Best Places To Visit In Italy For A Breathtaking Vacation

Italy is one of the most romantic destinations, laced with an array of captivating architecture, the history and vibrant hues. The best places to visit in Italy offers a diverse experience of villages and the metropolitan cities, the ancient buildings and charming luxury hotels. It can be said that Italy stands as of the fascinating places where you can discover everything from cobblestone streets and the rock plunging along the seaside. There are beaches and mountings, the rustic old mountain and a lifestyle that can never be missed in this southern European country.

Top 12 Places To Visit In Italy

As you roam around the serene and fancy streets of cities in Italy, you can observe the charismatic beauty of art culture and heritage drenched with utmost luxury and modernity. Here are the top listed cities and places you must add to your holiday list for Italy.

1. Venice
2. Rome
3. Genoa
4. Florence
5. Pompeii
6. Amalfi Coast
7. Capri
8. Milan
9. Turin
10. Tuscany
11. Naples
12. Sicily

1. Venice

A dreamlike destination came alive as you set your foot on the city built on the Adriatic Sea. Venice is among the best attractions in Italy where there is a plethora of vintage art, multi-hued culture and streets enclosed within the canals.  What makes Venice, the most beautiful city to discover once in a lifetime is its history that dates back to 1000 years housing many museums and galleries that presents the bygone era. There is a vast collection of art and architecture that beholds the history from the 9th century to 17 centuries, proffering the scenic sights that will leave you mesmerized.

Best Time to Visit: March to August

How to Reach: The Marco Polo airport is the leading international airport in Venice connected by many international destinations. There is train connectivity with Italian cities like Bologna, Milan, Florence, Rome, Verona, and Padua, which will drop you at Santa Lucia. One can even board a water bus or ferry to reach Venice, one of the famous places in Italy.

Ideal Duration: 2 to 3 days

Nearest Airport: Marco Polo airport

Popular Attractions: St. Mark's Square, Palazzo Ducale, Basilica San Marco, Famous Rialto Bridge, Galleria dell'Accademia di Venezia, Peggy Guggenheim Collection

Things to Do: Gondola Ride in Grand Canal, Explore the Burano Island, Food Tour in Rialto Bridge, Boat Tour in Lido Island, Visit Murano Glass Museum

Best Places to Stay: H10 Palazzo Canova, Hotel Abbazia, Bauer Palazzo, The St. Regis Venice, Belmond Hotel Cipriani, JW Marriott Venice Resort & Spa

Best Shopping Markets: Mercato Biologico Solidale Aeres, Rialto market, Calle Longhi, Campo San Barnaba, Mestre market

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2. Rome

Whoever said “Rome was not built in a day”, was right as a city like Rome, take years to flourish. Rome is one of the most magical and best places to visit in Italy where there are museums and galleries housing a great collection of art. Rome, the capital city of Italy, is a vast region divided by into many districts, offering the tourist a lot to do and discover. The city flaunts its modern and vintage vibes with its culture that dates back to 2500 years. Take on a hop on and hop off bus to explore the excellence in every corner.

Best Time to Visit: October to April

How to Reach: There are two international airports in Rome, Leonardo da Vinci or Fiumicino International Airport and the G.B. Pastine or Ciampino International Airport. One can even board a ferry from other attractions in Italy and places like Barcelona or Tunis, Porto-Vecchio in Corsica, Olbia, Toulon, France, and Sardinia to reach Rome via waterways.

Ideal Duration: 5 to 6 days

Nearest Airport: Fiumicino International Airport

Popular Attractions: Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, St. Peter’s Basilica, Piazza Navona, Spanish Steps, Castel Sant’Angelo, Piazza del Popolo

Things to Do: Visit Capitoline Museums, Discover the Ruins of Rome Opera House, Explore the Vatican, Climb the Spanish Steps

Best Places to Stay: Hotel Palazzo Manfredi, Radisson Blu GHR Rome, NH Collection Palazzo Cinquecento, Hotel Locarno, The St. Regis

Best Shopping Markets: Via Dei Condotti, Via Cola Di Rienzo, La Rinascente, Via Del Corso, Mercato di Testaccio

3. Genoa

Also known as the port city in Italy, Genoa is one of the best places in Italy to visit. With more than 100 palaces, the history of Genoa is presented to exhibit the ruling class. There are architectural wonders that date back to the 16th or 17th century. The streets are laced with a plethora of vintage attractions as palace and forts that attracts tourist from every corner of the world. The city overlooks the Ligurian sea, sitting on the panoramic Gulf of Genoa and offers the best things to do in Italy. Here are some of the best attractions like Piazzas, palaces and churches that refines its beauty, making Genoa one of the most famous places in Italy.

Best Time to Visit: April, May, June, July, August, September and October

How to Reach: Aeroporto di Genova or Genoa Airport is connected to many European cities like London, Rome, Munich, Madrid and Paris. Waterways are connecting Genova port to Barcelona, Valletta, Bastia, Olbia and Porto Torres.

Ideal Duration: 3 Days

Nearest Airport: Genoa Airport

Popular Attractions: Via Garibaldi Palaces, Acquario di Genova, Cathedral of San Lorenzo, Santi Ambrogio e Andrea and Piazza Matteotti, National Gallery in Palazzo Spinola

Things to Do: Discover the Medieval Sights, Visit Fishing Village of Boccadasse, Enjoy the Nightlife, A cruise in Porto Antico.

Best Places to Stay: Four Seasons Hotel Houston, JW Marriott Houston Downtown, C. Baldwin, Curio Collection by Hilton, La Quinta by Wyndham Houston

Best Shopping Markets: La Formica Flea Market, Piazza Bianchi Flea Market, Mercato Orientale Flea Market, Mercato Dell’ Usato Flea Market.

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4. Florence

The capital of Tuscany, Florence, is the city of the colossal outdoor museum. Being among the best places to visit in Italy, the city offers magnificent architectural wonders defining the work of the famous artist in the world. It is the birthplace of the Renaissance where you have those massive buildings as churches and palaces with their unique beauty. Florence is even famous as the wealthiest city in Italy where the cobblestone streets exhibit the glory of the past. This city has been a land of many great warriors and kings leaving a legacy for all.

Best Time to Visit: May to October

How to Reach: Florence International Airport is one of the nearest international airports that is 4km from the city center. One can also board the flight to Pisa International Airport that is 85 km from the city. The Pisa airport serves the best connectivity to Florence from many international destinations.

Ideal Duration: 3 to 4 days

Nearest Airport: Florence International Airport

Popular Attractions: Santa Maria del Fiore, Ponte Vecchio, Piazzale Michelangelo, Piazza della Signoria, Galleria dell'Accademia, Basilica di San Lorenzo, Boboli Gardens, Palazzo Vecchio

Things to Do: Visit the Florence Cathedral, Explore the Baptistery of St. John Florence, Discover the Collection of Uffizi Palace and Gallery, Admire the Beauty of Piazza della Signoria

Best Places to Stay: Hotel Paris, Hotel St. James, Laurus Al Duomo, Hotel Alba Palace, Villa Royal, Rivoli Boutique Hotel, Hotel Croce di Malta

Best Shopping Markets: San Lorenzo, Piazza del Mercato Nuovo, Mercato Centrale, Enoteca Pontevecchio, Piazza della Repubblica

5. Pompeii

One of the famous attraction in Italy, Pompeii is a popular destination for holidays in Europe. The history estates that Pompeii was buried under ash for more than 1700 years due to the eruption of Mt. Vesuvius. Today the city offers the most significant tour to discover the shops, the marketplace, brothels, churches and other tourist places you must not miss. The ancient building of Pompeii is home to a number of influential art and carvings that exhibits the mythological characters and hunting stories. The city is famed for excellent shopping and the most savoring gastronomic experiences. Enjoy dining or buying the best souvenir for your home.

Best Time to Visit: April, May and September to November

How to Reach:  There is no international airport in Pompeii. You can board a flight to Rome and later hop on o a bus or train from Termini station that serves excellent connectivity for some of the famous places in Italy. One can also board a flight to Naples International Airport.

Ideal Duration:  1 to 2 days

Nearest Airport: The Naples International Airport

Popular Attractions: Scavi di Pompeii, Sanctuary of the Madonna of the Rosary, Villa Dei Misteri, Terme Suburbane, Sanctuary Of The Madonna Of The Rosary

Things to Do: Explore The Amphitheatre, Explore the Paintings at Villa Dei Misteri, Visit the House of the Vettii and House of the Faun

Best Places to Stay: Hotel Pompei Be Green, La casa di Vesta, B&B La Casa Di Plinio, Hotel Forum, Maison De luxe

Best Shopping Markets: Centro Commerciale La Cartiera, Cellini Gallery Cameos & Corals, Souvenir e Gadgets

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6. Amalfi Coast

With the enthralling beauty of beaches and the vast lush peninsula, Amalfi Coast is among the best things to see in Italy. Spreading to an area of 30 miles the coast is home to the most beautiful bay, the cliffs and some of the best luxury hotels and resorts in Italy for your luxury stay as you discover its scenery and the views of the Tyrrhenian sea with its refreshing Azure hues. What enhances the beauty of the scenic coastlines, are the multi-hued houses, the energizing beaches, the vibrant towns and beach villages offering you a memorable holiday.

Best Time to Visit: May to September

How to Reach: To reach Amalfi Coast, one need to board a flight Io Naples or Rome and later continue the journey via train or bus. The train is the fastest and most convenient way to reach Amalfi that is among the best attractions in Italy.

Ideal Duration: 3 to 4 days

Nearest Airport: The Naples International Airport

Popular Attractions: Ancient Ruins Of Pompeii, Island Of Capri, Faraglioni Rocks, Paestum, Herculaneum, Regina Giovanna Bath

Things to Do: Visit Sorrento Town, Discover the vibrant streets of Positano, Enjoy a day in Maiori Beach, Boat Tour in Grotta Dello Smeraldo Cave.

Best Places to Stay: Villa Bossa, Albadamare Boutique Hotel, Villa Magia, Palazzo Pascal, La Moresca, Hotel Villa Cimbrone

7. Capri

Taking you away from the hustle of city life, Capri is among the most beautiful and spellbinding places to visit in Italy. The city is home to some ancient ruins and the most beautiful architectural remains that date back to the Era of emperor Augustus. The rugged cliffs jetting over the Tyrrhenian sea enhances Capri’s panoramic beauty and makes it a one-holiday hub for vacationers across the globe. This island destination sits close to the Gulf of Naples where you can relish the serenity and enjoy a leisure vacation discovering Italy tourist attractions.

Best Time to Visit: April, May, September and October

How to Reach: Reach Naples airport and from there you can hire a boat or a ferry to continue your journey towards the island. There are ferries or water taxis available from Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast.

Ideal Duration: 4 to 5 days

Nearest Airport: Naples International Airport

Popular Attractions: Marina Piccola, Blue Grotto, Gardens of Augustus, Villa San Michele, The Faraglioni and Punta Tragara

Things to Do: Boat ride in Marina Grande, Enjoy Italian food at Piazzetta, Hike up Mount Solaro, Stroll around Center of Anacapri

Best Places to Stay: Aldarogi, Hotel Villa Brunella, Casa Di Capri, Hotel La Tosca, Capri Wine Hotel, Hotel Quisisana

Best Shopping Market: Mariorita Store, La Parisienne, Via Camerelle, Anacapri

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8. Milan

When we talk about the most beautiful places to visit in Italy, you can never miss Milan for an ultimate exploration. With its modern streets and elegance, the city has lured vacationers from every corner of the world. Milan once was the capital of Rome but today is among the second most populated metropolis city with the best attractions around. There are food outlets and fancy restaurants where you can spend a great time with your family. The main square at Milan has many tourist hubs, from parks to cafes and Boutique shop to buy the best for your family and friends. While there is an energizing vibe to expensive a happening vacation, the history and the vintage hues have their own essence and the most popular places in Italy to visit in this charming city.

Best Time to Visit: April, May, September and October

How to Reach: The Malpensa Airport, Linate Airport, and Orio al Serio airport are three main international airports connecting Milan from other European and international airports. Malpensa International is the largest airport in the city.

Ideal Duration: 3 to 4 days

Nearest Airport: Malpensa International Airport

Popular Attractions: Leonardo3, Torre Branca, Pinacoteca Ambrosiana, Duomo di Milano, da Vinci Codex Exhibition, Castello Sforzesco, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

Things to Do: Visit the Church of Santa Maria Delle Grazie, Discover the History of Sant Ambrogio, Explore the beauty of Santa Maria Delle Grazie

Best Places to Stay: Room Mate Giulia, The Square Milano Duomo, Excelsior Hotel Gallia, Hotel Indigo Milan - Corso Monforte, Moscova Luxury B&B

Best Shopping Market: Via Monte Napoleone, Via Della Spiga, Corso Buenos Aires, Corso Vittorio Emanuele II, Via Dante, Via Torino

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9. Turin

One of the culturally rich and aesthetically pleasing cities, Turin ranks top in the list of places to visit in Italy to live an Italian dream of yours. From the breathtaking renaissance, neo-classical, rococo, Baroque architectural wonders to artistic museums with a collection of amazing exhibits, you can witness the old perennial grandeur of the city. Located in the northern part of Italy, Turin has a fascinating historic past associated with the unification of Italy. Being the home to a wide range of public squares, majestic castles, enthralling large gardens with lush green plantations, elegant palazzi like the grand Palazzo Madama dating to the 16th and 18th century, you can find yourself in an artful paradise.

Best time to Visit: September & October

How to Reach: Turin Airport is the major international airport that connects the region to the rest of the world.

Ideal Duration: 3-4 days

Nearest Airport: Turin Airport

Popular Attractions: Piazza Castello, Palazzo Reale, Palazzo Madama, Museo Egizio, Piazza San Carlo

Things to Do: Museum Hopping, Shopping at Balon Flea Market, A Visit to the National Museum of Cinema

Best Places to Stay: Turin Palace Hotel, NH Torino Lingotto Congress, Hotel Principi di Piemonte, Hotel Roma e Rocca Cavour

Best Shopping Market: Mercato Centrale, Gran Balon, Mercato di Porta Palazzo, Mercatino delle Erbe, Mercatino delle Erbe

10. Tuscany

Being endowed with lyrical and fascinating landscapes, Tuscany will blow your mind away with world-class art, vast green fields, scenic driveways, rustic farmer’s kitchen to offer you a lifetime experience. If you are on a romantic escapade, Tuscany is the ideal destination for honeymoon in Italy amid the picturesque villages on countryside. Being located at the central part of the country, Tuscany is the home to numerous UNESCO World Heritage sites including the historic Centre of Florence, Leaning Tower of Pisa, the Medici Villas & Gardens, etc., which attracts millions of tourists from across the world. As it boasts of its elongated coastline on the Ligurian Sea and Tyrrhenian Sea, you can visit the most popular island of Elba for an island getaway.

Best time to Visit: April to May & September to October

How to Reach: Pisa International Airport is the major international airport that connects the region to the rest of the world.

Ideal Duration: 6-7 days

Nearest Airport: Pisa International Airport

Popular Attractions: Piazza del Campo, Leaning Tower of Pisa, Sant Antimo Abbey, Walled Towns

Things to Do: Explore the vineyards of Chianti, Truffle Hunting, Discover the hill town of Cortona, Venture around the streets of San Gimignano

Best Places to Stay: Vocabolo Muscatelli, La Pescaia Resort, Toscana Resort Castelfalfi, Castello di Vicarello

Best Shopping Market: Leonardo Shoes, Jimmy’s Leather Collection, The Mall

11. Naples

Located in southern part of Italy, Naples is the historic city in Europe and one of the famous places to visit in Italy. Being recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, you can visit significant historical landmarks in Naples like the Palace of Caserta, Ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum. Immerse yourself in the beauty of natural retreats like Posillipo, iconic Phlegraean fields, volcanic islet of Nisida, and the majestic Vesuvius volcano. Since Naples is the birthplace of Pizza, never miss out on trying out the authentic oven-baked Neapolitan pizza loaded with exotic veggies, meats and cheese. Embark on an exquisite culinary journey by dining at the top-class Michelin starred restaurants to experience the diverse gastronomic scene of Naples, Italy.

Best time to Visit: March to May & September to October

How to Reach: Naples International Airport is the major international airport that connects the region to the rest of the world.

Ideal Duration: 4 days

Nearest Airport: Naples International Airport

Popular Attractions: Chiesa del Gesu Nuovo, Complesso Monumentale di Santa Chiara, Catacombe di San Gennaro, Pio Monte della Misericordia

Things to Do: Visit the Naples Archaeological Museum, Explore Piazza Bellini, Try out Neapolitan Pizza

Best Places to Stay: Hotel Cristina, Grand Hotel Santa Lucia, Decumani Hotel de Charme, Dormire a Napoli Suite Spa

Best Shopping Market: Via Toledo, Chiaia District, Poggioreale Market, A’Curreia, Oblomova, Antignano Market

12. Sicily

Located on the southern part of Italy and one of the popular picturesque islands on the Mediterranean Sea, Sicily will let you traverse Italian history and culture on a deeper level. Being the home to Europe’s largest active volcano Mount Etna, Sicily will make you witness phenomenal beaches, quaint and charming villages, and numerous historical and archeological sites to your wonder. Venture around the historic streets of Palermo and admire the epic Byzantine mosaics, devour a tempting Sicilian delicacy namely Sarde a Beccafico to savor for a lifetime, and visit the enthralling fishing town of Cefalu submerged in history which should be added to the list of things to do in Italy.

Best time to Visit: May to June & September to October

How to Reach: Catania International Airport is the major international airport that connects the region to the rest of the world.

Ideal Duration: 4-5 days

Nearest Airport: Catania International Airport

Popular Attractions: Isola Bella, Palermo Cathedral, Mount Etna, Massimo Opera House, Taormina Piazza Duomo, Ursino Castle

Things to Do: Cable Car Ride to Mount Etna, drive a Vintage Fiat, Street food tour, Visit vineyards for wine tasting

Best Places to Stay: Belmond Grand Hotel Timeo, Monaci Delle Terre Nere, Hotel Signum, Villa Igiea, Palermo

Best Shopping Market: Mercato del Capo, Palermo; Antica Dolceria Bonajuto, Modica; Corso Italia, Catania; Sicilia Outlet Village, Agira

A holiday in Italy means discovering the art, the history, the culture, heritage and immense beauty of nature. The best places to visit in Italy are blessed with a plethora of natural scenery and the vintage art or architecture that can is too enchanting to miss. Italy being home to many palaces and the ruined castles are still among the most vibrant holiday destination that offers a tranquil getaway. Book your flight to Italy and discover the panoramic landscapes which are not just photogenic but exhibits everything g you need to know about this ancient land.

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