28 Things to Do in Italy & Best Places to Visit

Without a doubt, Italy is one of the most beautiful tourist destinations in the world. From the city sights of Rome and Florence to the beaches of Naples and surrounded by the vineyards of Tuscany and Veneto, visitors are spoiled for choice, so it can be incredibly hard to build your Italy itinerary. After visiting nearly every region of the country, these are my favorite things to do in Italy, including a blend of hidden gems and essential places to visit.

Italy has it all – incredible architecture, stunning landscapes, delicious wine, vibrant cities, national parks, medieval art museums, and all the beaches you could ask for on both the Mediterranean Sea and the Adriatic Sea.

That’s just the tip of the iceberg. Then, there’s the Colosseum, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, the Vatican Museum, and the canals of Venice. These are just a few of the country’s world-famous attractions with thousands of other amazing places to see.

Don’t forget about the food, obviously. The delicious pizza, pasta, and gelato are just a few foods in Italy that have been enjoyed by people are over the world. When you travel to Italy, you will have no trouble finding these tasty treats around every corner.

With so much on offer, it can be tough to know where to start when planning a trip to Italy. To help you out, we’ve put together a list of the best places to visit and things to do in Italy.

Andiamo!

TL;DR

• Most significant landmark – The Colosseum
• Best park – Bellunesi Dolomites National Park
• Best free activity – Roadtrip along the Amalfi Coast
• Best activity for kids – Mirabilandia
• Best activity for adults – Roman Catacombs
• Best food – Pizza in Sicily
• Best nightlife – Bar del Fico and the Rashomon Bar & Club (Rome)
• Best all-around accommodation – Park Hyatt Milano

Best Things to Do in Italy & Places to Visit

1. Amalfi Coast

Address: 84011 Amalfi, Province of Salerno, Italy

One of the most beautiful things to do in Italy is definitely a road trip along the Amalfi Coast. This coast of Italy has it all: dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear waters, cute little hill towns dotting the hillside, and of course – breathtaking views.

If you’re planning on driving the Amalfi Coast, be prepared for some hair-raising turns and drop-offs. But it’s all part of the experience, and definitely worth it for the views! Trust me, you won’t find views like these anywhere else.

Stop off in cute little towns like Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello and explore their winding streets, sample some delicious limoncello, or enjoy a leisurely lunch by the water. And don’t forget to take a dip in the crystal-clear waters – it’s the perfect way to cool down on a hot summer’s day. You can even rent a boat for the day and explore the coastline from the water on a boat trip.

If you want some active things to do in Italy, this coastline is also home to some great hiking trails. hike up to Monte Tre Calli for incredible views over the coastline, or tackle the more challenging Path of the Gods hike.

If you want to avoid crowds, head to the Amalfi Coast in the shoulder season (April-May or September-October). But if you don’t mind a few more people around, summer is the best time to visit as you’ll be sure to enjoy the weather, boating, and beaches.

You can visit the Amalfi Coast on a road trip from the nearby city of Naples, or base yourself in one of the coastal towns and explore at your own pace.

See Related: Best Family Vacation Spots in the World

2. Vatican City

Believe it or not, Vatican City is its own country! This tiny city-state is located within the city of Rome and is home to some of the most famous sights in Italy. The Vatican museums are a must-visit, even if you’re not particularly interested in art or history.

They’re huge, and there’s so much to see that you could easily spend a whole day here. Highlights include the Sistine Chapel, with its world-famous ceiling painted by Michelangelo, and the Raphael Rooms, which are equally as breathtaking. Admission tickets to the Vatican typically include a guided tour, so make sure to book in advance!

If you’re visiting Vatican City, you’ll also want to take a tour of St. Peter’s Basilica. This magnificent church is one of the largest in the world, and its interior is truly stunning.

Make sure you go to the top of the dome for views over Rome – it’s an incredible experience. And don’t forget to explore the rest of Vatican City, including the impressive Vatican library and the beautiful gardens.

See Related: Best Restaurants in Italy

3. Blue Grotto

Address: 80071 Anacapri, Metropolitan City of Naples, Italy

The Blue Grotto, known in Italian as the Grotta Azzurra, is a sea cave on the island of Capri. It’s one of the best places to visit in Italy, and one of the must-see attractions in Southern Italy. When the sun hits the water just right, the cave glows a beautiful blue color.

The blue light is caused by sunlight reflecting off the white limestone walls and the bottom of the cave. It’s a truly magical sight and something that you won’t see anywhere else in the world.

To get to the Blue Grotto, you’ll need to take a small boat from the island of Capri. The boat will enter the cave through a small opening, and you’ll be able to sit back and enjoy the view of the Adriatic Sea. The best way to experience the grotto is on a guided boat tour of the cave.

You’ll sail into the cave on a small rowboat, and if the weather conditions are good, you’ll be able to spend some time inside the cave itself. Keep in mind that the cave is only accessible during certain times of day when the tide is just right.

And since it’s such a popular place in Italy, there will likely be a bit of a wait to get on the boat. But trust me, it’s worth it. A trip to the Blue Grotto is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and definitely one of the most unique things to do in Italy.

For an extended stay when you visit Capri Island, check out the Hotel Villa Ceselle. This beautifully appointed 3-star hotel is located in the village of Anacapri and offers stunning views of the Tyrrhenian Sea. Guests can enjoy a delicious breakfast buffet each morning, and there’s even a shuttle service that takes you into Capri town.

See Related: Best Travel Books for Italy

4. Leaning Tower of Pisa

Address: Piazza del Duomo, 56126 Pisa PI, Italy

When you think of iconic Italian landmarks, this leaning tower is probably one of the first things that come to mind. The Tower of Pisa is one of the most famous buildings in the world, and it’s definitely worth a visit when you’re in Italy.

The tower is located in the city of Pisa, and despite its name, it’s actually part of a larger complex known as the Piazza del Duomo. This square is home to a number of beautiful buildings, including the cathedral and baptistery.

The Pisa Tower is approximately 60 meters tall, and it’s famous for its unintended tilt. The tower was built on unstable ground, and over time, it started to slowly sink and lean to one side.

Today, the tower is stabilized, but it still leans at an angle of about 3.9 degrees. Visitors to the tower can purchase entry tickets to go all the way to the top, and from up there, you’ll get stunning views of the city of Pisa. The outside of the tower is always swarming with tourists trying to take photos, so make sure you snap a selfie while you’re there!

See Related: Best Tours in Italy

5. Visit the Tuscan Countryside

For an authentic Italian experience, you can’t go wrong with a visit to the Tuscan countryside. This picturesque region is located in central Italy, and it’s famous for its rolling hills, cypress trees, and vineyards. It’s the perfect place to go if you’re looking to experience the true beauty of the Italian landscape.

One of the best ways to explore the countryside of Tuscany is by renting a car and driving through winding roads. This will allow you to stop and visit the quaint hill towns to sample delicious wines at a vineyard. Alternatively, a pre-booked wine-tasting tour of Tuscany is always a good idea.

And if you’re lucky enough to visit in the springtime, you’ll be able to see the fields of wildflowers that bloom throughout the region. No matter when you visit, a trip to the countryside of Tuscany is sure to be a highlight of your Italy vacation.

The best place to visit in the Tuscany region is Florence. This beautiful city is home to some of the world’s most renowned art and architecture. Some of the must-see sights in Florence include the Duomo, the Baptistery, Piazzale Michelangelo, and the Uffizi Gallery.

You could easily spend days exploring all that this city has to offer. As a way to keep your time efficient, I definitely recommend taking a tour of the city and its surrounding areas to make the most of your time there. Alternatively, you can take a day trip to the nearby city of Pisa to see the world-famous Leaning Tower of Pisa.

You can also visit the small town of San Gimignano, the inventor of the modern-day skyline, or the town of Lucca, which is just a short drive away. This quaint town inspired the setting for the popular new Disney movie “Lucca”. Consider staying a few days here to explore the town and its surroundings – this Tuscany vacation rental is actually a converted monastery and is ideally located in Tuscany.

See Related: Top Reasons to Travel to Italy

6. Take a Gondola Ride in Venice

Address: S. Marco Stop, Riva degli Schiavoni, 30124 Venezia VE, Italy

Venice is one of those places that you have to see to believe. With its winding canals, beautiful architecture, and bridges spanning the water, it’s no wonder Venice is one of the most popular places to visit for couples. It’s romantic, it’s unique, and it’s definitely worth a visit!

One bucket list item for many people is to take a ride on a Venetian gondola. These small boats are the primary mode of transportation and they’re a great way to see the city from the water. Gondola rides can be a bit pricey, but they’re definitely worth it for the experience.

If you prefer things to do in Venice on a budget, I recommend taking a self-guided walking tour through the city and getting lost in the winding streets. There’s no better way to explore Venice than on foot, and you never know what you’ll find around the next corner. Make sure to walk across the Rialto Bridge, which is a perfect display of Italian architecture in an idyllic setting.

You’ll have a chance to get up close and personal with Venetian architecture and maybe even stumble upon a hidden cafe or gelato shop.

Pro tip: This guided tour combines a walking tour of Venice and a gondola ride, and it’s a great way to see the city on a budget. If you’re planning on doing both, I recommend doing the walking tour first and then the gondola ride. That way, you’ll already have a good lay of the land and you’ll know where you want to go during your gondola ride.

See Related: Best Museums in Florence to Visit

7. Pompeii & Mount Vesuvius

Pompeii was an ancient city that was destroyed by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. The infamous city was buried under meters of ash, and it wasn’t rediscovered until over 1500 years later.

Today, Pompeii is a popular tourist destination, and it’s one of the best things to see in Italy. It’s an eerie but fascinating place to visit, and it gives you a unique insight into what life was like in Rome in the middle ages.

A visit to Pompeii is not for the faint of heart. The city is extremely well-preserved, but it’s also very eerie. It’s easy to imagine the terror that the citizens must have felt as they were buried alive by the volcanic ash. But despite its gruesome history, the ancient ruins of Pompeii are one of the best places to visit in Italy.

I recommend taking a guided tour of the ruins with an archaeologist, without one, you won’t have as much intel into the history and the significance of what you’ll be viewing. There are plenty of tours to choose from, and a guide will be able to answer any questions that you have.

This Pompeii tour takes you through the city of Pompeii as well as the nearby town of Herculaneum, which was also destroyed by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. You’ll get to enjoy a nice lunch and wine tasting before heading back to Pompeii for more exploring of the prehistoric sites.

Pro tip: Pompeii is located near Naples, and it’s easy to visit Pompeii and Mt. Vesuvius in one day. I recommend doing a guided tour of Pompeii in the morning and then taking the bus up to Mt. Vesuvius in the afternoon. That way, you can learn about the city and its history before exploring the volcano that destroyed it.

See Related: Best Pompeii Tours from Naples, Italy

8. Mirabilandia

Address: SS16, km 162, 48125 Savio RA, Italy

Mirabilandia is a massive theme park located in the town of Ravenna. The park is divided into four different areas, each with its own theme.

There’s an adventure land, a water park, a kids’ area, and a movie-themed land. Spanning over 850,000 square meters, Mirabilandia is the largest amusement park in Italy and a popular place to visit in Europe.

Mirabilandia is one of the best things to do in Italy for families, and it’s a great place to spend a day out as a family. There are plenty of rides to keep everyone entertained, and the park is extremely well-kept. Some of the most popular rides at Mirabilandia include the iSpeed coaster, the Divertical roller coaster, and the Katun inverted coaster.

If you’re visiting Italy during the summer and looking for outdoor adventures, I definitely recommend spending a day at Mirabilandia. It’s the perfect place to beat the heat and have some fun! And if you purchase your tickets online in advance, you’ll save a few euros.

Pro tip: Mirabilandia is located in the northeastern part of Italy, and it’s easy to reach by train from many of the major nearby towns. If you’re coming from Florence, Bologna, or Venice, I recommend taking the high-speed Frecciarossa train. The journey takes just over an hour, and you’ll be able to purchase train tickets online in advance.

9. Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre is a stretch of coastline on the Italian Riviera made up of five picturesque towns – Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore.

The villages are connected by a network of hiking trails, and they’re popular tourist destinations for both Italians and foreigners. Cinque Terre is one of the most beautiful and best places to visit in Italy, and it’s a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

I recommend hiking the trails between all the villages. The views are absolutely breathtaking, and it’s a great way to see all five towns. There are plenty of places to stop and take photos, and you’ll definitely work up an appetite hiking all those hills! If you’re not up for a hike, you can also take the train between the villages.

The Cinque Terre can get pretty crowded during peak season. I recommend visiting in the off-season, early in the morning, or later at night. That way, you can avoid crowds and enjoy the villages in peace.

You’ll definitely want to spend a few days in Cinque Terre to fully enjoy all it has to offer! Those staying in Florence and wanting to visit on a day trip can join a group tour, which includes round-trip transportation. While you’re in Cinque Terre, I recommend a food tour or taking a romantic sunset cruise.

See Related: Best Places To Stay In Cinque Terre

10. Duomo di Milano

Address: Piazza del Duomo, 20122 Milano MI, Italy

The Milan Cathedral, or Duomo di Milano, is the largest church in Italy and the fifth largest church in the world. This massive Gothic cathedral took nearly six centuries to complete and is one of the most iconic sights in Milan. The cathedral is so large that it can hold up to 40,000 people, and it’s one of the most popular historical sites in Italy.

The interior of the cathedral is decorated with marble, mosaics, and stained glass, and it’s a truly beautiful sight. The Duomo di Milano is one of the most popular things to see in Italy, and it’s a must-see for anyone visiting Milan.

During your visit, I recommend going to the top of the cathedral for a bird’s eye view of Milan. You can also take a tour of the inside of the cathedral, which is a great way to learn about the history and architecture of this incredible building.

The tours are very informative, and they’re a great way to learn about the history of the church and the city of Milan. The outside of the cathedral is known for being filled with pigeons, so if you’re traveling with kids, they can let out some steam by feeding the pigeons, and you can even take photos holding them. Trust me, that can be important if you’re day is filled with churches and museums.

The nearby Piazza del Duomo is worth a stopover and is home to the Palazzo Reale and the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. It’s a beautiful place to walk around, making it one of the best things to do in Milan.

This is also a great area to stay in while visiting Milan. Hotels like the Park Hyatt Milano, Four Seasons Hotel Milano, and Hotel Cavour are all located within walking distance of the cathedral.

11. Colosseum

Address: Piazza del Colosseo, 1, 00184 Roma RM, Italy

The Colosseum is one of the most popular things to see in Italy, and it’s no surprise why. This massive amphitheater was built over 2,000 years ago, and it’s a truly impressive sight.

The Colosseum was used for gladiator battles and public executions, and it’s estimated that over 500,000 people died there. Today, the Colosseum is one of the most popular ancient monuments in Italy.

A tour of the interior of the Colosseum is a must-do while in the capital of Italy. The tours are very informative, and they’re a great way to learn about the history of the amphitheater. You can also go to the top of the Colosseum for an incredible view of Rome.

If you’re up for it, I recommend taking a tour of the underground chambers. You’ll get to see where the animals and gladiators waited before entering the arena, and it’s a really cool experience.

Are you not entertained?!!

The nearby Roman Forum was once the center of political life in ancient Rome, and it’s a great place to learn about the history of the city. Palatine Hill is also worth a visit, as it’s home to some of the best views of the city.

Rome is also arguably one of the best cities in Italy for nightlife, with popular bars like the Bar del Fico and the Rashomon Bar & Club. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed – it’s impossible to get bored in this historic city.

See Related: Best Military Museums in Europe

12. Bellunesi Dolomites National Park

Address: Dolomiti Bellunesi, Belluno BL, Italy

The Bellunesi Dolomites National Park is a national park located in the province of Belluno, in the Veneto region of the Italian alps. The park was established in 1990 and covers an area of ​​approximately 62 square miles. It’s home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, as well as some stunning landscapes. It’s one of the most-visited national parks in Italy, and it’s easy to see why!

There are activities to do in the park, including hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. There are also a number of lakes and rivers in the park, so it’s a great place to cool off on a hot day. In the winter, you can find hundreds of miles of ski trails. And no matter what time of year you visit, you’re sure to be impressed by the stunning scenery.

If you’re looking for outdoorsy things to do in Italy, the Bellunesi Dolomites National Park is a great option. It’s one of Italy’s best national parks and features one of the most picturesque mountain ranges in Europe.

13. Michelangelo’s David

Address: Via Ricasoli, 58/60, 50129 Firenze FI, Italy

The sculpture of David by Michelangelo is an Italian Renaissance art masterpiece and one of the most famous statues in Italy. This marble statue was sculpted between 1501 and 1504, and it’s truly an impaling sculpture.

The sculpture measures 17 feet tall, and it’s located in the Accademia Gallery in Florence. A visit to the gallery is a must-do while in Florence, and you can also see other works by Michelangelo, including the unfinished statue of David.

The sculpture of David is a must-see for any art lover and if you’re interested in learning more about the statue, the Accademia Gallery offers many tours with knowledgeable guides who can tell you all about it. I recommend taking a tour of the gallery, as it’s a great way to get direct insight into the meaning, approach, and portrayal by Michelangelo. The Accademia Gallery is easy to get to from the city center of Florence.

See Related: Best Places to Visit in Northern Italy

14. Saint Mark’s Basilica

Address: Piazza San Marco, 328, 30100 Venezia VE, Italy

Saint Mark’s Basilica is located in Venice, and it’s one of the best places to visit in Italy. This Byzantine church was built in the 11th century, and it’s a truly stunning sight.

The exterior of the basilica is covered in mosaics, and the interior is equally as impressive. Saint Mark’s Basilica is also home to several important works of art, and it’s a must-see for any art lover.

Tours are available in several languages, and they’re a great way to learn about the history of the basilica and see all of the important works of art. I recommend taking a tour, as it’s a great way to learn about the history of the church and see all of the mosaics and artwork up close.

After exploring the Basilica and Saint Mark’s Square, be sure to wander around Venice and explore all that this unique city has to offer. From the grand canal to the impressive gothic architecture, Venice is truly a one-of-a-kind destination.

15. Uffizi Gallery

Address: Piazzale degli Uffizi, 6, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy

Art lovers, unite! A visit to the Uffizi Gallery is a must-do while in Florence. This world-renowned art museum is home to some of the most famous paintings in the world, including works by Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Raphael. The Uffizi Gallery is also home to many important sculptures, and it’s a great place to learn about the history of art.

There are many things to see in the Uffizi Gallery, and it can be overwhelming. I recommend taking a tour, as they’re a great way to learn about the history of the gallery and see all of the important works of art. Tours are available in multiple languages, so you can choose the one that’s right for you.

Admission to the Uffizi Gallery can be booked online in advance or at the ticket office on the day of your visit. It’s the most popular tourist attraction in Florence, so be sure to add this to your Italy itinerary if you’re visiting for the first time.

See Related: Best Theme Parks in Europe to Visit

16. Sicily

Sicily is incredible to visit for a number of reasons, but if you love pizza, this is your place. Believe it or not, this is where pizza was invented. And you can try some of the best pizza in Sicily at one of the many pizzerias in the city of Catania.

Beyond pizza, this region of Italy loves its food. Beyond trying some of the most classic Italian dishes at a classic trattoria, try your hand at making these dishes yourself in a Sicilian cooking class.

In addition to being the home of pizza, Sicily is also home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Italy. From the black sand beaches of Vulcano to the crystal clear waters of Taormina, there’s a beach for everyone in Sicily. And if you’re looking for a beach that’s a bit off the beaten path, be sure to check out the beaches of the Egadi Islands.

Sicily is also home to Mount Etna, the tallest active volcano in Europe. At over 10,000 feet tall, Mount Etna is an imposing sight. And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even hike to the top of the volcano.

Just be sure to wear appropriate shoes and bring plenty of water, as it can be a strenuous hike. Spending the day on a group tour of Taormina and Mount Etna is a great way to see some of Sicily’s top sights.

If you’re looking for delicious food, beautiful beaches, and adventure, add Sicily to your Italian bucket list.

17. Ponte Vecchio

Address: Ponte Vecchio, 50125 Firenze FI, Italy

This medieval stone bridge is one of the most iconic sights in the old town of Florence. This bridge is an impressive feat of engineering and has been functioning since the building was completed in 1345 by Taddeo Gaddi.

It’s the oldest bridge in Florence, and it’s a beautiful sight, especially at night when it’s lit up. It spans the Arno River and is lined with shops, and it’s one of the most popular shopping destinations in Florence.

If you’re looking for luxury souvenirs, this is the place to find them. The shops on the Ponte Vecchio are known for their excellent selection of new and vintage jewelry. But beware, the prices can be quite high. Expect to pay the tourist location premium.

If you’re interested in the history of the city, be sure to take a walking tour that includes a visit to Ponte Vecchio. You’ll learn about the bridge’s construction, its resilience during World War II, and how it has been used throughout the centuries.

There are several excellent hotels right near the bridge if you are looking to stay in the heart of Florence. The Hotel Ponte Vecchio Suites & Spa is a great option if you’re looking for luxury accommodations in a unique location. This beautiful bridge is a symbol of Florence, and it’s a great place to do some shopping and people-watching.

See Related: Italy vs Greece: What’s the Difference?

18. Boboli Gardens

Address: Piazza de’ Pitti, 1, 50125 Firenze FI, Italy

The Boboli Gardens are one of the best places to visit in Florence. And it’s no wonder why. These beautiful gardens offer something for everyone. With over 45 acres of land to explore, you could easily spend a whole day here.

The Boboli Gardens date back to the 16th century, and they were created for the Medici family. The gardens were designed to be a place of both pleasure and luxury.

There are Roman ruins, sculptures, fountains, and even an amphitheater. You can also find a botanical garden with over 500 different species of plants.

The Boboli Gardens are also a great place to relax. With plenty of green space to enjoy, it’s the perfect place to take a break from sightseeing. And if you get hungry, there are several restaurants located within the gardens. These beautiful gardens are a great way to spend a day enjoying the outdoor beauty like a Renaissance-era royal.

19. Valley of the Temples

Address: 92100 Agrigento, Italy

The Valley of the Temples is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Sicily. This archaeological site is home to a number of ancient Greek temples, and it’s a great place to learn about the history of the region.

This historic landmark was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997 due to its cultural and historical significance. The site includes the Temple of Concordia, the Temple of Hera, and the Temple of Zeus. These temples are some of the best-preserved ancient Greek temples in the world. Yes, Greek! Not Roman, as you might expect to find in Sicily.

In addition to the temples, there are also a number of other activities here such as an archeological museum on site, the ancient ruins within the archaeological park, or simply taking in the stunning views of the surrounding countryside. You can get to this archaeological site easily on a day tour from the nearby towns of Palermo and Agrigento.

See Related: Fun & Best Things to do in Ravello, Italy

20. Roman Catacombs

Address: Fontana del Tritone, Piazza Barberini, 00187 Roma RM, Italy

For a spooky and unique experience, be sure to visit the Roman Catacombs. These underground burial chambers are some of the most popular tourist attractions in Rome.

The Roman Catacombs are a network of tunnels and chambers that were used for burial purposes. The catacombs date back to the 2nd century, and they were used until the 5th century. It’s believed that there are over 60 catacombs in Rome, but only a handful are open to the public. Here, you can find the remains of over 16,000 people!

When visiting the Roman Catacombs, you’ll have the opportunity to explore these ancient burial chambers. You’ll also learn about the history of the catacombs and see the artifacts that have been found here.

A guided tour of this place will definitely give you a new perspective on death and burial practices. The Roman Catacombs are a great way to learn about the history of Rome. And they’re also a great place to take some unique photos.

If you’re wondering what to see in Italy that is a little bit different, be sure to add the Roman Catacombs to your list. This is a unique and interesting place that is sure to give you chills!

See Related: Incredible Bucket List Ideas

21. Lake Como

Italy has some impressive landscapes and natural landmarks, and Lake Como is one of the best. This large lake is located in the Lombardy region of Italy, and it’s a popular tourist destination. This massive lake spans about 29 miles long and has a maximum depth of around 1,350 feet at its deepest point.

But Lake Como isn’t just a big lake – it’s also a beautiful one! The lake is surrounded by mountains and is known for its stunning scenery. We recommend that you take a boat tour of the lake, visit one of the many towns that line its shores or simply enjoy the stunning views.

I recommend taking a visit to the Villa Carlotta, which is a beautiful villa and gardens. Or you can take a cable car up to the town of Brunate for some stunning views of the lake! Lake Como is a great place to get out of the city for a bit and enjoy a picnic lunch or a hike in the mountains.

If you’re looking for cheap things to do in Italy, Lake Como is a great option. It’s easy to get to on a day trip from Milan, and you definitely won’t be disappointed by the views. Expect to pay a premium price for accommodation and dining, but other than that you can fill your schedule with plenty of affordable outdoor activities.

See Related: Best Day Trips from Rome, Italy

22. Santa Maria delle Grazi

Address: Piazza di Santa Maria delle Grazie, 20123 Milano MI, Italy

La basilica di Santa Maria delle Grazie, commonly known as Santa Maria delle Grazie, is a Catholic church and Dominican convent in Milan. The church and convent are located in the Borgo district of Milan, close to the city’s main railway station. This famous church contains the mural of The Last Supper by Leonardo da Vinci, which is in a room that was once part of a refectory of the convent.

The site was once occupied by a church known as Santa Maria Maggiore which was founded in 1466 and rebuilt in 1490. It was then destroyed by French forces in 1568 during the course of the Italian Wars. The church and convent as we know them today were later rebuilt in 1579 by the order of Saint Charles Borromeo.

The new church was consecrated in 1614, and the mural of The Last Supper was completed between 1594 and 1598 by Leonardo da Vinci. Santa Maria delle Grazie has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1980 and has been a symbol of Milan for centuries.

In addition to the famous Last Supper painting, the church contains many other works of art, including paintings by Bernardino Luini, Gian Paolo Lomazzo, and Andrea Solari. The church is open to the public for guided art tours, which is a great way to learn more about the history of the building and the art.

23. Lake Garda

Address: M2QR+94 Predore, Province of Bergamo

Lago di Garda, or Lake Garda, of the Bergamo province, is a must-visit place in Italy if you’re looking for some relaxation or a great honeymoon destination. It has stunning views and a relaxed atmosphere, making it the perfect spot to spend a few days unwinding.

The lake itself is surrounded by rolling hills and lush vegetation, creating a peaceful and calming environment. There are plenty of activities available to enjoy, such as swimming, sailing, kayaking, fishing, or just exploring the area on foot or by bike.

There are also many small towns dotting the shores of Lake Garda which offer delicious food and plenty of places to stay. For those looking for a tranquil retreat away from it all, Lake Garda is an ideal destination.

24. Visit the small country of San Marino

Address: Città di San Marino

Italy is home to not one, but two other countries within its borders. The first is the Vatican and the other is San Marino. This mountainous “micro-state” is known for its incredibly beautiful landscapes and cultural activities.

If you are looking for an interesting place to explore, San Marino has a lot to offer visitors including charming (but vibrant) towns as well as plenty of historical sights. You can take a walk through the old city walls of San Marino City and visit some of the oldest buildings in Europe. Or, take a stroll along the cobbled streets and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

There are also plenty of museums, churches, and art galleries that you can explore, as well as plenty of outdoor activities like hiking and cycling that will help you discover this beautiful country. Did you think you could cross another country off your list by visiting Italy? Well, there you have it.

25. Lake Maggiore and the Borromean Islands

Address: XM6J+J6 Porto Valtravaglia, Province of Varese

Lake Maggiore and the Borromean Islands are on of the best places in Italy to visit for those that love outdoor adventures. The lake is one of the largest in Europe and provides a picturesque backdrop for any trip to Italy.

The Borromean Islands are located on Lake Maggiore and provide visitors with plenty of activities such as sailing, kayaking, windsurfing, swimming, and sunbathing. There are also some great restaurants and cafes around the islands that make it an ideal destination for a day out or even an overnight stay.

It’s a great place to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature while still being close enough to explore the rest of what Italy has to offer.

26. Take a road trip along the Italian Riviera

Address: 16034 Portofino GE, Italy

A road trip along the Italian Riviera is an unforgettable experience. From the glistening waters of the Mediterranean Sea to the rolling hills of Tuscany, this is a journey that will never be forgotten.

Driving along the coast of the Italian Riviera offers breathtaking views and opportunities to explore quaint Italian towns such as the ultra-posh Portofino, Santa Margherita Ligure, Sestri Levante, and Rapallo. Or, take in the larger cities like Genoa where you can taste authentic Genovese pesto and focaccia.

You can take in all of Italy’s culture, food, and history while driving through some of its most beautiful countrysides. With some planning and research, you can make your Italian road trip a perfect getaway full of adventure, relaxation, and beautiful scenery. Taking a road trip to Italy is sure to leave you with many wonderful memories that will last a lifetime.

27. Take a boat trip to Sardinia

Address: Piazza Costituzione, 09121 Cagliari CA

A boat trip to Sardinia is an amazing way to explore the wonders of nature in the great outdoors. If you didn’t know, Sardinia is an autonomous region and island in the Mediterranean Sea.

The region is known for its rugged coastline, vast mountain ranges, and unique wildlife (you can spot wild horses here pretty easily). This is an underrated spot in Italy that’s ideal for those looking to get away from it all and experience some of Europe’s best natural beauty.

The region’s capital, Cagliari, is known for some of the best boating in all of Europe along with a posh nightlife and dining scene. You won’t find massive crowds here given that it is relatively hard to get to from outside of Europe. That’s what makes it truly special for the ultimate Italian experience.

28. Explore the island of Procida

Address: 80079 Procida, Metropolitan City of Naples

Not only is Italy an absolute gem for lakes and coastal experiences, but this country also features some of the best islands in the entire world. The lesser-known island of Procida, in the Bay of Naples, is exactly one of those.

While famous counterparts like Capri and Sardinia are consistently on the must-visits for a number of travelers, Procida offers equal beauty, history, and excellent dining, often afforded at cheaper prices.

The landscape of the island is fascinating as it was created from the eruption of four (now dormant) volcanoes over time. Procida was up for being named the capital of culture by several other Italian cities given its historical significance and heritage.

See Related: Best Places to Visit in France

What is Italy known for?

First, let’s get the important stuff out of the way. Italy is, of course, the home of pizza. Italian cuisine and wine are a major part of Italian culture and have been enjoyed by people all over the world.

Italy is known for its rich culture, art, and architecture. The country is home to some of the world’s best museums, galleries, and churches, so a trip to Italy almost always includes an appreciation of its art, architecture, and history.

Italians, in general, are passionate about their food, fashion, music, and traditions, which can be seen in everyday life throughout the country. You can explore Italy in so many different ways that one trip here may not be enough.

You can spend an entire year enjoying its great food and wine, breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cultures, fascinating historical sites, and beautiful beaches without getting bored. With all that it has to offer, it’s kind of obvious why this country has been a go-to bucket list destination for people all over the world.

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