It’s not possible to see everything that Italy has to offer in one trip. What follows is a selective taste, in no particular order, of the country’s highlights of Top 20 Places Not to Miss When Visiting Italy.
Outstanding buildings and ancient sites, spectacular natural wonders, great food and idyllic beaches.
01- CENTRO STORICO DI ROMA
There’s so much to see in Rome that wandering the city’s fantastic old centre can yield a surprise at every turn, whether it’s an ancient statue or a marvellous Baroque fountain.
The Eternal City’s main attractions are in the heart of the centro storico. From Rome’s best-preserved pagan temple-turned-church, the Pantheon to the best display of Baroque art at Piazza Navona.
The Historic Center of Rome is a fascinating maze of ancient wonders, Renaissance masterpieces, and lively piazzas that form the heart of the Eternal City. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, with over two millennia of history, includes iconic structures like the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and the Pantheon.
Visitors can stroll along cobblestone lanes flanked by beautiful palaces and Baroque churches, discovering hidden treasures such as the Trevi Fountain and the Spanish Steps. The Centro Storico di Roma, with its rich tapestry of art, culture, and architecture, functions as a living museum, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the grandeur and magnificence of ancient and modern Rome.
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02 – DUOMO DI MILANO
It is the largest Gothic cathedral and the second-largest Catholic cathedral in the world.
The Duomo was recently under major renovations and cleaning for several years, obscuring the west front with scaffolding. Works were finally completed in 2009, revealing the newly cleaned facade in all its glory.
The Milan Cathedral is a beautiful Gothic masterpiece and one of Italy’s most renowned structures. The cathedral, located in the heart of Milan, has an imposing exterior decorated with thousands of marble statues and beautiful towers that showcase the skills of generations of artisans.
Visitors are overwhelmed by the huge interior, which has been adorned with amazing stained glass windows, complex woodwork, and majestic altars. The cathedral’s rooftop terrace, which offers panoramic views of the city and allows visitors to see the intricate elements of the cathedral’s architecture up close, is its main attraction.
With its rich history, incredible beauty, and spiritual significance, the Duomo di Milano is a symbol of Milan’s majesty and a tribute to the lasting legacy of Italian craftsmanship.
03 – PIAZZA SAN MARCO – VENICE
Crowded or not, this is one of Europe’s grandest urban spaces and home to Italy’s most exotic cathedral.
As the largest square in the city and the only one given the designation of “piazza” (the others are all referred to as “campi”), St. Mark’s Square has always been the location of important government buildings and other facilities central to the goings on in Venice.
The piazza’s centrepiece is, of course, the magnificent St. Mark’s Basilica.
The plaza, dominated by the majestic appearance of St. Mark’s Basilica, is decorated with Byzantine mosaics and an elaborate marble façade, expressing power and reverence.
Surrounded by beautiful arcades and historic buildings, such as the Doge’s Palace and the Campanile, Piazza San Marco invites visitors to wander among centuries-old landmarks and absorb in the atmosphere of Venetian glory.
With its crowded cafes, lively street performers, and incredible views of the Grand Canal, the piazza acts as a vibrant meeting point and a timeless symbol of Venice’s cultural and artistic diversity.
04 – POMPEI AND HERCOLANUM
Probably the two best-preserved Roman sites in the country, destroyed and at the same time preserved by the eruption of Vesuvius in AD 79.
Pompeii and Herculaneum are two ancient Roman settlements tragically destroyed by Mount Vesuvius’ catastrophic eruption in 79 AD.
Once a thriving commercial centre, Pompeii provides an interesting look into Roman life, trapped in ash with its streets, homes, and public areas incredibly preserved. Visitors can visit the well-preserved ruins, which include theatres, houses, and baths.
Herculaneum, a smaller but wealthier city, was covered in volcanic mud, which preserved wooden constructions, textiles, and other organic items. Its opulent villas, beautiful mosaics, and frescoes offer visitors an intimate glimpse into ancient Roman civilization.
These archaeological sites give uncommon insight into the past, showing their people’s daily life, art, and culture.
05 – DUOMO FLORENCE
The cathedral named in honour of Santa Maria del Fiore is a vast Gothic structure built on the site of the 7th-century church of Santa Reparata, the remains of which can be seen in the crypt.
Florence’s Duomo, formally known as the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, is a Gothic architectural masterpiece and a symbol of the Renaissance.
Filippo Brunelleschi’s beautiful dome, which dominates the Florence skyline, was a pioneering engineering effort in the fifteenth century.
The cathedral’s elaborate exterior, decorated with pink, green, and white marble, features beautiful sculptures and mosaics.
Visitors are amazed by the huge nave, exquisite frescoes, and the dome’s interior, which displays Giorgio Vasari’s “The Last Judgment.”
Climbing to the top provides stunning views of Florence, making the Duomo a must-see for any visitor to the city.
06 – SIENA’S PALIO
“Piazza del Campo” is still used today for the well-known Palio horse race, one of the most famous popular Italian manifestations. It takes place every year on July 2 and August 16.
The Palio is run to celebrate the miraculous apparition of the Virgin Mary.
Siena’s Palio is an exciting, centuries-old horse race held twice a year, as said before, on July 2nd and August 16th, in the city’s ancient Piazza del Campo.
This highly competitive event puts the city’s 17 contrade, or districts, against one another in a fascinating bareback sprint around the piazza.
The Palio is more than a race; it’s a passionate celebration of Sienese tradition and pride, with elaborate parades, beautiful medieval costumes, and spirited rituals involving the entire city.
The frenzy culminates in the race itself, a heart-pounding event that lasts only 90 seconds but makes an unforgettable impact on everyone who sees it.
07 – CINQUE TERRE
These five fishing villages are shoehorned picturesquely into one of the most rugged parts of Liguria’s coastline and linked by a highly scenic coastal walking path.
Cinque Terre, which means Five Lands, comprise the five small coastal villages of Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza and Monterosso located in the Italian region of Liguria.
Cinque Terre, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is known for its colourful buildings and breathtaking coastline views.
Visitors are drawn to the spectacular cliffs, terraced vineyards, and crystal-clear waters.
The area is ideal for hiking, with gorgeous routes connecting the villages and true Italian culture and cuisine.
Cinque Terre’s beauty and tranquillity make it a popular choice for tourists looking for a one-of-a-kind and fascinating retreat.
08 – FOOD IN EMILIA ROMAGNA
This region is known as Italy’s gastronomic heart, home to Parma ham, parmesan cheese and balsamic vinegar – all of which are on view at Bologna’s marvellous indoor food market.
Emilia-Romagna, a northern Italian region, is known for its rich culinary tradition and has been referred to as the country’s gastronomic heart.
The region is known for its high-quality ingredients and traditional recipes, and its most famous dishes include Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, Modena balsamic vinegar, and Prosciutto di Parma.
Emilia-Romagna also produces several well-known pasta dishes, such as tagliatelle al ragù (also known as Bolognese sauce) and tortellini.
The region’s cuisine shows a strong appreciation for fresh, locally sourced ingredients, making it a foodie’s paradise and an essential contributor to Italy’s global culinary fame.
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09 – THE LAST SUPPER
Leonardo da Vinci’s mural for the refectory wall of Santa Maria delle Grazie is one of the world’s most resonant images.
Painted between 1495 and 1498, it represents Jesus announcing that one of his disciples will betray him.
This dramatic moment is recorded with great detail and emotion, focusing on the reactions of the twelve apostles.
The mural, located in Milan’s Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie, shows Leonardo’s innovative use of perspective and light to create depth and realism.
Despite decades of damage and repair efforts, Leonardo’s masterpiece “The Last Supper” keeps captivating people all over the world.
10 – THE UFFIZI – FLORENCE
One of Italy’s most celebrated collections of art, and – in a city not exactly short on things to see – Florence’s most essential attraction.
The Uffizi Gallery is one of the world’s most famous art museums, with an outstanding collection of Renaissance masterpieces.
Founded in 1581 by Francesco I de’ Medici, the museum is housed in a historic structure built by Giorgio Vasari.
Visitors can view classic masterpieces by Botticelli, Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, and Raphael. Among its most famous works are Botticelli’s “The Birth of Venus” and “Primavera.”
The Uffizi Gallery not only takes visitors on a journey through the growth of Renaissance art, but it also offers breathtaking views of the Arno River and Florence, making it a must-see site for both art lovers and tourists.
11 – DUOMO ORVIETO
One of the country’s finest cathedrals, with a marvellous fresco cycle by Luca Signorelli.
The Duomo di Orvieto, popularly known as Orvieto Cathedral, is a remarkable example of Italian Gothic architecture located in the hilltop town of Orvieto, Umbria.
The church, built between 1290 and 1591, is known for its ornate façade decorated with beautiful sculptures and mosaics representing biblical subjects. Inside, the Chapel of San Brizio attracts tourists with its beautiful murals by Luca Signorelli showing the Last Judgment and the Resurrection.
The Duomo’s distinctive combination of Romanesque and Gothic components, together with its rich artistic tradition, make it one of Italy’s finest and historically significant churches.
12 – PARCO NAZIONALE D’ABRUZZO
Italy’s third-largest national park, and probably its wildest, with marvellous walking and wildlife.
Parco Nazionale d’Abruzzo, Lazio e Molise, founded in 1923, is one of Italy’s oldest and most well-known national parks. Located in the centre of the Apennine Mountains, it is divided into three regions: Abruzzo, Lazio, and Molise.
The park is known for its breathtaking landscapes, which include lush forests, steep mountains, and clear lakes.
It protects a wide range of animals, including the endangered Marsican brown bear, the Abruzzo chamois, and the Italian wolf.
The park’s large network of hiking paths and wildlife viewing chances provide visitors with a one-of-a-kind opportunity to see central Italy’s natural beauty and rich biodiversity.
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13 – TUSCAN HILL TOWNS
The classic profile of a Tuscan hill town is many people’s Italian ideal. Montepulciano, Montalcino and San Gimignano are some of the most beautiful.
Tuscan hill towns are true jewels set among the beautiful surroundings of central Italy’s hilly terrain. These cities, known for their medieval elegance, small winding alleyways, and panoramic views, provide visitors with insight into Italy’s rich history and culture.
From the special towers of San Gimignano to the charming lanes of Montepulciano and the romantic ambience of Cortona, each hill town has its unique charm. Monteriggioni, encircled by well-preserved medieval walls, stands as a living testament to the region’s rich history and architectural heritage.
Certaldo, with its well-preserved medieval charm, is divided into two distinct areas, the lower, modern town and the upper, historic town of Certaldo Alto, visitors can explore narrow cobblestone streets, ancient towers, and medieval buildings that evoke a sense of bygone eras.
Visitors may wander through historical piazzas, visit historic churches and castles, and taste the region’s famous cuisine and wine. While admiring Pienza‘s Renaissance architecture or relaxing in Montalcino’s vineyards, Tuscan hill towns invite visitors to immerse themselves in the timeless beauty and magic of the Italian countryside.
14 – THE DOLOMITES
The spiky landscape of the Dolomites is a perfect hiking country, covered in dramatic long-distance trails.
The Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in northern Italy, are a spectacular mountain range known for its remarkable beauty and distinctive geological formations.
The Dolomites, with their rough peaks, green valleys, and gorgeous alpine villages, are a dream destination for adventure seekers who enjoy hiking, skiing, climbing, and mountain biking.
The Dolomites are home to incomparable natural beauty, from the famous Three Peaks of Lavaredo to the majestic Marmolada, the range’s highest mountain.
Visitors can explore lovely cities like Cortina d’Ampezzo, eat great South Tyrolean cuisine, and learn about the region’s rich cultural past.
With its stunning views and numerous outdoor adventures, the Dolomites attract visitors from all over the world, providing a unique vacation in the heart of the Italian Alps.
15 – THE ITALIAN LAKES
If you can escape the hordes, this region is one of Italy’s most beautiful, with stunning scenery and plenty of activities from windsurfing to walking.
The Italian Lakes, which include Lake Como, Lake Garda, and Lake Maggiore, are famous for their stunning beauty and peaceful environment. These sparkling lakes, nestled in the Alps’ foothills in northern Italy, offer a lovely escape for travellers seeking peace and natural beauty.
The lakeshores are surrounded by lush foliage, quaint villages, and historic villas, making for a picturesque setting for strolls, boat trips, and watersports.
From the elegant walkways of Bellagio to the vibrant gardens of Isola Bella, each lake has its own unique attractions and cultural treasures. Whether you’re indulging in excellent cuisine, exploring historic buildings, or simply relaxing among stunning scenery, the Italian Lakes offer a captivating holiday that attracts people year-round.
16 – VATICAN MUSEUM – ROME
The largest and richest collection of art and culture in the world. You’d be mad to miss it.
The Vatican Museums, located within Vatican City in Rome, house one of the world’s finest collections of art and culture.
Founded by Pope Julius II in the early 16th century, the museums include a vast collection of artworks covering thousands of years, from ancient Egyptian artefacts to Renaissance paintings and sculptures.
The Sistine Chapel is the museum’s showpiece, with Michelangelo’s incredible ceiling frescoes, including the classic “Creation of Adam.”
Visitors can also see works by Raphael, Leonardo da Vinci, and many more famous artists. Beyond its creative treasures, the Vatican Museums offer views into the Catholic Church’s past and present, making it a must-see destination for both art followers and history lovers.
17 – MATERA
A truly unique city, sliced by a ravine containing thousands of Sassi – cave dwellings gouged out of the rock that was inhabited till the 1950s.
Matera, a charming city in southern Italy, is known for its historic cave homes and incredible scenery. Matera’s historic Sassi neighbourhoods, carved into the cliffs of the Basilicata area, offer a look into the city’s millennia-old past and have been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Wander through narrow alleys and twisting staircases to see troglodyte cottages, historic cathedrals, and panoramic views that highlight Matera’s distinct charm.
The city has transformed dramatically in recent years, becoming a lively cultural hub with thriving restaurants, galleries, and boutique hotels. Matera’s timeless charm and rich tradition continue to attract visitors, making it a must-see destination for anyone looking for an amazing journey through Italy’s rich history.
18 – SARDINIA BEACHES
There are plenty of places to sun-worship in Italy, but Sardinia’s coastline ranks among one of the most beautiful.
Sardinia’s beaches, known for their pristine beauty and crystal-clear waves, are among the most attractive in the Mediterranean. From the pure white sands of Costa Smeralda to the rough cliffs of Cala Goloritzé, the island has plenty of coastal treasures to discover.
Visitors may relax in the sun at hidden coves, snorkel in beautiful turquoise waters filled with marine life, or go on scenic excursions along coastal pathways.
Whether it’s the vivid colours of Spiaggia del Principe or the pure wilderness of Cala Luna, Sardinia’s beaches attract visitors with their natural beauty and quiet atmosphere, providing an unforgettable coastal retreat.
19 – AMALFI COAST
Everyone should see the stunning Amalfi Coast at least once in their life.
The Amalfi Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a picturesque tract of the southern Italian coastline known for its wonderful cliffs, colourful villages, and clear blue waters.
Located dangerously along the steep terrain, charming villages such as Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello offer amazing views of the Tyrrhenian Sea.
Visitors can explore narrow cobblestone lanes, view pastel-coloured cottages tumbling down slopes, and eat excellent seafood at beach trattorias.
The Amalfi Coast attracts travellers with its timeless beauty and romantic attraction, making it an ideal destination for those looking for a true Italian experience.
20 – SICILY’S GREEK RUINS
The ancient theatres at Siracusa and Taormina are magnificent summer stages for Greek drama, while the temple complex at nearby Agrigento is one of the finest such sites outside Greece itself.
Sicily is rich in archaeological riches, ranging from the known Valley of the Temples in Agrigento to the well-preserved ruins of the ancient city of Syracuse.
Visitors can see the majestic columns of Doric temples, explore historic theatres where dramatic performances once took place, and walk through old alleys littered with vestiges of Greek civilization.
These archaeological ruins, which date back thousands of years, offer a fascinating look into Sicily’s role as a crossroads of Mediterranean civilizations, and they continue to charm visitors with their historical significance and timeless beauty.
What place would you like to not miss? Let us know!
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Anonymous
I have gone to all thank you
Thx
Italian Tutor for Easitalian
Perfect!