If you’re looking for the best place in Italy for your first visit, there’s no shortage of candidates. Between enchanting, ancient-architecture-filled cities and stunning natural landscapes, Italy’s allure is legendary. We break down the best places to visit in Italy for first-timers, with itinerary suggestions and insights from Fora travel advisors familiar with the country’s offerings.
Fora regularly hosts familiarization trips (a.k.a FAM trips) around the world. Firsthand experience with a country’s best accommodations and things to do allows Fora Advisors to better serve their clients. Three such trips took advisors to Italy in 2024, and this guide incorporates their experiences.
For personalized recommendations planning your first (or any) trip to Italy, reach out to a Fora Advisor. Your advisor will answer all your travel questions, matchmake you to hotels that fit your preferences and, if you like, help you build an itinerary.
Rome
Image courtesy of Chapter Roma
Thousands of years after Rome’s mythical founding by the brothers Romulus and Remus, it’s nearly impossible to navigate the city’s venerable streets without reminders of the city’s deep history. Rome isn’t just one of the best places to visit in Italy for the first time, but Europe as well, considering how long the city was the center of Western civilization. Beyond Rome’s history, there’s a cosmopolitan vibe and plenty to do and see. Fora Advisor Rebecca Hanson’s three-day Rome itinerary, for example, highlights art museums, cooking classes and more. Our article on where to stay in Rome highlights many of the top hotels (Chapter Roma, a stylish boutique and our most-booked hotel in Rome, is a great choice).
Fora Perks at Chapter Roma:
Welcome amenity and an upgrade whenever available.
Places to visit in Rome, Italy: the Colosseum, MAXXI and the Sistine Chapel in Vatican City
Per Fora Advisor Lee Newell, the best of Rome starts with the Spanish Steps and the Colosseum, both can’t-miss stops in Rome. The arena once hosted some of the most daring and elaborate performances in the ancient world: gladiatorial combat, comedies and more. That it’s still standing after thousands of years is a testament to Roman engineering and ingenuity. Meanwhile, the Sistine Chapel in Vatican City — technically not Rome, but easily within reach — hosts stunning examples of Renaissance architecture and art. MAXXI — or the National Museum of 21st Century Art — celebrates more recent artistic accomplishments. This eye-catching museum displays a diverse collection of contemporary art from around the world. Highlights include architecture examples from Zaha Hadid and a variety of pieces across mediums.
Florence and Tuscany
Image courtesy of Hotel Lungarno
Florence is one of Italy’s best cities to visit for first-timers who love to immerse themselves in culture. Like Rome, the city’s influence on history can’t be overstated. The city is widely believed to be the birthplace of the Renaissance. Florence has continued to serve as one of Italy’s most important cultural hubs since figures like Leonardo de Vinci and Niccolò Machiavelli called the city home hundreds of years ago. While Florence is best known for its art scene — with museums like the Galleria dell'Accademia — the city is also home to a thriving gastronomic scene that features native Tuscan cuisine and international fare (Fora Advisor Kimberly Sessions’ foodie guide to Florence has recommendations).
Beyond its capital city, Tuscany offers a rich and scenic countryside to explore. The renowned region is filled with vineyards, olive groves and rural retreats. If this is your first time in Italy, pairing an urban excursion through Florence before making your way around Tuscany is a great way to experience contrasting Italian lifestyles. Our articles on where to stay in Florence and Tuscany offer a rundown of the best places to stay in each, and includes some of our favorite retreats, The Place Firenze and Hotel Lungarno, both of which are Fora Reserve partners.
Fora Perks at The Place Firenze:
$100 food / beverage credit, welcome drink, breakfast daily, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Fora Perks at Hotel Lungarno:
$100 food / beverage credit, breakfast daily, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Places to visit in Florence, Italy: Florence’s Duomo, plus the Uffizi & Accademia galleries
In addition to Florence’s Galleria dell'Accademia, Uffizi Gallery hosts an impressive collection of art from the 13th through 20th centuries, and the gallery itself is beautiful. The Fora Advisor team that scouted Florence enjoyed the Palazzo Pitti and Boboli Gardens, another prestigious museum and the former residence of the Medici family. The Cathedral Santa Maria del Fiore (Duomo di Firenze) in the city’s main square is also stunning, and the surrounding shops, cafés and restaurants are fun to explore.
Milan
Image courtesy of Hotel Principe Di Savoia
Few cities in Italy blend historical significance with contemporary Italian culture quite like Milan. The city is one of the world’s foremost fashion capitals and is home to dozens of world-class luxury brands and fashion shows, making it an ideal destination for shoppers and designers alike.
“If you are in Italy to shop, Milan is a must,” Fora Advisor Bekah LeBeau said. “The fashion there is unlike anywhere I've experienced in the world.”
These aspects make Milan an excellent destination for first-time travelers seeking high-end experiences, from élite dining to an incredible nightlife. And since this is still Italy, virtually every street is lined with brilliant architecture and friendly locals eager to share their pride in their home city. Milan is also Italy’s financial hub, and regularly receives business travelers from around the world.
Whether you visit for business or fashion, a Fora Advisor can help you decide where to stay in Milan. Two standout properties Fora Advisors loved during our Northern Italy FAM trip were Portrait Milano and Hotel Principe Di Savoia. The former is a luxe boutique hotel steps from Milan’s best shopping; the latter is a world-class property frequented by VIPs and celebrities that celebrates Milan’s grandeur.
“Portrait Milano has this effortlessly cool vibe that perfectly captures Milan’s fashion-forward spirit,” Fora Advisor Marisa Schwab said, adding how “it’s where Milan’s energy meets this laid-back sophistication.”
Fora Perks at Portrait Milano:
$100 food / beverage credit, breakfast daily, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Fora Perks at Hotel Principe Di Savoia:
€100 hotel / resort credit, breakfast daily and an upgrade whenever possible.
Places to visit in Milan, Italy: Quadrilatero d’Oro and Brera, Duomo di Milano and the grand canal in Navigli
Here’s what to do in Milan: Spend your first day in Milan’s best shopping districts, Quadrilatero d’Oro (“The Golden Rectangle”) and Brera. The former hosts the world’s most expensive shopping street in the world, Via Monte Napoleon, a paradise for luxury connoisseurs. The latter is more bohemian, with indie shops and an exceptional array of local and international eateries.
“I love Brera in Milan for the authentic Italian vibe,” Fora Advisor Wendy Wallace said, adding that it’s a great place for local fashion and people watching.
Spend day two sightseeing in and around Parque Sempione. Just outside the park, you’ll find the Duomo di Milano — a striking piece of architecture representing six centuries of styles. Within, you’ll find the similarly dazzling Castello Sforezco and the Arco della Pace. Day three will take you to the eateries, galleries and boutiques of Navigli, which offers some of Milan’s best nightlife.
Lake Como
Image courtesy of Passalacqua
Spending a relaxing three days in Lake Como is a great way to start (or end) your first trip to Italy. Lake Como is easily one of the most beautiful destinations in Europe, and a favorite among luxury travelers. The lake’s calm, blue waters are surrounded by the majestic peaks of the Alps, with historic villas and villages dotting its shores. Lake Como is a place for leisurely exploration and indulging in world-class amenities at élite hotels like Passalacqua and il Sereno.
“Passalaqua was renovated and designed from the ground up to be chic as hell (and it is),” Fora Advisor Bekah LeBeau said.
The property represents the best of Lake Como’s classic grandeur and luxury while finding a way to remain delightfully homey and updated. It’s beautifully designed, and the spa is bar-none. Alternatively, il Sereno is where to stay in Lake Como if you prefer a fresh, contemporary approach to design.
Fora Perks at Passalacqua:
$100 hotel / resort credit, breakfast daily, complimentary air and concierge services, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Fora Perks at Il Sereno:
$100 hotel / resort credit, breakfast daily, complimentary air and concierge services, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Pair Milan with Lake Como
Lake Como is about an hour from Milan, so it’s common for travelers to split their time between the two destinations for a mix of urban excitement and lakeside rejuvenation. Our article on how to get from Milan to Lake Como covers the logistics, and you can always plan a trip to both destinations with a Fora Advisor. The FAM team explored both locations, plus Lake Garda — Lake Como’s family-friendly cousin — on their Northern Italy tour, and found that the two destinations are excellent complements to one another.
Places to visit near Lake Como, Italy: Como Town, Bellagio and historic villas
Lavish villas — like the majestic Villa Carlotta — grace the shores of the lake. Many have been converted into museums, showcasing period art and antiques or featuring vibrant botanical gardens. Meanwhile, towns such as Bellagio, Mennagio and Como welcome travelers to wander cobblestone streets, peruse boutiques and dine in waterfront cafés. The atmosphere is upscale and formal, and offers a laid-back juxtaposition with the high-energy shopping of Milan. (If Bellagio sounds familiar, you may be thinking of the famous hotel on the Las Vegas Strip, which, in its current iteration, was inspired by the historic town.)
Related article: What to Do in Lake Como in 3 (or More) Days
Venice
Image courtesy of Splendid Venice - Starhotels Collezione
One of the most unique places to visit in Italy (or Europe) for the first time, Venice — a.k.a. “the Floating City” or “City of Canals” — is well known for its singing gondoliers, waterways and architecture. Venice is technically just off the coast of mainland Italy, physically disconnected from the rest of the country. This lends the city an air of exclusivity and escapism.
Classic Venetian architecture, narrow stone streets and scenic canals provide an intimate backdrop for couples’ trips, with hidden gems around every corner. Splendid Venice is one of our top-booked hotels in the city if you’re looking for a romantic stay (and if you book with a Fora Advisor, you can upgrade your stay with Fora’s Preferred Platinum perks). The hotel is set within Venice’s San Marco district, a favorite among travelers and locals alike. For additional options, read our article on where to stay in Venice.
Fora Perks at Splendid Venice - Starhotels Collezione:
$100 hotel / resort credit, breakfast daily, welcome amenity, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Places to visit in Venice, Italy: St. Mark’s Basilica and Square & the Grand Canal
Venice is brimming with historical sites. St. Mark’s Basilica and Square are among the top hits, but gorgeous Venetian architecture — characterized by the use of white Istrian marble, pointed arches, tracery stonework and the iconic winged lion motif — abounds. And whether architecture speaks to you or not, a boat ride along Venice’s scenic Grand Canal is highly recommended. Check out Fora Advisor Nadine Federenko’s guide to 72 hours in Venice for more things to do.
Amalfi
Image courtesy of Borgo Santandrea
Amalfi and its namesake coastline are additional examples of the best places to visit in Italy for first-timers — and the best places to visit in Europe. This gorgeous, rugged stretch of Italian coastline promises relaxation and an idyllic array of charming villages amid fragrant lemon groves. The coast is also a wonderful place to charter a boat tour and sample fresh seafood. The town of Amalfi was once a Byzantine stronghold, and remnants of that past can still be found throughout the area, which is made up of charming, cliffside homes and luxury resorts. Borgo Santandrea is one of our top-booked choices in the region, and a great option for those who want a five-star travel experience. But there are plenty of other choices (including hotels with more approachable rates) as you venture further from the town.
“Borgo Santandrea is the place to be on Amalfi,” said Fora Advisor Claire Herzog. “From the rooms — done in gorgeous whites and blues, all with different ceramic tile patterns — to the insane views of the sea and coast, the property is a jawdropper.”
“The staff is absolutely incredible, anticipating your every need, but also making you feel like you're part of the family,” Claire added. “One of my favorite parts was the daily breakfast — an absolutely stunning spread — overseen by their ‘breakfast ambassador,’ the friendliest man who was always sure you were well fed and laughing through breakfast.”
Fora Perks at Borgo Santandrea:
$100 food / beverage credit, breakfast daily, extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Places to visit on Italy’s Amalfi Coast: the Path of the Gods, Positano and Ravello
As we mentioned, charming towns are spread throughout the Amalfi Coast. Beyond Amalfi itself, Positano and Ravello are among the most popular to visit. The former is known for boutiques and seafood eateries that line steep, vibrant streets. The latter is famous for its cliffside gardens. Both offer a relaxed atmosphere and medieval architecture. Hikers will also love the Path of the Gods, and those who accept the challenge of the trail’s rigorous slopes will be rewarded with views of the ocean and hillside. Even better, the Amalfi Coast is widely considered one of the best honeymoon destinations if you’re planning the ultimate couple’s trip.
Sicily
Image courtesy of Villa Sant ’Andrea, A Belmond Hotel, Taormina Mare
The Mediterranean’s largest and arguably most diverse island, Sicily has a unique history cultivated by centuries of occupations by various European civilizations. The Greeks, Romans and Norman Vikings all claimed portions of Sicily at one point or another, and echoes of the past can still be observed in the temples, amphitheaters and castles that dot the island’s fields, hills and mountains. The cultural landscape of Sicily is distinct as well. Many locals identify as Sicilian first, and Italian second — though often in good fun. This identity manifests in a gastronomy that’s every bit as worthy of exploring as that of the mainland. Moreover, there are a ton of exciting things to do in Sicily, from exploring the Valley of the Temples to strolling through the intriguing streets of Taormina.
As for places to stay, Villa Sant ’Andrea is a stunning choice on Sicily’s idyllic coast. But there’s no shortage of excellent options across the island.
“1960s glamor abounds at this retro seaside retreat,” Fora Advisor Nadine Fedorenko said of Villa Sant ‘Andrea. “Watch kids tumble into the sea from the surrounding rocks, take out a pedalo boat for a jaunt and the best part of all is the granita on tap — for breakfast, lunch and dinner.”
Nadine also loved the spacious suites and seaside views. She recommended taking the funicular up to Taormina’s central town for an evening stroll and drinks.
Fora’s Belmond Belini Club Perks at Villa Sant ’Andrea, A Belmond Hotel, Taormina Mare:
$90 hotel / resort credit, welcome amenity, breakfast daily, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever available.
Places to visit in Sicily, Italy: Palermo, Taormina and Mount Etna
Palermo and Taormina headline the best places to visit in Sicily. Palermo is Siciliy’s capital, and there’s arguably no better place to experience the island’s unique culture. Enjoy open-air markets like the Capo and Ballarò markets, Byzantine architecture and more. To the east, you’ll find Taormina, which sits near the base of Mount Etna, an active volcano with pleasant hiking trails. The town is best known for its ancient Greek theater, which still hosts productions today. Fora Advisor Jesse Blumberg’s one-week Sicily itinerary has plenty more things to do on the island.
Plan and book your first visit to Italy with a Fora Advisor
The destinations we’ve covered here are only a fraction of the best places to visit in Italy for first-timers or otherwise. To explore all of your options, connect with a Fora travel advisor. They’ll share tailored recommendations and insider intel — and unlock VIP travel perks like complimentary room upgrades andproperty credits at the best hotels across Italy.
Tips and FAQs for your first time in Italy
Here are a few things to keep in mind for your first (or next) visit to Italy.
Your desired Italy itinerary will determine your best months to visit
Generally, spring and fall are the best times to visit Italy, as the weather’s mild and there are fewer crowds than in summer’s high season. However, if you’re visiting to enjoy Italy’s beaches or lakes, you may prefer to visit in June, July or August, when the water is most comfortable. Winter can be a great time to visit, too. Ski resorts in the northern regions of Italy tend to open around late November or early December. And while there aren’t as many attractions and sites open during this period, bigger cities like Milan and Florence typically see fewer travelers (outside of the enchanting holiday markets, of course).
It’s easy to get around Italy (taking the train at least once is a must)
Image courtesy of Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, A Belmond Train, Europe
Italy’s transportation system is excellent. With only a handful of exceptions, all of Italy’s major cities are well connected to the country’s rail network. High-speed options are great for packing as much into your trip as possible. Plus, some of the routes — like that from Milan to Venice or Florence to Rome — are quite scenic. Buses cover many of the routes not offered by train. Or you can rent a car and travel at your own pace (but be aware that some of Italy’s cities can be difficult to navigate by car). Flying can also make sense in the right circumstances (perhaps when traveling from Sicily to Northern Italy, for instance).
Figuring out how to navigate Italy efficiently is where a Fora Advisor can be very helpful. They can help you plan as much or as little of your itinerary as you’d like, and help you iron out the more logistical aspects of your trip.
Is there a “right” order to visit Italy’s best cities?
Not really. You’ll want to plan your tour carefully if you want to maximize your time in-country. Otherwise, it’s your trip; you get to decide the “right” order. Again, a Fora Advisor can help you plan accordingly so you get the most out of your trip.
More Europe travel inspiration
Italy is just one of many amazing destinations across Europe to explore for the first time. Check out more articles: