Must-see Places in Italy

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Advisor - Brittany Sanders
Curated By

Brittany Sanders

  • Italy

  • Adventure Travel

  • Beaches

  • City Travel

  • Food & Wine

  • History

  • Architecture

  • Foodie

  • Local Culture

Lined medieval houses at San Gimignano, Tuscan countryside.
Curator’s statement

Italy is a country that captivates the heart and soul, offering a unique blend of history, culture, cuisine and breathtaking landscapes. I love Italy for it rich history and culture, stunning landscapes, gastronomic delights, vibrant lifestyle, art and architecture, diverse regions, warm hospitality and timeless romance. I know you will, too.

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Things to do in Italy

Monumental Interior of St Peters Basilica in Vatican.

St. Peter's Basilica: Marvel at the stunning architecture and climb to the dome for panoramic views of Vatican City.

Roman Forum: Discover the heart of ancient Rome with its ruins and temples.

Florence Cathedral: Climb to the top of the dome for breathtaking city views.

Visit the Colosseum in Rome: The Colosseum, an ancient amphitheater, is a symbol of Imperial Rome. Built between 70 and 80 AD, it once hosted gladiatorial contests and public spectacles. Today, visitors can explore its grand architecture and learn about its history through guided tours that delve into the lives of the gladiators and the events that took place within its walls.

Explore Vatican City: Home to the Pope, Vatican City is the smallest independent state in the world and a hub of art and history. Highlights include St. Peter’s Basilica, known for its stunning dome designed by Michelangelo, and the Vatican Museums, which house the Sistine Chapel, famous for its breathtaking ceiling painted by Michelangelo.

Discover the Canals of Venice: Venice, the city of canals, is a unique destination where boats are the main form of transport. A gondola ride offers a romantic way to see the city’s historic architecture and picturesque bridges. Don’t miss the Rialto Bridge and St. Mark’s Square, where you can admire St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace.

Wander through Florence: Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance, is renowned for its art and architecture. Visit the Uffizi Gallery to see masterpieces by Botticelli and Da Vinci. The Florence Cathedral, known as thee Duomo, with its iconic dome is a must-see, and you can climb to the top for stunning views of the city.

Relax on the Amalfi Coast: The Amalfi Coast is a stunning stretch of coastline known for its dramatic cliffs and charming towns. Positano is famous for its colorful houses and beaches, while Amalfi features a beautiful cathedral and delightful cafes. Enjoy breathtaking views along the coastal drive or hike the Path of the Gods for an unforgettable experience.

Experience the Tuscan countryside: Tuscany is celebrated for its rolling hills, vineyards and charming medieval towns. Visit Siena, known for its historic city center and the famous Palio di Siena horse race, or San Gimignano, famous for its medieval towers and stunning views. Wine lovers should explore the Chianti region for wine tastings and vineyard tours.

Discover Pompeii: Pompeii is an ancient Roman city frozen in time by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. The well-preserved ruins offer a fascinating glimpse into Roman life, with homes, baths and frescoes intact. Guided tours provide insights into the city’s history and the tragedy of its destruction.

Admire the art in Milan: Milan is a hub of fashion and design, but it also boasts incredible art. Visit The Last Supper, Leonardo da Vinci’s iconic mural, housed in the Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie. The Duomo di Milano, a stunning Gothic cathedral, offers a rooftop terrace with panoramic views of the city.

Enjoy Lake Como: Lake Como is a stunning glacial lake surrounded by mountains and charming towns. Bellagio, often referred to as the "Pearl of the Lake," features beautiful gardens and cobblestone streets. Visitors can take boat tours to explore the lake's picturesque villas and enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and cycling.

Taste gelato in Bologna: Bologna is not only known for its rich culinary tradition but also for its exceptional gelato. Explore local gelaterias to savor flavors made with fresh ingredients. Take a food tour to indulge in traditional dishes like ragu alla Bolognese and fresh pasta.

Places to eat & drink in Italy

Exterior of a beige-colored restaurant with people and trees out front.

1. Rome

Trattoria Da Enzo al 29: Located in the Trastevere neighborhood, this trattoria is famous for its classic Roman dishes like cacio e pepe and amatriciana. The cozy atmosphere adds to its charm.

Pizzarium: A must-visit for pizza lovers, Pizzarium offers gourmet Roman-style pizza by the slice, with a variety of toppings using high-quality ingredients.

2. Florence

Mercato Centrale: This bustling market is perfect for food lovers. You can sample local specialties, fresh produce, and enjoy casual dining at various food stalls. Don’t miss the famous lampredotto sandwich.

Osteria Vini e Vecchi Sapori: A cozy spot serving traditional Tuscan cuisine with an emphasis on local wines. The handmade pasta dishes are a highlight.

3. Venice

Osteria Alle Testiere: A small, intimate restaurant known for its seafood dishes. Reservations are recommended as it fills up quickly.

Cantina do Spade: This historic bacaro (wine bar) serves cicchetti, Venetian tapas, perfect for a casual meal with a glass of local wine.

4. Milan

Ratanà: A modern eatery in a historical building, Ratanà focuses on traditional Milanese dishes with a contemporary twist. The risotto alla Milanese is a must-try.

N'Ombra de Vin: This wine bar is famous for its extensive wine list and selection of charcuterie and cheeses. A great place to relax after a day of exploring.

5. Bologna

Trattoria di via Serra: Known for its homemade pasta and traditional Bolognese dishes, this trattoria offers an authentic taste of local cuisine.

Osteria dell'Orsa: A favorite among locals and students, this lively osteria serves hearty pasta dishes at reasonable prices. The tagliatelle al ragu is highly recommended.

6. Naples

Pizzeria Sorbillo: Renowned for its Neapolitan pizza, this pizzeria is often crowded, but the thin, crispy crust and fresh ingredients are worth the wait.

Trattoria Da Nennella: A lively eatery in the Spanish Quarter, serving traditional Neapolitan dishes in a vibrant atmosphere.

7. Sicily

Antica Focacceria San Francesco (Palermo): This historic eatery is famous for its street food, including arancini (rice balls) and panelle (chickpea fritters).

Ristorante La Capinera (Taormina): Offering stunning views of the coast, this restaurant specializes in fresh seafood and Sicilian dishes, with an excellent wine selection.

8. Tuscany

Osteria La Porta (Locorotondo): Known for its rustic Tuscan cuisine, this charming osteria features local wines and fresh ingredients in a cozy setting.

Castello di Ama (Gaiole in Chianti): A winery with a restaurant offering an unforgettable dining experience amid beautiful vineyards, featuring seasonal Tuscan dishes.

9. Cinque Terre

Ristorante Belforte (Vernazza): Perched on a cliff with stunning sea views, this restaurant is known for its seafood and traditional Ligurian dishes.

Gelateria Vernazza: While not a full restaurant, this gelateria is a must-visit for delicious homemade gelato after a day of hiking the trails.

10. Alba (Piedmont)

Osteria dell’Arco: A local favorite known for its hearty Piemontese cuisine. Try the tajarin (thin pasta) with truffles, a regional specialty.

Caffè Giolito: A historic café perfect for enjoying a coffee and a pastry, such as the famous nocciola (hazelnut) dessert.

Need to know

There are many cruise ports around around Italy.

Advisor - Brittany Sanders

Travel Advisor

Brittany Sanders

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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Italy. For more travel tips, check out Fora Advisor Allen Bartimioli’s guide, Unspoken Rules for Visiting Italy.