15+ Best Cities to Visit in Italy for Your Next Vacation

Got Italy on your mind? You're probably wondering, "With so many incredible spots, what really are the best cities to visit in Italy for my kind of trip?" It's a great question because, let's be honest, Italy spoils you for choice.

Think about wandering through ancient Roman streets one day, then getting lost in the romantic canals of Venice the next. Or maybe you're imagining yourself soaking up all that incredible Renaissance art in Florence, or grabbing the most delicious pizza you've ever had in Naples. Seriously, the options are fantastic.

That's why TravelThru has put this guide together for you. We want to help you discover some truly special Italian cities, the ones that will make your trip absolutely unforgettable. We'll show you what makes each place unique so you can find the perfect spots for your adventure.

Best Cities to Visit in Italy for the First Time

1. Rome

For first-timers, Rome is a no-brainer because it’s packed with those "pinch-me-I'm-really-here" iconic sights. You've seen them in movies, you've read about them in books, and now you get to experience them up close.

It's a city with a huge amount of history, and it can be wonderfully chaotic and full of energy. You'll feel the past all around you, but also the lively beat of today's Roman life.

Top must-see attractions for your first Roman holiday:

• The Colosseum & Roman Forum: Seriously, these are mind-blowing. Wander through the ancient arena where gladiators once fought and then explore the ruins of what was once the bustling center of Roman life.

   

• Vatican City: Technically its own country, but it's right in Rome! Be awed by St. Peter's Basilica, explore the vast Vatican Museums, and gaze up at Michelangelo's masterpiece in the Sistine Chapel.
   

• The Pantheon: This architectural marvel, with its iconic dome, is breathtaking. Step inside and just look up – you’ll see what we mean.

   

• Trevi Fountain: Don't forget to toss a coin in (right hand over left shoulder) to ensure your return to Rome. It’s even more stunning in person, especially at night.

>>> Maybe you're interested in: How to Get Around Rome Like a Local.

2. Florence

Florence is often the next stop that first-timers fall head over heels for. If Rome is like stepping into a history book, Florence is like walking straight into a Renaissance painting. It’s the kind of beautiful that makes you stop in your tracks and just say, "wow."

Besides the amazing art, the city itself is beautiful. It has a huge, impressive church called the Duomo, and a lovely old bridge named Ponte Vecchio with lots of jewelry stores. Plus, the pretty hills of Tuscany are very close by.

What's also great is that the city is quite small, so you can walk to most places. This makes it really easy to explore and get a feel for that special Tuscan charm.

Destinations to fall in love with Florence:

• The Duomo (Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore): Its iconic red-tiled dome dominates the city skyline. Climbing to the top is an adventure with an unforgettable view.

   

• Uffizi Gallery: This gallery houses some of the world's most famous Renaissance masterpieces, including Botticelli's “Birth of Venus.”

   

• Accademia Gallery: Standing before the actual statue of David is an experience that photos just can't capture. 

   

• Ponte Vecchio: This medieval bridge is perfect for a romantic stroll, especially at sunset.
   

3. Venice

If it's your first Italian trip, Venice is truly one of the best cities to visit. It's a city that feels like a dream until you actually see it. There are no roads or cars here. Instead, you'll find canals, smooth-sailing boats called gondolas, and pretty little bridges for walking.

As you explore the waterways and quiet spots, it feels like time has stopped. The main tourist areas can be busy and full of life. But if you walk away from the crowds, you'll find a more peaceful and mysterious part of the city. Venice is romantic, a bit like a movie set, and truly amazing.

Top must-do experiences for your Venetian trip:

• St. Mark's Square & Basilica: This is the bustling heart of Venice. Marvel at the stunning St. Mark's Basilica, feed the pigeons, and just soak in the incredible architecture and atmosphere.

   

• Doge's Palace: Step back into the opulent world of the Venetian Doges (the former rulers). It’s a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, filled with history and art.

   

• Rialto Bridge: One of the most famous bridges in the world. It’s a lively spot, lined with shops, and offers fantastic views of the Grand Canal.

   

• Gondola ride through the canals: Yes, it’s touristy, but it’s also undeniably romantic and the quintessential Venice experience. Drifting quietly through the smaller canals is just magical.
   

4. Cinque Terre

After you've marveled at ancient ruins and Renaissance art in the big cities, how about a breathtaking change of pace? If it's your first time in Italy and you want something special, Cinque Terre (meaning "Five Lands") is like a picture postcard. It's not just one city. It's five pretty villages hanging on steep cliffs by the Italian coast, looking out at the shiny Ligurian Sea.

Going to Cinque Terre lets you relax, enjoy the fresh sea air, and see a simpler, more natural part of Italy. Plus, traveling between the villages by train or boat is part of what makes it so special.

Top experiences for your first Cinque Terre visit:

• Explore at least 2-3 villages: Each of the five villages (Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore) has its own beauty. For a first trip, try to wander through at least a couple, like the harbor of Vernazza or the postcard view from Manarola.

   

• Hike a trail portion: The walking trails connecting the villages offer some of the most incredible coastal views. Even if you're not a hardcore hiker, there are easier sections you can enjoy (just be sure to check which trails are open and if you need a Cinque Terre Card).

   

• Enjoy fresh seafood and pesto: You're right by the sea, so indulging in some freshly caught fish is a must. And since this is Liguria, you absolutely have to try the local pesto.

   

• Take a ferry ride: Seeing the villages from the water offers a completely different and equally stunning perspective.
   

>>> Get the average Italy travel cost for your next trip! 

Best Small Cities to Visit in Italy​

5. Siena

If you dream of stepping back in time to a medieval Tuscan city, then Siena should be high on your list of places to visit in Italy. This gem offers a truly enchanting small-city experience, quite different from the grand scale of Rome or Florence, but every bit as captivating.

The main spot, Piazza del Campo, isn't just any square. It's a beautiful, shell-shaped open area where people have met for hundreds of years, and they still meet there today. The city also keeps its old neighborhood traditions alive, especially during the famous Palio horse race. As you walk through Siena, you can feel the city's important history as a powerful, independent place from long ago.

Famous attractions in Siena:

• Siena Cathedral: A breathtaking masterpiece of Italian Gothic architecture. Don't miss its stunning black and white marble exterior, the incredible inlaid marble floor depicting biblical and historical scenes, and the Piccolomini Library with its vibrant frescoes.

   

• Torre del Mangia: For amazing views, think about climbing this tall medieval tower on Piazza del Campo. You'll see all over Siena and the beautiful Tuscan hills. 

   

• Palazzo Pubblico (and Museo Civico): You'll find Siena's historic town hall right on Piazza del Campo. Inside, be sure to visit the Museo Civico (Civic Museum) to see amazing Sienese art.
   

6. Lucca

For those who are looking for a small Italian city that truly invites you to slow down and soak in the atmosphere, Lucca will be a great choice. This beautiful Tuscan city offers a wonderfully relaxed experience, quite distinct from its bustling neighbors.

Lucca's charm comes from its intact Renaissance walls, now a tree-lined park perfect for walking or cycling with city views. Inside, you'll find charming piazzas like the oval-shaped Piazza dell'Anfiteatro, built on a Roman amphitheater site. Music lovers also know Lucca as the birthplace of opera composer Giacomo Puccini.

Things you'll love doing in Lucca:

• Walk or cycle the city walls: Rent a bike or simply stroll along these amazing, wide walls. It offers a fantastic perspective of the city and is a wonderfully relaxing activity.

   

• Discover Piazza dell'Anfiteatro: This unique, elliptical piazza, ringed by cafes and shops, perfectly preserves the shape of the ancient Roman amphitheater it was built upon. It’s a great spot to grab a coffee and people-watch.

   

• Visit Lucca Cathedral: Explore Lucca's beautiful cathedral, which houses impressive art, including Tintoretto's 'Last Supper' and the revered Volto Santo di Lucca (Holy Face of Lucca).
   

7. Assisi
 

Nestled on an Umbrian hillside, Assisi is a destination that certainly ranks among the top cities in Italy to visit for those seeking peace and history. Its most significant claim to fame is as the birthplace of St. Francis. He's one of Italy’s patron saints, and people love him for his message of peace and his love for nature.

You can explore the magnificent Basilica di San Francesco, which UNESCO designated a World Heritage site. The Basilica not only houses his tomb but also showcases incredible frescoes by Giotto that depict his life.

Besides being an important religious place, Assisi is also a lovely old medieval town that's been kept very well. Its stone buildings look warm and inviting in the sunshine, and the beautiful Umbrian countryside all around it looks like a stunning picture.

Experiences you won't want to miss in Assisi:

• Explore the Basilica of St. Francis: This remarkable two-level basilica will leave you in awe. Be sure to visit the Lower Church, with its cozy chapels, and don't miss the Upper Church, where you can see Giotto’s colorful frescoes that vividly tell the story of St. Francis.

   

• Climb to Rocca Maggiore: For breathtaking views over Assisi and the Umbrian plains, make your way up to this impressive medieval fortress. It offers a fantastic perspective on the town and its surroundings.

   

• Relax in Piazza del Comune: This historic main square has served as Assisi's civic center for centuries. You can admire the well-preserved Roman Temple of Minerva, enjoy a gelato, and soak in the town's gentle atmosphere.
   

8. Ravenna

Ravenna is a northern city with an incredibly grand past and an artistic legacy that will leave you spellbound. If you appreciate dazzling craftsmanship and a deep dive into history, Ravenna absolutely deserves a spot on your Italian itinerary.

For a time, believe it or not, Ravenna actually stood as the capital of the Western Roman Empire, and later, the Byzantine Empire in Italy. This rich history has blessed the city with a great collection of early Christian mosaics.

Best destinations to visit in Ravenna:

• Basilica di San Vitale: Step inside, and prepare for your eyes to widen. Its octagonal design and the intricate mosaics depicting Emperor Justinian and Empress Theodora will transport you directly to the heart of the Byzantine world.

   

• Mausoleum of Galla Placidia: Don't let its modest exterior fool you. The deep blue, star-dusted mosaics inside this 5th-century mausoleum create an intimate and unforgettable celestial atmosphere.

   

• Basilica di Sant'Apollinare Nuovo: Marvel at the long, stunning mosaic panels that line the nave, showcasing processions of martyrs and virgins. These figures seem to float against their golden backgrounds, telling tales of faith and history.
   

9. Matera

Do you want to see a city where people have lived for thousands of years? Then go to Matera in the Basilicata area of Italy. It's one of the oldest places in the world where people have always lived.
 

The most special part of Matera is the "Sassi." These are amazing homes made by carving caves right into the rock. People lived in these caves for thousands of years, from way back in ancient times until the 1950s.
 

A deep valley (called "la gravina") divides the Sassi into two parts: Sasso Barisano and Sasso Caveoso. Walking around this maze-like place feels like you're on an old movie set. Actually, many movies are filmed in Matera because it looks so ancient, like a scene from the Bible.
 

Experiences awaiting you in Matera:

• Lose yourself exploring the Sassi: Put on your most comfortable shoes because wandering through these ancient districts is the main event. Each turn reveals a new vista, a hidden alleyway, or a cave dwelling now transformed into a chic hotel or a cozy restaurant.

   

• Discover the Rupestrian Churches: Hewn into the rock, these churches, some dating back to the early Middle Ages, often feature fascinating, ancient frescoes. 

   

• Step inside a Casa Grotta: To truly understand how people lived in the Sassi until relatively recently, visit a reconstructed cave dwelling. It offers a poignant glimpse into a unique way of life.
   

Best Cities to Visit in Northern Italy​

10. Milan

For a Northern Italian city buzzing with modern energy and artistic soul, turn your attention to Milan. It's a busy city that's important for business, and it's where you'll find famous fashion brands and new design ideas.

Yet, Milan also treasures its past. The Gothic Duomo awes in the city center, and Leonardo da Vinci's iconic "The Last Supper" resides here. Plus, Milan is a great starting point if you want to visit the beautiful Italian Lakes, like Lake Como

Milan's attractions you might want to visit:

• Milan Duomo: Prepare yourself for the sheer scale and intricate beauty of this massive Gothic cathedral. Taking a walk on its rooftop terraces among the spires offers breathtaking city views.

   

• Leonardo da Vinci's "The Last Supper" (at Santa Maria delle Grazie): Witnessing this iconic mural in person is a truly special experience. 

   

• Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II: Step into one of the world's oldest and most glamorous shopping arcades. Even if you're just window shopping, its stunning glass-domed roof and mosaic floors make it a must-see.

   

• Sforza Castle: This imposing medieval fortress now houses several museums, including one with Michelangelo's last, unfinished sculpture, the Rondanini Pietà.

11. Bologna

Bologna is the lively capital of Emilia-Romagna, where cuisine is an art. Many of us at TravelThru enjoy walking through its old medieval center. It has miles of pretty covered walkways called porticoes. Plus, its very old university gives Bologna a lively, young feeling. If you want to see real Italian life, eat amazing food, and learn about history, Bologna is a great place to go.

Bologna's experiences that we recommend:

• Lose yourself in Piazza Maggiore & gaze at Basilica di San Petronio: This grand central square acts as Bologna’s main stage. It’s the perfect spot to orient yourself and soak in the city's buzz.

   

• Climb the Two Towers (Asinelli and Garisenda): These leaning medieval towers are Bologna's iconic symbols. Brave the nearly 500 steps of the Torre Asinelli, and you will earn some truly spectacular panoramic views over the red-roofed cityscape.

   

• Step back in time at the Archiginnasio: Explore the historic main building of the University of Bologna. Don't miss its fascinating Anatomical Theatre, entirely carved from wood.

   

• Try local food: For tasty Bologna foods, consider visiting the Quadrilatero (the city's historic market district). Also, find some old-style Italian restaurants called trattorias. There, you can enjoy fresh pasta dishes like tagliatelle al ragù (a type of pasta with meat sauce) or tortellini (a filled pasta). A food tour or cooking class here is an experience you won't soon forget.
   

12. Verona

Looking for a Northern Italian city brimming with charm, Shakespearean echoes, and impressive Roman ruins? Verona elegantly delivers all three.

It does a great job mixing its long history with a fun, modern feel. You can check out a very old Roman amphitheater (like a stadium) during the day. Then at night, you can enjoy the lively feeling in its busy town squares (piazzas). The city also has beautiful bridges and colorful buildings that make it look like a pretty picture, perfect for a nice walk.

Verona’s must-see highlights:

• Verona Arena: Step into this magnificent Roman amphitheater. Imagine gladiatorial contests, or better yet, catch an unforgettable opera performance here during the summer festival.

   

• Juliet's House: You can view the famous balcony and add your own love letter to the collection. It’s a visit for romantics, fictional or not.

   

• Piazza delle Erbe & Piazza Bra: Piazza delle Erbe, a former Roman forum, buzzes with its market, while Piazza Bra offers grand views of the Arena.

   

• Castelvecchio Bridge: Walk across this impressive medieval bridge, offering great views of the castle and river.

13. Turin (Torino)

As Italy's very first capital, Turin offers a surprisingly deep and charming Northern Italian experience with its grand boulevards and regal palaces. If stately Baroque architecture, top-tier museums, royal history, and delicious chocolate sound good, Turin is for you.

This elegant Alpine-foot city showcases its royal heritage via grand palaces and wide, arcaded streets. Culturally, Turin is home to the world's second-most important Egyptian Museum.

It's also recognized as Fiat's birthplace and a chocolate lover's paradise. Plus, Turin is an ideal base for exploring the Piedmont wine region or the nearby Alps.

Turin's top attractions:

• Mole Antonelliana: This famous building used to be a synagogue. Now, it's home to Italy's interesting National Cinema Museum. You can take an elevator with great views to the top. From there, you'll see amazing sights of the city and the Alps.

   

• Egyptian Museum (Museo Egizio): Prepare for an incredible journey back in time. This museum holds an astonishing collection of Egyptian artifacts, second only to Cairo's.

   

• Royal Palace of Turin (Palazzo Reale): Step into the opulent world of the Savoy dynasty.

   

• Piazza San Carlo: This impressive square is sometimes called 'Turin's drawing-room.' You'll see pretty old-style (Baroque) buildings and well-known cafes. It's a great spot to relax and take your time.

14. Lake Como Towns
 

Dreaming of breathtaking water views and charming villages during your Northern Italy adventure? Lake Como delivers this and so much more.

You'll visit picturesque towns like Bellagio and Varenna, where you can explore cobblestone alleys, admire beautiful gardens, and just soak in the peace. You'll also spot grand villas along the shore, hinting at its glamorous history.

Experiences to embrace around Lake Como:

• Ferry hop between charming towns: This is the classic Lake Como experience. Glide across the water by public ferry, easily visiting jewels like Bellagio, Varenna, Menaggio, and Tremezzo.

   

• Visit a grand villa: Explore opulent residences like Villa del Balbianello or Villa Carlotta, with their stunning botanical gardens and art collections.

   

• Simply relax and enjoy "La Dolce Vita": Find a lakeside café, sip an Aperol Spritz, and just watch the world go by. Lake Como encourages you to unwind and savor the moment.

Best Places to Visit in Southern Italy

15. Naples (Napoli)

In Naples, you can explore a huge historic center that's a UNESCO World Heritage site. You'll find it's buzzing with life and filled with stories from its past under Greek, Roman, and Spanish rulers. And you definitely have to try authentic Neapolitan pizza while you're there, Naples is its birthplace.

Also, the city's National Archaeological Museum has tons of cool things found in Pompeii and Herculaneum. So, Naples is a great place to start if you want to visit those amazing ancient Roman towns.

Recommended things to do in Naples:

• Try an Authentic Neapolitan Pizza: Seek out a traditional pizzeria (L'Antica Pizzeria da Michele or Gino Sorbillo are legendary) and experience pizza perfection.

   

• National Archaeological Museum: Marvel at mosaics, sculptures, and everyday objects remarkably preserved from Pompeii and Herculaneum. It truly brings the ancient world to life.

   

• Take a day trip to Pompeii or Herculaneum: Journey back nearly 2,000 years to explore these Roman cities, frozen in time by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius.

16. Sicily

Sicily is the largest island in the Mediterranean Sea. It's a land where you can easily spot the history left behind by ancient Greeks, Romans, Arabs, and Normans. Their presence is noticeable all over the island.

This incredible blend of cultures has created something truly special that has lasted through time. You'll notice it in the different styles of buildings in Sicily, its special food, and even in the lively way local people talk there.

Top Sicily's attractions:

• Palermo: You'll discover bustling street markets (like Vucciria or Ballarò) and see stunning Arab-Norman architecture.

   

• Taormina's ancient theatre: Perched dramatically on a cliff overlooking the Ionian Sea, Taormina enchants with its ancient Greek Theatre.

   

• Agrigento's valley of the temples: Walk among some of the most extraordinary ancient Greek temples outside of Greece itself. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers an awe-inspiring journey back in time, especially at sunset.

>>> Read more:

When Is the Best Time to Travel to Italy and Greece​

Top Places to Stay in the Dolomites for Your Next Trip

Italy's packed with amazing cities, right? Each one has its own cool story and unique feel, just waiting for you to explore. Hopefully, this has given you some great ideas and a bit of inspiration for your trip. Picking your own list of the best cities to visit in Italy is all part of the fun. So grab your comfiest walking shoes, practice saying "un altro gelato, per favore," and prepare for cities that flirt with all your senses.