Italy is one of those dream destinations that truly lives up to the hype. With its rich history, stunning coastlines, art-filled cities, and mouthwatering food, it’s no surprise it’s at the top of many travelers’ bucket lists. Whether you’re planning your first trip or looking for a little inspiration, this guide highlights some of the best places to visit in Italy especially if it’s your first time in the country.
First-Time Travelers
Italy offers something for every kind of traveler. Love history? Rome’s ancient ruins await. Prefer nature and scenic views? Head to the coastlines or countryside. Into art and architecture? Florence and Venice have you covered.
But what truly makes Italy special is the combination of all these elements in one place. Slow travel is especially rewarding here take your time, walk through the cobblestone streets, chat with locals, and soak up the beauty of daily life.
Top 3 Best Places to Visit in Italy
1. Cinque Terre
When people think of scenic, colorful houses embracing cliff sides above the sea, they’re probably thinking of Cinque Terre. This Unesco World Heritage Site offers a relaxed lifestyle, stunning walking trails, and stunning ocean views without the touristic throngs (and chaos) of the Amalfi Coast.
Why is Cinque Terre the best destination in Italy? It’s perfect for nature lovers who also want local culture. Each of the five towns Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore has its own distinct personality, and the regional train makes it easy to zip between them.
2. Venice
Despite being a favourite among tourists (and now imposing a visitor tax), Venice still fails to disappoint. To stroll along its pedestrian streets, with canals at each turn, is to enter a fairytale.
From the gondolas and cicchetti appetizers to the rainbow-colored isle of Burano, Venice is still one of the world’s most unique cities. And yes, it’s not cheap, but the history and charm are worth it.
3. Rome
Rome may be the most self-evident destination, but it really deserves to be among the top destinations in Italy. The Eternal City is a living museum with Roman ruins, Baroque architecture, and lively piazzas all merging into one great metropolis.
Surprisingly, in its vastness, Rome is easy to walk in. Do not miss famous destinations like the Colosseum, Vatican Museums, and Roman Forum when the sun starts to set. The mix of ancient allure and modernity renders it unmissable.
Bonus Pick: Capri
If you’re an island lover, Capri is pure magic. Off-season traveling there, when the crowds have thinned, is a peaceful refuge with stunning sea vistas and peaceful sunsets. Sip limoncello along the sea and take in all this tiny island has to offer.
Destinations That Didn’t Live Up to the Hype (Our Experience)
1. Amalfi Coast
Yes, it’s beautiful. But what the postcards don’t reveal is how challenging it can be to get around. With scarce public transport, elusive bus tickets, and congested roads, the Amalfi Coast can be a hassle to visit particularly in high season.
While the opinions are similar to Cinque Terre, the experience in Cinque Terre was easier and less complicated. If you have to pick between the two, Cinque Terre would be the better option.
2. Florence
Florence winds up on nearly every travel bucket list as the number one in best place to visit in Italy for Renaissance history and art. But aside from that, the city was a bit too touristy and did not have that same warmness and community atmosphere that other Italian towns had. It is likely just me, but Florence never really swept me up like I had imagined it doing.
But it’s worth a quick trip to see the highlights. Then, think Lake Como or the Tuscan hills for more scenic and leisurely escapes.
3. Milan
Milan is the fashion capital of Italy, and if fashion is your passion, you’ll love it. The city has designer boutiques, excellent vintage shops, and fashionable architecture.
But as a first experience with culture, scenery, and quaintness, Milan won’t likely be all that impressive. It was just a people-filled city, nothing that particularly stands out unless you’re particularly fashion-conscious or design-oriented.
Consulion
Wherever you travel in Italy, you’re going to find something incredible. But if you have limited time or like it simple, selecting the best locations can be all you need.
Here’s a quick recap:
- Best places to visit in Italy for nature lovers: Cinque Terre, Capri
- Finest iconic sights and history: Rome, Venice
- Formost art and culture: Florence
- Skip if short on time: Amalfi Coast, Milan
Your dream trip is all about time, travel style, and your interests. If you’re a slow traveler, then try to spend more time in fewer places and take it all in. And always be willing to go with the unplanned some of best places to visit in Italy for best moments come when you deviate from the itinerary.
