According to the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), Italy was the fifth most visited country in the world in 2019. As one of holiday magnets in Europe, millions of holiday makers flock to Italian medieval towns each year to experience its rich history, taste Italy’s mouth-watering food and wines, get cultural heritage fix, or simply admiring its famous ancient landmarks (the Colosseum, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, or the Vatican City). With warm and gentle climate, laid back lifestyle, and picture-perfect landscapes you will ever see in life, Italy has so much to offer for everyone. Now, let’s check out our bucket list of 23 best things to do in Italy!
1. Visit the Colosseum in Rome
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Visiting the Colosseum is a must-do activity for anyone traveling to Italy, particularly to the city of Rome. The Colosseum is an ancient amphitheater built in AD 70-80 that could seat up to 80,000 people, and it was used for various events such as gladiator battles, public spectacles, and games. Today, it is one of the most famous landmarks in Italy and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Tips: It is recommended to book tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons to avoid long queues under the Italian sun during summer!
2. Explore the Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica
Exploring the Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica is a must-do activity for anyone visiting Rome, Italy. The Vatican Museums are a collection of galleries and museums that house some of the most important and impressive art collections in the world. You can see works by Raphael, Caravaggio, and Michelangelo, among many others. One of the most famous attractions in the Vatican Museums is the Sistine Chapel, which is known for its stunning ceiling painted by Michelangelo.
After exploring the museums, head to St. Peter’s Basilica, the largest church in the world and the center of the Catholic Church. The basilica is known for its impressive architecture and artwork, including Michelangelo’s “Pieta” sculpture. You can also climb to the top of the dome for stunning views of Rome.
Tips: Both the Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica are popular tourist destinations, so it is recommended to purchase tickets in advance to avoid long lines. Additionally, you should dress appropriately, as both the museums and basilica have a dress code that requires shoulders and knees to be covered.
3. Take a gondola ride in Venice
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Taking a gondola ride in Venice is one of the most iconic and romantic things to do in Italy. During the gondola ride, you will pass by many of Venice’s famous landmarks, such as the Rialto Bridge and the Doge’s Palace. You will also be able to enjoy the stunning views of the city from the water. The gondoliers, who are highly skilled and trained, will serenade you with traditional Venetian songs as you glide along the canals.
Tips: The price of a gondola ride can vary depending on the time of day and the route taken, but it is generally around €80-100 for a 40-minute ride. It is recommended to negotiate the price with the gondolier before embarking on the ride. Lastly, consider taking a quieter route or a smaller gondola for a more intimate experience.
4. Visit the Leaning Tower of Pisa
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One of the most famous landmarks in Italy, the Leaning Tower of Pisa is located in the city of Pisa in Tuscany. The tower, which is actually the bell tower of the nearby cathedral, gained its leaning status due to a flawed foundation that caused it to start tilting during its construction in the 12th century.
In addition to the tower, you can also explore the beautiful Piazza dei Miracoli (Square of Miracles), which is home to several other impressive landmarks including the Pisa Cathedral, the Baptistery of St. John, and the Camposanto Monumentale cemetery.
Tips: tickets to climb the tower must be purchased in advance and there are restrictions on the number of people allowed to climb at one time.
5. See the art and architecture of Florence, including the Uffizi Gallery and the Duomo
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Florence is known as the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance, and the city is a treasure trove of art and architecture. One of the best places to experience this is the Uffizi Gallery, which houses some of the world’s most famous artworks, including Botticelli’s “The Birth of Venus” and da Vinci’s “Annunciation.”
Another must-see attraction in Florence is the Duomo, also known as the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. This iconic building is famous for its massive dome, designed by Brunelleschi, as well as its ornate facade and intricate marble work. But Florence’s art and architecture aren’t limited to museums and churches. The entire city is a work of art, with stunning Renaissance palaces and public squares, winding streets lined with shops and cafes, and countless hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
Related: Our Favorite List: Top 13 Things to Do in Florence
6. Go on a food tour in Bologna, the home of Italian cuisine
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Bologna, known as “La Grassa” (The Fat One) for its rich food culture, is a food lover’s paradise. Going on a food tour in Bologna is a great way to experience the city’s culinary traditions and learn about the history behind its iconic dishes.
Some must-try foods in Bologna include mortadella, the city’s famous cured meat, and tortellini, a stuffed pasta dish that’s typically served in broth. Another local specialty is tagliatelle al ragù, a pasta dish made with a slow-cooked meat sauce.
On a food tour, you’ll have the opportunity to visit local markets and food shops, taste a variety of traditional foods, and learn about the history and culture behind each dish. Some food tours also include visits to family-run farms and wineries in the surrounding countryside. Bologna is also home to some of Italy’s most famous gelaterias, including Gelateria Gianni, which has been serving handmade gelato since 1961.
7. Walk the Cinque Terre, a beautiful stretch of coastline in Liguria
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Walking the Cinque Terre is a popular activity for you to Italy. Cinque Terre, which means “five lands,” refers to a series of five coastal villages nestled along the rugged coastline of Liguria in northwestern Italy. The area is known for its picturesque scenery, hiking trails, and colorful buildings that cling to the cliffs above the sea.
The walking trails between the five villages offer stunning views of the Mediterranean, and the charming towns themselves are filled with cafes, shops, and restaurants. The most popular trail is the Sentiero Azzurro (Blue Trail), which takes you through all five villages and can take anywhere from five to eight hours to complete. There are also shorter trails between each village if you prefer a more leisurely pace.
Tips: It’s important to note that the trails can be steep and rocky, so it’s recommended to wear sturdy footwear and bring plenty of water. The best time to visit is during the shoulder season, from April to May or September to October, when the weather is cooler and the crowds are thinner.
Related: The Ultimate List: 17 Best Places to Visit in Italy
8. Visit the ruins of Pompeii, a city destroyed by Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD
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Pompeii was an ancient Roman city located near Naples, and it was destroyed and buried under volcanic ash and pumice when Mount Vesuvius erupted in 79 AD. Today, you can explore the ruins of the city, which were rediscovered in the 18th century and have been extensively excavated.
The ruins of Pompeii are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offer a unique glimpse into ancient Roman life, with well-preserved buildings, streets, and artefacts. You can see the remains of public buildings like the amphitheater and the Forum, as well as private homes and shops. The site also features some impressive mosaics and frescoes that have survived the centuries.
9. Take a boat tour of the Amalfi Coast
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Next on our top things to do in Italy is taking a boat tour of the Amalfi Coast! It is a popular way to see the stunning scenery of this region. The Amalfi Coast is a stretch of coastline along the southern edge of Italy’s Sorrentine Peninsula, known for its dramatic cliffs, colorful villages, and turquoise waters.
A boat tour offers a unique perspective on the beauty of the Amalfi Coast, allowing you to see the cliffside villages from the sea and take in the breathtaking views of the coastline. Some of the popular stops on a boat tour of the Amalfi Coast include Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello, which are known for their picturesque settings and charming streets.
Many boat tours also offer opportunities for swimming and snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean, as well as stops at hidden coves and beaches that are only accessible by boat. It’s a great way to spend a day on the water, taking in the natural beauty of the Amalfi Coast while enjoying the sunshine and sea breeze.
10. See the beautiful mosaics of Ravenna
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Ravenna is a city in the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy, known for its stunning collection of ancient mosaics. The city was the capital of the Western Roman Empire in the 5th century and later served as the seat of the Byzantine Empire in Italy.
There are several sites in Ravenna where you can see these incredible mosaics, including the Basilica di San Vitale, the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, and the Basilica di Sant’Apollinare Nuovo. These mosaics are known for their intricate details, vibrant colors, and stunning beauty, making them a must-see for anyone visiting Italy.
11. Explore the historic city of Naples
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Naples is a historic city located in southern Italy and is known for its rich history, art, and architecture. One of the most popular attractions in Naples is the Naples National Archaeological Museum, which is home to a vast collection of ancient Roman artifacts, including mosaics, frescoes, and sculptures. Another must-see attraction in Naples is the Royal Palace of Naples, which was built in the 17th century and features stunning baroque architecture and beautiful gardens.
Foodies will love Naples for its delicious pizza, pasta, and seafood. The city is known as the birthplace of pizza, and you can enjoy some of the best pizza in the world at local pizzerias. Naples is also famous for its espresso coffee and gelato.
12. Hike in the Dolomites, a beautiful mountain range in northern Italy
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Hiking in the Dolomites is a popular activity for you to northern Italy. The Dolomites are a mountain range in the eastern Alps, located in the regions of Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol and Veneto. The range is known for its stunning scenery, with towering peaks, deep valleys, and picturesque villages.
There are many trails of varying difficulty levels throughout the Dolomites, making it a great destination for hikers of all experience levels. Some of the most popular hikes include the Tre Cime di Lavaredo loop, the Alpe di Siusi, and the Lagazuoi Tunnels. Many of these hikes offer incredible views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, and there are plenty of opportunities to stop at mountain huts or refugios along the way for food and drink.
Aside from hiking, you to the Dolomites can also enjoy other outdoor activities such as rock climbing, mountain biking, and skiing in the winter months. There are also many quaint villages and towns to explore, with traditional Tyrolean architecture and delicious local cuisine.
13. Visit the ruins of the ancient city of Paestum, home to some of the best-preserved Greek temples in the world
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Yes, visiting the ruins of the ancient city of Paestum is definitely worth it. Paestum is located in the Campania region of Italy, near the city of Salerno. The site contains the well-preserved remains of three ancient Greek temples, which date back to the 6th and 5th centuries BC. These temples are some of the best-preserved examples of Greek architecture in the world, and they provide a fascinating insight into the lives of the people who lived in ancient Greece.
Aside from the temples, there are also other ancient ruins to explore, including the remains of a Roman forum and amphitheater. The site is set in a beautiful natural setting, with views of the surrounding mountains and countryside.
14. Explore the city of Turin, the birthplace of Italian cinema
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Turin is a historic city located in the northern region of Italy. It is known for its architecture, museums, and as the birthplace of Italian cinema. Some of the top attractions in Turin include the Mole Antonelliana, which houses the National Museum of Cinema, the Palazzo Madama, which is home to the Museum of Ancient Art, and the Royal Palace of Turin.
In addition to its museums and historic buildings, Turin is also known for its food and drink. The city is home to some of the best chocolate and coffee in Italy, and is famous for its Vermouth and Barolo wines.
One of the most popular events in Turin is the Salone del Gusto, a biennial food festival that celebrates the best of Italian cuisine. Other popular events in the city include the Turin International Book Fair, the Turin Film Festival, and the Turin Marathon.
15. Visit the beautiful Lake Como and take a boat tour
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Lake Como is a beautiful lake located in the northern region of Lombardy in Italy. It is known for its stunning scenery, picturesque villages, and luxurious villas. You to Lake Como can take a boat tour to explore the lake and its surroundings.
The boat tour allows you to see the stunning villas and gardens that line the lake, including Villa del Balbianello, Villa Carlotta, and Villa Melzi. The tour also takes you to the charming towns of Bellagio, Varenna, and Menaggio, where they can explore the narrow streets and enjoy the local cuisine.
Aside from boat tours, you can also enjoy a wide range of activities such as hiking, biking, and swimming in the lake. There are also several cultural and historical attractions in the area, including the Baroque-style Duomo of Como and the Como-Brunate funicular, which offers panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding mountains.
You can also take a scenic drive along the winding roads that hug the shoreline, stopping at viewpoints to take in the breathtaking views. With its stunning scenery, charming towns, and wide range of activities, Lake Como is a must-visit destination in Italy.
16. Take a hot air balloon ride over the Tuscan countryside
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Taking a hot air balloon ride over the Tuscan countryside is a breathtaking and unique experience that offers stunning views of the rolling hills, vineyards, and ancient towns of Tuscany. There are many companies that offer hot air balloon rides in Tuscany, and most take off early in the morning or late in the afternoon to take advantage of the best weather conditions.
During the flight, you’ll have an incredible view of the landscapes and architecture of Tuscany, including the famous hill towns such as Montepulciano, Pienza, and San Gimignano. You might also catch a glimpse of the famous Chianti vineyards, the olive groves, and the winding roads that make Tuscany such a beautiful destination. Most hot air balloon rides last between an hour and an hour and a half, and they typically include a glass of sparkling wine or prosecco after the flight.
Tips: It’s important to book your hot air balloon ride in advance and to check the weather conditions, as flights can be canceled if the conditions are not suitable.
Related: 11 Best Villas in Tuscany to Book for Your Next Trip
17. Go on a wine tasting tour in Tuscany or Piedmont
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A wine tasting tour in Tuscany or Piedmont is a fantastic way to explore Italy’s renowned wine regions. In Tuscany, you can visit the famous Chianti region, known for its rich and full-bodied red wines. There are also many other wine regions in Tuscany, such as Montalcino and Montepulciano, where you can taste the delicious Brunello di Montalcino or Vino Nobile di Montepulciano.
In Piedmont, you can explore the region of Barolo, home to one of Italy’s most celebrated wines, the Barolo DOCG. You can also try the Barbera and Nebbiolo wines, which are also famous in the region. The Langhe region is also known for its white truffles, which are a popular delicacy in Italy and beyond.
Many wine tours in Tuscany and Piedmont also include visits to picturesque vineyards and wineries, where you can learn about the winemaking process and enjoy the calm and laid-back Italian life in the countryside.
18. Visit the beautiful city of Verona, the setting of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet
Verona is best known as the setting of Shakespeare’s famous play Romeo and Juliet, and the city is filled with romantic charm and historical significance. One of the city’s most famous attractions is the balcony of Juliet’s house, where you can imagine themselves as the star-crossed lovers from the play.
Verona also has many other sights to offer, including the impressive Roman amphitheater, known as the Verona Arena, which is still used for operas and concerts today. Other highlights include the beautiful Piazza delle Erbe, the medieval Castelvecchio, and the imposing Scaliger Tombs.
Verona is also a great destination for foodies, with plenty of restaurants serving traditional Italian cuisine and local specialties such as risotto and polenta. The city is also surrounded by some of Italy’s best wine regions, including Valpolicella and Soave, making it a great destination for wine lovers.
19. Explore the beautiful town of Matera, known for its unique cave dwellings
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Matera is a picturesque town in southern Italy, known for its remarkable cave dwellings, or Sassi. The Sassi of Matera are ancient dwellings carved out of soft limestone rock that have been continuously inhabited for thousands of years. The town is located in the region of Basilicata, and has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Exploring the Sassi is a highlight of any visit to Matera. The intricate cave dwellings are arranged in layers along the hillside, and you can wander through the narrow streets and alleyways, admiring the unique architecture and learning about the town’s history. In recent years, many of the cave dwellings have been restored and transformed into hotels, restaurants, and shops, adding to the town’s charm and appeal.
Matera is also home to a number of fascinating museums and cultural attractions. The Museum of Medieval and Modern Art showcases the work of local artists, while the National Archaeological Museum of Basilicata houses an impressive collection of ancient artifacts from the region.
20. Visit the island of Sicily, home to beautiful beaches, historic cities, and delicious cuisine
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Next on our things to do in Italy is visiting Sicily. It is the largest island in the Mediterranean Sea and is located off the southern coast of Italy known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and warm weather.
There are many places to visit in Sicily, including the historic city of Palermo, the ancient Greek ruins of Agrigento, the hilltop town of Taormina, and the beautiful beaches of San Vito Lo Capo and Cefalù. Other must-see sights include Mount Etna, Europe’s largest active volcano, and the Valley of the Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage site with some of the best-preserved ancient Greek temples in the world.
21. Go skiing in the Italian Alps
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Italy is home to some of the most beautiful ski resorts in the world. The Italian Alps are famous for their stunning scenery and excellent ski conditions, making them a popular destination for skiing enthusiasts. Some of the most popular ski resorts in Italy include Cortina d’Ampezzo, Madonna di Campiglio, and Val Gardena.
These resorts offer a range of skiing and snowboarding activities for people of all skill levels, from beginners to experts. In addition to skiing, you can also enjoy other winter sports, such as snowshoeing, ice-skating, and tobogganing. Many resorts also offer après-ski activities, such as spa treatments, hot springs, and nightlife.
22. Explore the city of Trieste, a cultural crossroads between Italy and Slovenia
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Trieste is a beautiful port city located in the northeastern corner of Italy, near the border with Slovenia. The city has a rich cultural heritage, having been part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire until 1918. Trieste is known for its beautiful architecture, historic coffee houses, and literary traditions.
There are many things to see and do in Trieste. You can explore the city’s historic center, which features beautiful buildings like the Palazzo del Municipio and the Palazzo Pitteri. The Piazza Unità d’Italia, one of the largest squares in Europe, is also worth a visit.
For nature lovers, the nearby Karst region offers beautiful hiking trails and scenic drives. You can also take a day trip to nearby towns like Miramare, where they can visit the stunning Miramare Castle and Gardens.
23. Take a bike tour of the beautiful city of Florence
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Ending our bucket list of things to do in Italy, what’s a better way to explore Italian towns than by joining a bike tour! Biking around ancient towns in Italy is a great way to explore the beautiful cities, and one you must not miss is to bike around Florence. You can easily rent a bike and set off to explore the city’s winding streets, historic buildings, and charming neighborhoods. There are many bike tour operators in Florence that offer guided tours, or you can opt to explore on your own.
Some popular routes include a ride through the city center to see famous landmarks such as the Ponte Vecchio and the Duomo, a ride along the Arno River to see the beautiful bridges and architecture, and a ride up to the Piazzale Michelangelo for stunning views of the city.
Tips: Biking in Florence can be a bit challenging due to the narrow streets and heavy traffic, but it’s also a lot of fun and a great way to see the city at your own pace. Just be sure to wear a helmet and follow the rules of the road.
