Best Places to Go in Italy – European Destinations

When planning your vacation to Italy, there are many amazing places to visit that can be hard to narrow down the list.

From picturesque villages nestled in the Tuscan countryside to world-famous cities like Rome and Florence, there is no shortage of travel spots to explore in this beautiful country.

To help you plan your trip, we’ve compiled a list of some of the best places to go in Italy.

Whether you’re looking for culture, history, amazing food, or just breathtaking scenery, you’ll find it all on this list.

1. Rome

But no trip to Italy would be complete without spending some time in Rome.

This vibrant city is filled with historical landmarks like the Colosseum and the Vatican and countless museums, restaurants, and cafes.

There’s always something to see and do in Rome, making it one of the best places to visit in Italy.

Rome is one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations, and it’s no wonder why.

The city is steeped in history, art, and culture. It’s also a foodie paradise, with some of Italy’s best cuisines.

There is so much to see and do in Rome that it can be overwhelming to narrow down your options. To help you, we’ve compiled a list of Rome’s best places.

The Colosseum

The Colosseum is one of Rome’s most iconic landmarks and should be high on your list of things to see. The imposing structure was built over 2,000 years ago and was used for gladiatorial battles and public executions. Nowadays, it’s a popular tourist attraction, and you can even go inside to explore.

Vatican City

Another must-see in Rome is the Vatican City. This independent city-state is home to some of the world’s most famous artworks, including the Sistine Chapel ceiling painted by Michelangelo. You can also see the Pope’s residence and tour St. Peter’s Basilica.

Trastevere

If you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of central Rome, head to Trastevere. This charming neighborhood is located on the west bank of the Tiber River and is known for its narrow streets, cozy restaurants, and lively nightlife scene.

Trevi Fountain

No trip to Rome would be complete without a visit to the Trevi Fountain. This world-famous fountain is one of the largest in the city and is a popular spot for making wishes. Be sure to throw a coin into the fountain – it’s said to guarantee your return to Rome.

Catacombs of St. Callixtus

For something a little different, head to the Catacombs of St. Callixtus. These underground burial chambers dated back to the 3rd century and were used by early Christians. Today, you can explore the catacombs and see some of the best-preserved frescoes from that period.

Gianicolo Hill

If you’re looking for somewhere to relax and view Rome, head to Gianicolo Hill. This hilltop park is located in the Trastevere neighborhood and offers panoramic views of the city. It’s the perfect spot for a picnic on a sunny day.

These are just some of the best places to visit in Rome. With so much to see and do, you’ll need more than a few days to explore everything this amazing city offers.

2. Florence

Another must-see city in Italy is Florence.

This city is known for its incredible art and architecture, including world-renowned works like Michelangelo’s David and Brunelleschi’s Duomo. Florence has many excellent museums, such as the Uffizi Gallery and the Bargello Museum.

Florence is a city in central Italy and the capital of the Tuscany region.

It is one of the most populous cities in Italy, with a population of 366,569 as of 2013.

Florence was a center of medieval European trade and finance and one of the wealthiest cities of that time.

It is considered the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance and has been called “the Athens of the Middle Ages.”

A turbulent political history includes periods of rule by the powerful Medici family and numerous religious and republican revolutions.

From 1865 to 1871, the city was also the capital (under the name Florenz) of the Kingdom of Italy (or the Italian Empire).

The Historical Centre of Florence attracts 13 million tourists annually, and UNESCO designated the Duomo Florence Cathedral a World Heritage Site in 1982.

Florence is an important city in Italian fashion, ranked in the world’s top 15 fashion capitals, with creative talents such as Roberto Cavalli Florence.

Duomo

Some of the best places to go while in Florence are The Duomo, the cathedral of Florence and one of Italy’s largest churches.

It is also one of the city’s most recognizable symbols; The Palazzo Vecchio, the town hall of Florence, has been home to some of the city’s most powerful rulers throughout history.

The Galleria Degli Uffizi is one of the world’s oldest and most famous art museums, with a collection that includes works by Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Botticelli; The Ponte Vecchio, which is Florence’s oldest bridge and one of the most iconic landmarks in the city.

And lastly, The Boboli Gardens, a large park behind the Palazzo Pitti, contains multiple gardens, sculptures, and fountains.

Florence is a city rich in history and culture that should not be missed on any trip to Italy. With its beautiful architecture, art, and food, there is something for everyone to enjoy. So make sure to add Florence to your list of the best places to go in Italy.

3. Venice

Venice is one of Italy’s most unique and romantic cities.

Spend your days exploring the canals by gondola or walking around the cobbled streets admiring the architecture.

Be sure to sample some delicious seafood Venice offers and enjoy a sunset stroll along the Rialto Bridge.

Venice is a city in northeastern Italy and the capital of the Veneto region.

It is built on over 100 small islands in the shallow Venetian Lagoon, a protected marine area in the Adriatic Sea.

The lagoon stretches along the shoreline between the mouths of the Po and Piave rivers.

Venice is renowned for its canals, bridges, Gothic architecture, and artworks.

The city has been a major maritime power from its earliest years.

A patron of the arts, it has played an important role in the history of Western culture.

Famous visitors to Venice have included Marco Polo, Mark Twain, Goethe, Mozart, Byron, Dickens, and Wagner.

Today, Venice is a major tourist destination, drawing millions of visitors annually.

It is also an important center for business and finance. The city is home to many multinational companies, banks, and other businesses.

There are many things to see and do in Venice. Some popular attractions include the Grand Canal, St. Mark’s Square, the Rialto Bridge, the Doge’s Palace, and Venetian Gothic architecture.

There are also many museums, art galleries, and theaters in Venice.

Venice is worth considering if you’re looking for a unique travel destination.

With its fascinating history, rich culture, and beautiful scenery, it’s no wonder this city is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world.

4. Cinque Terre

The Cinque Terre is a stunning stretch of coastline in Northern Italy.

This area is home to five picturesque villages, each with a unique charm. hiking trails linking the villages together, providing breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea.

The Cinque Terre is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the best of what Italy has to offer.

Cinque Terre is a beautiful string of five cliffside villages on the northwestern coast of Italy.

The villages are connected by hiking trails and scenic railways, making Cinque Terre a popular destination for nature lovers and those who want to experience traditional Italian village life.

There is a lot to see and do in Cinque Terre. In the village of Monterosso al Mare, visitors can sunbathe on the beach, swim in the Mediterranean Sea, or try surfing.

Those who want to explore the area’s natural beauty can hike through the vineyards and olive groves that cover the hillsides or take a boat ride around the coastline.

Active travelers will find plenty to keep them busy, from mountain biking and kayaking to canyoning and rock climbing.

For a taste of traditional Italian village life, visitors can explore the streets of Vernazza, known for its pretty pastel-colored houses, or visit Riomaggiore, the oldest of the five villages.

There are also several great restaurants in Cinque Terre, serving fresh seafood caught right off the coast and delicious local wines.

With so much to see and do, Cinque Terre is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Italy.

5. Amalfi Coast

Another beautiful coastline in Italy can be found on the Amalfi Coast. This area is famous for its dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and quaint towns.

Take a boat ride around the coastline or hike one of the many trails for stunning views of the Tyrrhenian Sea.

The Amalfi Coast is a stretch of coastline on the southern tip of Italy’s Sorrentine Peninsula in the Campania region.

It’s known for its dramatic terrain, pretty towns and villages, including Positano and Amalfi, and resorts such as Capri.

The area is also popular for hiking, with easy coastal walks and longer treks through lemon groves and vineyards dotting the cliffs.

Although often referred to as a single entity, the Amalfi Coast comprises several different towns and villages, all with unique attractions.

Here are some of the best places to visit on the Amalfi Coast.

Amalfi

The town of Amalfi is the largest settlement on the coast and serves as its main transportation hub. It’s also one of the most popular tourist destinations, thanks to its beautiful 10th-century cathedral, pretty pasta shops, and idyllic location overlooking the sea.

Positano

Positano is perhaps the best-known town on the Amalfi Coast. Its pastel-colored houses cling to cliffs that lead down to a picturesque beachfront dotted with restaurants and bars. The main drag, Via Cristoforo Colombo, is lined with chic boutiques selling everything from local handicrafts to designer fashion.

Ravello

Ravello is a small hilltop town located between Amalfi and Minori. It’s best known for its stunning gardens, including the Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone, which offer breathtaking coastline views. In addition to its gardens, Ravello is also home to several excellent restaurants and some churches, including the 11th-century cathedral of Sant’Eustachio.

Minori

Minori is a small town located between Amalfi and Maiori. Its main attraction is the ruins of a Roman villa, including an amphitheater used for performances during the summer months. These days, the amphitheater hosts regular concerts and events. Minori also has a lovely beachfront and several good restaurants.

Maiori

Maiori is the largest town on the eastern side of the Amalfi Coast. Its main beach is one of the longest and most popular on the coast, and its promenade is lined with cafes, bars, and shops. In addition to its beach, Maiori also has many historical attractions, including the Church of Santa Maria a Mare, which dates back to the 13th century.

6. Sicily

Sicily is the largest island in the Mediterranean Sea and home to some of Italy’s best beaches.

This island has a rich history and culture, with Greek ruins, medieval castles, and a vibrant food scene.

Be sure to try some of the local specialties like arancini and cannoli while you’re here.

Sicily is best known for its stunning beaches, but there’s so much more to this Mediterranean island.

 Also, Sicily has a long and complicated history dating back to the days of Ancient Greece.

The island was once home to some of the most powerful empires in the world, and that history is visible everywhere you go.

From the ancient Greek temples at Agrigento to the Norman castles dotting the landscape, there’s something for everyone to explore in Sicily.

If you’re looking for a beach vacation, you’ll be spoilt for choice in Sicily. The island has some of the best beaches in Italy, with crystal clear waters and soft sand.

But plenty of other activities keep you busy if you want to get off the beaten path.

Visit the active volcano of Mount Etna, explore the quaint villages of the Madonie mountains, or take a dip in one of the island’s many thermal springs.

No matter what you’re looking for, Sicily is sure to have something for you.

So start planning your trip today and experience everything this amazing island offers.

7. Parma

Parma is a small Northern Italy city best known for its delicious food. This city is home to some of the world’s best Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese and Prosciutto di Parma ham. There are also several excellent restaurants serving traditional Italian cuisine.

Parma is a city in Italy’s Emilia-Romagna region, best known for its ham and cheese. The city has a long history dating back to Roman times, and there are plenty of things to see and do.

If you’re interested in architecture, Parma is home to several beautiful churches. The Duomo di Parma is a Gothic cathedral with an ornate interior, while the Basilica di Santa Maria Della Steccata is a Renaissance church with an elegant façade.

For something truly unique, visit the Baptistery of Parma, which was built in the 12th century and has three stories with different styles of architecture.

Parma is also famous for its food. In addition to the city’s namesake ham and cheese, you can try traditional dishes like Tortelli di erbetta (a type of ravioli) and roasted suckling pig.

And, of course, no visit to Parma would be complete without sampling some of the local wine.

Whether you’re interested in history, food, or simply want to enjoy a lovely Italian city, Parma is worth a visit.

8. Siena

Siena is a beautiful city in Tuscany best known for its medieval architecture and annual horse race, the Palio di Siena.

This city has historical landmarks, museums, and a lively food scene. Be sure to try some of the local specialties like pici pasta and panforte while you’re here.

Siena is a beautiful hill town in the Tuscany region of Italy.

It’s best known for its medieval architecture, art galleries, and museums.

Siena is also home to the famous Palio horse race, which takes place twice a year in the city’s main square.

9. Lake Garda

Lake Garda is the largest lake in Italy and a popular destination for locals and tourists.

This area is known for its stunning scenery, quaint towns, and delicious food.

There are many activities to enjoy around the lake, including swimming, windsurfing, and hiking.

Lake Garda is the largest lake in Italy and is a popular tourist destination. The lake is located in the country’s north and is surrounded by mountains.

Many towns and villages are situated around the lake, each with its unique history and culture.

Visitors to Lake Garda can enjoy swimming, windsurfing, and hiking. There are also several museums and galleries in the area.

10. Lake Como

Lake Como is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Italy.

Situated in the Lombardy region of Northern Italy, the lake is a mecca for those who love the outdoors, with plenty of hiking, biking, and swimming opportunities.

The lake is also incredibly beautiful, with crystal-clear waters and picturesque mountain views.

In terms of history, Lake Como has been a popular destination for centuries.

Roman emperors used to holiday here; it was even a favorite spot of Leonardo da Vinci.

These days, the lake is just as popular as ever, with visitors from all over the world to experience its beauty.

Lake Como is worth a visit if you’re looking for a truly unique and memorable experience in Italy.

Whether you want to explore its many hiking trails, take a dip in its refreshing waters, or simply enjoy the stunning scenery, you’ll surely find something to love about this special place.

Thoughts and Conclusion

There are so many amounts of amazing places to see in Italy.

From the picturesque Amalfi Coast to the bustling streets of Rome, there is something for everyone in this beautiful country.

While it may be difficult to narrow it down, these are just a few of the best places to go in Italy.