Travel Guides

• Italy has so many places to visit, from the Trevi Fountain and Grand Canal to hidden gems like Matera and Alberobello, each with its own history and culture. 

• The natural wonders, like the Amalfi Coast and the Blue Grotto, offer landscapes and experiences beyond the cities. 

• Plan your trip to balance the famous with the lesser-known and soak up the local culture and food. 
   

Italy is a country where every corner has a story to tell. Whether you’re gazing at the grandeur of Rome, wandering through Florence’s art, or getting lost in Venice’s canals, Italy is magic with its history and culture. The country is famous for its history and cities but also for its natural wonders and hidden gems.  

Here, we will show you some of the best places to visit in Italy as a tourist, along with insider tips and travel advice so your Italian adventure is as lovely as the country itself. 

Best Cities To Visit In Italy 

Italy’s cities are steeped in history, art, and culture, offering experiences that blend the ancient with the modern. Here are some of the best cities to add to your Italian itinerary. 
 

Rome 

As the capital of Italy and one of the most famous cities in the world, Rome is packed with landmarks that span the centuries. The Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Pantheon are ancient Rome; the Vatican City is St. Peter’s Basilica, and the Sistine Chapel with Michelangelo’s works. Don’t miss the Trevi Fountain – legend has it if you throw a coin in here, you’ll return to Rome. Rome is also known for its street life, trattorias, and art galleries, so it’s the heart and soul of Italy. 

Florence 

The birthplace of the Renaissance, Florence, will blow your mind with its art, architecture, and historical sites. Visit the Uffizi Gallery to see works by Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Botticelli, including the famous “Birth of Venus”. Walk through the Piazza del Duomo to see the Florence Cathedral and its dome. Florence is a must-see for anyone interested in Italy’s artistic heritage. 

Venice 

Venice is a city like no other, with canals, historic palaces, and an atmosphere that makes you feel like you’re in another world. The Grand Canal is the main street of the city, lined with Renaissance and Gothic architecture. A gondola ride or a walk across the Rialto Bridge will give you the best views of this city on water. Don’t miss St. Mark’s Square and St. Mark’s Basilica, which have mosaics and views of the city from their bell towers. Venice’s charm is unbeatable, from its quiet backstreets to its lively piazzas. 

Pisa 

Famous for the Leaning Tower of Pisa, there’s more to this city than its tilt. The Piazza dei Miracoli (Square of Miracles) is home to the Leaning Tower, the Cathedral, and the Baptistery with their medieval architecture. Climb the Leaning Tower’s spiral staircase for great views of the city and the Tuscan countryside. Pisa’s historic streets, along with its cafes and shops, are to be strolled. 

Naples 

A city full of character and energy, Naples is famous for its culture, food, and historical sites. As the birthplace of pizza, Naples has endless culinary delights. Visit the National Archaeological Museum to see treasures from Pompeii, explore the Spaccanapoli district’s narrow streets, and take in the views of Mount Vesuvius across the Bay of Naples. Nearby, Pompeii and the island of Capri make great day trips. Naples’ atmosphere and history are unbeatable. 

Top Tourist Attractions in Italy 

Italy is home to some of the world’s most iconic landmarks, offering a mix of art, history, and natural beauty. The one’s mentioned below, are the top options to add to your Italian itinerary.  
 

Trevi Fountain, Rome 

The Trevi Fountain is a must-see place for you in Rome, Italy. One of the city’s most famous landmarks, it’s rich in history and beauty. Built in the 18th century, it’s the biggest Baroque fountain in the city. You can see the beautiful sculptures of Oceanus, the god of the sea, surrounded by mythological figures and sea creatures here. The fountain’s design and flowing water are mesmerizing, especially at night when the lights hit the water. 

One of the best things to do at the Trevi Fountain is the tradition of throwing a coin in. Legend has it that if you throw a coin over your shoulder, you’ll return to Rome someday. So, the fountain is a sight to behold and a place where people come to make wishes and hope for a bit of luck. 
 

Uffizi Galleries, Florence 

When in Florence you can’t miss the art and history. As the birthplace of the Renaissance, Florence has many beautiful places to show you its art. But you won’t want to miss the Uffizi Galleries in this Italian city. It’s famous for its art museums and attracts visitors from different parts of the world. 

You can see the impressive collection of masterpieces from the Renaissance period, including works by Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Botticelli. The gallery is famous for Botticelli’s “The Birth of Venus” and “Spring,” the beauty and elegance of the Renaissance. Located in a palace near the Arno River, the museum gives you a glimpse into Italy’s cultural heritage. 

Besides the art treasures, you can see the beauty of the Uffizi’s architecture and views of Florence. Whether you’re an art lover or not, visiting the Uffizi Gallery is a must in Florence. You’ll get to see some of the world’s greatest artistic achievements in one place. 
 

Grand Canal, Venice 

In Venice, you can’t miss the Grand Canal, or Canal Grande, as the locals call it. This beautiful waterway is 3.8km (2.4 miles) long and curves in a reverse - S shape through the heart of the city. You can hop on a water taxi or a gondola and visit the beautiful and gorgeous buildings. These buildings range from Gothic to Renaissance style and date back to the 13th century to 18th century. 

As you cruise along the canal, take a moment to view the historic palaces and charming churches that line the water. Don’t forget to snap a few photos at the Rialto Bridge. It’s the perfect spot to capture the market scene below. 

And if you can do it at sunset, the light on the water is magic, and you’ll want to remember it forever. The Grand Canal in Venice has beauty and history waiting for you. 
 

Leaning Tower of Pisa, Pisa 

The Leaning Tower of Pisa gets you more than a photo op. First things first, you have to climb those famous spiral stairs. There are 300 steps to reach the terrace, and let me tell you, the views of the La Piazza Dei Miracoli are totally worth it. Imagine standing there and looking out over Tuscany! 

Once you’re up there, don’t forget to take a minute to appreciate the tower’s lean. It’s a marvel of engineering, and crazy to think about how it’s lasted this long. After you’ve taken in the views, head back down and take your time to explore the rest of the piazza. The nearby cathedral and baptistery are gorgeous and great photo ops, too. 

And before you go, don’t miss the fun of posing with the tower. Get creative—lean against it, pretend to hold it up, or strike a pose. It’s all part of the experience! Visiting the Leaning Tower of Pisa isn’t about the landmark; it’s about making memories. 

Hidden Gems and Unique Historical Sites in Italy 

Beyond Italy’s famous landmarks, there are also some hidden gems that provide a glimpse into the country’s rich heritage and offer unique experiences away from the crowds. 
 

Pompei, Naples 

When you’re in Naples, don’t miss Pompeii, it’s an archaeological treasure waiting to be discovered. This place was buried under the eruption of Mount Vesuvius volcanic ash in 79 AD and was preserved for centuries. This is a must-see as you will go back in time and see how the ancient Romans lived. 

You can walk through the ruins and see homes, shops, and public buildings, as well as Roman architecture and daily life. Key sites are the Forum, the Amphitheater, and the Stabian Baths. You can also see the preserved bodies of some of the victims, which gives a chilling insight into that day. 

As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this place in Italy is an amazing opportunity to learn about history and culture. Its state of preservation and history make it one of the most amazing places to visit in Italy. 

Blue Grotto, Capri 

The Blue Grotto on the island of Capri is one of Italy’s most beautiful natural wonders, and you have to see it. This place is famous for its blue waters that glow like liquid sapphire. 

Accessible by boat, you can enter through a small opening and into a cave filled with shimmering light. 

The best time to visit is at midday when the sun is shining and the water is illuminated. Inside, you can hire rowboats to explore the grotto’s interior in peace. 

Beyond the Grotto, Capri has stunning views, gardens, and cliffs.  
 

Matera, Basilicata 

You’re in for a real treat when you visit Matera, a site that feels like going back in time. Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Sassi, is the highlight here. You can see those ancient cave dwellings carved into the limestone that have been around since prehistoric times.  

Here, you can discover these amazing caves by wandering through narrow streets. They’ve been transformed into lovely hotels, charming restaurants, and unique shops. It’s like you’re walking through a living museum. 

As you walk around, take in the views of the surrounding landscape and the stunning Gravina Gorge. Perfect for some great photos. And don’t miss the rock churches – each one is a treasure trove of history, and the frescoes will show you the area’s cultural heritage. 

Getting to Matera is easy, whether you drive or take the train. And when it comes to food, you’re in for a treat. You can try the local orecchiette pasta and regional wines. Matera has a great mix of history, architecture, and food you won’t forget. 
 

Alberobello, Puglia 

Alberobello is famous for its trulli houses, and you’ll feel like you’re in a fairy tale. As you wander through the narrow streets, the sight of those whitewashed stone buildings with conical roofs is dreamy. Trust me, you’ll find plenty of shops and cafes to pop into along the way. 

Make sure to visit both the Rione Monti and Rione Aia Piccola districts. They have the best-preserved trulli. If you want to know more about the history of the Trulli, check out the Trullo Sovrano Museum – it’s great. Getting to Alberobello is easy, whether you take the train or drive, so it’s a great day trip. 

One of the lovely things about this town is the warmth of the locals. Don’t be shy; greet the shop owners and residents with a smile. It is a part of the experience here. And, of course, you can’t leave without trying some Puglian food. 

Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Italy for Nature Lovers 

For nature enthusiasts, these stunning locations promise unforgettable outdoor adventures in Italy. 
 

Amalfi Coast, Salerno 

The Amalfi Coast is a beautiful and mesmerizing stretch of coastline with dramatic cliffs, charming villages, and crystal-clear waters. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage site. When you’re here, you should visit the towns of Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello. Each of these places has breathtaking views and unique experiences. 

You can also walk through the colorful streets filled with bougainvillea. Enjoy local food with fresh seafood and homemade pasta, and indulge in the region’s famous limoncello. Also, hike through the scenic trails such as the Path of the Gods. This will give you stunning views of the coastline and the Tyrrhenian Sea. 

If you’re one of those who love hidden coves and pristine beaches, you can also take boat tours. These will give you a different perspective of the coastline, and you’ll get to experience the Italian "la dolce vita." 

Saturnia, Tuscany 

Saturnia, in the beautiful Tuscany region, is famous for its natural hot springs and thermal baths. You can soak in the warm, milky blue waters of the Cascate del Mulino, a series of beautiful cascading pools that feel like a natural spa. 

The springs are rich in sulfur and minerals, and they provide a therapeutic experience like no other. In fact, the water here is at a constant 37.5°C (99.5°F) all year round, so you can take a dip any time of the year. 

But don’t stop at bathing! The area is full of beautiful hiking trails where you can soak up the Tuscan landscape. And when you’re hungry, head to the nearby villages for some traditional Tuscan food. 

Dining in the nearby villages means you can be part of the traditional Tuscan way of life. You can also enjoy fresh pasta or local wine surrounded by the countryside. Whether you want relaxation or adventure, Saturnia has everything you need. 

Tips for Traveling to Italy for the First Time 

If you’re planning your first trip to Italy, it’s natural to feel both excited and a little overwhelmed. But a bit of planning and knowing what to expect can help make your adventure easy and fun. 

• Plan Your Itinerary Well: When planning your Italian trip, mix the big cities like Rome, Florence, and Venice with the hidden gems like Matera and Alberobello. Spend a few days in each major city and leave some time for the off-the-beaten-path destinations. This will give you a better taste of Italy’s diversity. 

• When to Visit: The best time to visit Italy is in early fall and spring when the weather is nice, and the tourist crowds are manageable. The big events like the Venice Carnival in February and local festivals throughout the year are worth planning around. 

• Get Around Italy Like a Local: Italy’s train system is very efficient so you can easily get between cities. Buy your tickets in advance for better prices and sit back and enjoy the views. For rural areas, consider renting a car so you can discover the villages and hidden landscapes at your own pace. 

• Travel Insurance: Don't forget to purchase travel insurance for your trip to Italy.  
  It can cover unexpected medical expenses, trip cancellations, and lost luggage.  
  AXA Travel Insurance can provide support in case of an emergency.   

• Language: To be polite with the locals, learn a few basic Italian phrases like “Ciao” (Hello) and “Grazie” (Thank you). 
   

FAQs About Best Places to Visit in Italy 
 

1. What kind of visas are there for visiting Italy as a tourist? 

For a tourist visiting Italy, the main visa is the Schengen Visa (Type C), which is for short stays up to 90 days within 180 days. The Schengen Visa is the most common one for tourism. 

2. What local food should I try in each region of Italy? 

Each region in Italy has its own specialty. Try pizza in Naples, risotto in Milan, Bolognese pasta in Bologna, and seafood in Sicily. Each region’s cuisine will highlight local ingredients and traditions, so you’ll have a different food experience. 

3. Is it safe to travel alone in Italy? 

Italy is generally safe for those who prefer to travel solo, but be careful in crowded tourist areas as pickpocketing can happen. At night, stick to well-lit areas and take care of your belongings, and you’ll have a comfortable and safe trip. 

4. Are there any local customs I should know in Italy? 

When dining, first wait for the host to start eating. Also, remember cappuccinos are for the morning. Greet people with a “Buongiorno” (Good morning) or “Buonasera” (Good evening), and don’t be loud in public places. 

5. What’s the best time to visit Italy? 

The best time to visit Italy is spring (April–June) or fall (September–October). These seasons offer mild weather and smaller crowds. Summer is popular but can be hot and busy, while winter is great for skiing in the Alps or visiting cities without the tourist rush. 

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