Are you planning a trip to Italy and wondering about where to go? As one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations, Italy offers abundant fantastic destinations, from bustling cities with magnificent architecture to charming villages home to ancient old churches. Deciding where to go can be overwhelming, especially if you’re visiting for the first time. While you can’t see everything in one visit, some places stand out than others, with their incredibly diverse landscapes, delicious food and wine, and friendly locals.
To give you an idea of where to go, here’s our list of the most beautiful places to visit in Italy.
1. Florence
Brimming with UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Florence is one of Italy’s most popular tourist destinations. The city boasts a rich tapestry of culture, art, cuisine, and history, giving visitors plenty to explore. There are just so many things to see and do in Florence that it can be hard to decide what to soak in first.
Florence is one of those Italian cities you can best explore on foot. It’s compact, and its picturesque streets are brimming with history and culture. The cobblestone paths weave through iconic landmarks like the Ponte Vecchio, the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, and the Uffizi Gallery. You will also stumble upon hidden gems as you explore the city, from artisan workshops to quaint cafes. To enjoy tranquillity, visit the serene gardens of Boboli. They offer stunning views and exude serenity away from the busy touristy areas.
As the birthplace of the Renaissance, Florence has a thriving art scene, so it’s the perfect place for art lovers. Aside from its architectural marvels, the city has world-class museums like the Accademia and Uffizi Gallery, housing the masterpieces of world-famous artists Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci.
2. The Italian Alps
More laidback than the Swiss and French Alps, the Italian Alps offer a diversity of terrains, landscapes, and apres-ski options, making it an incredible destination for a winter holiday. In addition, there are some amazing family ski resorts in the Italian Alps like Sno Holidays, which have some fantastic all-inclusive packages, great for those seeking a beautiful winter break with their loved ones.
Valle d’Aosta is a year-round destination in the Italian Alps. Surrounded by the iconic snow-capped peaks of the Alps, it’s a picturesque destination for winter sports enthusiasts. In summer, it’s an excellent destination for hiking, boasting many scenic hiking trails taking you to charming towns and medieval villages.
The stunning Dolomites Mountain Range is another reason to visit the Italian Alps. Jutting out into the sky amidst lush green valleys and raging rivers, they offer a stunning backdrop for thrilling sports like paragliding and mountain biking.
The gorgeous region of Piedmont is one of the most beautiful places in the Italian Alps. Nestled along Italy’s border with France and Switzerland, the region is home to Italy’s famous wine-producing region, Asti and Barolo. Turin, Piedmont’s capital, lures visitors with its fascinating Baroque architecture, art galleries, opera houses, piazzas, libraries, and museums.
3. Lake Garda
Lake Garda is one of Italy’s most beautiful regions, luring families and outdoor lovers with its picturesque lakeside towns, beautiful beaches, and fun activities. While it’s a great place to visit any time of the year, Lake Garda shines even more beautifully in summer.
As one of Italy’s most family-friendly destinations, Lake Garda offers attractions and activities to delight kids of all ages. One of these is Gardaland, an amusement park on the lake’s south-eastern coast. Offering an array of water rides, roller coasters, and entertainment shows, it’s a fun place for adults and kids.
One of the best ways to explore Lake Garda and admire its picturesque scenery is by taking a ferry ride on the lake. These ferries take you to the region’s charming lakeside villages, including Riva del Garda, a lovely town on the lake’s northern shores, surrounded by majestic mountains. It has some great restaurants, giving you plenty of options for a sumptuous lunch after a day of exploring.
If you’re up for some fun outdoor fun, rent a bike and cycle along Limone Bike Path. It’s a stunning 2-km stretch of lakeside path along the shores of the lake. The cycling path takes you to the edge of the lake, boasting spectacular views of the mountains and lakeside villages.
4. Rome
With plenty of things to see and do, it may be a good idea to book some amazing vacation packages in Italy, a fantastic option for those looking to explore Rome. These packages come with a pre-planned itinerary, so you won’t have to worry about planning the trip.
With its gorgeous architecture, rich history, beautiful churches, and impressive piazzas, Rome is one of those Italian cities you should visit at least once. On top of all its great attractions, the city has excellent dining options, fabulous shopping, and exciting entertainment options.
There’s something undeniably romantic about Rome. As you stroll through its ancient streets and come across stunning architecture dating back to ancient times, you’ll get a glimpse of the city’s storied past.
If you’re visiting for the first time, you can book a tour to take you to the city’s highlights, such as the Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, and the Colosseum. With a knowledgeable local as your guide, you’ll learn more about Rome and hear interesting stories about the places you pass by.
5. Lake Como
As one of the largest lakes in Italy, Lake Como is one of those places to visit on your trip to the country. Nestled at the foot of the Italian Alps, it offers some of Italy’s most romantic and picturesque scenery.
The lakeside is home to charming villages and towns, with no shortage of opportunities to dine and shop. Go on a scenic nature walk and stop at the magnificent villas with gorgeous botanical gardens for an unforgettable experience. Some of the most popular villages to explore are Como, Varenna, and Bellagio.
Like any lake region, the best way to admire Lake Como’s natural scenery is on a boat tour. Whether you come here for a day or plan on staying longer, don’t miss the chance to board a ferry and relax as you admire the picturesque views of Lake Como.
