Veni Vidi Vici (I came, I saw, I conquered) is positively the best motto to abide by if one decides to boldly travel to Italy!

Visit one of the birthplaces of western civilization and discover emperors and popes, art and musical maestros and so much more – Italy holds a reputation and pride unmatched by any other country.

See everything from heavenly religious structures to pre-historic archaeological sites. Tour the gorgeous scenery of the Amalfi coast and the mighty Dolomite mountains. Taste the glamorous high-life in Milan and the humble peaceful villages of the Cinque Terre — just a few of the best places to visit in Italy.

And finally, conquer the western world’s most beloved Pantry. Pizza, pasta, gelato, wine, lemons, coffee and olive oil. The list goes on for the ultimate foodie. While some, if not all of these places will claim they have the best of the gastronomic culture, no one can argue the impeccable culinary art and history of Italy.

Prepare yourself for perhaps the most exciting journey of a lifetime.

1 – Florence

Florence, Italy

This Renaissance-inspired city is a masterpiece in itself.

Be mesmerized by the glory of the city’s centerpiece La Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore or the Florence Duomo. Recognized as a UNESCO heritage site, the Gothic-inspired cathedral holds one of the largest domes in the world.

Probably the most luxurious garden in Italy, the Boboli Gardens is a one-of-a-kind garden museum that also houses priceless Renaissance statues and installations. It is lavish and interesting – like the Medici family who owned it for generations.

Mercato Centrale or the Mercato di San Lorenzo is the ultimate all-in-one shopping and dining place filled with authentic food, leather, clothing and all sorts of souvenirs from Tuscany.

Tours & Activities in Florence

See also: Fun Things to Do in Florence, Best Day Trips from Florence, Fun things to do in Tuscany

2 – Amalfi Coast

Amalfi Coast, Italy

Lying on the Mediterranean shore, the Amalfi coast is a gem of Italy, with each of its towns individually distinct.

Take an Amalfi coast boat tour starting off from any town on the coast and watch in awe the grandeur of this paradise on a coastal stretch.

All aboard the La Circumvesuviana Train Route! – Truly this is an economic and exciting way to see the breathtaking beauty of the unique towns along the coast.

Hike through ancient rolling pathways, across vineyards and old towns through the Path of the Gods from Nocelle to Agerola or start anywhere in between.

Tours & Activities in Amalfi Coast

See also: Fun Things to Do on the Amalfi Coast, Best boat tours in Amalfi Coast

3 – Rome

Rome, Italy

The glorious city of Rome is considered one of the birthplaces of Western civilization and a bastion of Christianity.

The architectural brilliance of ancient Rome is best preserved in the Pantheon. Feel the glow as the sunlight shines through the oculus ceiling.

Explore the Colosseum and relive the glory of gladiators and ancient Roman entertainment and be dazzled by this important archaeological monument.

High Fashion to Vintage Shopping – Swanky to hip, all things stylish can be found around the Spanish Steps (Via dei Condotti) to vintage finds on Mercato Monti and Mercato di Porta Portese.

Tours & Activities in Rome

See also: Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Rome

4 – Sicily

Scilla, Italy

Getaway to an island full of history and spectacular beachscapes.

Hit the beach and dip your toes on the sandy beaches with turquoise-colored waters in San Vito Lo Capo and exotic Isola Bella.

Reach the summit of Mount Etna, an active volcano that can be hiked or explored by cablecar. Another Volcano worth crossing is Mount Stromboli.

Cefalu, Ortigia and Gangi – These are only a few of the loveliest villages not just in Sicily but in the country. Travel gently and allow yourself to get lost or be found in stunning cobblestoned streets.

Tours & Activities in Sicily

See also: Fun Things to Do in Sicily, Best Islands in Europe to Visit this Summer

5 – Vesuvius

Vesuvius, Italy

Vesuvius is one of the country’s most famous active volcanoes and hiking to its crater is an experience of a lifetime.

Walk the path of the “Il Gran Cono.” Follow your trusted guide and see for yourself the depth and immensity of the volcanic crater.

Go with the flow – of the lava. Starting from the Vesuvius Observatory and museum, this hike follows the flow of the lava which created lunar-like areas along the way. Nowadays, it is filled with lush forestation making a gentle path suitable even for kids.

Mount Vesuvius tours from Naples

6 – Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre, Italy

A collection of five, colorful Unesco heritage towns, Cinque Terre is perched on the jagged cliffs of the Ligurian Coast.

Only six kilometers in distance, take a walk (or rent a bike) on the Maremonti – pass through tunnels on the old railway route and be welcomed with spectacular sea views.

Visit Vernazza. Probably the most picturesque and authentic of the five towns, Vernazza is a quaint fishing village, filled with elegant houses colorful shops and olive groves.

Manarola – Travel gently and enjoy the vineyard views on the cliff. Wines that define this region are best sipped in Manarola while looking out on the sea.

Tours & Activities in Cinque Terre

See also: Fun Things to Do in Cinque Terre

7 – Capri

Capri, Italy

A world-class luxury island, Capri is an all-time favorite of Roman Emperors and modern celebrities.

Enjoy a boat tour around Capri, hike to the top of Mount Solaro or take a cable car and marvel at the island’s beauty from the top.

More relaxed than the capital Capri city, Anacapri boasts of scenic excursions to the majestic gardens of Villa San Michele through the historical Phoenician Steps.

Soak up the sun and sea on the laid-back beaches of Marina Piccola and enjoy spectacular views of the Faraglioni rock formations jutting out of turquoise waters.

Tours & Activities in Capri

8 – Milan

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, Milan, Italy — Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

A cosmopolitan city famous for fashion and design, Milan is also one of the oldest and most historic cities in Italy.

Be mesmerized by the Renaissance perfection of the Santa Maria Delle Grazie, where the most influential masterpiece of Leonardo da Vinci, The Last Supper, is found.

It would be a sin to miss the Il Duomo di Milano, the largest cathedral in Italy. Il duomo is a museum in itself filled with religious relics and a rooftop open to tourists all year round.

Start spending on the vogue street of Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. Shop (or just window shop) until you drop in this elegantly redesigned 19th-century architecture and shopping mall.

Tours & Activities in Milan

See also: Fun Things to Do in Milan, Las Supper Last Minute Tickets – All you Need to Know

9 – Tivoli

Tivoli, Italy

Once the vacation destination of Roman Emperors, Tivoli rises above the valleys with top views of the river Aniene.

Get a glimpse of an emperor’s life by visiting Hadrian’s Villa, the majestic palace of Roman emperor Hadrian. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the archaeological remains of the villa and its extravagant garden make you not want to leave!

An inspiration among the royal gardens across Europe, Villa d’Este is one of the most picturesque and romantic villas, intricately designed by ceramic mosaics, lavish fountains and amazing courtyards.

Tours & Activities in Tivoli

See also: Hadrian’s Villa (Tivoli) Tours from Rome – Which One is the Best?, Villa d’Este (Tivoli) Tickets & Tours from Rome – All you Need to Know

10 – Lake Como

Lake Como, Italy

A placid lake surrounded by abundant nature and colorful villas.

Board a private boat and admire a different view from the water. Get close to the massive rock crags and beautiful villas perched on the water.

Step into one of the many villas like the Villa Carlotta with its lavish botanical garden or the Villa Melzi and find love along its lakeside promenades.

Wine and dine with a view in one of the many restaurants along the lake. Try the local cuisine recommendation – a freshly caught fish from the lake served with risotto or polenta.

Tours & Activities in Lake Como

See also: Fun Things to Do in Lake Como

11 – Pompeii

Pompeii, Italy

With an enchanting background of Mount Vesuvius, Pompei city is an archaeological treasure risen from the ashes of a volcanic eruption.

Spend a day at the Archaeological Park of Pompeii, the ancient Roman trading port and city well frozen in time.

Imagine watching the epic gladiator tournaments and spectacles. The Amphitheater of Pompeii, like the Colosseum of Rome, is really a sight to behold.

Well-preserved frescoes and colored mosaic floors, the interior of Villa dei Misteri is a flashback of the splendor of the old city before its devastation.

Pompeii tickets and tours

See also: Best Pompeii Tours, Pompeii – How to Skip the Line and best Pompeii tours from Rome

12 – Sardinia

Sardinia, Italy

Boasting a long coastline of sandy beaches and diverse terrain, Sardinia is the Mediterranean jewel of Italy.

Book an inflatable boat tour in Cagliari and jump off the island from the coastal town of Chia. Snorkel or dive in the hidden coves and look for dolphins frolicking in their natural habitats.

Recognized as a Natural Monument of Sardinia, Cala Goloritzé is famous for its white beach, natural arches and high pinnacle caused by a landslide. For the perfect seaside getaway, Sardinia is one of the best places to visit in Italy.

Take a pause from sunbathing and visit the unique Su Nuraxi Archaeological Site in Barumini and brush up on Nuragic history.

Tours & Activities in Sardinia

See also: Fun Things to Do in Sardinia, Italy

13 – Genoa

Genoa, Italy

The birthplace of Christopher Colombus, Genoa is a bustling port city with impressive landmarks and a prosperous maritime industry.

Spot some whales or dolphins off the coast of Liguria. Take a guided tour of the Cetacean sanctuary and spend a day observing these gentle creatures. If you wish to stay on-land, go to the ship-shaped building of the Aquarium of Genova instead.

Stroll past the most illustrious houses and landmarks of the city on the Palazzi dei Rolli, via the Strade Nuove, the intertwined narrow streets of this quintessential Italian city.

Tours & Activities in Genoa

14 – Herculaneum

Herculaneum, Italy

Herculaneum offers a window view into the private lives of the wealthier Romans back in the day.

The city was destroyed by the volcanic eruption of Mount Vesuvius which also devastated its neighbor city, Pompeii.

Herculaneum has preserved more of the private communities while Pompeii the public aspects like the city square and amphitheater.

Walk through the archaeological site and see for yourself the city baths, narrow streets, beautiful houses with balconies, staircases and doors still intact, giving an idea of the life and people back then.

Herculaneum tickets and tours

See also: Herculaneum Tickets Price – Everything you Should Know

15 – Lake Garda

Lake Garda, Italy

Lake Garda, the largest lake in Italy, is a nice respite from the city’s bustle.

Seize an exclusive tour to Isola del Garda. Visit the romantic villa and take leisurely walks and picnics in the garden.

Lake Garda has something for everybody, especially for kids. Pedal boats are available for rent everywhere. Better yet, take them to Gardaland an extensive and diverse theme park.

Ride a cable car up to Monte Baldo from Malcesine, a pleasant town with nice local shops, winding streets and a castle.

Tours & Activities in Lake Garda

16 – Dolomites

Dolomites, Italy

Feel on top of the world in the Dolomites – with 18 mountain peaks, the Dolomites is surely a place for the adventurous heart.

A UNESCO Heritage Site, the Alpe di Siusi is a perfect place for hiking or skiing. Ride the cable car to get an awesome top view or simply to avoid the uphill climbing!

Row your wooden boat on Lago di Braies. Hike to the base of the lake where wooden boats are readily available and be mesmerized by the impressive landscape of the north Italian Alps.

Read more: Most Beautiful Places in Europe

17 – Vatican City

Saint Peter's basilica, Vatican City

Not just the bastion of the Christian religion and holy seat of the Pope, the Vatican city also guards some of the greatest masterpieces in the world.

Bringing in 6 million visitors each year, the Vatican Museums are definitely on people’s bucket lists.

Witness the glory of St. Peter’s Basilica, the crown jewel of Renaissance architecture. Its dome, the largest in Italy, dominates the Roman skyline.

Equally provoking is the adjacent Sistine Chapel which highlights the frescoes and dome paintings of Michelangelo — by far one of the best places to visit in Italy for art lovers.

Rest for a while and savor the magnificence of the Vatican Gardens.

See also: Papal audience tickets, Vatican Museum tickets, Sistine Chapel early access tickets, St Peter’s Basilica skip the line tickets. best Vatican tours

18 – Saturnia Hot Springs

Saturnia Hot Springs, Italy

Take a dip in the natural and healing hot springs of Saturnia.

Located in Maremma, south of Tuscany, the hot spring baths of Saturnia is rich in minerals and full of health benefits.

Perhaps no other spring bath is as enchanting as the Cascate del Mulino. With its terraces baths, one can enjoy the healing warm water and the picturesque natural beauty all around. Plus entrance is free, 24 hours a day!

Treat yourself to a spa and massage afterward in one of the many spa centers or hotels around.

19 – San Gimignano

San Gimignano, Italy

More like an old Medieval town, San Gimignano is a small lovely city overlooking Tuscany.

Wander in the Piazza del Duomo, the city center surrounded by Romanesque and Gothic architectures. Most notable of these are the 14 towers dominating the skyline.

Do some wine tasting in one of the many vineyards dotted around San Gimignano. Experience cellar tours and visit olive groves along the way while meeting locals who work on their farms.

Rent a Vespa scooter and explore the Medieval environment and beautiful Tuscan landscape around the city.

Tours & Activities in San Gimignano

20 – Bologna

Bologna, Italy

Food, wine, music, race cars. What is there not to like in Bologna?

Lose yourself in the beautiful heart and soul of Bologna, the Piazza Maggiore. Notice the red terracotta brick walls, covered walkways and houses all over the city.

Indulge in the gastronomic pleasures of Bolognese cuisine. Go on a food trip in Quadrilatero Market or the exciting food theme park Fico World Eataly.

Not only does it love food so much, but Bologna is also a mecca for motorsports enthusiasts. Explore the showrooms and production lines of supercars and sports bikes in the Museo Ducati, Museo Ferrari or Museo Lamborghini.

Tours & Activities in Bologna

See also: Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Bologna

21 – Assisi

Assisi, Italy

Feel a sense of peace and artistic harmony in the spiritual town of Assisi.

Being the birthplace of St. Francis, it is only right to visit the Basilica of San Francesco d’Assisi. Decorated with Giotto-inspired frescoes, the church is also a significant art and historical landmark.

Another church worth visiting is the Basilica of Saint Mary of the Angels. Set on the foot of the hill, the church displays Baroque-style architecture worthy of contemplation.

Take some time to wander the cobblestone streets of Assisi, to the town center, Piazza del Comune. Around the Piazza, plenty of wonderful souvenir shops and restaurants abound.

Tours & Activities in Assisi

22 – Venice

Venice, Italy

A world-famous city of canals and bridges, Venice remains an extraordinary and romantic city throughout the ages.

Pass under bridges and through narrow canals by taking the local gondolas – a classic way to explore the city’s fascinating waterways.

Showcasing one of Italy’s most extravagant art and exquisite architecture, the Doge’s Palace is not to be missed.

Check out the adjacent St. Mark’s Basilica, Venice’s crown jewel church. Elaborately adorned with precious stones and marbles, the basilica also has a bell tower where visitors can climb and see panoramic views of Venice.

Tours & Activities in Venice

See also: Fun Things to Do in Venice

23 – Murano

Murano, Italy

Surely worth the trip to see the more relaxed version of Venice and the best glass art in the world.

Be acquainted with glass production and design in the Glass Museum of Murano. The museum displays centuries-old glass pieces to modern-day glasswork.

Head across glass factories to witness glass blowing techniques and exhibitions.

Considered a mini version of Venice, Murano has more of a calm vibe. Stroll the canal pathways and bridges down to the center of the town to see Campo Santo Stefano, a leaning bell tower. Around it can be found many glass atelier shops and colorful houses.

Tours & Activities in Murano

24 – Matera

Matera, Italy

A maze of ancient tunnels, cave houses and interesting rock formations. Climb out of cave dwellings, churches carved on rocks and walk through stone-covered alleyways in the exciting city center Sassi di Matera.

Step inside the Casa Grotta nei Sassi, a well-preserved and furnished cave house to understand the history of these cave dwellings.

Hike up to the church of Saint Mary of Idris, one of the many cave churches and see sweeping sights of the city. Catch a performance inside the cave auditorium of the Casa Cava.

Tours & Activities in Matera

25 – Naples

Naples, Italy

The city with the highest concentration of UNESCO world heritage sites and the birthplace of pizza – Need we say more?

Taste an authentic Neapolitan pizza from a pizzeria that has the Naples Pizza Association approval!

Sail around the coast (or take a boat tour) of Naples and witness its overall beauty from a different perspective. Stop to enjoy the major island of Capri or the often-overlooked island of Ischia.

Visit the Naples National Archaeological Museum where the largest concentration of artifacts of the Roman Empire, ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum can be found.

Tours & Activities in Naples

See also: Best Things to Do in Naples, Best Day Trips from Naples

26 – Aeolian Islands

Aeolian Islands, Italy

Tucked away in the Tyrrhenian Sea, these volcanic islands are a hidden paradise.

Disembark on the exotic island of Vulcan. Try their local mud baths that extend into the sea. Rinse off directly into the bubbling jacuzzi-like beach!

Hop to the island of Stromboli and enjoy the astonishing dark sand beachscapes. Do a sunset trek up to the crater and watch the captivating sunset and blazing eruptions.

Circumnavigate the island of Salina on land and on the water. Rent a scooter or take a boat tour to discover the stunning coasts.

Tours & Activities in Aeolian Islands

27 – Montepulciano

Montepulciano, Italy

No trip to Italy is complete without wine and without a trip to this famous wine-producing region.

Head out to Piazza Grande, Montepulciano’s city center surrounded by Medieval palaces and Renaissance churches.

The Talosa Cantina Storica is an excellent starting point for wine tasting basics. Discover other nearby wine cellars such as the Contucci and De Ricci and ask for a basement cellar tour —Montepulciano is one of the best places to visit in Italy for wine connoisseurs.

For an authentic wine history course, vineyard tours and exquisite wine tasting experience, go to the Fortezza di Montepulciano or the Azienda Agricola Canneto.

Tours & Activities in Montepulciano

28 – Royal Palace of Caserta

Royal Palace of Caserta, Italy

Bar-none, the ultimate display of influence and richness is that of the powerful Bourbon monarchy.

The largest residence in the world, the Royal Palace of Caserta is not extravagantly designed but covers a sprawling space as it has 5 floors, 1200 rooms plus a massive library and spacious theatre as well as other secret chambers.

Take a guided tour to discover even the intricate details of the inspiration and construction of the palace and the royal lifestyle of those who lived there.

Garden tours are made easy by buses that encircle the palace grounds.

Royal Palace tickets and tours

See also: Royal Palace of Caserta Tickets Price – Everything you Should Know

29 – Parma

Parma, Italy

Known for its music, architecture, ham and cheese – exactly what tourists need!

Parma’s main cathedral, the Cattedrale di Parma is not only a divine place but also a museum of paintings traversing different historical periods like Romanesque and Gothic styles.

Lay your eyes on a wide-ranging collection of 19th-century art and cultural objects of Parma. Museo Glauco Lombardi has gathered numerous costumes, jewelry, furniture and other intricate things owned by the elites of Parma back then.

Embark on a gastronomic journey into Parma’s Parmigiano cheese, Parma Ham and Balsamic Vinegar production farm and factories.

Tours & Activities in Parma

30 – Verona

Verona, Italy

Made famous by Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, Verona is also popular for its large conservation of ancient Roman art and architecture.

Watch live performances in the Arena of Verona, the world’s oldest still-functioning arena and best-preserved structure of its kind.

To get sweeping views of the city from the top, climb the Lamberti Tower or take the cable car in Castel San Pietro.

Immerse yourself in Roman Architecture. Formerly a town’s forum, the Piazza delle Erbe is a starting point for a walking tour of Verona’s top infrastructures like Torre dei Lamberti and Piazza dei Signori.

Tours & Activities in Verona

See also: Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Verona

31 – Turin

Turin, Italy

Turin is a fine and noble city, the historic residence of Italy’s aristocrats and royal families.

Human mummies and around 30,000 other Egyptian artifacts – the largest important collection outside of Cairo – can be found in Museo Egizio or the Egyptian Museum of Turin.

The Royal Palace of Turin will take you on an enriching journey into the world of the Royal Family. The royal estates expand up to the Palazzo Chiablese and the Chapel of the Holy Shroud, which houses the famous Shroud of Turin.

Before moving to another destination treat yourself to a plate of pasta with truffles!

Tours & Activities in Turin

See also: Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Turin

32 – Lake Orta

Lake Orta, Italy

With characteristically Italian landscape, Lake Orta is peaceful with splendid little towns around.

Ride a ferry to the small island on the lake, Isola San Giulio or Saint Julius Island is famous for the beautiful Basilica di San Giulio. Appreciate the peace and quiet while strolling around the Basilica.

Enjoy a nice swim by the lake. Row kayaks or paddleboards or simply sip your drinks under an umbrella. Spiaggia Libera Miami is just one of the many public beaches with excellent bars and restaurants around.

33 – Scilla

Scilla, Italy

A stunning city by the sea, with the feel of an authentic fishing village.

Sitting out on a ridge by the sea, the Castello Ruffo di Scilla or Ruffo Castle gives a sweeping unparalleled view over the city of Scilla and the Sea of Messina.

Sunbathe and get a nice tan on the beach of Lido Francesco. Try local drinks and food favorites like the original swordfish sandwich.

Go on a leisurely stroll on one of the oldest streets in the old fishing village in Scilla, the Chianalea di Scilla. Also adorned with lovely restaurants, the boulevard is a place to gaze at the glorious sunsets.

34 – Ischia

Ischia, Italy

An exciting volcanic island with breathtaking views and wines.

Cross the ancient crossway to an islet where Castello Aragonese d’Ischia stands. The medieval castle is interesting with a much more interesting view of the coastline.

Take a laid-back stroll in the Gardens of La Mortella. Aside from the diverse flora and fauna found all over, it has remarkable vistas of the ports and the city.

An unusual setting for a hot spring, the Baia di Sorgeto Ischia is where warm thermal water meets the sea. Even on sunny days, the natural hot spring pools are enchanting.

Ischia tours from Naples

35 – Rimini

Rimini, Italy

Miles and miles of white sand beaches, lined with bars, restaurants and exciting cool places.

Kick back and relax on the long sandy stretch of Rimini beach! Resorts, bars and restaurants vary from five-star ranks to simple cozy.

An interesting and fun place not just for kids, Italia in Miniatura is one of a kind adventure park. Examine the details of the miniature models of prominent symbols of Italy like Venice (with real gondola tours) and Formula 1 races.

Cross the 2000 old bridge Ponte di Tiberio and take time to appreciate the solid foundation of this architecture and its provoking surroundings.

Tours & Activities in Rimini

36 – Sorrento

Sorrento, Italy

Sorrento is a beautiful city on the cliff with breathtakingly beautiful marinas.

Be enamored by the coastal views and dramatic backdrop around the Marina Piccola. The small port is a perfect milieu for an aperitivo or any hearty meal of the day.

Go on an extraordinary tour of the lemon groves of Sorrento. Don’t miss the citrus orchard experience and learn about the manufacture of lemon liqueurs, ice cream and jams.

Meander through the central Piazza Tasso, Sorrento’s vibrant city center. Captivating shopping streets and lively piazzas are intertwined with historically significant places like the Palazzo Correale.

Tours & Activities in Sorrento

See also: Fun things to do in Sorrento

37 – Portofino

Portofino, Italy

A tiny village that draws a glamorous international crowd because of its natural beauty.

Observe the artistic heritage of the line of houses in the Piazzetta and marina. It has been an age-old tradition to paint houses with pastel colors.

Settled high on the cliff overlooking the harbor, the Castello Brown. Historically a military fortress and renovated into a rich villa, the castle has a panoramic view of the gulf.

Escape to a secluded coast and visit the San Fruttuoso Abbey. Passable only through narrow pathways or via the sea, the cove is also famous for the Christ of the Abyss.

Tours & Activities in Portofino

38 – Ravenna

Ravenna, Italy

Ravenna has a profound past accentuated by its radiant mosaics.

An icon of Byzantine architecture, the Basilica di San Vitale is intricately decorated by mosaics commonly found in the city. The adjacent Mausoleo di Galla Placidia, the burial place of Roman emperors is also equally enchanting.

How exciting is a Safari just within the city? Feed a giraffe, tap a zebra or observe a lion from the car, Safari Ravenna is a delight for children and adults alike.

Bookworms rejoice in the public library of Ravenna, the Biblioteca Classense. Magnificent architecture and an impressive collection of previously banned classical books and literary works of Dante Alighieri.

Tours & Activities in Ravenna

39 – Spoleto

Spoleto, Italy

A mountainous ancient city with sprawling valleys, deep gorges and lush forests.

Start your trip with a hike to the high bridge Ponte delle Torre. Be mesmerized by the 13th-century engineering of the arch across a very deep gorge.

Continue the hike up to Rocca Albornoziana fortress now transformed into a museum. Admire the refreshing natural frescoes of its elevated courtyard as well as the masterpieces found inside.

The Umbria region where Spoleto is found is famous for truffles and other culinary mushrooms. Be sure to taste this local favorite in restaurants or food stalls in the local market.

40 – Sienna

Sienna, Italy

Siena is a picturesque city on a hill surrounded by Medieval stone walls.

If you happen to be around Siena in July or August, check the schedule of the city’s Palio Horse Race. A race event like no other, 17 districts of Siena compete for the first prize while its people party like crazy.

Climb the 300 steps up to the Torre del Mangia, the second tallest belfry in Italy, for an overlooking vista of the Piazza del Campo and the Sienese countryside.

No trip to Siena will ever be complete without stepping inside the palatial Duomo di Siena or the Siena Cathedral.

Tours & Activities in Siena

Hot tip: Check out our selection of fun & unusual things to do in Siena.

41 – Locorotondo

Locorotondo, Italy

A dainty town distinguished by its iconic whitewashed and cone-topped Trulli structures.

Titled one of the prettiest villages in Italy, take time to simply admire the exquisite town center around Palazzo Morelli, wander white-washed streets, or sit in the sun while sipping local wine.

Visit the Trulli settlements dispersed around the countryside of the city. Learn about the history and people who lived in these distinct cone-roofed houses.

Go on a picnic in a vineyard! Giardini Pistola is welcoming to visitors looking to have a great time. Try the local cuisine, and shop for souvenirs and wines produced there.

Tours & Activities in Locorotondo

42 – Ostuni

Ostuni, Italy

A quintessential whitewashed Italian city, one you would see nicely on postcards.

Ostuni is the ideal walking city with its pretty winding streets and white painted façades. Go on a timely stroll past houses and shops around Centro Storico, or the old town.

Worth checking out also is the Piazza della Libertà, the city’s largest piazza. Notable architectures you can visit within the piazza are the column of Sant’Oronzo and the Church of San Francesco d’Assisi.

Saturday is market day. Grab as much authentic olive oil and local produce as you wish!

43 – Pisa

Scholarly rich and historically colorful, the warm cozy city sits beautifully by the winding River Arno.

Inarguably the most iconic structure and one of Italy’s own, the Leaning Tower of Pisa is a spectacular sight and truly distinguished. Visitors can climb up to the top and see an incredible view of the city.

The famous belltower stands within the complex of the Piazza dei Miracoli, where the divine Duomo di Pisa and the Battistero di San Giovanni (Baptistry of Saint John) can also be found.

Promenade along the river banks of Arno, a very photogenic boulevard lined with colorful shops and houses. Beautiful Pisa is one of the best places to visit in Italy to see classic monuments.

Tours & Activities in Pisa

See also: Leaning Tower of Pisa Tickets Price, Fun things to do in Pisa

44 – Viterbo

Viterbo, Italy

Viterbo is known as the ancient seat and residence of popes and for its numerous castles.

Nicknamed the Park of Monsters, the Sacro Bosco is contrary to such title. In fact, it is an enchanting park full of enormous structures of humans and imaginary visions.

Catholic leaders, especially popes, lived and sought refuge in the Palazzo dei Papi. A sprawling estate and centuries-old architecture, the palace gives light on the lifestyle of popes.

After the church and piazza hoppings, run a natural bath in the thermal springs found around the city. Bullicame and Terme dei Papi (Bath of the Popes) are some of the local recommendations.

45 – Ostia Antica

Ostia Antica, Italy

Rome’s ancient historical harbor city, Ostia Antica is a sight to behold.

Similar to the ruins of Pompeii, Ostia Antica is equally interesting and fascinating. With pine trees and vibrant vegetation around, it is a fantastic site to reminisce on the glory of Ancient Rome.

Take a guided tour to discover its well-preserved infrastructures like the residential House of Diana, the thermopolium which resembles a restaurant, the amphitheater and the colorful mosaic baths of Neptune.

Home also to Popes, Ostia Antica has numerous old papal castles worth visiting, one of the best-preserved is the Castello di Giulio II.

46 – Padua

Padua, Italy

A vibrant scholastic and renaissance city.

Start your trip right and go straight to the heart of Padua, the strikingly beautiful Prato della Valle. The Piazza has sprawling flower lawns and waterways lined with statues of important people relevant to Padua’s rich past.

Having the world’s oldest academic botanical garden is a fine reflection of the scholarly character of the city. The Orto Botanico di Padova is a natural world of its own and definitely, a must-visit.

Pilgrim or not, it is essential to stop at the Basilica di Sant’Antonio, the basilica of Padua’s patron saint, Saint Anthony. Bathed in frescoes and sculptures like Donatello and Tessari.

Tours & Activities in Padua

47 – Sanremo

San Remo, Italy

The city of the rich and famous, Sanremo has its luxurious and exuberant glow.

Before indulging in glamorous shops, do a leisurely walk on the Porto Vecchio or the old harbor, where the authentic feel of the classic city still remains.

While doing a walking tour, notice the elegant villas lined up on the main streets.

Witness a different kind of church architecture, visit the Russian Orthodox Church. A church initiated by the Russian aristocrats who vacationed often on the Riviera, it is unique with its colorful onion domes.

Get lucky and spend a night, or a day, at the Casinò di Sanremo. Or simply admire the Art Noveau architecture while drowning some cocktails.

48 – Orvieto

Orvieto, Italy

Formidable archaic and hill city with an astonishing network of caves.

Conceptualized by the Etruscan ancestors of Italians, the underground city’s existence shows the resourcefulness and engineering genius of our ancient human ancestors. Orvieto is a labyrinth of underground passageways, rooms and grottos — it is absolutely worth discovering.

Ever climbed down a well? Not for the claustrophobe but definitely worth trying is the descent of St. Patrick’s well. Around 248 steps on its spiral staircase, the well is skilfully made to serve its purpose of securing water during a Roman siege.

The Duomo di Orvieto is the “must-see” of the town with grandiose façades, colored rose windows, immense bronze doors and frescoes of the Last Judgement.

Tours & Activities in Orvieto

49 – Lake Maggiore

Lake Maggiore, Italy

With a backdrop of the Swiss Alps, Italy’s second-largest lake is bound by enamoring villas and botanical gardens and dotted with placid islets.

In Laveno, go up one of the surrounding mountains on a pail-shaped cable car. Yes, can be totally scary, especially when it’s windy but on nice sunny days, it is really exciting, especially upon looking down on the sublime vista over the lake.

Hop on one of the three Borromean Islands. Enjoy the fresh air and natural beauty all around its botanical gardens and seafood restaurants.

Hike up to one of the divine places around the lake, the UNESCO heritage site Sacred Mountain of Ghiffa. A devotional walk around the complex with an unparalleled panoramic view over the lake gives an invigorating high.

Lake Maggiore tours from Milan

We hope you enjoyed this list of the best places to visit in Italy to help you plan your next vacation.

We would love to hear more recommendations from travelers like you. Let us know in the comments below which place is your favorite one.

As always, happy travels!

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49 Best Places to Visit in Italy