Visiting Italy? 11 Best Things to Do in Italy & What Attractions You Must See
Visiting Italy is a dream for many travelers—and for good reason. From timeless art to iconic ruins, dramatic coastlines to world-class food, Italy’s regions offer something for every type of traveler. Whether you're planning a trip to Italy for the first time or building out your next Italy itinerary, this guide covers the top attractions, most breathtaking destinations, and best things to do across the country.
Let’s dive into 11 must-see places and experiences you should include when planning a trip to one of the best places on Earth.
Rome
Colosseum, Roman Forum, and the Eternal City
Known as the Eternal City, Rome is a treasure trove of ruins, piazzas, and ancient marvels. A visit to Italy isn’t complete without seeing the Colosseum—an architectural amphitheater masterpiece and one of the most visited attractions in Italy.
- Walk through the Roman Forum, where crumbling ruins reveal stories of Roman emperors and everyday life
- Tour the Pantheon, another remarkable feat of ancient engineering
- Take a guided tour of the Vatican, including St. Peter’s Basilica and the awe-inspiring Sistine Chapel
Toss a Coin and Discover Hidden Gems
Stop by the Trevi fountain to toss a coin—legend says it guarantees your return to Rome. Rome also boasts hidden gems: local cafes tucked into historic alleys, and artisan shops around every corner. It’s a time capsule of art and architecture, perfect for every traveler who claims to love Italy.
Florence
Renaissance Masterpieces, Piazzas, and the Arno River
Florence is the cradle of the Renaissance and home to Michelangelo’s David. Strolling through this compact city feels like walking through a living museum.
- Admire artwork at the Uffizi and Galleria dell’Accademia
- Relax in a piazza with a local aperitivo, absorbing the city's cultural heartbeat
- Walk across Ponte Vecchio, the medieval bridge spanning the Arno River
Duomo, Artisan Culture, and a Tuscan Feel
The Duomo, with its iconic red dome, defines Florence’s skyline. Climb to the terrace for panoramic views over the city. Explore artisan markets and local boutique shops. Florence isn’t just one of the top attractions in Italy—it’s a soul-stirring experience rich in art and history.
Venice
Canal Views, Gondolas, and the Bridge of Sighs
Few places in the world are as picturesque and romantic as Venice. Built on more than 100 islands, this destination offers dreamy waterways and a maze of footbridges.
- Glide through the canals in a gondola while passing under the Bridge of Sighs
- Visit St. Mark’s Basilica, a shining example of Byzantine splendor
- Wander through hidden piazzas and savor a leisurely cafe stop near the Rialto Bridge
Masterpieces, Mosaic, and a Timeless Charm
Venice is a city of masterpiece architecture and intricate mosaics. It’s also a haven for art lovers, with historic palaces showcasing centuries of beauty. The city exudes charm that’s both fragile and enduring—making it one of the most magical destinations in the USA or abroad for a romantic escape.
Amalfi Coast
Coastal Cliffs, Positano, and Panoramic Views
With its dramatic cliffs, vibrant villages, and azure waters, the Amalfi Coast is a coastal paradise. It's a favorite destination for summer—but winter travelers also get the bonus of fewer crowds.
- Wander through Positano, the jewel of the coast, known for its colorful stacked homes and stylish shops
- Take a day trip to nearby Capri, where seaside charm meets upscale elegance
- Hike the Path of the Gods for some of the most stunning views in southern Italy
Cliffside Terraces and Boutique Charm
Enjoy dinner on a terrace overlooking the sea or stay in a cliffside boutique hotel. The Amalfi Coast also features unforgettable vineyard visits and seafood tastings that highlight the local flavor. If you're planning a trip, this stretch of Italy is a visual and culinary delight.
Tuscany
Vineyard Tastings, Hilltop Villages, and the Tuscan Landscape
Tuscany is more than a region—it’s a lifestyle. Famous for its vineyards, olive groves, and hilltop towns, Tuscany is one of Italy’s best places for slow travel.
- Take a day trip from Florence to the Chianti region for bold red wines and tastings
- Explore villages like San Gimignano or Montepulciano with medieval towers and panoramic countryside views
- Wander through Siena’s grand piazza, home to centuries-old horse races and traditions
Tuscan Charm and Artisan Life
Tuscany offers more than just landscape; it delivers heart. With its Tuscan cooking classes, hand-crafted goods, and serene countryside, it's ideal for both the day-tripper and the long-haul traveler. A visit to Italy wouldn't be complete without a breath of fresh air in Tuscany.
Milan
Fashion, Art, and Leonardo da Vinci
Milan is Italy’s financial capital and fashion epicenter—but it’s also a top stop for artwork, architecture, and design.
- View Leonardo da Vinci’s “The Last Supper”, one of the most famous murals in the world
- Climb the Duomo di Milano and stand atop its gothic spires for panoramic views
- Visit the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, Italy’s oldest shopping mall, filled with high-end boutique shops
Renaissance Flair Meets Modern Bustle
Milan is where Renaissance beauty meets 21st-century innovation. The bustle of Milanese life blends beautifully with its artistic past. It’s a stylish and stimulating destination for travelers looking to balance classic sights with modern energy.
Naples
Ruins, Vesuvius, and Italy’s Best Pizza Destination
Naples is chaotic, colorful, and one of the most authentic cities in Italy. It’s also the birthplace of pizza and the gateway to some of the country’s most famous ruins.
- Explore the ancient city of Pompeii, preserved in ash from Mount Vesuvius
- Hike up Vesuvius for panoramic views of the Bay of Naples
- Walk through Piazza del Plebiscito, the heart of Naples
Basilica Architecture and Bold Flavors
From the grand Basilica of San Francesco di Paola to lively cafes, Naples offers history with an edge. Grab a slice of Neapolitan pizza before taking a day trip to the Amalfi Coast or Capri. This city is full of hidden gems and unmatched energy—truly a destination for adventurous travelers.
Cinque Terre
Coastal Villages and Cliffside Charm
The Italian Riviera shines brightest in the five picturesque villages of Cinque Terre. With rainbow-colored houses and winding cliff trails, it’s one of the most photogenic destinations in the USA or anywhere.
- Stroll along the cliff paths connecting Monterosso to Vernazza
- Visit village harbors for fresh seafood and crisp white wine
- Take a boat ride for stunning views of the rugged landscape
Though just one mention was required, Cinque Terre stands out for its simplicity, serenity, and charm. A true gem for any Italy itinerary.
Bologna
Tastings, Artwork, and Arched Alleys
Bologna is often overlooked, but it’s one of Italy’s most important cities for cuisine, history, and learning. It’s a prime stop for tastings, street-side culture, and medieval design.
- Sample local specialties like tortellini, mortadella, and ragù
- Visit Piazza Maggiore, flanked by Basilicas and arcades
- Walk the 666 arches to Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca
Artisan Culture and Mosaic Beauty
Explore ancient mosaics, small artisan shops, and a university town vibe that blends youth with centuries of knowledge. Bologna is ideal for day-trippers and food lovers alike, and it adds unique flavor to your planning a trip to Italychecklist.
Capri (Day Trip)
Cliffside Boutique Terraces and Mediterranean Glam
Often visited as a day trip from Naples or the Amalfi Coast, Capri is an island playground of luxury, natural beauty, and timeless Italian glamor.
- Ride the chairlift to Monte Solaro for panoramic island views
- Visit the Blue Grotto, a sea cave with glowing blue light
- Enjoy a drink on a sun-soaked terrace with a sweeping sea vista
Boutique Charm and Iconic Seaside Escapes
Capri is known for its boutique shops, lemon-scented lanes, and fashion-forward crowd. Whether you're sailing in for a day trip or staying overnight, Capri’s chic coastal vibe will steal your heart.
Planning a Trip to Italy
Plan Your Itinerary Around Top Attractions in Italy
When planning a trip, it helps to organize your Italy itinerary by theme or region. Italy has so much to offer, from art to ruins, mountains to the sea. Here’s how to plan your itinerary efficiently:
- Northern Italy: Milan, Lake Como, Venice
- Central Italy: Florence, Tuscany, Bologna
- Southern Italy: Rome, Naples, Amalfi Coast
Start with the must-see landmarks: the Colosseum, Sistine Chapel, St. Peter’s Basilica, and Michelangelo’s David. Include plenty of time to explore local life through piazzas, cafes, and artisan markets.
Best Things to Include for a 10 Days in Italy Itinerary
If you're planning a trip to Italy with about 10 days, consider this sample itinerary:
Day 1–3: Rome
- Explore the Colosseum, Roman Forum, Pantheon, and Vatican
- Dine near Piazza Navona and enjoy a street cafe
Day 4–5: Florence and Tuscany
- Visit the Uffizi, Duomo, and Arno River
- Take a day trip to a vineyard in Chianti for wine tastings
Day 6–7: Venice
- Tour canals, the Basilica, and Bridge of Sighs
Day 8–9: Amalfi Coast or Naples
- Visit Positano, take a ferry to Capri, and climb Vesuvius
Day 10: Milan
- Explore the Duomo, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, and view Da Vinci’s “The Last Supper”
This Italy itinerary captures all of Italy’s major regions and cultural highlights.
Love Italy? Make the Most of Its Hidden Gems
Discover Villages, Artisan Life, and Time Capsules
While the top attractions are unmissable, the real magic of Italy lies in its quiet corners:
- Villages in Umbria, Puglia, or the Dolomites
- Artisan makers of leather, ceramics, and handmade pasta
- Lesser-known piazzas, unmarked churches, and mosaics tucked behind arches
Italy is a time capsule that blends past and present effortlessly. Whether you're admiring a Michelangelo masterpiece, sipping a local aperitivo, or walking down a medieval alley, the country invites you to slow down and savor.
What To See and Do In Italy: Why It's the Ultimate Destination
Whether you’re staring up at the Duomo, drifting through Venice, or tasting bold red wines in Tuscany, Italy delivers the best things life has to offer: art, food, architecture, and soul.
From Capri’s cliff views to Rome’s ruins, from Florence’s Renaissance art to Cinque Terre’s coastal magic, these 11 locations represent the top attractions and best places to experience in the country.
Now that you know how to plan your itinerary, all that’s left is booking your flights and preparing to fall in love with Italy’s timeless charm.
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