Top 10 Must-Visit Sites In Italy

Italy will always be one of our favorite places in the world. Though it gets a lot of hype—and a lot of tourists each year—it just never disappoints. Whether you’re seeking beautiful places, mouthwatering cuisine, vibrant locals, a rich history and culture or just a romantic getaway, there’s bound to be an Italian destination for you! Here’s our list of top 10 must-visit sites to get you started:

1. Cinque Terre

Perched on a mountainside in the Italian Riviera, the five villages that make up Cinque Terre are as picture-perfect as could be. Hike between the villages or just enjoy an expresso at one of the colorful restaurants.

2. Lake Garda

The largest lake in Italy makes the perfect stop for travelers making their way from Milan to Venice. No two towns are the same here, promising plenty of adventures in a close proximity. La Rocca de Riva is nestled ont he harbors edge while the fishing village of Gaida is always a fan favorite. This interactive map of Lake Garda by Thompson Lakes has lots of super helpful additional travel tips and information about the region.

3. Rome

Because you really can’t visit Italy without stopping in Rome. Between the Colosseum, Camp de Fiori, St. Peter’s Basilica, the Teri Fountain and the Vatican, you’ll need to schedule a few extra days to make sure you have time to take it all in.

4. Napoli

Not everyone is a fan of Napoli, but it is one of my favorite Italian cities. The pizza and coffee are heavenly, and the people are some of the warmest you’ll find in all of Italy.

5. Florence

Florence boasts a unique beauty; no matter how many times we visit, we always discover something new. Santa Maria del Fiore, the world’s greatest collection of Italian Riviera Art, and the Duomo ar all highlights of any stay.

6. Venice

Iconic Venice—grab your honey and try to avoid high season. A gondola ride is just as romantic as can be, as long as the canals are overflowing with fellow foreigners.

7. Milan

Most go to Milan for the world-class shopping and the mesmerizing Duomo—the 3rd largest Christian Church in the world. A stop at the Opera House is also a worthy attraction.

8. Pisa (Or Chianti)

The primary reason to visit Pisa is to take a mandatory photo of you and your travel companions attempting to hold up the leaning building. If this is too touristy for your liking, then head ot the Chianti wine region instead and savor the delicious local vineyard varieties.

9. Amalfi Coast

Experience 50km of pristine beaches hugged by dramatic cliffs at the Amalfi Coast. Positano is the most picturesque town in the Amalfi and makes a great base for exploring the region.

10. Siena

Perhaps Italy’s best preserved medieval city, Siena makes a great stop on any visit to Tuscany. The Piazza del Campo is perhaps the city’s most iconic site. If you visit during the summer, try to time it during the annual horse races.