Best places to visit in Italy: top cities and must-see attractions

Italy is one of those destinations that travelers dream of for a lifetime. With its blend of ancient history, breathtaking landscapes, artistic treasures, and culinary delights, it offers something for every kind of explorer. Whether you are passionate about art, fascinated by archaeology, in love with nature, or simply looking for unforgettable food and wine, Italy never disappoints. In this guide, we’ll take you through the best places to visit in Italy, from iconic cities to hidden gems, giving you inspiration to design your own unforgettable journey.

Why visit Italy: a journey through history, art and landscapes

A country of endless variety

Few countries in the world can rival Italy’s diversity. In a single trip, you might wander through the ruins of ancient Rome, admire Renaissance paintings in Florence, sail along Venice’s canals, or hike the cliffs of Cinque Terre. Italy is not a single destination—it is a mosaic of experiences, each city and region with its own unique identity.

Travelers will find cultural heritage recognized worldwide: from UNESCO-listed cities like Venice and Siena to vast landscapes like the Dolomites and Tuscany’s rolling hills. And beyond its landmarks, Italy seduces with everyday moments: a lively market, an espresso in a piazza, or a sunset by the sea.

Efficient travel with high-speed trains

Exploring all these places might seem overwhelming, but Italy makes it easy. Thanks to a modern network of high-speed trains such as Italo, you can move quickly and comfortably between major cities and regions. Imagine enjoying breakfast in Milan, exploring Florence by lunchtime, and dining in Rome by evening—this flexibility allows travelers to see much more in less time, without the stress of driving or internal flights.

Best cities to visit in Italy

1. Rome: the Eternal City and its timeless charm
2. Florence: Renaissance masterpieces and vibrant culture
3. Venice: canals, bridges and unforgettable views
4. Milan: fashion, design and hidden treasures
5. Naples: history, tradition and Mediterranean flavors
6. Bologna: food capital with a medieval heart
7. Turin: elegance, museums and royal residences

Rome: the Eternal City and its timeless charm

Rome is a living museum. Walking through its streets means encountering more than 2,000 years of history at every corner. The Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and the Pantheon are must-see places in Italy, telling stories of emperors and gladiators. Yet Rome is not only about ancient ruins: St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican Museums bring visitors into the heart of Christianity and Renaissance art. And of course, there’s the dolce vita atmosphere—strolling in Trastevere, tasting carbonara, or tossing a coin into the Trevi Fountain.

Florence: Renaissance masterpieces and vibrant culture

Florence, the cradle of the Renaissance, is one of the best cities to visit in Italy for art lovers. The Uffizi Gallery holds masterpieces by Botticelli and Leonardo da Vinci, while Brunelleschi’s Dome dominates the city skyline. Walking across Ponte Vecchio or enjoying the sunset from Piazzale Michelangelo gives you unforgettable views. Beyond museums, Florence is alive with crafts, markets, and Tuscan cuisine—making it as vibrant today as it was centuries ago.

Venice: canals, bridges and unforgettable views

Venice is pure magic. The city floats on a lagoon, with canals replacing roads and gondolas replacing cars. St. Mark’s Square, the Doge’s Palace, and the Rialto Bridge are among the most iconic places to visit in Italy. But Venice’s charm is also in its quieter corners—hidden courtyards, artisan workshops, and colorful islands like Burano. Visiting Venice is like stepping into a dream that stays with you forever.

Milan: fashion, design and hidden treasures

Known worldwide as Italy’s fashion capital, Milan is much more than glamorous boutiques. Its cultural highlights include the majestic Duomo Cathedral, Leonardo da Vinci’s “Last Supper,” and the modern skyline around Porta Nuova. Milan also offers hidden treasures, from elegant courtyards to trendy neighborhoods like Brera and Navigli, where canals and nightlife create a vibrant atmosphere. It’s the best place to go in Italy if you want a blend of tradition and innovation.

Naples: history, tradition and Mediterranean flavors

Naples is intense, passionate, and authentic. It’s the gateway to Pompeii, Mount Vesuvius, and the Amalfi Coast, but the city itself is a must-visit. Wander along Spaccanapoli, explore its underground tunnels, and admire the treasures in the Archaeological Museum. And of course, Naples is the birthplace of pizza, which alone makes it one of the best places to visit in Italy.

Bologna: food capital with a medieval heart

If food is your priority, Bologna will delight you. The city is famous for tagliatelle al ragù, mortadella, and tortellini, earning its title as Italy’s gastronomic capital. But Bologna is also rich in culture, with its medieval towers, endless porticoes, and one of Europe’s oldest universities. It’s a lively, welcoming city where tradition and youth meet.

Turin: elegance, museums and royal residences

Turin surprises many travelers with its elegance and sophistication. Surrounded by the Alps, the city boasts baroque palaces, wide boulevards, and renowned museums such as the Egyptian Museum and the National Cinema Museum. Turin is also the birthplace of Italian chocolate and the aperitivo tradition, making it a refined yet accessible destination.

Must see places in Italy beyond the cities

Amalfi Coast: stunning coastal landscapes

Few landscapes can match the drama of the Amalfi Coast. Towns like Positano and Amalfi cling to cliffs above the turquoise sea, creating postcard-perfect views. The region is also famous for lemon groves, hiking trails, and luxurious villas.

Cinque Terre: colorful villages by the sea

Cinque Terre is a string of five fishing villages perched on cliffs along the Ligurian coast. Their colorful houses, scenic trails, and crystal-clear waters make this UNESCO site one of the most must-see places in Italy.

Tuscany countryside: rolling hills and charming towns

Tuscany is the image of rural Italy: vineyards, olive groves, and medieval towns like Siena and San Gimignano. Renting a bike or simply relaxing in a villa among the hills offers an authentic and serene experience.

Lake Como and Lake Garda: natural beauty and elegance

Northern Italy is home to breathtaking lakes. Lake Como, with its villas and gardens, is synonymous with luxury. Lake Garda, Italy’s largest, is perfect for families, offering water sports, charming towns, and amusement parks.

Sicily: ancient ruins, volcanoes and beaches

Sicily is a world of its own. It combines Greek temples in Agrigento, the dramatic slopes of Mount Etna, and beaches that rival the Caribbean. Add to that cities like Palermo and Syracuse, with their rich history and vibrant food scenes, and Sicily becomes one of the best places to go in Italy.

Puglia: whitewashed towns and crystal-clear waters

In the south, Puglia offers a slower pace of life. Towns like Ostuni and Alberobello are famous for their unique architecture, while the coastline boasts long sandy beaches and hidden coves. It’s one of Italy’s rising stars, perfect for travelers looking for authenticity.

Travel tips for exploring Italy

Best time to visit Italy

Spring and autumn are ideal for traveling across Italy. You’ll enjoy mild weather, fewer crowds, and beautiful seasonal colors. Summer is popular for beach holidays, while winter brings charm to the Alps and Christmas markets in cities.

How to plan a 5 to 10 day trip

If you have 5 days, focus on one or two cities, such as Rome and Florence, adding a day trip. With 10 days, you can create a loop—Rome, Florence, Venice, and Milan, for instance—balancing cities with countryside or coastal stops.

Getting around Italy with high-speed trains

One of the best ways to maximize your time is by using Italo’s high-speed trains, connecting the main cities in just a couple of hours. You can avoid the stress of traffic, relax during the journey, and arrive directly in the city center—ready to start exploring.

Create your dream itinerary in Italy

Italy offers countless opportunities for discovery. From its celebrated cities to charming villages, from Mediterranean coasts to Alpine lakes, every corner is worth exploring. The secret is to combine the must-see places in Italy with experiences that resonate with your interests, whether that means art, nature, food, or simply soaking up local life. With thoughtful planning—and the convenience of high-speed travel—you can transform a trip into a collection of unforgettable memories.