Italy is such a beautiful country to explore, from its gorgeous lakes in the north to historic towns and cities and spots like Cinque Terre. Honestly, you’ll be spoilt for choice when exploring all the beautiful places in Italy to visit.
For me, Italy really is one of Europe’s most amazing countries to explore. It’s somewhere that has that perfect mix of incredible national parks, historic Italian cities and so much history. Plus, it’s filled with wine and the best Italian gelato, which can only ever be a good thing.
Take, for instance, the north from the south as a general thing. They may well speak the same language but the countryside, towns and even the culture are so different, which can only be a good thing.
Travel is all about experiencing new and exciting places.
The whole country is a treasure trove of beautiful places in Italy that you just can’t miss.
With that in mind, I wanted to share some of my favourite and most beautiful places in Italy to visit on your next trip. Have the best time.
1.) Florence
Florence is, arguably, one of the most stunning cities in Italy.
Perched in the heart of the gorgeous spots of Tuscany, the city has some pretty incredible things to do.
Once here, make sure to wander through the cobbled streets, marvel at the medieval bridge of Ponte Vecchio and watch the sunset over the city from Piazzale Michelangelo.
It’s a truly amazing city!
Read more: Best things to do in Florence
2.) Cinque Terre
Cinque Terre is one of Italy’s most iconic coastal regions and one that deserves the hype around visiting.
Hop on the train (which goes between each of the five towns) and immerse yourself in some of Italy’s most stunning, historic towns.
Each of the five towns; Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore has its own charm, identity and feel.
Spend a few days (or a day, if you want to be fast) exploring the hilly streets and coastal paths, all whilst devouring mountains of delicious gelato and freshly caught calamari. It’s easily up there as one of the most beautiful places in Italy to visit.
If you’re visiting Cinque Terre, make sure to read our essential guide, and read our 15 tips you need to know before arriving in this stunning area of Italy.
Read more: Best things to do in Cinque Terre
3.) Venice
Venice has to be one of the most iconic cities in Europe.
Completely unique, this is one of Italy’s most famous cities that most of us will have heard of.
There are a huge number of things you’ll no doubt want to see, especially the Grand Canal, the Bridge of Sighs and experience the other city sights whilst onboard your very own gondola.
If you’re thinking of Venice, make sure to check out our full guide on what you need to see, right here.
Read more: Best things to do in Venice
4.) Amalfi Coast
Perched an hour or so south of Rome, the Amalfi Coast is one special place to experience on your first trip to Italy. Stay on the mountainous coastline, guzzle on all the Lemoncello and enjoy the spectacular views across the Mediterranean. It really is a special place.
Ohhhh… Don’t forget to visit, Positano whilst you’re there.
Read more: Best places to visit in Amalfi Coast
5.) Rome
The capital city of Italy, Rome, is one pretty big and exciting city to visit. With all its incredible architecture, history and Roman heritage, this city is a travellers dream.
Make sure to visit the Vatican, Drop a coin in the Trevi Fountain and gobble up all the food at La Pergola for some delicious seafood and authentic Italian dishes.
Also, don’t forget to visit Mercato Centrale in Rome, it’s a great foodie haunt. For me, Rome is one of the most beautiful places in Italy to explore.
Read more: Best places in Rome to explore
6.) Pisa
Pisa and its leaning tower have become one of Italy’s most iconic sites to see. Climb to the top of the Leaning Tower, wander through the beautiful Camposanto Monumentale and visit the Pisa Baptistry.
If you’ve worked up an appetite, make sure to chow down at Beni for some delicious Mediterranean cuisine. It’s one of the most beautiful places in Italy you should certainly see.
Visiting Pisa? Make sure you know these 10 things before your visit
7.) Tuscan Countryside & Villages
Tuscany is such a gorgeous region for us travellers to explore. Perched in the figurative heart of Italy, it’s got a whole array of amazing experiences for us to have.
Think rolling hills, picturesque little villages and enough Chianti to quench any parched throat!
Make sure you visit some of the regions gorgeous villages and gobble up all the Florentine Steaks that you can get and think about renting your very own Tuscan farmhouse, too.
Mapped: See our map of what to eat across Italy
8.) Sicily
Sicily is the Mediterranean’s largest island. Perched right at ‘the foot’ of Italy, the island is basked in the gorgeous Mediterranean sun.
Not only that but there are so many beautiful beaches in Sicily that are really easy to reach when on a wider road trip around the island.
Make sure to visit Palermo, hike near Mount Etna discover the gorgeous coastline and explore Noto. It really is a special island.
Read more: Best places in Sicily to visit
9.) Pompeii
Relatively close to Naples, Pompeii is a UNESCO-protected World Heritage Site that was once a thriving city that was destroyed by the volcanic eruption of Mount Vesuvius nearly 2,000 years ago.
Arrive early (when crowds are less) and walk through this historic site that still has many of its streets, houses and much of its history. It really is a special place to see.
Read more: The best way to see Pompeii
10.) Lake Como
Lake Como is perched in the very north of Italy, relatively close to the Swiss border. Around 40 minutes from Milan, it’s an easy place to visit from the city.
Rent a car, or hop on board a boat and discover the picturesque lake and towns like Bellagio that are just beautiful.
Read more: Best things to do in Lake Como
11.) Bergamo
Bergamo is a city that can often be overlooked for its more ‘popular’ neighbour of Milan.
About 40 minutes from Milan, Bergamo is one of the most picturesque cities I’ve ever visited in the north of Italy. Don’t forget to head to the historic centre that is perched overlooking the Italian countryside – it’s truly beautiful.
Want to see more on Bergamo? See our full blog post
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