Top 10 Must-Visit Places To Visit In Italy

Top 10 Must-Visit Places In Italy for First-Time Travelers

In addition to being easy to spot on a map, Italy is rich in history and culture. Initially inhabited by Etruscans, it later saw the Celts, Phoenicians, and Greeks. Notably, the Roman Empire, founded in 753 BC, has left a lasting legacy on Italy’s religion, art, culture, language, philosophy, and government.

So, how do you decide where to spend your time in Italy with its abundant culture and many amazing cities? Consider this brief overview as a quick introduction to the notable places and features popular with first-time visitors.

Rome

Rome, Italy’s capital, is one of the world’s oldest cities and a favorite among Italy lovers. Known as the “City of Seven Hills” and the “Eternal City,” it has deep ties to the Catholic Church. Visit the Roman Colosseum, and don’t miss Vatican City, where you can see St. Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel. Stroll through various piazzas, enjoying famous statues and fountains. Trevi Fountain is a must-see, as it’s one of the most famous and largest Baroque fountains in Rome.

Venice

When thinking about Italy’s romance, Venice often comes to mind. This city, built around canals, connects 118 islands and over 400 bridges. The Grand Canal, with its S-shape, splits the city into two parts. Take a gondola ride through the canal and under the famous Ponte di Rialto bridge. Enjoy the ringing of St. Mark’s Campanile from St. Mark’s Basilica and visit the ornate Doge’s Palace.

Florence

Florence, the capital of Tuscany, is often considered the birthplace of the Renaissance. The city’s skyline is dominated by the Duomo, the domed cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, and the Palazzo Vecchio, the town hall. Piazza della Signoria houses a replica of Michelangelo’s David statue, while the original is in the Galleria dell’Accademia. Art lovers should also visit the Uffizi Gallery.

Milan

Milan is known for its influence on art and fashion, hosting the famed Milan Fashion Week yearly. While there, see some of Leonardo da Vinci’s best works, like The Last Supper, and take in an opera at La Scala Opera House.

Tuscany

Don’t limit your Tuscany experience to Florence. First-time visitors should see the Leaning Tower of Pisa, enjoy the countryside, and sample classic Chianti wine. Explore San Gimignano’s medieval architecture, Siena’s historic sites, and the great spa towns of Europe.

Naples

Naples’ historic center is Europe’s largest of its kind and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy historic castles like Castel dell’Ovo and Castle Nuovo. Visit the Royal Palace of Caserta, especially in spring, to see its gardens in full bloom. Nearby are the ancient cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum, preserved in volcanic ash from Mount Vesuvius’s eruption in 79 AD.

Amalfi Coast

The Amalfi Coast is known for its picturesque coastal towns, including Positano and Amalfi. Positano features pastel buildings and cliffside resorts, while Amalfi is a historic maritime republic. Hike the Path of the Gods and treat yourself to locally produced limoncello.

Capri

The Isle of Capri, in the Bay of Naples, is famed for its laid-back yet luxurious charm. It’s a favorite among royalty and celebrities. Stay on the island or take a day trip. Don’t miss the Blue Grotto, a natural sea cave. Enjoy shopping and dining in Capri or Anacapri.

Sicily

Sicily, Italy’s largest island, offers sandy beaches, green hills, and ancient ruins. This triangle-shaped island is also known for its fantastic seafood and pastries.

Puglia

Puglia, in Italy’s “heel,” is a quieter retreat gaining popularity among tourists. Its small towns, boutique hotels, and friendly locals make it a charming destination. Explore the trulli houses in Itria and the white city of Ostuni. In Lecce, see the Basilica di Santa Croce and the Sant’Oronzo column.

Each place offers unique experiences for your vacation. As a first-time visitor, you might focus on one or two popular places like Rome or Venice. Guided tours can provide a “best of” experience in each area, giving you a taste of what you like best for future visits. No matter where you go in Italy, you’ll be captivated by the sights, culture, food, and memories.