Top 15 Best Places to Visit in Italy
Best Places to Visit in Italy : Italy is a dream destination offering a rich tapestry of history, art, culture, and natural beauty. From the ancient ruins of Rome and the Renaissance masterpieces in Florence to the romantic canals of Venice and the vibrant streets of Milan, Italy is a treasure trove of experiences. Savor world-famous cuisine, from authentic pasta and pizza to fine wines in Tuscany. Explore picturesque coastal villages like the Amalfi Coast and Cinque Terre or the serene lakes of Como and Garda. With its diverse landscapes, stunning architecture, and deep cultural heritage, Italy offers endless charm, making it a must-visit destination for any traveler.
1. Colosseum
The Colosseum, a grand amphitheater constructed by the Roman Empire, stands as their largest surviving structure. Originally built to host public events like sports and spectacles, the Colosseum spans an impressive 186 meters in length and 156 meters in width, forming an oval shape.
Visiting the Colosseum is a must-do family activity in Italy. While it’s possible to explore on your own, opting for a guided tour is often more practical given the heavy tourist crowds. Be sure to check out the Hypogeum and the Upper Tiers, which are frequently overlooked by visitors. Walking through the underground tunnels and viewing the lion cages is a spine-chilling experience. Nearby sites like the Arch of Constantine, the Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill are also worth visiting.
If you’re looking for a snack, the Colosseo Metro Café, located right across from the Colosseum entrance, is a convenient stop. Other recommended eateries include Royal Art Café, Osteria Angelino (for Roman cuisine), and Via Capo d’Africa.
2. The Grand Canal, Venice
Who hasn’t imagined taking a gondola ride through Venice? It’s a classic dream. Venice, a city built on islands, treats its waterways as streets, with the Grand Canal being the most prominent of them all. Lining its banks are some of the city’s most exquisite palaces, once owned by the wealthiest families from the 13th to the 18th centuries.
To experience a gondola ride without the usual crowds, consider visiting the Grand Canal before 9 AM. A typical 40-minute ride in the morning costs around 80 Euros, with an extra 20 Euros for an additional 20 minutes. Prices tend to be higher in the evening.
3. Pompeii
Pompeii is a captivating city located near Naples in the Campania region. It sits close to the infamous Mount Vesuvius, whose catastrophic eruption in 79 AD buried the town in ash. Today, Pompeii is renowned for its archaeological sites and historical ruins, offering a fascinating look into the advanced engineering and architecture of Ancient Rome. Must-see spots include the Temple of Jupiter, the Basilica, the stone columns, and the Triptolemus. The city also boasts the impressive Teatro Grande amphitheater and the Stabian Baths, which were the largest public baths of their time.
Nearby, the excavated city of Herculaneum, also buried by the same eruption, is worth exploring. For those with more time, a hike up to the rim of Mount Vesuvius is highly recommended.
4. Cinque Terre
To witness an unforgettable sunset over the Mediterranean Sea, head to the picturesque coastal area of Cinque Terre. Known as “The Five Lands,” this region is home to five charming fishing villages: Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. These villages are linked by scenic narrow roads and a railway, making Cinque Terre an ideal destination for a relaxing yet adventurous trip with friends.
Exploring Cinque Terre by hiking between the villages is a popular activity. However, you’ll need a pass to access the trails. The Cinque Terre Trekking Card grants access to the walking paths, while the Cinque Terre Train Card offers unlimited train rides within the area along with access to the hiking routes.
5. Amalfi Coast
The Amalfi Coast, a stunning stretch along the Sorrentine Peninsula, is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The towns of Positano and Amalfi are the most famous, but to truly appreciate the area’s beauty, exploring the smaller villages is a must.
One highlight is the Grotta dello Smeraldo, or Emerald Cave, located near the village of Conca dei Marini. While you can travel between villages by boat, the best way to experience the coastline is on foot. The Santiago degli Dei, or Footpath of the Gods, offers a breathtaking hike through lush greenery, lemon groves, and fields of wildflowers, immersing you in the region’s natural beauty.
6. Leaning Tower of Pisa
Pisa is home to several attractions, but none are as iconic as the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Construction of this famous tower began in the 1100s, with its characteristic tilt becoming noticeable by the time the third story was completed.
Beyond the Leaning Tower, the National Museum of Pisa is worth visiting for its impressive collection of artworks, paintings, and sculptures. For a refreshing break, take a stroll along the Arno River, which offers a peaceful atmosphere. If you’re hungry afterward, head to Borgo Street to indulge in delicious pizzas and other classic Italian dishes.
7. Lake Como
Lake Como, Italy’s largest lake, is nestled amidst the scenic Alps. Its pleasant climate and breathtaking landscape have attracted wealthy residents since Roman times, with elegant villas standing as reminders of this rich history.
The lake’s shoreline, offering some of the world’s most stunning views, is a popular spot for photography. It has also served as the wedding location for several celebrities, including Linda Phan and Ryan Biegel.
8. Lake Resia
Lake Resia, also known as Reschensee, is located in northern South Tyrol within the Alpine region, and it stands out as one of Italy’s most unique destinations. Visiting this lake feels like stepping into a Stephen King novel, with the eerie sight of a church steeple rising from its icy waters—a haunting remnant of the village of Curon, which was submerged in 1950. This intriguing scene has inspired both a novel and a Netflix series.
Hikers often flock to the area in summer, but in winter, visitors can walk across the frozen lake, adding to the surreal experience.
9. Scanno, Abruzzo
Scanno is a charming village located in the Abruzzo region. It’s easily accessible by direct bus from both Rome and Sulmona.
Nestled amid forested hills, this quaint Italian village offers a range of activities. You can explore the nearby Molise National Park, enjoy a boat ride on Lake Scanno, or wander through the picturesque streets on foot.
For those who prefer to explore on foot, there’s an information center that can provide a local map. Don’t miss out on trying Scanno’s traditional chocolate and almond biscuits before you leave.
10. Pantheon
The Pantheon, originally a pagan temple converted into a church, stands as one of Rome’s most iconic landmarks. Esteemed architect Michelangelo praised its architectural brilliance, and the building also serves as a venue for large gatherings and weddings.
Located just 9 km from Rome’s airport, the Pantheon is easily accessible. It is open to visitors from 8:30 AM to 7:15 PM on weekdays and from 9:00 AM to 5:45 PM on Sundays. To avoid long lines, try visiting on a weekday and during the day to fully appreciate its splendor and the famous reverse sundial effect.
11. Tuscany
For anyone who loves lush greenery, Tuscany’s breathtaking landscapes are truly captivating. Its charming countryside and rich artistic heritage set it apart from other Italian destinations.
In Tuscany, you can spend your days exploring historic churches, chapels, monuments, and archaeological treasures. Enjoy tranquil walks along scenic trails or cycle through the rolling hills. Renowned for its wine, Tuscany is also ideal for vineyard tours in the spring. The region offers a variety of outdoor activities during this season, including thermal baths and hot springs. Additionally, springtime in Tuscany is marked by numerous food and wine festivals.
12. Dolceacqua
Dolceacqua is a charming small commune on the Italian Riviera, divided into the Terra and Borgo sections. Renowned for its picturesque architecture and scenic vistas, the village features the elegant Ponte Vecchio, an historic bridge that links the two halves of the town. The Dolceacqua Castle, located in the Terra district, boasts a history spanning several centuries. You can also explore the Visionarium, which offers a project room showcasing high-quality naturalistic documentaries. Dolceacqua’s culinary heritage includes its famed red wine and Michetti, a traditional sweet that has long been a staple of local cuisine.
13. Naples
Naples is a popular tourist destination, situated near the Bay of Naples with a history stretching back to the 2nd century. The city is home to several historically significant sites, including Castel dell’Ovo, the Capodimonte Museum, the Lungomare Amphitheatre, the National Archaeological Museum, and Museo Cappella Sansevero. Naples is also renowned for its classic cuisine, especially Neapolitan pizza. Additionally, Pompeii is easily accessible from Naples.
14. Sicily
Sicily, the largest island in the Mediterranean Sea, is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its charming villages, historic castles, stunning beaches, and ancient landmarks make it a must-visit destination for tourists from around the globe. The Valley of the Temples in Agrigento features three impressive Greek temples, while the Roman Villa del Casale in Etna is renowned for its exquisite Roman architecture. The town of Comiso captivates with its striking architecture and cobbled streets. Ragusa and Modica are celebrated for their exceptional Baroque art, and San Vito Lo Capo is acclaimed as one of Italy’s premier beach destinations.
15. Earth Pyramids
On Renon Mountain, you can witness one of nature’s most remarkable creations: the Earth Pyramids. These impressive formations are the tallest and most striking of their kind in Europe, dating back nearly 25,000 years and formed from soft moraine clay left by the last Ice Age.
Located near Bolzano, the Ritten region can be reached via a narrow-gauge railway that transports you from the center of Bolzano to the top of the Ritten Plateau. Additionally, the Ritten cable car is a popular attraction, offering spectacular views and a unique experience for both locals and visitors.
Best Places to Visit in Italy : Tourism plays a vital role in Italy’s economy, leading to a tourist-friendly approach in the country’s policies. For Indian travelers, obtaining an Italy tourist visa is generally straightforward. Additionally, Italy is a safe destination, and there are numerous affordable tour packages available for Indians looking to visit the country.