Best Places To Visit In Italy

Milan Cathedral at night

Posted by on 01 Nov 2019 , in Europe

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Best Places To Visit In Italy

Italy is a country that captivates travellers at every turn. From its timeless architecture and world-class art to rolling vineyards and sun-kissed coastlines, Italy holidays promise a blend of history, romance and la dolce vita. It is a land where every region has its own identity. Rome dazzles with ancient ruins, Florence inspires with Renaissance masterpieces and the Amalfi Coast enchants with sweeping sea views and pastel villages. Beyond the icons, you’ll find hilltop towns, rustic trattorias and family-run vineyards where Italian traditions are kept alive.

Whether you are planning a first-time getaway or returning to explore deeper, there is no shortage of incredible destinations to discover. This guide takes you through the best places to visit in Italy, with insights to help you savour the culture, connect with the locals and make the most of your time in the Bel Paese.

Fun Facts

  • Toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain: one means you’ll return to Rome, two brings love, and three leads to marriage.
  • Florence’s David was carved from a single block of marble that had been abandoned for 25 years.
  • Cinque Terre means “Five Lands,” each with its own dialect and local wine.
  • Venice was built on more than 100 islands connected by 400 bridges.
  • Pompeii was buried under ash for 1,600 years before being rediscovered.
  • Sicily’s Mount Etna is Europe’s tallest and most active volcano.

Rome - Where All Roads lead

The capital city of Italy is an open-air museum. Ancient walls, cobblestone streets and bustling piazzas make Rome travel unforgettable.

Start at the Colosseum, the largest amphitheatre ever built, where gladiators once fought before 50,000 spectators. Just nearby, the Roman Forum and Pantheon bring you closer to daily life in ancient times.

No trip is complete without tossing a coin into the Trevi Fountain. Legend says one coin ensures your return to Rome, two coins bring love and three lead to marriage.

Across the river lies Vatican City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit St. Peter’s Basilica, the Sistine Chapel and the Vatican Museums for masterpieces by Michelangelo and Raphael.

“Rome was everything I imagined and more. Walking through the Forum felt like stepping back 2,000 years.” – Amanda T., 2022

Umbria – Italy’s Green Heart

Nestled in the centre of Italy, Umbria is often overshadowed by Tuscany but deserves equal attention. Known as Italy’s “green heart,” this region offers rolling hills, olive groves and medieval towns.

Perugia boasts Renaissance art at the National Gallery of Umbria, while Assisi enchants with its basilicas dedicated to St. Francis. Spoleto charms visitors with Roman bridges and a summer arts festival.

Don’t miss Cascata delle Marmore, a spectacular man-made waterfall dating back to Roman times.

“Umbria felt like a hidden Italy. It was quieter than Tuscany but just as beautiful.” – David A., 2024

Florence and Tuscany – The Cradle of the Renaissance

Florence is a must for art lovers. Marvel at the Florence Cathedral, Giotto’s Bell Tower, and Michelangelo’s David at the Accademia Gallery.

Beyond the city, Tuscany unfolds with vineyard-dotted landscapes and hilltop towns. Montepulciano offers wine tastings in ancient cellars, while San Gimignano is famous for its medieval towers. In the Val d’Orcia, rolling fields of wheat and cypress trees create postcard-perfect scenes.

The Italian Riviera – A Piece of Heaven

Stretching along the Ligurian coast, the Italian Riviera combines colourful seaside villages with dramatic cliffs.

Cinque Terre’s five fishing hamlets are linked by scenic hiking trails overlooking the sea. Portofino dazzles with pastel buildings and luxury yachts, while Genoa blends maritime history with vibrant street life.

For those seeking a slower pace, Camogli and Santa Margherita Ligure are ideal for relaxing beach days and enjoying seafood feasts.

“Watching the sunset over Cinque Terre with a glass of local wine was a highlight of our Italy trip.” – Sophie H., 2024

Venice – The Floating City

Built on more than 100 islands, Venice is unlike anywhere else. Glide along the Grand Canal in a gondola, admire St. Mark’s Basilica, and cross the Rialto Bridge for views of Venetian palaces.

Art lovers can explore the Doge’s Palace, while photographers will love the view from Campanile di San Marco.

Night-time gondola rides are especially romantic, with lights shimmering across the water.

Milan – The Fashion Capital

Milan is Italy’s style and design hub. Shop beneath the glass-domed Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, admire Renaissance paintings at Pinacoteca di Brera, or attend a performance at La Scala Opera House.

The city’s landmark is the Gothic Milan Cathedral, with intricate spires and panoramic views from its rooftop.

Naples and Pompeii – A Slice of History

Naples bursts with energy and flavour. Sample an authentic Neapolitan pizza, then stroll Piazza del Plebiscito and the city’s lively markets.

Nearby, Pompeii and Herculaneum offer a rare glimpse into daily Roman life before Mount Vesuvius erupted in 79 AD.

Castel dell’Ovo and Castel Nuovo on Naples’ seafront add layers of legend and history.

Sicily – Jewel of the Mediterranean

With influences from Greek, Arab and Norman cultures, Sicily is a fascinating mix of history and natural beauty.

Palermo showcases ornate cathedrals and lively street markets. Catania is the gateway to Mount Etna, Europe’s tallest active volcano. In Syracuse, ancient Greek theatres sit alongside a sparkling coastline.

Agrigento’s Valley of the Temples is one of Italy’s most impressive archaeological sites. For a slower pace, head to Cefalù or Taormina for seaside charm.

Expert Travel Tips for Italy

  • Best time to visit Italy: Spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October) offer pleasant weather without peak crowds.
  • Transport tip: High-speed trains connect major cities like Rome, Florence and Milan in under two hours.
  • Cultural etiquette: Always greet shopkeepers with “buongiorno” before asking for help.

  • Dining: Italians dine later; restaurants may not open for dinner until 7:30 pm.
  • Packing: Comfortable walking shoes are a must for cobbled streets and hill towns.

References

Plan Your Dream Trip to Italy

From Rome’s ancient ruins to Sicily’s sun-soaked coastline, Italy is full of experiences waiting to be discovered. With Entire Travel Group, you can enjoy a carefully curated holiday in Italy that includes exclusive tours, boutique stays and seamless connections. 

Plan your trip today. Let our team design a custom itinerary that brings your Italian holiday to life.

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