Best Places to Visit in Italy: 2026 Guide to Italy’s Top Destinations

Italy is one of the world’s most visited countries—and for good reason. From ancient ruins and Renaissance art to postcard-perfect coastlines and culinary traditions known across the globe, Italy offers an experience unlike anywhere else. Whether you’re planning your first trip or returning for a deeper dive, this long-form guide highlights the best places to visit in Italy and what makes each destination unforgettable.

In this comprehensive travel guide, you’ll find detailed insights into Italy’s top cities, coastal escapes, historic towns, natural wonders, and hidden gems—perfect for planning your next Italian adventure.

Why Visit Italy? A Quick Overview

Before exploring the top destinations, it’s helpful to understand why Italy captivates millions of travelers every year. Italy offers:

World-class history: Ancient Roman landmarks, medieval cathedrals, Renaissance masterpieces.
Unmatched cuisine: Fresh pasta, authentic pizza, local wines, regional specialties.
Diverse landscapes: Coastlines, mountains, islands, lakes, vineyards, and countryside.
Romantic atmosphere: Charming streets, scenic sunsets, and intimate cafés.
Easy transportation: Trains connect major regions quickly and affordably.

Whether you love art, food, nature, or culture, Italy has something magical waiting for you.

Explore the best travel packages to Italy

Beautiful young girl with a retro camera in Burano

All’italiana: Italy 8-day trip

From1,825 US$

8 days

(24 Reviews)

5-day trip to Italy: Veloce Italia

From1,425 US$1,285 US$

5 Days

(11 Reviews)

Best of Italy and Greece with 4-day cruise

From5,000 US$4,850 US$

14 Days

Flight included

Best of Italy and Greece with 4-day cruise (With flight from USA)

From5,425 US$5,250 US$

15 Days

Italia Amore Mio – Venice to Milan

From3,390 US$3,150 US$

8 Days

(36 Reviews)

Flight included

Summer holiday in Italy. Back view of young woman with straw hat and yellow dress with raised arms looking at Atrani village, Amalfi Coast, Italy

Italian Discovery (With flight from USA)

From4,425 US$3,425 US$

12 Days

1 2 3 … 6

Discover your perfect Italy vacation package by using our convenient search and filter options, tailor-making a journey that captures Italy’s unique beauty and rich heritage just for you.

Top Locations to Explore

Rome – The Eternal City

Rome is often the first place travelers think of when imagining Italy—and it deserves the top spot on any list of the best places to visit in Italy. Walking through Rome feels like stepping into a time machine. Ancient ruins sit alongside modern cafés, and every corner seems to tell a story.

Top Attractions in Rome

The Colosseum: One of the world’s most iconic structures.
The Roman Forum: A fascinating look at ancient public life.
Vatican City: Home to St. Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel.
Trevi Fountain: Toss a coin and make a wish.
Pantheon: Nearly 2,000 years old and still awe-inspiring.

Rome is perfect for travelers who want a deep, immersive dive into history, culture, and architecture. The city also boasts lively neighborhoods like Trastevere, perfect for wine bars, street food, and vibrant nightlife.

Florence – Cradle of the Renaissance

If art speaks to your soul, then Florence is a dream come true. This elegant city in Tuscany is home to some of the most important cultural treasures in Europe. Florence is smaller than Rome, making it ideal for walking and enjoying at a relaxed pace.

What to See in Florence

The Uffizi Gallery: Michelangelo, Botticelli, da Vinci, and more.
Duomo di Firenze: Brunelleschi’s dome dominates the skyline.
Galleria dell’Accademia: Home to Michelangelo’s David.
Ponte Vecchio: A medieval bridge lined with jewelry shops.

Just a short ride away, you can explore the Tuscan countryside—vineyards, olive groves, and charming villages like San Gimignano and Siena.

Venice – The Floating City

Venice is unlike any other place in the world. Built on water and filled with winding canals, ancient bridges, and romantic gondolas, Venice feels like a city from a fairy tale. Its beauty is timeless, and its narrow alleys hide hidden gems waiting to be discovered.

Best Things to Do in Venice

Grand Canal Boat Ride: Beautiful at sunset or early morning.
St. Mark’s Basilica: A masterpiece of architecture and detail.
Doge’s Palace: A must-visit for history lovers.
Rialto Bridge: A stunning landmark with nearby markets.

For a quieter experience, visit the surrounding islands:

Murano: Famous for glassmaking.
Burano: Brightly colored houses, perfect for photography.
Torcello: Peaceful and historic.

Venice is best enjoyed in the shoulder seasons (March–May or September–October) to avoid heavy crowds.

Amalfi Coast – Italy’s Most Beautiful Coastline

The Amalfi Coast is one of the top travel destinations in Italy, known for its dramatic cliffs, turquoise waters, and pastel villages that seem to cling to the mountainside. This UNESCO-listed coastline is a paradise for photographers, couples, and anyone seeking an unforgettable Italian escape.

Top Spots on the Amalfi Coast

Positano: A colorful cliffside village with boutique shops and beach clubs.
Amalfi: The town that gave the coast its name, home to a magnificent cathedral.
Ravello: Famous for its terraced gardens and music festivals.
Praiano: A quieter alternative with incredible sunsets.

You can also take day trips to:

Capri: A luxury island known for the Blue Grotto and designer shopping.
Pompeii: The ancient city frozen in time by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius.

Cinque Terre – Five Colorful Villages by the Sea

Cinque Terre is a string of five fishing villages perched on dramatic cliffs along the Ligurian coast. It’s one of the most scenic places in Italy and a top choice for hikers, beach lovers, and adventure seekers.

The Five Towns

Monterosso al Mare: Best for beaches.
Vernazza: Often considered the most picturesque.
Corniglia: Perched highest, with stunning views.
Manarola: Famous for its postcard-worthy harbor.
Riomaggiore: Known for its vibrant streets.

Popular activities include:

Hiking the Sentiero Azzurro (Blue Trail)
Enjoying fresh seafood and pesto
Swimming in crystal-clear waters

Cinque Terre is perfect for travelers seeking natural beauty and relaxed coastal vibes.

Milan – Italy’s Fashion and Innovation Capital

Milan is Italy’s modern heart. Known for high fashion, business, and design, it also boasts incredible historical and cultural attractions. It’s a wonderful destination for travelers who want a blend of old and new.

Must-See Attractions in Milan

The Duomo: A Gothic masterpiece you can explore from the rooftop.
The Last Supper: Leonardo da Vinci’s famous painting.
Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II: One of the world’s oldest shopping malls.
Brera District: Trendy cafés, boutiques, and art galleries.

Milan also serves as a gateway to the Italian Lakes, making it a great starting point for northern adventures.

Lake Como – A Luxurious Lakeside Escape

Lake Como is Italy’s most glamorous lake, known for grand villas, peaceful villages, and beautiful Alpine scenery. It’s a beloved destination for celebrities, couples, and travelers seeking tranquility.

Top Towns on Lake Como

Como: The main town with easy transportation.
Bellagio: The “Pearl of Lake Como,” known for elegant gardens and waterfront views.
Varenna: A romantic village perfect for strolls and lakeside dining.
Menaggio: Relaxed, charming, and often quieter than Bellagio.

You can explore the lake by ferry, take scenic hikes, or simply enjoy the stunning landscapes from a café terrace.

Sicily – Italy’s Most Diverse Island

Sicily is a treasure chest of cultures, landscapes, and cuisine. Influenced by Greeks, Romans, Arabs, Normans, and Spanish, the island offers a completely different experience from mainland Italy.

Best Places to Visit in Sicily

Palermo: Vibrant markets, street food, and historic architecture.
Taormina: A scenic hilltop town with views of Mount Etna.
Agrigento: Home to the Valley of the Temples, a UNESCO site.
Catania: Lively nightlife and historic charm.
Syracuse: Ancient Greek history and beautiful coastlines.

Sicily is ideal for:

History lovers
Food enthusiasts
Beach seekers
Adventure travelers (hiking Mount Etna is unforgettable)

Naples – Gateway to Southern Italy

Naples is energetic, raw, authentic, and overflowing with culture. It’s one of Italy’s most historically rich cities and the birthplace of the world-famous Neapolitan pizza.

What to See in Naples

Historic city center: UNESCO protected.
National Archaeological Museum: Home to Pompeii artifacts.
Pizza tasting: Try classics from legendary pizzerias.

Naples also offers easy access to:

Pompeii and Herculaneum
Capri
Sorrento
The Amalfi Coast

It’s a perfect base for exploring southern Italy’s most iconic attractions.

Verona – A Romantic Northern Gem

Best known as the setting of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, Verona is a beautiful and romantic city often overshadowed by Venice—but equally charming in its own way.

Highlights of Verona

Verona Arena: A Roman amphitheater still used for concerts and opera.
Juliet’s House: A fun stop for literature fans.
Piazza delle Erbe: Lively and atmospheric.
Castelvecchio: A castle-museum with stunning views.

Verona is a wonderful place to enjoy northern Italy without overwhelming crowds.

Planning Your Perfect Italy Trip

Italy is a country made for slow travel—wandering through narrow alleys, sipping espresso in sunny piazzas, admiring world-class art, and exploring ancient streets. With so many amazing places to visit, planning the perfect itinerary can feel overwhelming, but the good news is that there’s no wrong way to experience Italy.

Whether you’re dreaming of the romance of Venice, the history of Rome, the beauty of Cinque Terre, or the flavors of Naples, each destination in Italy has its own unique magic. This guide covers the best places to visit in Italy, but the real joy is discovering the hidden gems that aren’t in the guidebooks.