12 Places to Travel in Italy: What To See And Do When You Visit
Italy is a country of beauty, history, and art. It’s also home to incredible architecture, breathtaking landscapes, and an array of different attractions. If you’re planning a trip to Italy anytime soon, read on for the best places to travel in Italy. From bustling cities like Rome and Venice to off-the-beaten-path villages and historic towns, there’s so much to see and do in Italy! Let these picks as well as insights from other travelers help you tailor your trip and make the most of your time there.
Rome
Rome is the Eternal City. For two millennia it has attracted the human mind and imagination as few other cities have. Rome is more than a place to visit; it is a portal to an ancient world, a window to the present, and a source of inspiration for the future. This is a great place to visit at any time of year; the city’s many museums are open all year round and the outdoor markets in summer are a wonderful experience. If you’re travelling in spring or autumn, you’ll find Rome all but deserted, which makes it a perfect place to explore and absorb the atmosphere at your own pace.
Venice
If you can only visit one city in Italy, make it Venice. This LGBTQ-friendly city is a living museum, with canals, bridges, and palazzos all beautifully preserved. The city is also home to the world’s longest outdoor swimming pool, the St. Moritz Hotel, where you can relax in the sauna and swim in the pool. If you’re visiting in the summer, be sure to check out the Venice Pride Festival. This celebration of diversity features colourful floats, performances, and lots of happy people! The fall and winter months are a great time to visit too; the canals are beautifully gloomy and make for great photo opportunities.
Florence
Florence is one of the world’s most famous cities and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the city’s centre, you’ll find the famed Piazza del Duomo, where the Florence Cathedral is the main attraction. The city’s other major site is the Uffizi Gallery, which houses one of the world’s most famous art collections. If you’re looking for things to do while in Florence, be sure to visit the nearby towns of Siena and San Gimignano. Siena is famous for its UNESCO World Heritage Cathedral and its art, architecture, and culture. San Gimignano is known for its medieval walled city and is also home to a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Naples
If you’re visiting Italy and have only a few days, make it a trip to Naples. This is the country’s most exciting city, and you’ll find famous art, excellent restaurants, and lively bars and clubs. The Museo Nazionale delle Arti del XXI Secolo (XXI Century Art Museum) and the Museo Archeologico Nazionale (National Archeology Museum) are among the city’s top attractions. If you have more time, you can check out the nearby attractions of Pompeii and Herculaneum. The ruins of these Roman cities offer an interesting glimpse into what life was like in ancient times.
The Amalfi Coast
The coast of the Amalfi Coast is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most popular destinations in Italy. The beauty of the area, its coastal towns, and its beaches make this a great place to relax and unwind. The town of Amalfi itself is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it’s worth visiting for its medieval centre, as well as to take in the view from the town’s famed public staircase. There are plenty of other attractions along the coast too. The nearby town of Ravello is famous for its view of the mountains, and the town of Positano has been named one of the top 10 things to do in the world.
San Gimignano
San Gimignano is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s worth visiting if you have a few days in Italy. This walled medieval town is one of the most photogenic places in Europe, and its architecture and views of the town are absolutely stunning. The town is also home to a UNESCO World Heritage Site: the Duomo, a medieval church with a stunning Romanesque façade. If you’re short on time, you can still get an overview of San Gimignano’s sights. You can walk through the San GIMIGNANO Museum, which explains the town’s history and geography.
Pisa
Pisa is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s worth visiting for its stunning medieval architecture. The Leaning Tower of Pisa, the Opera di San Gimignano, and the Tower of the Bells are among the city’s top attractions. If you have more time, there are plenty of other things to do in Pisa. The city is also home to the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa and the Leaning Tower of San Matteo. While in Pisa, you can also visit the nearby city of Lucca. This is a great place to visit for its incredible medieval architecture and gardens.
Other Destinations in Italy
You may not have time to visit all of Italy’s amazing attractions, but don’t worry! Here are a few other places you should definitely check out while you’re there. - Florence – You’ve already seen why Florence is such an amazing place, but be sure to visit the nearby towns of Siena and San Gimignano too. - Amalfi Coast – The beauty of this coast makes it a must-see, but also make sure to check out nearby Naples and the smaller towns along the way. - Rome – Make sure to visit this historic city while you’re in Italy. You won’t regret it!
Tips for Travelling to Italy
Before you go, make sure to read up on the Italian culture and customs. There are so many fun things to do in Italy, but you’ll be able to better enjoy your trip if you know what you’re getting yourself into. Now that you’re prepared, get ready to experience Italy like a local! Try to eat at local restaurants, buy souvenirs from local vendors, explore off the beaten path, and try to speak with locals when you can.
