Are you looking for a travel adventure to Italy? If so, you’ve come to the right place!

Italy is a wonderful country, and it’s full of things to see and places to visit. In this article I would like to focus on the cities I consider the most beautiful in the country. That’s why we’ve compiled this list of the 15 best cities to visit in Italy.

Italy is one of the most popular vacation destinations in the entire world, and it’s not difficult to understand why. The European country is overflowing with historic landmarks, artistic traditions, and heavenly cuisine. From the snowy Alps to the Italian Riviera to the rolling vineyards of Tuscany, you might be overwhelmed when deciding where to spend your time in Italy.

Rome

When it comes to the best cities to visit in Italy, Rome is often at the top of the list. This ancient city offers a wide range of attractions and activities for visitors, from its impressive monuments and ancient ruins to its vibrant nightlife.

Whether you’re looking for culture, history, romance, or entertainment, there’s no better place to find it than in Rome.

Rome is home to some of the world’s most iconic sights, like the Colosseum and St. Peter’s Basilica. The city also boasts impressive museums, like the Vatican Museums, as well as stunning cathedrals, churches, palaces, and villas.

Top Rated Tourist Attraction in Rome:

There are many tourist attraction places in Rome such as Colosseum, Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, Vatican Museum and Sistine Chapel, and the Borghese Museum. Walk through the historic heart of Rome, explore Piazza Navona and Campo de Fiori, and have dinner in Trastevere.

How much time you need to spend in Rome?

You can hit the main Cities in a rushed one-day tour of the city. With even more time, you can explore Rome’s nooks and crannies, take a food tour, and venture off-the- beaten-path.

Where to stay in Rome’’

• LUXURY: Singer Palace Hotel –   small and chic 5 star hotels with stylish rooftop terrace
• MIDRANGE: Boutique Hotel Campo de’ Fiori – charming 4 star hotel in a great position close to the market
• BUDGET: Little Queen Pantheon – this 3 star hotel offers lots of value, style and substance.

Venice

Venice, the capital of northern Italy’s Veneto region, is built on more than 10 small islands in a lagoon in the Adriatic Sea. It has no roads, just canals- including the Grand Canal thoroughfare- lined wit Renaissance and Gothic Palaces.

Venice is not only one of the best cities to visit in Italy, but also one of the best cities to visit in the world.Venice is a unique city unlike anywhere else. This charming city is also home to several world renowned museums and galleries, offering a cultural experience unlike any other.

The art and architecture of Venice are something to be admired, making it an ideal spot for photographers. The iconic buildings like St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace are must-sees, as well as the colorful Venetian Gondolas that cruise through the canals.

Top Rated Tourist Attraction in Venice:

Wander along the canals, take a gondola ride through the city, see St. Mark’s square, walk across the Rialto Bridge, and visit the doges’ Palace and Saint Mark’s Basilica.

Ideas for Travel with Kids: Tyler and Kara loved the gondola ride. We also really enjoyed renting bikes and cycling around Lido Island.

How long should you spend in Venice?

Two to three days gives you more time to visit Murano, Burano, and Lido and to explore the quieter neighborhoods away from the main touristic area.

Where to Stay in Venice?

• Luxury: The St. Regis Venice – 5-Star hotel with amazing views of the Grand Canal.
• Mid-Range: Hotel Montecarlo – 3-Star hotel with Venetian-style rooms and only 150 feet from Piazza San Marco (Saint Mark’s Square).
• Budget: Hotel San– Quaint 3-star hotel 350 feet from Saint Mark’s Square.

Florence

When it comes to Best Cities to visit in Italy, Florence is definitely one of the top contenders. From its vibrant culture and incredible architecture to its rich history and stunning views, Florence has something for everyone. The city is home to some of the world’s most iconic landmarks, including the Duomo di Firenze (Florence Cathedral), the Uffizi Gallery, and the Ponte Vecchio Bridge.

It’s also known as the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance and home to some of the most renowned artwork in the world, such as Michelangelo’s David. Whether you’re looking for an educational experience or a leisurely getaway, Florence is sure to be a highlight of your trip to Italy.

Top Rated Tourist Attraction in Florence:

See Michelangelo’s David, climb the Duomo, tour the Uffizi Gallery, stroll across Ponte Vecchio, eat lots of gelato, the rooftop and restaurants, and watch the sunset over Florence from Piazzale Michelangelo.

Ideas for Traveling with Kids: Florence can feel like museum overload for kids. In between museum visits, climb the towers and treat them to gelato. Tyler and Kara loved seeing Michelangelo’s David, climbing the Duomo, and walking through Boboli Gardens. They also enjoyed the Galileo Museum.

How Much Time Do You Need in Florence? 

You can race through the best of Florence in one day, however, two to three days allow you to slow down and visit some worthwhile off-the-beaten-path spots. Florence also makes a great home base for day trips into Tuscany.

Where to stay in Florence?

• LUXURY: Portrait Firenze – chic 5 star hotel with panoramic views of the Arno river and steps from the Ponte Vecchio
• MIDRANGE: Continentale – charming 4 star design hotel with magnificent views of the Ponte Vecchio and Arno River
• BUDGET: Hotel Perseo – just steps from the Duomo, this modern 3 star hotel even has a rooftop terrace with city views.

TUSCANY

Tuscany is a region in central Italy. Its capital, Florence, is home to some of the world’s most recognizable Renaissance art and architecture, including Michelangelo’s “David” statue, Botticelli’s works in the Uffizi Gallery and the Duomo basilica.

 Its diverse natural landscape encompasses the rugged Apennine Mountains, the island of Elba’s beaches on the Tyrrhenian Sea and Chianti’s olive groves and vineyards.

Top Rated Tourist Attraction in Tuscany:

Tour the hill towns of Tuscany. Siena (see below) is one of the larger towns and, like Florence, makes a great home base for exploring this region. Top hill towns include San Gimignano, Pienza, Montalcino, Montepulciano, and Volterra.

Ideas for Traveling with Kids: Tuscany is a nice break from Italy’s bigger cities. It’s possible to rent bikes and take a cycling tour of the wineries. The kids can’t taste the wine, of course, but they might enjoy biking between the wineries, depending on their age. We did this with Tyler and Kara in other wine regions in the world and they really enjoyed it.

How Much Time Should You Spend in Tuscany? With one day you can day trip into Tuscany from Florence, visiting a few of the smaller towns. But more time, ideally three to five days, allows you to relax and soak up this region. Stay in Siena or one of the smaller hill towns and explore Tuscany and its wineries.

Where to stay in Tuscany:

• LUXURY:  San Firenze Suites & Spa – A top rated luxury 5 star hotel in the heart of city.
• MIDRANGE: Abbadia Sicille – A charming 4 star design hotel.
• BUDGET:  Hotel Perseo – this modern 3 star hotel.

Siena

Siena is one of the Best Cities to visit in Italy, boasting beautiful sights and stunning architecture. To get to Siena, travelers can fly into Florence or Pisa International Airports, both of which are easily accessible from Siena by car or bus.

Technically Siena is a hill town in Tuscany. But it is such a great places to visit that it deserve its own mention. Siena is similar to Florence, but quieter and smaller. We actually liked Siena more than Florence. There’s just something about this town that we fell in love with. You may fall in love with it to.

Top Rated Tourist Attraction in Siena:

Wander the cobblestoned streets, overlook Siena from Torre Del Mangia, visit the Siena Cathedral, and speed time in II campo.

How long do you need in Siena?

 It’s easy to visit Siena as a trip from Florence or Tuscany. if you have more time, Spend at least one night here to really experience Siena.

Where to stay in Siena?

• LUXURY: Vittoria Design Hotel – A luxury 5 star hotel.
• MIDRANGE:  Abbadia Sicille – charming 4 star design hotel.
• BUDGET: – Hotel Perseo – this modern 3 star hotel.

Naples

Naples is the regional capital of Campania and the third-largest city of Italy, after Rome and Milan. One of the Best Cities to visit in Italy is Naples. Located in the Campania region of Southern Italy, it’s known as one of the oldest continuously-inhabited cities in the world, dating back to the 9th century BCE.

Naples is the Birthplace of Pizza. Here you can visit the famous Royal Palace, three castles, and the National Archaeological Museum, which hosts the largest collection of artifacts and ornaments in the world, dating back to ancient Rome.

Top Rated Tourist Attraction in Naples:

Rated tourist attraction these are following Ovo Castle, Castel Nuovo, Royal Palace of Naples, San Carlo Theatre, Piazza del Plebiscito, Galleria Umberto I, Duomo di Napoli.

How much time do you need in Naples? 2-3 days required to visit the whole city.

Where to stay in Naples?

• LUXURY: The Ritz-Carlton, Naples – A 5 star hotel are located on the Gulf of Mexico beach.
• MIDRANGE:  Hilton Naples – A charming 4 star design hotel in Beachfront area with upscale homes around Inner Doctors Bay waterway & boutiques in shopping plazas..
• BUDGET: Collins Hotel Naples – this modern 3 star hotel located in Set along Highway 41, this casual hotel fronted with palm trees is a mile from the closest beach on the Gulf of Mexico and 2 miles from Old Town.

Milan

Being the fashion capital, Milan is one of the best cities in Italy to explore that has loads to see. Once here, make sure to see some of the incredible pieces of art, such as the infamous last Supper, which is housed at Santa Maria delle Grazie.

Milan is worth visiting for its abundance of historical, cultural, and architectural landmarks. This vibrant metropolis offers plenty of options for sightseeing, shopping, and dining. So, if you’re looking for a city filled with culture, adventure and history, Milan is the place to go!

Top Rated Tourist Attraction in Milan:

walk on the roof of the Duomo, see Da Vinici’s last Supper,’’ go shopping at Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, Santa Maria delle Grazie, Monumental Cemestery, Palazzo             Reale di Milano, Cathedral Square, Piazza Mercanti, Cathedral Square.

Ideas for Traveling with Kids: Climb to the roof of the Duomo for a bird’s eye view over the city.

How long do you need in Milan?  Milan makes a nice day trip if you are traveling between cities such as Florence, Venice, Lake Como, and the Cinque Terre.

Where to stay in Milan?

• LUXURY:  The Square Milano Duomo– A luxury 5 star hotel located in the heart of this city.
• MIDRANGE: Uptown Palace– A charming 4 stars design hotel.
• BUDGET: Serendipity Rooms – this modern 3 star hotel.

Lake Garda

When planning your Italian vacation, Lake Garda should be high on your list of Best Cities to visit in Italy. This beautiful destination offers stunning views, delicious cuisine, and a variety of activities to make for an unforgettable holiday. Here’s what you need to know about visiting Lake Garda.

Lake Garda is the largest lake in Italy. It is a popular holiday location in northern Italy, about halfway between Brescia and Verona, and between Venice and Milan on the edge of the Dolomites. 

Lake Garda, in northern Italy, is known for its crystal clear water. At the south end, the towns of Sirmione are dominated by the Rocca Scaligera, a fortress with harbor views. The nearby Grotte di Catullo archaeological site includes a Rome villa.

Top Rated Tourist Attraction in Lake Garda:

The main attraction of Lake Garda is the beauty of the landscape. The azure waters, jagged mountains, Jamaica Beach, Isola del Garda, simione, and vibrant flower gardens will leave you mesmerized. Take a boat tour around the lake to soak up its stunning scenery, or explore it by foot on one of the many walking trails that lead along its shoreline.

How much time do you need in Lake Garda? 4-7 days required to visit the whole Lake Garda city.

Where you stay in Lake Garda?

• LUXURY:     Grand Hotel Fasano –    A luxury top rated 5 star hotel in the heart of city.
• MIDRANGE:      Grand Hotel Riva –A charming 4 star design hotel.
• BUDGET: Hotel Pace – A modern 3 star hotel.

Verona

Verona is a city on the Adige River in Veneto, Italy, with 58031 inhabitants. It is the one of the seven provincial capitals of the region.

The city of Verona is rich of Rome antiquities (the city is also known as little Rome) nevertheless it is mostly famous as the setting of the love story Romeo and Juliet. The symbol of the city is the great Roman Area.

Verona is not only the city of Romeo and Juliet, but also the “Gateway to Italy” because it showcases and foreshadows all of Italy’s beauty and cultural wealth to visitors arriving from the north. The Venetian city is enthralling thanks to an atmosphere that is rich in history and priceless beauty.

Top Rated Tourist Attraction in Verona:

Verona’s main tourist attraction is its incredible architecture, which dates back to Roman times. The most popular sites include the Arena di Verona, the Castelvecchio, and Juliet’s Balcony. The city is also known for its impressive collection of Renaissance and Baroque art and sculptures.

How much time do you need in Verona? 3 -4 days required to visit the whole Pisa city.

Where to stay in Verona?

• LUXURY:  Hotel Due Torri’   – A top rated 5 star hotel near the Sant’ Anastasia church.
• MIDRANGE: Best Western CTC Hotel Verona – A charming 4 star design hotel.
• BUDGET: Hotel  Martini – A modern 3 star hotel located near Verna Porta Nuova train station.

Pisa

When looking for the Best Cities to visit in Italy, Pisa is a great choice. Located in the Tuscan region of central Italy, this city is known for its renowned iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa and many other architectural wonders, The city is spectacularly rich in history, from ancient churches and palaces to beautiful Italian squares.

Everybody in the world knows the tower of Pisa and everybody at least once dreamed of taking a cool and funny picture with it.

After a busy day of sightseeing, wander the old streets, try different gelato flavors, or stroll along the Arno River with the majestic mountains in the background. Enjoy all the top things to do in Pisa”.

Top Rated Tourist Attraction in Pisa:

Climb the Tower if heights and vertigo is not an issue for you. There are few places to visit for visitor such as, National Museum of San Matteo, Piazza del Duomo, Palazzo Blu, Camposanto.

How long Do You need in Pisa? You can visit Pisa in two hours if you are travelling between cities such as Florence and the Cinque Terre.

Where to stay in Pisa?

• LUXURY:   Hotel Pisa Tower Plaza –A luxury 5 star hotel.
• MIDRANGE:  grand Hotel Duomo– A charming 4 star design hotels.
• BUDGET:  B&B Hotel Pisa – this modern 3 star hotel.

Amalfi Coast

The Amalfi Coast, located in southern Italy, is one of the Best Cities to visit in Italy. From the dramatic coastline views to the quaint towns and villages, the Amalfi Coast offers something for everyone. Here’s a look at how to get there, where to stay, the main tourist attractions and the top rated city tour

Amalfi gives its name to one of the most beautiful coast and sea landscape in Italy, the Costiera Amalfitana.

The Amalfi Coast is famous for its picturesque seaside town, cliffs, and beaches. It’s known for its stunning coastline and colorful villages with steep and narrow streets. Many towns along the Amalfi Coast have a rich historical legacy with important sights of history and artistic value.

Top Rated Tourist Attraction in Amalfi Coast:

Visit the towns on the Amalfi Coast such as Positano, Amalfi, and Ranvello. You can get around using public transportation (the SITA buses) but in our experience, we were left stranded on multiple occasions, making bus travel in Italy a nightmare. After our experience, we would recommend traveling by ferry or paying the extra money and hiring a driver.

Ideas for traveling with kids: Rent kayaks in Positano. Kids will love this and the views of the town are amazing from the water.

How long should you spend on the Amalfi Coast?

You can drive the entire Amalfi Coast in one day. However, if you enjoyed coastal towns, serval nights in Positano would be a great Experience.

Where to stay in Amalfi Coast?

• LUXURY:  Santa Caterina Hotel – A best luxury 5 star hotel.
• MIDRANGE:  Hotel Mrina Riviera – A charming 4 star design hotel.
• BUDGET: Hotel Amalfi– A modern 3 star hotel.

Sicily

Sicily is one of the Best Cities to visit in Italy. Located in the Mediterranean Sea, this historic city has been a popular destination for centuries. But, what’s so special about Sicily that makes it one of the Best Cities to visit in Italy? Let’s find out!

Sicily is the largest island in the Mediterranean. It is home to Mt. Etna, the second most active volcano in the world, along with several smaller active volcanoes. It is also home to ancient Greek and Roman ruins, gorgeous beaches, picturesque towns, and hundreds of castles. Come for the beaches, the culture, the ancient historical sites, the cuisine, and the beautiful cities and towns.

Top Rated Tourist Attraction in Sicily:

Visit the Greek Theatre of Taormina, climb Mt. Etna, visit the Aeolian Islands, see Temple of Concordia at Valley of the Temples, visit Palermo, the capital of Sicily, and relax on the beaches.

Ideas for Traveling with Kids: Kids will love playing in the crystal-clear water of the beaches. With younger kids, take the cable car/bus combo to the top of Mt. Etna. Older kids might enjoy the hike up Mt. Etna, the highest active volcano in Europe.

How Much Time Do You Need in Sicily? You need a bare minimum of three days. This gives you a tiny taste of what Sicily has to offer. With three days, you can visit the historical highlights, relax on the beach, and visit Mt. Etna. However, more time is better. There is enough to do here that you could easily spend 7 or 10 days on the island.

Where to stay in Sicily?

• LUXURY: Grand Hotel Timeo, A Belmond Hotel, Taormina – A top luxury 5 star hotel.
• MIDRANGE: Grand Hotel Piazza Borsa – charming 4 star design hotel.
• BUDGET: Hotel dei Pini – this modern 3 star hotel.

Turin

Turin is a city in the very north, so close to the amazing Alpes Mountains, the perfect place if you want to see beautiful sceneries of mountains and snow.

Trieste is one of the Best Cities to visit in Italy and it has plenty of attractions to offer tourists. To get to Trieste, you can easily reach the city by taking a train from Venice, Milan, or any other major Italian city. Once you’re there, there are several great hotels for you to choose from, depending on your budget and preferences.

Top Rated Tourist Attraction in Turin:

There is few top tourist attraction such as Egyptian Museum, Mole Antonelliana, Piazza San Carlo, Juventus Museum, Allianz Stadium.

How much time do you need in Turin? 4-7 days required to visit the whole Turin city.

Where to stay in Turin?

• LUXURY: Grand Hotel Sitea – A Top class luxury  5 star hotel.
• MIDRANGE:  Turin Palace Hotel – charming 4 star design hotel.
• BUDGET:B&B Hotel Torino– this modern 3 star hotel.

Bologna

Did you know that the oldest university in the world is in Italy?  It’s located in Bologna, and it’s more than two thousand years old.

Bologna is famous for its university and every year a lot of international students choose to study here and to explore Italy being based in Bologna.

Bologna is one of the Best Cities to visit in Italy and offers a unique blend of traditional and modern attractions. The city has a long history, which is visible in its beautiful architecture. Getting to Bologna is easy and convenient, with several airports located nearby.

Top Rated Tourist Attraction in Bologna:

Piazza Maggiore and Piazza del Nettuno, San Petronio (Basilica of St. Petronius), Santo Stefano (St. Stephen Basilica),  Leaning Towers, Sanctuary and Portico of the Madonna di San Luca, Bologna’s Portici, Enjoy Bolognese Food, San Domenico (St. Dominic Church)

How much time do you need in Bologna? 3 days required to visit the whole city.

Where to stay in Bologna?

• LUXURY:  Grand Hotel Majestic gia Baglioni – A luxury 5 star hotel in the heart of Bologna city.
• MIDRANGE:   AC Hotel by Marriott Bologna – A charming 4 stars hotel in the heart of Bologna.
• BUDGET:  B&B Hotel Bologna– this modern 3 star hotel.

Palermo

Palermo is Italy’s fifth-largest city and the capital of Sicily with a population of just over 600,000 inhabitants.

Palermo is recognized as the, most conquered city in history, and it boasts Europe’s second –largest historical center. Palermo is among the cities boasting the largest number of UNESCO SITES. In and around Palermo you will find charming villages in the province recognized as the most attractive in the country.

Palermo is a burgeoning destination in Italy for good reason. This underrated city is the perfect place to experience authentic Sicilian cuisine and culture, and learn about the incredible history of an ancient city

Top Rated Tourist Attraction in Palermo:

There are a lot of tourist attractions for visitor in Palermo theses are following Massimo Theator, Norman Palace, Quattro Canti, Praetorian Fountain, Church of San Cataldo, Royal Palace and Palatine Chapel.

How much time do you need in Palermo? 3-4 days is perfect to visit the best tourist attractions of the city.

Where to stay in Palermo?

• LUXURY:  Grand Hotel Wagner – A luxury 5 star hotel in the heart of this city.
• MIDRANGE:   Hotel NH Palermo – A charming 4 stars hotel.
• BUDGET:  Hotel Joli– this modern 3 star hotel.

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