Skip to main content

The best places to visit in Italy: Explore these incredible regions

venice grand canal italy
Dan Novac / Unsplash

With every step through its stunning landscapes, every taste of its delicious cuisine, and every encounter with its rich history, Italy captures both heart and soul. From the sun-soaked shores of the Amalfi Coast to the rolling hills of Tuscany, this country offers a diverse range of experiences that cater to every type of traveler. Here are some of the best places to visit in Italy.

1. Tuscany

brown and white painted cathedral roof overlooking city and mountain under blue sky
Maegan White / Pexels

Tuscany is the epitome of Italy’s romantic charm. With its rolling hills, picturesque vineyards, and charming medieval towns, this region offers a slice of la dolce vita that’s hard to resist. Florence, the capital of Tuscany, is the birthplace of the Renaissance and home to some of the world’s greatest artistic treasures, including Michelangelo’s David and Botticelli’s The Birth of Venus. Beyond Florence, you can explore the medieval streets of Siena, sip on world-class wines in Chianti, or soak in the thermal hot springs of Saturnia. Tuscany’s blend of culture, history, and natural beauty makes it a must-visit region.

Recommended Videos

2. Amalfi Coast

landscape photo of houses near ocean
silvia trigo / Unsplash

The Amalfi Coast is a stretch of coastline that’s as breathtaking as it is famous. With its dramatic cliffs, colorful villages, and crystal-clear waters, it’s no wonder this area is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Positano, with its pastel-colored buildings cascading down to the sea, is a postcard-perfect town that’s ideal for a romantic getaway. Ravello, perched high above the coastline, offers stunning views and luxurious gardens. And don’t miss the chance to drive the famous Amalfi Drive, a winding road that offers some of the most spectacular coastal views in the world.

3. Venice

canal in venice
Ricardo Gomez Angel / Unsplash

Built on a series of small islands in a lagoon, Venice is a city where the streets are made of water and the cars are replaced by gondolas. Stroll through the narrow alleyways, cross picturesque bridges, and visit the iconic St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace in the bustling Piazza San Marco. For a unique experience, take a gondola ride through the canals at sunset or explore the quieter, lesser-known areas of the city like Cannaregio and Dorsoduro. Venice is a place where every corner seems to hold a new discovery, making it a city you can get lost in – in the best possible way.

4. Sicily

birds eye view photo of coastline during daytime
Daniele Putti / Pexels

Sicily is a melting pot of cultures, with a history that spans thousands of years and influences from the Greeks, Romans, Arabs, and Normans. The island offers a diverse range of experiences, from exploring the ancient ruins of Agrigento’s Valley of the Temples to climbing Mount Etna, one of the most active volcanoes in the world. Palermo, the island’s capital, is a city known for its bustling markets, baroque churches, and eclectic architecture. Don’t miss the chance to sample Sicilian cuisine, which is as diverse as the island’s history, featuring dishes like arancini, caponata, and cannoli.

5. Rome

people walking beside white and brown dome building during daytime
Claudio Hirschberger / Unsplash

Rome is a place where history and modernity coexist in perfect harmony. From the ancient ruins of the Colosseum and the Roman Forum to the grandeur of the Vatican City, Rome is a city that offers a glimpse into the past like no other. Wander through the cobblestone streets of the historic center, toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain for good luck, or climb the Spanish Steps for a view of the city. Rome is also a paradise for food lovers, with countless trattorias serving up traditional Roman dishes like carbonara, cacio e pepe, and supplì. With so much to see and do, Rome is a city that demands to be savored slowly.

6. Cinque Terre

a group of boats floating on top of a body of water
Peter Thomas / Unsplash

Cinque Terre, a string of five fishing villages perched along the rugged Italian Riviera coastline, is one of Italy’s most picturesque destinations. The villages – Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore – are known for their colorful houses, steep terraces, and stunning sea views. Hiking between the villages offers some of the best coastal views in Italy, or you can take a train or boat to hop from one village to the next. Each village has its unique charm, from Monterosso’s sandy beaches to Vernazza’s charming harbor, making Cinque Terre a perfect destination for nature lovers and photographers alike.

7. Milan

green leafed trees near concrete buildings
Francesco Ungaro / Pexels

Milan is Italy’s fashion and design capital, known for its sleek, modern vibe and world-class shopping. But there’s more to Milan than just haute couture. The city is home to some of Italy’s most iconic landmarks, including the stunning Gothic Duomo di Milano and Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper, housed in the Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie. Milan is also a hub for contemporary art and culture, with numerous galleries, museums, and theaters offering a rich cultural experience. After a day of exploring, relax with an aperitivo in one of Milan’s trendy bars or enjoy a night out in the city’s vibrant nightlife scene.

8. The Dolomites

a cabin on a lake with mountains in the background
Kevin Schmid / Unsplash

The Dolomites, a mountain range in northeastern Italy, offer some of the most breathtaking alpine scenery in Europe. Known for their dramatic peaks, lush valleys, and picturesque villages, the Dolomites are a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. In winter, the region is a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding, while summer offers endless opportunities for hiking, climbing, and cycling. The Great Dolomites Road, a scenic drive that winds through the heart of the mountains, offers some of the most stunning views in the region. The charming town of Cortina d’Ampezzo, known as the “Queen of the Dolomites,” is a great base for exploring this spectacular area.

9. Puglia

aerial view of city buildings
Pelageia Zelenina / Pexels

Puglia, the heel of Italy’s boot, is a region that’s often overlooked by tourists but offers a ton of hidden gems. Known for its whitewashed towns, olive groves, and stunning coastline, Puglia is a place where you can experience authentic Italian culture away from the crowds. The town of Alberobello is famous for its unique trulli houses, while the baroque city of Lecce is often referred to as the “Florence of the South.” Puglia’s coastline offers some of the best beaches in Italy, from the sandy shores of the Gargano Peninsula to the rocky coves of the Salento coast.

Kelly Baker
Kelly is a writer who loves good books, baking homemade bread, playing the piano, and spending time with her family.
The best time to visit Alaska: Tips for every season from summer cruises to winter auroras
When should you visit The Last Frontier?
The state sign for alaska with a car behind it

Alaska is home to some of the most awe-inspiring landscapes in the world, with 17 of North America’s tallest mountains, over 100 volcanoes, and more coastline than the rest of the U.S. combined. But when is the best time to visit Alaska? It all depends on what you want to experience! While May to September is the most popular window for travelers, each month offers something unique. Let’s break down the best time to visit Alaska based on your adventure goals.
The best time to enjoy warm weather in Alaska
Juneau, Alaska Kathrine Coonjohn / Unsplash

If you’re looking to enjoy warm weather in Alaska, June through August is your sweet spot. By mid-June, Alaska reaches its peak temperatures – though ‘hot’ here typically means 60s. The long, sunny days and short nights make this a fantastic time to explore the great outdoors. 

Read more
When is the best time to visit Banff? A guide for every season
How to pick the best time for your dream trip
Banff mountain

When it comes to natural beauty, few places can top Banff. Incorporated in 1990, Banff is the first municipality in Canada to be incorporated inside a national park. Like many places within Banff National Park, the town of Banff offers incredible views, fun outdoor adventures, and plenty of opportunities to relax and unwind. There’s something here for everyone, whether you enjoy skiing, hiking, or simply admiring the mountain landscape. But the question is: when’s the best time to visit Banff?

The answer depends on what you’re after. Want to hit the slopes? You’ll need to visit in the winter. More interested in hiking? Summer may be your go-to. If you want to avoid crowds, then spring or fall is probably the best option. Let’s break it down season by season so you can plan your perfect Banff getaway. 
Fall is the best time to visit Banff to avoid crowds

Read more
The best fall road trips in the U.S.: The most scenic routes for autumn adventures
Gas up the car and hit the road
Autumn Mountains

If you’ve looked at a fall foliage map recently, you know it’s the perfect time to plan a scenic road trip to soak in the season’s changing colors. One of the best ways to experience the beauty of the changing seasons is by taking a fall road trip through some of the country’s most scenic routes. Whether you’re dreaming of a classic New England adventure or seeking a more unique journey along the West Coast, we’ve rounded up the best fall road trips that offer stunning views and unforgettable experiences.
American Fork Canyon, Utah

American Fork Canyon, located in Utah, is one of the best spots in the country for a fall road trip, attracting over a million visitors every year. The Alpine Scenic Loop Backway is the perfect route for taking in the stunning fall foliage. If you stick to State Road 92 and don’t plan on using any recreation facilities, you can skip the fees! But if you want to stay longer and enjoy all the area has to offer – like camping at Timpanogos Campground, fishing at American Fork River, or hiking the popular Timpanogos Cave – you’ll need a 1 to 3-day pass for $10 or a 7-day pass for $20.
Green Mountains, Vermont

Read more