Italian cities are like open-air museums, no matter where you’re traveling to. But let’s be honest, if you’re traveling for just a short time, you might feel overwhelmed trying to choose the best place to start. That’s where this guide comes in, we’ve picked the best cities in Italy every traveler should visit at least once in their lifetime
Ready to start this spell-binding voyage through the most enchanting Italian destinations? Andiamo!
We think these are the best cities to visit in Italy
If you’re planning a trip to Italy, this guide is a good start. These cities should top any traveler’s bucket list.
Be it one day, three days, or a week, you’ll find plenty to see and do in these Italian cities. The best way to truly enjoy these cities is by not rushing, plan your route to have a bit of history, the so-famous Italian food, and ancient local culture. It’s worth it.
Photo by Chait Goli
Rome
When planning a trip to Rome, it’s hard to know where to start. It’s not something to take lightly when they say that Rome is a living museum, its history goes back millennia! But probably what shocks most American tourists is the way the ancient and the modern sit side by side. One minute you’re walking past the remains of a once-grand empire, and the next, you’re posting about it on Instagram from a modern Internet cafe.
You’d be walking through the city that once ruled much of the known world. So, it is easy to understand why there are so many remnants of a civilization. If you’re into history, there’s no shortage of historical sites to visit. Some are very famous, the Colosseum, Roman Forum, Vatican City, and Pantheon, places everyone knows. Others are less known, Palazzo Doria Pamphilj, Basilica of San Clemente, and Galleria Borghese Gardens, but equally fascinating.
Despite what we just told you, Rome doesn’t feel like a quiet museum. The squares, the markets, and the little streets are constantly alive. Locals are busy with their daily routines, they don’t mind much about visitors who are lost exploring.
Photo by Pixabay
Honestly, they are not exaggerating when they say that food needs to be a part of the experience in Rome. You won’t understand until you try it. Italians absolutely love food. They can savor a dish of pasta with nothing more than oil, pepper, and guanciale. For the average American, who needs tons of cheese and meat, or for the gourmet foodies in haute cuisine, it’s a clean and natural way to appreciate food. Get it a try anywhere in Rome, not just the most known trattorias, but street food vendors, small cafes, or small local places.
Photo by Team Picsfast
It might feel unusual for us to walk to places. But believe me, a city this busy walking often feels like the best option. Most European cities are completely walkable because when they were built, there were no modern forms of transportation like cars or trains. Most of these places are within walking distance, and the streets have a way of drawing you in. When you’re tired, there’s a bus, tram, or metro to take you to the next place.
One thing you won’t forget about Rome is the sense of time that hangs in the air. Guess, that is why it’s nicknamed “The Eternal City”. The past is always present, but so is the modern world. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning for the hundredth time, Rome feels like it has no end. Our #1 among the best cities to visit in Italy!
Colosseum and Roman Forum
In Rome, you can’t skip the Colosseum, a place that breathes history. You’ll get a sense of how Romans lived, fought, and entertained Emperors and masses. It’s such a famous landmark for many because it’s a window into the past like no other place in the world. Once you walk around, it’s not hard to imagine the roaring crowds, the fierce battles, and the thrill of the spectators.
While the Colosseum has plenty of signs explaining its history, it’s best to get a guided tour for a deeper understanding, especially when it comes to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, which are less detailed. A combined ticket will get you into all three.
Photo by Rafael Castro
Trevi Fountain
The Trevi Fountain is a piece of art standing right in the middle of ancient history and modern life, much like Rome itself. When you visit, you’re not just gazing at the intricacies of Baroque architecture; you’re taking part in a centuries-old culture. Throw a coin over your left shoulder and you’re supposedly guaranteeing your return to Rome. Yet, you don’t have to be superstitious to know that everyone wants to return to Rome!
Now, a few things to keep in mind. For fewer crows (and believe me, there are tons! The Trevi Fountain is a magnet for tourists) the best time to visit is before 8 a.m. or after 10 p.m. Also, stay alert for pickpockets in the crowds. One other detail: there’s a limit of only 400 visitors allowed in the area at once between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m. After 9 p.m., you can access it for free.
Photo by Damir
Pantheon
The Pantheon is an impressive marvel of construction. It began as a temple devoted to Roman gods, as a way to express the empire’s devotion to its deities. As Rome’s religious identity changed so did their places of worship. By the 7th century, The Pantheon was no longer a place of pagan worship but a Christian church. It has become a monument to experience the layers of history that have been built on top of each other for centuries.
Once you step into it, you can’t help but wonder how people could have once built that without the technology we take for granted today. The fact that it has withstood the test of time makes you realize just how skilled the Romans were. It’s not for nothing that they were one of humanity’s greatest empires.
Despite the modern hustle around it, the Pantheon’s interior often feels calm, almost meditative. It’s one thing to visit an old building, but it’s another to see the resting place of geniuses who shaped history like Raphael.
Photo by Piotr Arnoldes
As for the cost, it’s not expensive. If you’re between 18 and 25, you’ll pay €5, while those over 25 pay €10. Residents of Rome get in for free, so that’s worth applying for residence, isn’t it?
One last thing—since the Pantheon is a functioning church, dress codes are important. Be sure to cover your shoulders and knees if you want in.
Long story short, make sure the Pantheon is at the very top of your list of best places to go in Italy.
Vatican City
Rome is also the spiritual center of the Catholic Church, a place where millions come on pilgrimage. Visiting the Vatican City, the smallest country in the world, is one of those experiences that can stay with you long after you leave. The minute you step inside, a sense of purpose surrounds you.
One thing you should not miss is the Vatican Museums, and try to book your tickets online in advance, it can save me a lot of time and stress, trust us, the lines can be insane. As you wander through the galleries, find yourself in awe of the masterpieces like Raphael’s to the endless sculptures and frescoes. You could spend a whole week just admiring art, and I’m not exaggerating. There are about 70,000 works of art, but around 20,000 are only on public display.
And then, there’s the Sistine Chapel, the famous ceiling, painted by Michelangelo, which is more breathtaking in person than any picture can capture. Literally, you cannot take photos inside the Chapel, they are not allowed. Just take a moment to appreciate the beauty without distractions.
Dressing appropriately. It isn’t just a formality; it’s respectful. With shoulders and knees covered, you’ll avoid the disappointment of being turned away from such a sacred space, particularly St. Peter’s Basilica.
If you want a more in-depth description of the Vatican experience, read this guide.
Photo by Sergey Guk from Pexels
Piazza Navona
Piazza Navona, in Rome’s heart, invites you to walk its oval shape. The Bernini’s Fountain of the Four Rivers is at the center, surrounded by baroque gems like Sant’Agnese in Agone. The square is always active with street performers and local vendors.
For first-time visitors, staying nearby is a solid choice, it’s close to the Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, and the Spanish Steps. So getting around is easy and everything of interest is close by.
Photo by by Tamal Mukhopadhyay on Unsplash
A few helpful tips for Rome
It’s easy to get lost in the details, everyone seems to have a different opinion, and they often contradict each other. But, let me help you clear things up a bit:
First things first: location, location, location. You don’t want to waste time getting from one end of the city to the other. If you can afford it, stay somewhere central, like the Pantheon area. That way, you’ll find yourself close to the main attractions, and you won’t need to bother with public transport much.
That brings me to transport. Yes, there’s a good public system, but it’s a little tricky if you’re not used to it. You’ll need to buy tickets from any little shop selling tobacco (tabaccherias) or from a machine and validate them. Avoid being fined just because you missed that step.
The time of year matters more than you think. Spring and fall are theoretically the best times to visit Rome, but the problem is that everyone thinks the same and they travel during these months. The result? Crowds and prices are at their peak. Summer looks like a better alternative if you don’t mind the heat. Be warned: it can be brutal at noon! Going during winter might be the perfect time, it’s quieter, with better prices, and a bit of a chill.
When looking for food, avoid the obvious tourist traps near the major attractions. You’ll end up paying a premium mainly for the views. Instead, find places where the locals go themselves like Esquilino, you can even ask them, they know the good stuff. It’s a great idea to know a few Italian phrases in these kinds of situations, like “Quale posto mi consigli per cenare a Roma?” or “È un buon posto per cenare?”. Italian is not as hard as you might think, spend a week there, and you’ll start picking it up.
You May Also Like:
- A Perfect 3-Day Itinerary in Rome
- Explore Rome Like a Local: What to Do on a Sunday
- Rome on a Plate: A Connoisseur’s Guide to Rome’s Best Pasta
Florence
Florence, the heart of Tuscany, is credited with being the birthplace of the Renaissance, and it’s not hard to see why. It’s packed with centuries of history and art will surround you at every corner.
Photo by Mark Neal
Let’s get it right: Florence is famous for its art, mainly Renaissance masterpieces, so you really can’t leave without seeing some of the best pieces. You can spend a few hours just wandering, taking in sights like the Duomo, the Ponte Vecchio, and the Palazzo Vecchio.
Think of Florence and you think of this famous dome rising above the city. This undoubtedly symbol of the city is a marvel of Renaissance engineering made a precious piece of art. The facade is Gothic, you can tell by its pointed arches and vertigo-inducing height that draw the eye upward and the sculptures and statues telling biblical stories about saints. Plus, inside is a key treasure of Renaissance art, The Last Judgment. Climbing to the top, Giotto’s Campanile, takes a bit of effort, it’s over 400 steps, but you’ll see Florence from a whole new perspective.
Photo by Emila Yusof
Just a few meters nerby if the Uffizi Gallery, a must for anyone interested in art with masterpieces from Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci’s Annunciation, and Botticelli’s The Birth of Venus. The gallery is huge, you can spend half a day, easily, but I recommend pacing yourself and planning to spend at a few hours here to leave some for the other Florencian landmarks.
The ceiling of the Uffizi Gallery. Photo by Ozan Tabakoğlu
Next, go to the Accademia Gallery to see the famous “David” up close. Michelangelo depicted the biblical hero David just before his fight with Goliath. This statue doesn not not represents the guts and cleverness to stand up to an almost unbeatable giant; but highlights Michelangelo’s understanding of human anatomy. That is so that artists keep visiting the statue to learn how he made it. Although it is the most impactful piece, it isn’t the only attraction in the Galleria, there are other works that can make your trip even more culturally enriching.
Photo by Fabio Mariano
Some tips to remember in Florence
Don’t show up without a plan. The lines can be frustrating, especially during peak months, so buy tickets ahead of time. Also, you may o believe you can figure it all out on your own. However, a good guided tour can open your eyes to details and stories you might miss otherwise. You just can’t learn all that history that happened centuries ago in a day!
If you’re a foodie, Florence, like Rome, doesn’t disappoint. We already mentioned why you should always avoid the tourist-heavy restaurants and instead searched out smaller, family-run places. For instance, eating in the less touristy parts of the city, like the Oltrarno district, is a more affordable and genuine expereince. If you are in Florence for the food, you absolutely can’t miss thetry the authentic Florentine steak (bistecca alla fiorentina) and gelato which is believed to be a creation of the city.
Florence is one of those Italian cities that is especially active in the summer. If you can choose, visit during the spring or fall, April to June and September to October. You’ll finde there are less tourists and the weather is nice, not scorching. If you have no choice but to visit during the high season, you can skip the crows at the Boboli Gardens, a peaceful retreat behind the Pitti Palace.
Florence small and incredibly walkable, that means it’s easy to explore on foot, but you would need to wear good walking shoes as its streets are mostly cobblestone
If you’re planning to drive instead, you’ll want to avoid Florence’s ZTL (Zona a Traffico Limitato) as you can be fined. Park outside the city center and walk or take public transport from there.
You May Also Like:
- Find Out What to Do and the Best Things in Florence, Italy
- Savoring the Best of Florence: Your Ultimate Gelato Guide
- 15 Facts About Florence, Italy That Will Surprise You
Venice
When you think of Venice, you likely picture gondoliers serenading couples with love songs along its narrow canals. Maybe it’s a cliché, but it’s just incredible how its dreamy atmosphere makes getting lost in the city the best experience. To truly get it, you need to experience it firsthand!
Venice is not just among the best cities in Italy but globally. It is recognized for its canals, which are like waterways through the city, instead of roads, and people use boats to get around. Also, the buildings in Venice are built so close to the water that it looks like they’re standing right in it. But the real charm is finding hidden treasures in a city that was once a busy place for trade, especially in the Middle Ages.
Venice is not just a touristic jewel; it’s an invaluable place in our heritage that faces several challenges nowadays. For that reason, addressing rising sea levels and mass tourism is crucial to protect the city.
Venice, the “City of Canals” has this magical aura that’s hard to describe. Even when it’s not the first visit, it’s you second or fifth, Venice is still one of the most unique places you’ve ever been. If you’re planning a trip this Italian city, here’s what I’ve learned along the way.
Photo by Joseph Costa
You May Also Like:
- Venice in a Weekend: A Perfect 2-Day Itinerary
- Where to Find the Best Cicchetti in Venice? Locals Answered
- Best Things To Do in Venice for History, Art, and Food
Naples
Naples is a joy to visit in the south of Italy, a trove of history and culture. This lively city on the Gulf of Naples is home to royal palaces, castles, ancient ruins, and museums, containing a collection of Greco-Roman antiquities, with those from nearby Pompeii. It does probably ring a bell to you. Unluckily, Naples is near Mount Vesuvius, a dangerous volcano whose blast in 79 AD wrecked Pompeii. Even so, today visitors can hike to its peak for broad views of the Bay of Naples.
What’s even more important is that Naples claims the title of pizza’s birthplace. Surprisingly, its simplicity is what makes it superb and world-famous— a thin, soft crust with quality fixings like San Marzano tomatoes and buffalo mozzarella. Naples is a must-visit for the world’s best pizza, but also for its extensive food scene.
You May Also Like:
- The Art of Making the Best Pizza in Naples, Italy: A Gourmet Tour
- Naples’ Must-Visit Beaches: Sun, Sea, and Sand in Italy
Amalfi
Not far from Naples lies the city of Amalfi with stunning sea views, impressive precipices, crystal-clear beaches, and lush greenery. Exploring Amalfi’s charming streets and the beautiful Duomo is sure to make you understand why it’s one of Italy’s best cities to visit.
The coast is dotted with enchanting towns, which feature colorful buildings perched on cliffs, narrow winding streets, and historic architecture. To name a few Amalfi, Positano, and Ravello, are known for their beautiful gardens.
Like Italy, this region excels at its delicious cuisine, which makes excellent use of fresh seafood, fruits, and vegetables produced right there. Similarly, visitors can savor the flavors of the Mediterranean in the numerous seaside restaurants.
Last thoughts on the best cities to visit in Italy
To sum it up, Italy’s best cities offer a wide array of experiences. From Rome’s timeless allure to Florence’s charm, Venice’s canals, Naples’ lively vibe, and Amalfi’s nice sea views, each city is a unique adventure. Not only about history and art but also a culinary journey like no other in the world. Explore the European lifestyle, and immerse yourself in the timeless beauty of Italy’s best cities.
Before you go, be sure to keep an eye out for the upcoming articles!
Tuscany
Amalfi Coast
Cinque Terre and Lesser-Known TownsMilan
The Beaches
Italy Travel Tips: Budgeting, Packing, and Best Routes"
Stay Connected Anywhere with Yoho Mobile
Stay connected during your trips with Yoho Mobile — objectively, the best eSIM provider in terms of value for money, variety of plans (+ unlimited options), and customer service. Consider these key aspects of Yoho Mobile’s service:
- Very easy setup process.
- Tailored data plans for 190 countries and 10 regions.
- The best price per GB in the market.
- Proficient support team 24/7.
- No costly roaming charges.
Not convinced? Check out what our users think of us. Read firsthand about their experiences and discover Yoho Mobile through their eyes. Stay untethered, stay amazed.
