Italy offers stunning architecture, enchanting landscapes, vibrant culture, tradition, and lip-smacking cuisines. When visiting this beautiful country, these are the top 15 things to do in Italy.
1. Explore Rome
With its stunning monuments, archaeological sites, delectable cuisines, vibrant atmosphere, and rich history, Rome caters to every interest. Visit the Colosseum and see how the gladiators fought for life and death during the Roman era. Then, walk through the Roman Forum, once a venue of political and social gathering. Go inside the Pantheon and witness the interesting remnants. Throw a coin into the Trevi Fountain, doing so will ensure that you return to this city.
2. Discover the Vatican City
Marvel at the stunning architecture of St. Peter’s Basilica, which is a spiritual heart of Christianity, and the amazing frescoed ceiling of the Sistine Chapel painted by Michelangelo from 1508 to 1512. Another worthwhile attraction to see is the Vatican Museums, which houses the world’s largest art collections that include sculptures, statues, mosaics, frescoes, and paintings created by famous artists.
3. Marvel at Florence’s Art and Architecture
Visit the Piazzale Michelangelo and take in a bird’s eye view of the city. Then, proceed to the Uffizi Gallery, which is home to the world’s greatest collection of Renaissance painting and sculpture, and the Accademia Gallery, which houses Michelangelo’s statue of David. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the Arno River, and cross the iconic Ponte Vecchio bridge, a medieval stone closed-spandrel segmental arch bridge built over the Arno River.
4. Explore Venice City and Canals
Venice is popular for iconic gondola rides along the Grand Canal that lets couples view the stunning beauty of the city from the water. Visit St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doges Palace to understand the city’s history. Stroll down the narrow alleys and admire the well-preserved squares, cafes, and artisan’s shops. Other landmarks worth visiting are Murano Island, the Central Square, St. Mark’s Basilica, and the Campanile Bell Tower.
5. Explore Tuscany
Tuscany is one of the Italy’s ancient cities, famous for its rolling hills, vineyards, rich history, friendly people, and cuisines. The city offers the best traditional Italian dishes such as the Tuscan bread, Ribollita, and a hot vegetable soup prepared with bread. Besides savoring dishes, take a wine tour of the Chianti or Tuscan countryside, sample mouth watering pasta meals, and taste the finest olive oil in the region.
6. Explore the Amalfi Coast
The Amalfi Coast is a 10-mile long, mountainous, and rocky piece of land that combines several coastal towns and villages. See the soaring cliffs with colorful houses that create a dramatic view. Enjoy Positano and Amalfi for private luxurious beaches, incredible scenery, and delicious cuisines. Savour the lemon liquer and seafood in Amalfi Coast. If you fancy hiking, then hike the “Path of the Gods” in Sentiero degli Dei, which offers you a 360-degree view of the entire coastline.
7. Visit the Leaning Tower of Pisa
Climb the tower to access the highest platform the city’s most fantastic views, covering the surrounding Piazza dei Miracoli with the Pisa Cathedral and the Baptistery.Though the tower is tilted, it is safe for visitors to explore. Then, head to the city of Pisa, where you will experience European feel with wrought-iron balconies, historic architecture, and nightlife on the streets.
8. Hike Cinque Terre
Cinque Terre consists of five charming villages: Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore, nestled within the Cinque Terre National Park. The alluring Mediterranean Sea and soaring mountains with colourful houses make it a picturesque destination for a family outing. Take a boat tour, savor fresh seafood, buy souvenirs at the local shops, swim in the crystal-clear waters, and stroll along the scenic Via dell’Amore.
9. Discover Milan’s Fashion and Design
Milan is dotted with high-end restaurants, shops, and stunning attractions like the Gothic Duomo di Milano Cathedral that displays Gothic architecture at its best and the Santa Maria delle Grazie Convent where “The Last Supper,” a mural by Leonardo da Vinci, is housed. Visit the 19th century and one of the oldest shopping malls in the world—Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. Try risotto alla milanese or osso buco and enjoy the taste of Milanese cuisine.
10. Visit Siena
Siena is a mountain town in the Tuscany region of Italy famous for its grand cathedral and the Piazza del Campo, which is a public square and a UNESCO site. Visit The Duomo, a beautiful Gothic cathedral built in Latin cross shape that features a bell tower and a projecting dome. Both the exterior and interior of the cathedral are built with white and greenish-black marbles. Savour traditional dishes like pici pasta, ribollita stew, panforte cake, and Cinta Senese meats.
11. Relax by Lake Como
To enjoy the seaside charm, scenic gardens, charming villages, serene lake, and delicious dishes, visit Lake Como. It is the deepest freshwater lake in Italy, perfect for biking, hiking, swimming, and water sports. Take a boat tour and admire the charming lakeside towns of Mennagio, Vearenna, and Bellagio. Visit the Como Cathedral in Como town for its impressive Gothic architecture. Admire its ceiling adorned with delicate ornamental designs made with gold.
12. Ski in the Italian Alps
The soaring mountains, lush alpine meadows, and quaint villages make the Italian Alps special for outdoor enthusiasts. The Alps are divided into three parts: Western, Central, and Eastern, and feature snow-capped mountains, large lakes, beautiful villages, and jagged rocky peaks. Start with the eastern section for the Italian Dolomites, a UNESCO site. The stunning Dolomites will offer you the best experience of your life hiking, skiing, and climbing.
13. Discover the Ruins of Pompeii
Pompeii ruins offer a glimpse into Roman life. The ruins include a brothel with stone beds and frescoes depicting intimate scenes, Forum Bath, and the 1st century paintings at the Villa of the Mysteries. Explore the House of the Faun built in the 2nd century BCE and see frescoes of a battle scene and a large statue in the front courtyard. Walk around the huge amphitheater and learn how the Pompeii citizens used to entertain themselves.
14. Explore Capri Island
The rugged, stiff cliffs, volcanic rocks, and caves make Capri a stunning destination. Take a boat tour and enjoy breathtaking views of natural vistas. Explore upmarket shopping, and various dining options make Capri Island worth a visit. Enjoy an idyllic day at Marina Piccola. Go swimming and enjoy the stunning view of the arched Faraglioni rock. Visit the Gardens of Augustus, a botanical garden that houses several Mediterranean flowers and attractive statues.
15. Visit Bolgona
Bologna is a food capital of Italy that offers an array of delicious traditional Italian cuisines. The city features medieval towers, a historic university, and beautiful squares. Enjoy a leisurely walk through the narrow streets of the Quadrilatero district. Try local delicacies prepared with fresh produce. Go to Piazza Maggiore, and visit the Basilica di San Petronio, one of the world’s largest churches. Head to top of the Asinelli and Garisenda to immerse yourself in the marvelous city views.
How to Plan and Enjoy Italy?
An itinerary of 8 days in Italy is a good way to start with. Begin your tour with Rome and explore the ancient ruins. Then, visit Florence and Tuscany and enjoy art, history, and culinary delights. Explore the romantic canals of Venice and finish your visit at the stunning Amalfi Coast. This itinerary will give a taste of Italy’s diverse offerings.
While planning, check the Italy visa requirements based on your nationality. Collect and organize all the necessary documents for your visa application. consult an expert Italy visa service provider for assistance.
Italy will have you coming back for its rich history, art, architecture, and cuisine. From sightseeing to adventure and delicious cuisines, this country has everything to offer. No matter from where you’re traveling, the good network of domestic and international airports in Italy makes traveling convenient for visitors. Plan now to explore Italy’s rich history, culture, art and architecture, along with the iconic Alps, fantastic beaches, uniques lakes, and UNESCO Heritage Sites.
FAQs:
1. Which popular cities should a first-time traveler to Italy explore?
First-timers should visit Rome for the legendary Colosseum and Roman Forum, Florence for its Renaissance art and architecture, Venice for the romantic canals and gondola rides, and the Amalfi Coast for the pristine beaches and scenic beauty.
2. How to explore the picturesque villages of Cinque Terre?
The best way to explore Cinque Terre is through an amazing trail called Sentiero Azzurro that interconnects the five villages. Boat rides around the islands can also be arranged for tourists to enjoy the beautiful scenery from the waters, sample fresh seafood, and take a relaxing swim in the crystal-clear waters.
3. What are the dishes to enjoy in Tuscany?
Tuscany offers the best traditional Italian cuisine such as Tuscan bread, ribollita, and various pasta dishes. You can also take a wine tour in the Chianti or Tuscan countryside and taste the finest local wines.
4. How can art and architecture enthusiasts enjoy Vatican City?
The city is home to iconic medieval structures such as St. Peter’s Basilica, which holds great spiritual significance in Christianity; the Sistine Chapel with stunning frescoed ceiling; and the Vatican Museums, boasting massive art collections including sculptures, to frescoes, mosaics, and paintings created by renowned artists.
5. How to enjoy Italy in a short period?
Start in Rome enjoy ancient ruins, delicious cuisines, and vibrant city life. Then, head to Florence and Tuscany and marvel at the art, history, and Italian cuisines. For a romantic trip, visit Venice and take the iconic gondola ride. End your trip by visiting the Amalfi Coast soaking in its pristine beaches and stunning landscapes.