Santa Maria degli Angeli, then continue by bus or taxi up to the old town.
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How Long to Stay: One day
Things to Do:
- Tour the Basilica di San Francesco and see Giotto’s frescoes.
- Walk up to Rocca Maggiore for panoramic views.
- Visit smaller churches like Santa Chiara and San Damiano.
30. Amalfi, Campania
As the namesake of the world’s most famous coastline, Amalfi is a bustling, beautiful, and unapologetically touristy destination. This former maritime republic, one of Italy’s four great seafaring cities, earns its place on this list for good reason. Its dramatic harbor is a feast for the eyes, with cliffs stacked with pastel houses and a medieval core that weaves past limoncello shops and into ancient courtyards. It’s definitely a must-see place in Italy for coastal views.
Getting There: The easiest way to get to Amalfi is by ferry from Positano or Salerno.
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How Long to Stay: Half-day to a full day
Things to Do:
- Walk through the Piazza del Duomo and visit the magnificent Amalfi Cathedral, with its elaborate staircase.
- Take a boat tour from the harbor for spectacular views of the coastline.
- Discover more things to do on the Amalfi Coast.
Not ready to book a tour? Check out our guide on where to stay on the Amalfi Coast.
29. Cortona, Tuscany
Cortona is the Tuscan hill town made famous by Under the Tuscan Sun, but it’s more than just a movie backdrop. Its roots go back to the Etruscans, and you can still see their tombs tucked into the hillsides. Add a Medici fortress, local wine bars, and views across the Chiana Valley, and you’ve got one of Tuscany’s classic stops.
Getting There: Take a train to Camucia-Cortona, then bus or taxi up to the town.
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How Long to Stay: Overnight
Things to Do:
- Explore the Fortezza del Girifalco.
- Visit the Etruscan tombs and local museum.
- Relax in a wine bar with a glass of local red.
28. Montepulciano, Tuscany
Montepulciano combines everything you’d hope to find in Tuscany: rolling hills, stone streets, and a wine tradition that dates back centuries. This is the home of Vino Nobile, and nearly every street leads to a cellar door. The town is big enough to explore yet small enough to feel intimate, with Renaissance architecture framing views of the Val d’Orcia.
Getting There: Driving is easiest—roughly 1.5 hours from Florence or 2.5 from Rome.
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How Long to Stay: Overnight
Things to Do:
- Visit Piazza Grande and the town’s Renaissance palaces.
- Sample local wines in traditional cantinas.
- Take a walk along the medieval walls.
27. Modena, Emilia-Romagna
For a small city, Modena packs in a lot: supercars, aged balsamic vinegar, and a cathedral that’s nearly a thousand years old. It’s also the birthplace of chef Massimo Bottura, adding serious culinary credibility. The city center is walkable and lively without being overwhelmed by tourists.
Getting There: Modena is 20 minutes by train from Bologna, making it an easy day trip.
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How Long to Stay: One day
Things to Do:
- Visit the Ferrari Museum in Maranello or Modena.
- Tour an acetaia (balsamic vinegar cellar).
- See Modena Cathedral and Piazza Grande, a UNESCO site.
26. San Vito lo Capo, Sicily
San Vito lo Capo is the beach Sicilians don’t brag about because they’d rather keep it to themselves. The star here is the long, crescent-shaped beach with its soft sand and calm, turquoise waters. When you tire of sunbathing, the town serves up incredible Arab-influenced cuisine, and the nearby Zingaro Nature Reserve offers a dose of rugged natural beauty.
Getting There: You’ll need a rental car to get to San Vito lo Capo, as it’s a two-hour drive from Palermo.
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How Long to Stay: Two to three days
Things to Do:
- Spend a lazy day on the main beach, which has soft sand and calm, clear water.
- Try the local specialty, couscous with fish, which is celebrated during the annual Cous Cous Fest.
- Hike or take a boat tour through the nearby Zingaro Nature Reserve to discover hidden coves.
- Discover more top things to do in Sicily.
25. Lucca, Tuscany
Few towns can say their biggest attraction is a set of city walls, but Lucca can. Built in the Renaissance and never put to the test, the fortifications now serve as shady walking and biking paths circling the old town. Inside, you’ll find cobblestone streets, Puccini’s birthplace, and the unique Piazza dell’Anfiteatro, built on the site of a Roman arena.
Getting There: Trains from Florence or Pisa reach Lucca in under 90 minutes.
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How Long to Stay: One day
Things to Do:
- Walk or bike the tree-lined walls.
- Climb the Guinigi Tower with its rooftop garden.
- Visit Puccini’s childhood home and museum.
24. Erice, Sicily
This mountaintop fortress is a glimpse into Sicily’s ancient past, a stone village that seems to hang in the clouds above Trapani. Originally a settlement for the Elimi, it was later occupied by the Phoenicians, Carthaginians, and Romans, each leaving their mark on its formidable stone walls and winding alleys. The result is a place with a quiet, powerful atmosphere that feels a world away from the coast below.
Getting There: Take the cable car from Trapani, drive up the winding road, or join a day trip tour from Palermo.
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How Long to Stay: Half-day
Things to Do:
- Tour Castello di Venere and enjoy the Balio Gardens.
- Climb the bell tower of the Duomo for views.
- Eat almond cookies at Maria Grammatico’s.
23. Gubbio, Umbria
Gubbio is known as the “City of Fools,” a nickname earned from a tradition involving a fountain and a lighthearted license of madness. But its appeal goes far beyond the gimmick—it’s home to grand medieval architecture, sweeping Umbrian views, and a unique mountain lift. It feels authentic, a bit quirky, and refreshingly unpolished compared to more famous Italian towns.
Getting There: You’ll need a car to get here, but it’s a pleasant drive through the Umbrian countryside.
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How Long to Stay: One day
Things to Do:
- Visit Palazzo dei Consoli and the Piazza Grande.
- Ride the open-air cable car to Basilica di Sant’Ubaldo.
- Try the fountain “madman’s run.”
22. Monreale, Sicily
This hilltop town, just outside Palermo, is home to a cathedral so spectacular it was once called the “eighth wonder of the world.” The reason to come here is simple: its cathedral, a masterpiece of Norman architecture, is decorated with over 6,000 square meters of glittering, gold mosaics. It’s a powerful and unforgettable sight that shows how much artistic wealth the Norman kings of Sicily commanded.
Getting There: Just 30 minutes by car, taxi, or bus from Palermo.
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How Long to Stay: Half-day
Things to Do:
- Step inside the Monreale Cathedral to witness the breathtaking, floor-to-ceiling gold mosaics.
- Visit the cloister to admire its hundreds of uniquely carved columns.
- Climb to the roof of the cathedral for a panoramic view of Palermo and the Conca d’Oro valley.
21. Parma, Emilia-Romagna
If Parmesan cheese or prosciutto has ever been on your table, you already know Parma. This northern Italian city is the birthplace of both, and food is still its biggest draw. But the charm extends beyond the plate, with a pink marble Baptistery, a frescoed cathedral, and leafy parks once reserved for dukes.
Getting There: High-speed trains from Milan or Bologna reach Parma in about an hour.
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How Long to Stay: One to two days
Things to Do:
- Taste Parmigiano Reggiano and Prosciutto di Parma at the source.
- Visit Parma Cathedral and Baptistery.
- Stroll Parco Ducale for a slower pace.
20. Burano Island, Veneto
Burano is one of the Venetian Lagoon’s most distinctive islands, instantly recognizable for its rows of brightly painted houses. While it’s become a favorite for day-trippers, the island still feels rooted in tradition with lace-making and fishing at its core. It’s small, cheerful, and a worthy counterpart to neighboring Murano.
Getting There: Vaporetto rides from Venice take about 45 minutes.
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How Long to Stay: Half-day
Things to Do:
- Snap photos of Burano’s colorful facades.
- Visit the Lace Museum to see centuries-old craftsmanship.
- Enjoy a gelato or seafood lunch along the canal.
Not ready to book a tour? Check out our guide on how to visit Burano Island.
19. Varenna, Lombardy
This is the quieter, more authentic side of Lake Como. Tucked away on the eastern shore, Varenna is a charming fishing village with a more intimate feel than Bellagio. Its historic villas, a beautiful lakeside path, and a medieval fortress all offer a slower, more rewarding way to experience the lake’s legendary beauty.
Getting There: The most convenient way to arrive is by train from Milan, but you can also reach it by ferry from other towns on the lake.
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How Long to Stay: One day to overnight
Things to Do:
- Explore the serene gardens of Villa Monastero.
- Hike up to Castello di Vezio to see its medieval ruins and enjoy the panoramic views.
- Walk the scenic lakeside path that connects the ferry station to the old town.
Not ready to book a tour? Check out our guide on where to stay in Lake Como.
18. Bellagio, Lombardy
Where Lake Como splits into two branches, you’ll find one of Italy’s most famous resort towns. Bellagio has long drawn aristocrats and celebrities with its stair-stepped lanes, manicured gardens, and sweeping water views. It’s polished, picturesque, and built for spending money. Come here if your list of the top places to visit in Italy includes luxury and romance.
Getting There: Take a ferry from Varenna, Menaggio, or Como.
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How Long to Stay: One to two days
Things to Do:
- Visit Villa Melzi and its lakeside gardens.
- Wander Bellagio’s narrow lanes and boutiques.
- Take a boat tour of the mid-lake triangle.
Not ready to book a tour? Check out our guide on where to stay in Lake Como.
17. Sorrento, Campania
This cliffside town is the perfect base for exploring the Bay of Naples and the Amalfi Coast. It’s touristy but for a reason, offering an abundance of restaurants, shops, and easy logistics for getting around. The vibe here is one of laid-back elegance, where you can relax by the sea, taste the local limoncello, and feel like you’ve found a comfortable hub for your adventures.
Getting There: Sorrento is well-connected by train, bus, and ferry from Naples and other coastal towns.
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How Long to Stay: Two to three days
Things to Do:
- Go for a walk in the historic center and visit the Villa Comunale gardens for great views.
- Hike the Path of Gods with panoramic views of the Amalfi Coast.
- Swim, snorkel, and explore caves on a boat trip.
Not ready to book a tour? Check out our guide on where to stay in Sorrento.
16. Tivoli, Lazio
Romans once escaped the heat of the capital by heading to Tivoli, and the appeal hasn’t changed much. The town is packed with big-name sights, from Hadrian’s sprawling villa ruins to the fountains of Villa d’Este. It’s close enough to Rome for a quick trip, but rich enough in history to fill a full day.
Getting There: Direct trains run from Rome’s Tiburtina station in under an hour, or book a private tour from Rome.
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How Long to Stay: One day
Things to Do:
- Tour Villa d’Este and its famous cascading fountains.
- Explore the ruins of Hadrian’s Villa, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Stroll the historic center and stop at local trattorias.
Check out these tours!
15. Cefalù, Sicily
A heavy hitter in Sicily, this town is the perfect mix of beach escape and historical site. Historically a small fishing port, the town is dominated by a majestic Norman cathedral and the fortress-like rock it sits on. It’s a place that feels simultaneously ancient and vibrant, a great stop for those looking for both sun and history.
Getting There: The easiest way to get to Cefalù is by train from Palermo, or a short drive if you have a rental car.
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How Long to Stay: Two nights
Things to Do:
- Visit the Norman Cathedral and admire the impressive mosaics inside.
- Walk down to the old port for a perfect photo of the town and its beach.
- Enjoy a traditional Sicilian meal at one of the many restaurants in the historic center.
14. Pienza, Tuscany
This little Tuscan hill town is a remarkable example of Renaissance urban planning. Built on the orders of Pope Pius II in the 15th century, it was intended to be a perfect city, and its main square and palaces are a testament to that vision. Today, its legacy is just as famous for a more humble tradition: making some of the world’s best Pecorino cheese.
Getting There: The best way to reach Pienza and the surrounding Val d’Orcia is by car.
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How Long to Stay: Half-day,
Things to Do:
- Admire the symmetry of Piazza Pio II, the center of the “ideal city.”
- Enjoy a cheese tasting at a local formaggeria.
- Explore the Palazzo Piccolomini, with its unique hanging garden and views.
13. San Gimignano, Tuscany
This little hill town stands out on the Tuscan skyline with a unique collection of medieval towers. Built by rival families during the Middle Ages to show off their wealth and power, these stone skyscrapers give the town a look you won’t find anywhere else. It’s a place that feels frozen in time, and while it’s packed with visitors, the views and history make it a worthy of a spot on this list of the top places to visit in Italy.
Getting There: A rental car is the most convenient way to reach the town, but there are also buses from nearby towns.
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How Long to Stay: Half-day to a full day
Things to Do:
- Wander the winding, narrow streets and pause for lunch at one of the best restaurants in San Gimignano.
- Visit the Piazza della Cisterna and the Piazza del Duomo, the town’s two main squares.
- Find a shop selling the local Vernaccia di San Gimignano white wine for a tasting
12. Milan, Lombardy
This city is the financial and fashion heart of Italy, a place of modern style and old-world elegance. While it may not have the ancient ruins of Rome or the art of Florence, it holds its own with a stunningly detailed cathedral, the world’s most famous fresco, and a vibrant nightlife scene. It’s a city that’s constantly buzzing, full of energy and purpose.
Getting There: Milan is a major transport hub, with high-speed trains from all over Italy and international airports.
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How Long to Stay: Two nights
Things to Do:
- Visit the magnificent Milan Cathedral (Duomo), a Gothic masterpiece.
- Book a ticket to see Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper.
- Explore the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, a beautiful glass-covered shopping arcade.
- Discover more things to do in Milan.
Not ready to book a tour? Check out our guide on where to stay in Milan.
11. Pompeii, Campania
This ancient Roman city offers history at its most raw and real. Buried by a volcanic eruption in 79 AD, the entire city was perfectly preserved under a blanket of ash. Today, you can walk through the streets and feel a profound connection to the people who once lived there, from their homes and baths to the famous plaster casts of their bodies.
Getting There: Take a train from Naples or Sorrento, or join a guided day trip and let someone else handle the logistics.
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How Long to Stay: Half-day to a full day
Things to Do:
- Walk through the main forum and see the temples and public buildings.
- Visit the Villa of the Mysteries, known for its incredible frescoes.
- See the plaster casts of the victims, a haunting and powerful sight.
Not ready to book a tour? Check out our guide on how to visit Pompeii.
10. Syracuse, Sicily
This Sicilian city was once the most powerful in the ancient world, rivaling even Athens. Today, it’s a place where Roman ruins and elegant cafes sit side-by-side, offering a unique blend of historical weight and modern charm. The real highlight is the island of Ortygia, a maze of narrow streets where a stunning cathedral is built directly into the columns of a Greek temple.
Getting There: You’ll need a rental car to get here, as it’s an hour drive from Catania and three hours from Palermo.
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How Long to Stay: Two nights
Things to Do:
- Get lost in the narrow lanes of the island of Ortygia.
- Tour the Neapolis Archaeological Park and its massive Greek theater carved from stone.
- Find the famous Fountain of Arethusa, a freshwater spring with an ancient history.
9. Naples, Campania
Naples is the kind of place you either love or hate, a city that feels raw and unfiltered. But beyond the chaos, you’ll find some of Italy’s most important art and archaeology. Come for the world-class pizza and unapologetic street energy. Naples is one of the best places to visit in Italy if food tops your list.
Getting There: Naples is easily accessible by high-speed train from Rome and other major cities.
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How Long to Stay: Two nights
Things to Do:
- Walk through the historic center, a labyrinth of alleyways and hidden courtyards.
- Learn the art of pizza making with a local maestro.
- Visit the Sansevero Chapel to see the incredible Veiled Christ sculpture.
Not ready to book a tour? Check out our guide on where to stay in Naples.
8. Bologna, Emilia-Romagna
This city is Italy’s food mecca, a place where the pasta is made by hand and the cheese is aged to perfection. But it’s also an important university town with a vibrant, youthful energy that’s a perfect counterpoint to its ancient history. It’s a place where you can feel the pulse of daily life as locals go about their business beneath centuries-old arcades.
Getting There: High-speed trains connect Bologna to Rome, Florence, and Milan.
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How Long to Stay: Two nights
Things to Do:
- Take a cooking class to learn how to make fresh pasta from scratch.
- See the Piazza Maggiore and the Basilica di San Petronio.
- Go for an aperitivo in a local bar with a glass of local wine.
7. Taormina, Sicily
Few towns pack a backdrop like this one—Mount Etna smoldering in the distance and turquoise waters below. Taormina has been luring travelers since the 19th century, blending Greek ruins, Baroque squares, and a Riviera-style vibe. It’s not subtle and it’s not an off-the-beaten path, but it is unforgettable and well deserving of it’s spot on this list of the best places to visit in Italy.
Getting There: A 1-hour drive or bus ride from Catania, with connections to the rest of Sicily.
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How Long to Stay: One night
Things to Do:
- Walk through the Teatro Antico, still one of Italy’s most dramatic ruins.
- Relax on the beach at Isola Bella.
- Stop for granita or cannoli along Corso Umberto.
- Discover more things to do in Taormina.
Not ready to book a tour? Check out our guide on where to stay in Taormina.
6. Siena, Tuscany
This city feels like a step back into the Middle Ages. Its civic pride is on full display in the fan-shaped main square, the site of a chaotic, bareback horse race that dates back centuries. Beyond the spectacle, it’s a city of immense art and history, from its black-and-white Duomo to its centuries-old university.
Getting There: A bus or train from Florence is the best way to get here.
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How Long to Stay: One night
Things to Do:
- See the Palazzo Pubblico and the Torre del Mangia in the main piazza.
- Admire the famous cathedral, which is one of the most beautiful in Italy.
- Get lost in the city’s labyrinth of streets and discover its many hidden corners.
Not ready to book a tour? Check out our guide on where to stay in Siena.
5. Positano, Campania
A vertical jumble of pastel houses clinging to cliffs, Positano is the Amalfi Coast at its most photographed. It’s chic, expensive, and crowded in peak season, but the views explain why people keep coming. Whether you’re on a terrace with a spritz or offshore on a boat, the scenery never really misses. No wonder Positano tops so many lists of the best places to visit in Italy for beaches.
Getting There: Take a ferry from Naples, Sorrento, or Amalfi, or brave the coastal road by car or bus.
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How Long to Stay: One to two nights
Things to Do:
- Lounge on Spiaggia Grande, the main beach.
- Take a boat trip along the Amalfi Coast.
- Shop the town’s boutiques for linen and sandals.
- Find more things you have to do in Positano.
Not ready to book a tour? Check out our guide on where to stay in Positano.
4. Capri, Campania
This island is a classic Italian splurge, a place of dramatic cliffs, azure waters, and an undeniable aura of celebrity. It’s where you go to see and be seen, but also to appreciate a unique kind of natural beauty. The vibe is exclusive and polished, and while it’s packed during the day, the evenings have a more elegant and relaxed feel. Capri is one of the top places to visit in Italy for luxury island escapes.
Getting There: The most scenic way to arrive is by ferry from Sorrento or Naples.
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How Long to Stay: One to two nights
Things to Do:
- Take a chairlift up to Mount Solaro for an incredible panoramic view of the island.
- Walk through the Gardens of Augustus for a perfect photo opportunity of the Faraglioni rock formations.
- Find a secluded spot on the coast for a swim in the clear blue water.
- Discover more things to do in Capri.
Not ready to book a tour? Check out our guide on where to stay in Capri.
3. Florence, Tuscany
No other city can claim the Renaissance like Florence—it was paid for, painted, and built here. The historic center is packed with names that shaped Western art and architecture: Michelangelo, Brunelleschi, Botticelli. It’s crowded and busy, but there’s no skipping it if you want to understand Italy.
Getting There: High-speed trains link Florence to Rome, Milan, Venice, and beyond.
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How Long to Stay: Two to three nights
Things to Do:
- See Michelangelo’s David at the Accademia.
- Climb the Duomo for views over the city.
- Spend time in the Uffizi with Renaissance masters.
Not ready to book a tour? Check out our guide on where to stay in Florence.
2. Venice, Veneto
Runner-up at #2 on our list of top places to visit in Italy is Venice—the world’s most improbable city, floating on a hundred islands stitched together by canals and centuries of drama. It is a city that’s constantly fighting the sea, but its beauty is undeniable. It’s a place where grand palaces rise from the water and every turn of the canal reveals a new view.
Getting There: Take a high-speed train, or fly into Venice’s Marco Polo Airport.
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How Long to Stay: Two nights
Things to Do:
- Take a ride on a gondola through the city’s canals.
- Walk through St. Mark’s Square and see the famous basilica and the Doge’s Palace.
- Get lost in the narrow streets and find a quiet bridge or canal to call your own.
Not ready to book a tour? Check out our guide on where to stay in Venice.
1. Rome, Lazio
And here we are at the #1 place to visit in Italy. No surprises, but plenty of reasons why. This city is a living monument to human history, with its layers of empire, art, and religion visible on every street corner. It can be overwhelming and chaotic, but its energy is what makes it feel so alive. To truly see it, you must be willing to walk through its ancient core and lose yourself in the everyday hustle. Rome is the definitive top place to visit in Italy for first-time travelers.
Getting There: Rome is easily accessible by flying into its international airport or by taking a high-speed train from other major Italian cities.
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How Long to Stay: Three to four days
Things to Do:
- Tour the Colosseum and its underground to see where gladiators once prepared for battle.
- Take a food tour through the local markets and try authentic Roman cuisine.
- See Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel ceiling in the Vatican Museums.
Not ready to book a tour? Check out our guide on where to stay in Rome.
Hand-Picked Tours of the Best Places to Visit in Italy
Final Thoughts
It’s clear that one visit to Italy is never enough! We hope this guide has sparked your imagination, giving you ideas for everything from your next major bucket-list destination to a nearby hidden gem. To make your trip even more special, explore our tours for a chance to see these incredible locations with a local expert.
