Visiting italy
Italy offers a rich blend of history, culture, cuisine, and stunning landscapes. It is no wonder is ranks among the most visited tourist countries in the world every year! Located in Europe it is easy to get to and to travel around. From ancient ruins, fabulous art, incredible food you will be blown away by all this vast country has to offer!
where to visit italy
The great part about Italy is that each region has its own unique character and attractions, making Italy a country to visit time and time again (I’ve already been four times- and still have so much more to explore!). From from the ancient city of Rome to the romantic canals of Venice, the art and architecture of Florence, the food heaven of Bologna, to the preserved city of Pompeii, the breathtaking beauty of Lake Como, and the glamorous fashion and style of Milan. That is just the tip of the iceberg of all this country has to offer! Wherever you decide to go you will not be disappointed! This is just a list of the top 10 places I have been in Italy.
Ten Must visit places
Rome
Rome is a city rich in history, architecture, art and cuisine. It has some incredible landmarks including the Colosseum, the Trevi Fountain, Castle Saint Angleo, Piazza Navona, Piazza del Popolo and so much more. Rome is the capital and largest city and also the most tourist visited city in Italy! (personally visited in 2001 and 2013)
Venice
Venice is a unique city built on a lagoon, known for its picturesque canals, bridges, and historic architecture. Visitors can take a gondola ride, visit St. Mark’s Basilica, and explore the many charming neighborhoods. Some of the other top sites include Rialto Bridge, Doge’s Palace, Grand Canal and taking a trip over to Burano with its colorful homes. (Visited in 2018)
Milan
Milan is a cosmopolitan city known for its fashion, design, and art scene. Visitors can admire the magnificent Gothic cathedral, the stunning Sforza Castle, and Leonardo da Vinci’s famous painting, The Last Supper. The city also offers excellent shopping, nightlife, and dining options! (Visited in 2023)
Florence
Florence is a must-visit destination for art lovers and history buffs. Visitors can stroll along the picturesque Ponte Vecchio bridge, explore the Uffizi Gallery, and indulge in the delicious Tuscan cuisine. Some of the top iconic sites include the Duomo, Giotto’s bell tower, Accademia Gallery home to Michelangelo’s David, Basilica di Santa Croce, Piazza della Signoria and so much more. (Visited in 2001 and 2013)
Pisa
Pisa is a small city in Tuscany, famous for its iconic Leaning Tower, one of the world’s most recognized landmarks. Visitors can climb to the top of the tower and explore the stunning Piazza dei Miracoli. Pisa is a popular day trip from Florence. (Visited 2001)
capri
Capri is a stunning island located in the Bay of Naples, known for its turquoise waters, stunning cliffs, and luxurious villas. Visitors can take a boat tour around the island, and explore the charming town of Anacapri. (Visited 2001)
bologna
Bologna is a city in northern Italy, known for its rich culinary tradition, medieval architecture, and vibrant university scene. Visitors can explore the city’s many porticoes including the longest in the world to the Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca. Other great landmarks to explore include the Two Towers, St. Stephen Basilica, and Piazza Maggiore No trip to Bologna is complete without sampling the famous local cuisine such as tortellini, pasta Bolognese and mortadella. (Visited 2023)
pompeii
Pompeii is an ancient Roman city near Naples, destroyed and buried by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. Visitors can explore the well-preserved ruins. Pompeii is a UNESCO World Heritage site. (Visited 2001)
Rimini
Rimini is a popular seaside resort town on the Adriatic Coast, known for its long sandy beaches, vibrant nightlife, and Roman history. Some of the top sites to visit include the Arch of Augusto, Malatesta Temple and Tiberius Bridge. It also is perfect city to day trip to San Marino from. (Visited 2023)
Lake Como
Lake Como is a breathtaking lake in northern Italy surrounded by picturesque villages, lush hills, and snow-capped mountains. Visitors can take a boat tour around the lake and visit some of the charming cities adorning the lake including Bellagio, Menaggio, Como and more. (Visited 2023)
My experience
I’ve been to Italy four different times and to different places and though these are some of the top places I’ve been I still have so much more to explore in Italy. Italy was part of my first international trip in 2001 (as you can tell by the picture quality!) and I kept going back. I went to Florence and Rome again in 2013 on my 3 month backpacking journey, to Venice in 2018 and then to Milan, Lake Como, Rimini and Bologna in 2023. Other top destinations I cannot wait to check out include Cinque Terre, Sicily, the Dolomites, Verona, Sardinia and so much more. Trust me and put Italy to the top of your travel bucket list- you won’t regret it!
