20 Best Places to Visit in Italy (2024)

Welcome to Italy, a country bursting with breathtaking sights and unforgettable experiences. In this guide, I’ll take you on a journey through the 20 Best Places to Visit in Italy.

From the iconic landmarks of Rome to the picturesque landscapes of Tuscany, Italy is a treasure trove of beauty and culture waiting to be explored.

Best Places to Visit in Italy

Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or a nature lover, Italy has something to offer everyone. So, join us as we delve into the wonders of this remarkable country and uncover its most enchanting destinations.

1. Rome

Best Places to Visit in Italy

Rome, the capital city of Italy, is a fascinating place known for its ancient history, impressive architecture, and mouthwatering cuisine. This vibrant city is home to iconic landmarks such as the Colosseum and the Vatican City, attracting visitors from around the globe.

With its blend of old-world charm and modern amenities, Rome offers a unique experience where visitors can immerse themselves in history while enjoying the lively atmosphere of a bustling metropolis.

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Places To stay
  • Hotel Eden
  • Airbnb
  • Hotel Raphael
  • Hostel Alessandro Palace & Bar
  • Grand Hotel de la Minerve
  • Campo de’ Fiori Suites
  • Villa Spalletti Trivelli
  • Generator Rome
  • The First Roma Dolce
  • Hotel Artemide
Things to do
  • Explore the Colosseum: Visit this iconic ancient amphitheater, immerse yourself in the history of gladiator battles, and marvel at its grandeur.
  • Wander through the Roman Forum: Walk among the ruins of ancient temples, basilicas, and government buildings, and visualize life in ancient Rome.
  • Throw a coin in the Trevi Fountain: Follow the tradition and toss a coin over your shoulder into this stunning Baroque fountain to ensure your return to Rome.
  • Visit Vatican City: Explore St. Peter’s Basilica, Michelangelo’s masterpiece in the Sistine Chapel, and the Vatican Museums housing priceless artworks and artifacts.
  • Stroll around Piazza Navona: Admire the beautiful fountains, street performers, and lively atmosphere in this picturesque square lined with cafes and restaurants.
  • Climb the Spanish Steps: Ascend the iconic staircase, enjoy the view from the top, and explore the surrounding boutiques and designer stores.
Nearest Major Airport

The nearest major airport to Rome is Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport (FCO). It is located approximately 35 kilometers southwest of the city center of Rome, Italy.

Tourist Attractions
  • Colosseum
  • Vatican City
  • Trevi Fountain
  • Pantheon
  • Roman Forum
  • Piazza Navona
  • Spanish Steps
  • Villa Borghese Gardens
  • Castel Sant’Angelo
  • Trastevere

2. Venice

Best Places to Visit in Italy

Venice is a beautiful city located in northeastern Italy. It is known for its unique architecture, stunning canals, and rich history. The city was built on more than 100 small islands in a lagoon in the Adriatic Sea.

It is connected by over 400 bridges, and there are no roads, only canals. The city is famous for its iconic gondolas, which are traditional Venetian rowing boats. Venice is a popular tourist destination and is considered one of the most romantic cities in the world.

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Places To stay
  • Hotel Danieli
  • Ca’ Sagredo Hotel
  • The Gritti Palace
  • Hotel Londra Palace
  • Belmond Hotel Cipriani
  • Bauer Palazzo
  • Hotel Ai Reali
  • PalazzinaG
  • JW Marriott Venice Resort & Spa
  • Ca’ Pisani Hotel
Things to do
  • Take a Gondola Ride: Explore the canals of Venice in style by taking a traditional gondola ride, offering a unique perspective of the city’s architecture and charm.
  • Visit St. Mark’s Square (Piazza San Marco): Experience the heart of Venice by visiting this iconic square, home to St. Mark’s Basilica, the Doge’s Palace, and the Campanile (bell tower).
  • Explore St. Mark’s Basilica: Marvel at the stunning Byzantine architecture, intricate mosaics, and ornate design of this historic cathedral, which is one of the most important religious sites in Venice.
  • Climb the Campanile: Ascend the bell tower of St. Mark’s Basilica for panoramic views of Venice and its surrounding islands, providing a breathtaking vantage point for photos.
  • Wander through the Rialto Market: Immerse yourself in Venetian culture by exploring this bustling market, where locals gather to buy fresh produce, seafood, and other goods.
  • Cross the Rialto Bridge: Admire the architectural beauty of Venice’s oldest bridge, which spans the Grand Canal and offers spectacular views of the waterway and surrounding buildings.
  • Visit the Doge’s Palace: Step back in time as you explore this grand Venetian palace, which once served as the residence of the Doge (ruler) of Venice and is now a museum showcasing Venetian history and art.
Nearest Major Airport

The nearest major airport to Venice is the Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE). It is located on the mainland, about 8 kilometers (5 miles) north of Venice’s city center. Another airport serving the region is Treviso Airport (TSF), which is located approximately 30 kilometers (18 miles) north of Venice. Both airports offer transportation options to reach Venice and its surrounding areas.

Tourist Attractions
  • St. Mark’s Basilica
  • Doge’s Palace
  • Rialto Bridge
  • Grand Canal
  • Peggy Guggenheim Collection
  • Bridge of Sighs
  • Murano Island (known for glassmaking)
  • Burano Island (renowned for colorful houses and lace-making)
  • Venice Lido (beach and resort area)
  • Campanile di San Marco (St. Mark’s Campanile)
  • Gallerie dell’Accademia
  • Ca’ d’Oro (Palazzo Santa Sofia)

3. Florence

Best Places to Visit in Italy

Florence, located in Italy, is a city famous for its art, history, and architecture. It is often called the “Cradle of the Renaissance” due to its significant role in the cultural rebirth of Europe.

Visitors flock to Florence to explore its museums, churches, and iconic landmarks like the Duomo and Ponte Vecchio. The city’s beauty and historical importance make it a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

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Places To stay
  • Hotel Lungarno
  • Grand Hotel Baglioni
  • Hotel Savoy
  • Palazzo Magnani Feroni
  • Hotel Brunelleschi
  • Portrait Firenze
  • JK Place Firenze
  • Four Seasons Hotel Firenze
  • Relais Santa Croce
  • Villa La Vedetta
Things to do
  • Visit the Uffizi Gallery to marvel at Renaissance masterpieces such as Botticelli’s “The Birth of Venus” and Michelangelo’s “Tondo Doni”.
  • Explore the iconic Florence Cathedral (Duomo) and climb to the top of the Brunelleschi’s dome for breathtaking views of the city.
  • Wander through the historic streets of the city center, soaking in the beauty of landmarks like Palazzo Vecchio and Ponte Vecchio.
  • Take a leisurely stroll through the Boboli Gardens, a stunning Renaissance garden filled with sculptures, fountains, and manicured greenery.
  • Experience the art and architecture of the Pitti Palace, once the residence of the powerful Medici family, now home to several museums and galleries.
  • Cross the Arno River and visit the Oltrarno district, known for its artisan workshops, charming cafes, and vibrant atmosphere.
Nearest Major Airport

The nearest major airport to Florence, Italy, is the Florence Airport, also known as Amerigo Vespucci Airport (FLR). It’s located about 8 kilometers (5 miles) northwest of the city center.

Tourist Attractions
  • The Florence Cathedral (Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore)
  • Uffizi Gallery
  • Ponte Vecchio
  • Palazzo Vecchio
  • Piazza della Signoria
  • Galleria dell’Accademia
  • Basilica of Santa Croce
  • Boboli Gardens
  • Palazzo Pitti
  • San Lorenzo Market
  • Basilica di San Miniato al Monte
  • Mercato Centrale
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Author

  • Liza zampa

    Liza is a Blogger in the USA Travel section at Best Places to Travel where he writes and edits travel guides, tours and articles.

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