One of the fanciest travel destinations in Europe, Italy is a stunning place that offers myriad experiences to travelers. From art, culture, adventures to charming landscapes and marvelous architecture, Italy is a gem which should be in every traveler’s bucket list traveling to Europe. If you are confused about things to do in Italy then sit back and relax as we have got you covered. From exploring the architectural treasures of Rome to strolling through the scenic canals of Venice, Italy has no dearth of exquisite places and attractions. Check out this blog to know more about this spectacular country boasting of its Mediterranean coastline.
Top 8 Things To Do In Italy
We have jot down this list of top things to do in Italy to help travelers enjoy a fun-filled and adventurous vacation in Italy. Whether you are on a honeymoon or on a family trip to Italy, the country promises a pleasant time throughout the trip.
1. Stroll Through The Scenic Canals of Venice On A Gondola
Venice is one of the most happening destinations in Italy which will delight every traveler who loves romance and natural beauty. Whether you are on a honeymoon or on a family trip, strolling through the fancy canals of Venice is one of the top things to do in Italy. The Grand Canal is the major attraction in Venice which is surrounded by various charming palaces and other main attractions of Venice like Piazza San Marco, Doge’s Palace, and St. Mark’s Square. The streets are beautifully adorned with mosaics and colorful paintings making Venice even more beautiful.
Famous for: Gondola rides, palazzos along the canals
Location: Grand Canal, Venice
Best Hotels: The Gritti Palace, a Luxury Collection Hotel Venice, Canal Grande Hotel, Splendid Venice - Starhotels Collezione, Rosa Salva Hotel, Bauer Palazzo
2. Marvel At The Stunning Architectural Pieces In Florence
If you are a lover for art and culture, then one of the best things to do in Italy would be definitely exploring the architectural wonders in Florence. The city houses striking architectural gems like Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore which is also one of the best places to visit in Florence as it is world-renowned for its stunning architecture. From art galleries and palazzos to museums and cathedrals, Florence is a delight for eyes to watch for those who are a sucker of art and architecture.
Famous for: Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore and Piazza Duomo, Piazzale Michelangiolo, Battistero di San Giovanni, Uffizi Palace and Gallery, Galleria dell'Accademia
Best Hotels: St. Regis Florence, Hotel Brunelleschi, San Firenze Suites & Spa, The Westin Excelsior, Florence, San Firenze Suites & Spa, The Market Urban Hotel
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3. Shop Like A Diva In Milan
For all those fashionistas who want to get their hands on some fancy and high-end shopping experience then Milan is the right place for you. Milan is often ignored as a tourist destination but witty travelers know it's worth and how stunning this place is. One of the unique things to do in Italy is shopping for famous brands at Via Monte Napoleone that houses almost all the renowned and high-end brands. Not just shopping but Milan is also quite popular for its intriguing cultural heritage. Some of the popular attractions to explore here are Milan Cathedral, Castello Sforzesco, Opera at Teatro alla Scala, Leonardo da Vinci's Last Supper and many more.
Famous for: Shopping and architectural gems
Best Hotels: VIU Hotel Milan, Palazzo Parigi Hotel & Grand Spa Milano, The Square Milano Duomo, Excelsior Hotel Gallia, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Lancaster Hotel
4. Take A Day Trip to Lake Como
Italy is not just about the striking art and architecture but also houses some of the world’s best natural attractions and nothing can beat the beauty of Lake Como. Locals flock to Lake Como to spend some tranquil time with friends or family away from the hustle-bustle of the city. Expect to capture the most stunning views from Lake Como as it is surrounded by alpine trees and villages. One can even book a stay here as there are plenty of luxurious villas and hotels surrounding the lake offering a relaxing stay amidst this surreal spot in Italy. Lake Como is definitely one of the best places to visit in Italy for its exotic beauty and tranquil environs.
Famous for: Views and luxurious villas
Location: Lombardy, Italy
Best Hotels: Mandarin Oriental, Lago di Como, Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni, Grand Hotel Tremezzo, Grand Hotel Campione, Hotel Belvedere Bellagio
5. Explore The Interesting Historical Sites In Rome
The capital of Italy, Rome is brimmed with striking historical sites which are world-renowned either for their architecture or the Greek culture. In the list of top 10 things to do in Italy, exploring the historical charms of Rome like the Forum, the Colosseum and the Pantheon ranks number one as these are some of the best places to visit in the world. Not just this, Rome also offers other happening activities to enjoy like making a wish by throwing a coin in the Trevi Fountain, spending time at the Borghese gardens, climb the famous Palatine Hill or relish Roman cuisine at any of the best restaurants.
Famous for: The Forum, the Colosseum, Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, Palatine Hill
Best Hotels: Hotel Splendide Royal, The Liberty Boutique Hotel, Palazzo Navona Hotel, Hassler Roma, Villa Spalletti Trivelli, The St Regis Rome
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6. Witness The Natural Beauty Of Amalfi Coast
Witness the gorgeous Mediterranean landscape surrounding the Amalfi Coast which is one of the most beautiful places in Italy. Amalfi Coast houses some of the best beaches in Italy and offers a tranquil holiday experience. It is a great place for couples where they can spend some peaceful time together. Tourists who come here always take a drive along the Amalfi Coast which is considered one of the most scenic routes. The area is brimmed with a number of luxurious villas and hotels that offers the most exquisite views of the surrounding landscape.
Famous for: Beaches, drive along the Amalfi Coast
Location: Gulf of Salerno in Southern Italy
Best Hotels: Palazzo Avino, NH Collection Grand Hotel Convento di Amalfi, Santa Caterina Hotel, Hotel Marincanto, Grand Hotel Imperiale, Grand Hotel Tremezzo
7. Hike The Stunning Landscapes Of Cinque Terre
If you are looking for fun things to do in Italy, then we would suggest you explore Cinque Terre that offers the best of the local experience, quaint villages and mesmerizing views. Enjoy hiking on one of the most scenic routes which is 12 km long and stretch from Monterosso to Riomaggiore. If you are looking for a quieter route, then take the Manarola to Corniglia which is more scenic and quieter but takes a longer hiking time. Spring and autumn are the best time to go hiking in Cinque Terre as the weather is pleasant. Capture the surreal views from the top and spend some pleasant time here.
Famous for: Hiking Trails, Views
Location: Liguria, Italy
Best Hotels: Casa Lorelei, Sottocoperta, Cinqueterre Residence, Hotel La Colonnina, Hotel Marina, Grand Hotel Portovenere, Hotel Suisse Bellevue
8. Explore The Famous Tuscan Hill Towns
One of the best things to do in Italy with kids is strolling through the quaint hill towns of Tuscan. We would suggest you to explore Tuscan Hill Towns at a leisurely pace to enjoy the beauty of this place to the fullest. The towns are nestled on hilltops many of them still have castles each depicting their own historical tale. Focus on the tiny medieval details and other historical aspects of these towns to get a better insight into the beauty of these hill towns. San Gimignano, Cortona, Volterra, Radda in Chianti, Anghiari, Certaldo Alto, Monteriggioni are some of the best Tuscan Hill Towns which one must explore on their next trip to Tuscany.
Famous for: Historical towns and castles
Best Hotels: The Westin Excelsior, Florence, Palazzo Castri 1874, San Firenze Suites & Spa, Art Hotel Villa Agape, Four Seasons Hotel Firenze
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Italy is without a doubt a wonderful destination to explore in Europe. From the rich art and cultural aspects to diversity in landscapes and food, one gets to experience myriad experiences here. The list of things to do in Italy can be quite exhausting hence we have curated this list to help you understand Italy better and know what all can be done here to enjoy to the fullest. From the best of historical tours to romantic ones, we have listed everything in this blog to make your trip to Italy a memorable one. If you have already made up your mind to visit this country then book your flights to Italy and enjoy a hassle-free experience.
FAQs
The best places to visit in Italy are:
- Rome
- Venice
- Florence
- Milan
- Lake Como
- Cinque Terre
- Tuscany
Spring and autumn seasons are generally considered the best time to visit Italy. So, one should plan their trip to Italy in the months of March to May and September to November.
The main airports in Italy are:
- Leonardo da Vinci Fiumicino Airport
- Malpensa Airport
- Venice Marco Polo Airport
- Galileo Galilei International Airport
- Catania Fontanarossa Airport
- Naples International Airport
On average, tourists spend around 10 days in Italy to explore all the major destinations here.
Some of the best things to do in Italy for couples are:
- Enjoy a gondola ride in Venice
- Spend some romantic time at Lake Como
- Get mesmerized by the vineyards of Tuscany
- Relax on the scenic beaches of Sardinia
- Enjoy shopping from the fine boutiques of Milan
Some of the best things to do in Rome are:
- Enjoy various events at St. Peter’s Square
- Marvel at the historic ruins of the Colosseum
- Witness the beauty of 2000 years old Pantheon
- Make a wish at the Trevi Fountain
- See rock cuttings at the Palatine Hill
The major attractions in Venice which one should definitely explore are:
- Piazza San Marco
- Grand Canal
- Palazzo Ducale
- St. Mark's Basilica
- Ponte di Rialto
- Scuola Grande di San Rocco
Italy is famous for its stunning architectural sites like the Colosseum, Vatican City, food, art and culture.