Italy consistently ranks high on the bucket lists of travelers, and with good reason. This article will showcase some of the best places to visit in Italy, a country that offers delectable cuisine, breathtaking coastlines, enchanting small towns, bustling cities, outdoor adventures, and a rich artistic heritage. From the boot of Europe, you’re sure to find places that will capture your heart.
Regardless of your interests, you’ll discover a part of Italy that resonates with you. Here, we present 10 of the most captivating locations that showcase Italy’s historical landmarks, stunning landscapes, culinary treasures, and artistic masterpieces.
From the iconic Colosseum in Rome and Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper in Milan to the picturesque vineyards of Tuscany and the street food culture of Sicily, let’s explore the best places to visit in Italy.
10 Best Places To Visit in Italy
1. Rome
Rome, often referred to as the Eternal City, is typically the first stop for many travelers. As Italy’s capital and its most populous city, Rome is home to some of the nation’s most significant historical sites.
One of the highlights is the Colosseum, the largest ancient amphitheater ever constructed. Completed in 80 AD, it could accommodate up to 80,000 spectators who came to witness courageous gladiators face off against wild animals like crocodiles, elephants, and leopards.
Adjacent to the Colosseum lies the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, where you can stroll through the remnants of ancient Roman life, once frequented by figures such as Julius Caesar, Marc Antony, and Emperor Augustus.
History and architecture enthusiasts should not miss the magnificent dome of the Pantheon, the steep climb up the Spanish Steps, tossing a coin into the Trevi Fountain, or simply enjoying the lively atmosphere at renowned squares like Piazza del Popolo or Piazza Navona.
Art lovers will appreciate the prestigious Galleria Borghese and the Borghese Gardens, as well as a visit to the Vatican Museums, the Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica—essential sites for any art and culture afiicionado or religious pilgrim.
Amidst all this exploration, be sure to savor some of Rome’s famed pasta dishes, such as Pasta Carbonara or Cacio e Pepe, complemented by a scoop of gelato before moving on to your next adventure.
Given Rome’s undeniable popularity, it attracts seven to ten million visitors annually. During peak seasons like summer and religious holidays such as Easter, expect the city center to be quite crowded. However, traveling with JayWay ensures that all essential activities, like a tour of the Vatican or the Colosseum, are pre-booked and come with skip-the-line access.
2. Venice
Few cities evoke as much romance as Venice, where you can glide through serene canals, serenaded by a gondolier, while taking in the enchanting sights of the Grand Canal and beyond. However, Venice isn’t just a couple’s paradise; friends and families can equally enjoy this car-free haven.
While in Venice, make sure to cross and admire the city’s renowned bridges, including the Rialto Bridge and the Bridge of Sighs. A visit to St. Mark’s Square is also essential, where you’ll discover the stunning Doge’s Palace, St. Mark’s Basilica, and live music filtering out from nearby restaurants.
For a day trip, explore the nearby islands of Murano, famous for glassblowing, and Burano, known for its lace traditions and vibrant buildings. With your camera filled with beautiful shots, it’s the perfect opportunity to indulge in local specialties such as bigoli pasta, squid ink spaghetti, and cicchetti, the Venetian version of tapas.
Due to its popularity and busy cruise ship port, Venice can become overcrowded, especially in summer. However, staying a few nights rather than opting for a quick day trip allows you to escape the crowds. Most of the city clears out by evening, giving you ample space to wander the quaint streets of Venice, undoubtedly one of Italy’s best destinations.
3. Tuscany
Tuscany offers a blend of rolling green hills, iconic cypress trees, charming hilltop villages, lush vineyards, renowned Renaissance art, and some of the best local produce in Italy.
Similar to Italy itself, Tuscany embodies contrasts. Begin your adventure in the vibrant city of Florence, a treasure trove for art history lovers. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Florence’s historic center is brimming with cultural gems.
Cross the Ponte Vecchio, soak up the atmosphere at Piazza della Signoria, immerse yourself in incredible artworks at the Uffizi Gallery and the Accademia, and ascend to the top of the Duomo, the stunning Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, for breathtaking sunset views from Piazzale Michelangelo.
After a whirlwind few days in Florence, discover the tranquil beauty of the Tuscan countryside. Relax in a private villa, explore historic hilltop towns like San Gimignano or Siena, and indulge in delightful wine tastings and leisurely lunches at family-run wineries.
The landscape of Tuscany invites you to unwind and savor Italy’s natural beauty while relishing fresh truffles, olive oil, fruits, vegetables, and much more.
At JayWay Travel, we ensure our guests experience the finest small-group tours of Tuscany or arrange exceptional private excursions, offering a unique way to see some of the most remarkable places in Italy.
4. Amalfi Coast
Located just south of Naples, the breathtaking Amalfi Coast features homes perched on cliffs that appear to plunge into the sea. While it draws celebrities to its luxurious shoreline, you don’t have to own a yacht to enjoy a few days on the Amalfi Coast.
The coastline comprises various towns, each offering its own unique charm. We recommend picking one town as your base and taking day trips to explore the others.
Sorrento is an excellent choice for your stay. This town on the northern coast is the only one with direct train access, making it easy to visit Naples, Pompeii, and Capri. Don’t forget to sample its famous limoncello while you’re there!
If you seek postcard-perfect scenery, Positano is the place to go. Renowned for its dramatic cliffs, sandy beaches, and fabulous shopping, this town is a must-see.
If history and delectable cuisine are your objectives, Amalfi is the perfect match. Sharing its name with the coast, Amalfi is rich in history and home to a stunning cathedral that deserves a visit. Enjoy the local cuisine while basking in the quieter atmosphere, ideal for food lovers in search of peace.
Please keep in mind that the Amalfi Coast is mostly a seasonal destination, best visited from early April to late October, with July and August being the busiest months. While larger towns like Sorrento remain accessible year-round, many smaller towns’ restaurants, shops, hotels, and ferry services close outside the peak season.
5. Milan
Milan stands out as the fashion capital of Italy and one of the world’s top four fashion hubs alongside New York, London, and Paris. This northern city is celebrated for its style and vibrant culture, which is evident in its cuisine, art, architecture, and fashion.
If fashion is your passion, Milan is the ideal playground for browsing designer boutiques and gaining inspiration for your wardrobe. However, if shopping isn’t your scene, there’s still a plethora of other things to see, do, and taste in Milan.
Marvel at the grand Duomo di Milano before taking a leisurely stroll through the impressive Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II next door. Discover the history of Renaissance royalty at Castello Sforzesco or indulge your curiosity at the Leonardo da Vinci Museum of Science and Technology.
Catch a performance at the renowned Teatro Alla Scala and treat yourself to a plate of the famous risotto alla Milanese. The city also offers a variety of art galleries, churches, public squares, and parks to explore.
Don’t miss a visit to Santa Maria delle Grazie, which houses Leonardo da Vinci’s masterpiece, The Last Supper. Given its popularity, it’s advisable to book a guided tour through your JayWay trip planner well in advance.
6. Naples
As Italy’s third largest city, Naples boasts a tumultuous history that once kept travelers at bay. Thankfully, those days are behind us, and visitors are increasingly drawn to Naples once more. Though it may not be the most picturesque city, its charm lies in its authentic, gritty atmosphere and rich history around every turn.
One of the key attractions enticing travelers to return to Naples is its pizza. Known as the birthplace of pizza, Naples delivers some of the finest pies in the country.
Whether you try the mouthwatering offerings at L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele—made famous by Julia Roberts in Eat, Pray, Love—or explore the extensive menu at Gino e Toto Sorbillo, or even stumble upon a hidden gem of a pizzeria, you’ll delight in the delicious Napoli pizza scene.
If pizza starts to lose its appeal (if that’s even possible!), dive into other notable Neapolitan dishes, such as cuoppo (fried street food), ragu pasta, spaghetti puttanesca, and sfogliatelle (layered pastry).
Beyond the culinary scene, Naples offers an abundance of opportunities for exploration. Stroll through the historic center, visit one of the many castles, pop into museums and churches, and immerse yourself in local culture at the National Archaeological Museum.
Naples also serves as an excellent launching point for day trips. The city is close to the iconic archaeological sites of Pompeii and Herculaneum, both devastated by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. You can also hike up to Mount Vesuvius or take a ferry to Capri or the Amalfi Coast.
7. Lake Como
Nestled just north of Milan, the stunning Lake Como is the centerpiece of the Italian Lakes region. Formed by glacial melt and surrounded by the majestic Alps, Lake Como is dotted with picturesque towns, including one famously known as George Clooney’s residence.
Begin your journey in Como, the main city on the lake. Discover the Como Cathedral, visit Villa Olmo, and take a funicular ride up the hill for awe-inspiring views.
Proceed to Bellagio, often regarded as one of the most beautiful towns on Lake Como, characterized by its gorgeous villas, colorful houses, and rocky beaches. Next, explore Varenna, another charming town known for its historic sites, scenic villas, and breathtaking lake views.
Enjoy a leisurely day on Lake Como, soaking up the sun at the beach, taking scenic boat rides, walking along nature trails, and marveling at the views.
8. Cinque Terre
While the Amalfi Coast graces Southern Italy, Northern Italy boasts the enchanting Cinque Terre. This cluster of five towns along the Ligurian coast features breathtaking views, steep cliffs, brightly colored homes, and stunning blue waters.
Each town in Cinque Terre—Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore—has its own unique offerings. Monterosso is the largest and features the region’s only sandy beach, while Vernazza is the most picturesque. Corniglia is the smallest and the only one not situated on the sea, Manarola is the most famous, and Riomaggiore is the most accessible and offers incredible sunset views.
During your time in this spectacular part of the Italian Riviera, immerse yourself in exploring each town, lounging on the beach, savoring fresh seafood, hiking scenic trails, and enjoying boat tours while taking in the stunning coastal views.
While it’s possible to visit Cinque Terre in a day, we recommend spending at least one night to fully appreciate the towns. Like many Italian destinations, Cinque Terre transforms in the evening when the day trippers leave, creating a more tranquil environment for overnight visitors. An overnight stay also allows you to start your exploration early, beating the crowds.
9. Sicily
Located just off the tip of Italy’s boot, Sicily is famous for its unique culture, Mediterranean climate, delectable cuisine, ancient Greek ruins, and mafia history. While it may not attract as many tourists as Rome or Venice, Sicily offers an authentic taste of Italy.
Start your Sicilian adventure in Palermo, where you can explore UNESCO World Heritage Cathedrals, eclectic churches, and a vibrant street food scene. Take a leisurely stroll through the local markets or join one of the city’s acclaimed food tours to truly savor your culinary experience.
Next, head south to Agrigento and wander through The Valley of the Temples, an awe-inspiring site filled with temples, sanctuaries, and ancient burials showcasing extraordinary Greek art and architecture.
On the east side of Sicily, don’t miss the historical district of Ortigia in Syracuse or the Baroque architecture in Catania. Adventurers can also venture up Mount Etna, either by hiking or taking a cable car. Up north, relax on the idyllic beaches of Cefalù or hop a ferry to the Aeolian Islands for more coastal beauty and volcanic landscapes.
10. Sardinia
Sardinia, a large island nestled in the Mediterranean Sea, is a must-visit destination in Italy for nature enthusiasts. Renowned for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and dramatic rock formations, this island offers something for everyone.
Sardinia is a treasure trove for adventurers. Spend your days biking through national parks, sailing across beautiful archipelagos, hiking through historic mining areas, exploring caves, and diving down to discover ancient shipwrecks. For those craving a cultural experience, visit the ancient ruins of Su Nuraxi, meander around Cagliari’s citadel, and explore the archaeological sites of Nora and Tharros.
No trip to Sardinia would be complete without trying its incredible cuisine. Indulge in specialties like su porceddu (roast suckling pig), culurgiones and malloreddus pasta, pane carasau (crispy bread), pecorino cheese, and fresh sea urchins.
Travel To Italy With Us
At JayWay, we pride ourselves on our deep knowledge of Italy, from our expert travel advisors to our experienced trip planners and the knowledgeable locals eager to welcome you. Together, we’ll craft a personalized itinerary tailored to your desires and preferences, ensuring a memorable visit to this remarkable country.
If this list of the best places to visit in Italy inspires you to embark on your Italian adventure soon, don’t hesitate to reach out to us, and we’ll help turn your dream vacation into reality.
Born and raised in Athens, Maria is passionate about travel and storytelling—qualities that make her the perfect fit as our content manager.
