Top Attractions and Activities in Italy

Ah, Italy, just mentioning its name conjures up images of love, delicious food, and ancient architecture. There are numerous experiences waiting in Italy, making it daunting to know where to start your journey. From the Mediterranean to the mountainous terrain, Italy truly caters to every taste. While tourists often flock to Rome or Venice, the country boasts countless iconic sights, breathtaking landscapes, and charming towns. Italy truly has it all.

Join us as we explore the best things to do in Italy, drawn from our multiple trips across this captivating country. Excitingly, we will be returning this summer for further exploration!

1. Drive the Amalfi Coast

The Amalfi Coast is a dreamscape, featuring a stunning 50 km coastline dotted with picturesque towns such as Positano, Amalfi Town, Ravello, and Sorrento. With its dramatic sea cliffs and inviting beaches, the Amalfi Coast is one of the most breathtaking destinations in Italy.

With a stay in Positano, overlooking the Mediterranean from our balcony, we found it to be one of Italy’s most romantic locales. Discover more about the best experiences on the Amalfi Coast.

2. Book a Balcony Room in Positano

Among the many gems along the Amalfi Coast, Positano stands out with its vibrant terraced buildings perched on cliffs beside the sea. Despite its popularity, you can retreat to a romantic haven by securing a room in one of the waterfront hotels. We enjoyed our stay at Palazzo Talamo, conveniently located near the beach and delightful local eateries.

For an effortless transfer from Naples to Positano, consider booking a private shuttle, starting at $74 USD per person. Alternatively, a shared transfer can be booked for $34 USD per person.

Here are other recommended places to stay in Positano:

• Hotel Eden Roc Positano – Situated steps from the beach, this four-star hotel features a panoramic pool and terrace with sea views.
• Hotel Poseidon – A historic establishment with a prime location and breathtaking vistas.

3. Sail to the Island of Capri

While visiting Positano, Sorrento, or Amalfi Town, a boat trip to Capri Island is a must. Famous for its azure grotto and a favorite among the wealthy, Capri Island offers stunning natural beauty in the heart of the Mediterranean.

Reserve your tour now for a full-day adventure from Positano to Capri, featuring the enchanting blue grotto, snorkeling, refreshments, and delicious limoncello tasting.

4. Go Back in Time to Ancient Rome

Rome undoubtedly ranks among the best destinations in Italy and should be a priority on your itinerary. The city is a treasure trove of ancient ruins, from the iconic Colosseum to the awe-inspiring Pantheon. Here are essential attractions you shouldn’t miss: Trevi Fountain, Roman Forum, and Spanish Steps. Tip: Explore Trevi Fountain at night to enjoy a more serene atmosphere.

If you’re planning a trip to Italy, Rome should definitely be your starting point. It’s like walking through a living history museum, teeming with ancient monuments.

Insider tip: Don’t skip the tour to enter the Colosseum and experience its historical grandeur firsthand.

5. Take a Roman Holiday

Experience a quintessential Italian adventure by driving a Vespa through Rome’s bustling streets, echoing Audrey Hepburn’s iconic journey in “Roman Holiday.” Given the chaotic traffic, consider booking a Vespa Tour to ensure a smooth ride while soaking in the city’s major landmarks.

Our Vespa Tour with GetYourGuide offered a delightful experience where we relaxed as our professional driver whisked us through Rome, showcasing the majestic Colosseum and enchanting neighborhoods like Trastevere and Centro Storico.

6. See the Pope at Vatican City

While in Rome, don’t miss out on visiting Vatican City. You’ll have the opportunity to glimpse the Pope as he addresses crowds in St. Peter’s Square on Wednesdays. Be sure to join a tour to admire Michelangelo’s masterpieces in the Sistine Chapel and explore the Vatican Museums.

For an efficient visit, book your tickets in advance for entry to the Vatican Museums and optional access to the Papal Villas and Vatican Gardens.

7. Take a Gondola Ride in Venice

No Italian getaway is truly complete without a gondola ride in Venice. Gliding through the Grand Canal—whether as a private gondola ride or a shared experience—is a must. This is the epitome of romance in Italy, allowing you to explore the hidden gems of the city.

This delightful gondola tour combines a journey along the Grand Canal with a venture through quieter canals, complete with soothing Italian melodies.

8. Stay Overnight in Venice

Many visitors who complain about Venice often only do so because they experience it through day trips. To truly immerse yourself in its charm, spend the night and cherish the peaceful ambiance after tour boats have departed. Be sure to experience Piazza San Marco, especially at sunrise, when it feels magical.

9. Hike the Cinque Terre Villages

Our initial journey in Italy brought us to the enchanting Cinque Terre, a cluster of five villages renowned for their hiking trails and stunning coastal views. Although these picturesque villages can get crowded, visiting during the off-season allows you to enjoy their beauty peacefully.

This UNESCO World Heritage site connects the villages of Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore via walking paths lined with olive groves and stunning vistas.

10. Climb the Leaning Tower of Pisa

Add the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa to your Italy bucket list. Expect to be amazed by this remarkable architectural wonder. Just an hour from Florence by train, the Leaning Tower of Pisa is one of Italy’s most famous attractions.

While many visit as a day trip, we recommend an overnight stay to experience this iconic landmark without the crowds. Securing guided tours in advance grants you entry without waiting in lengthy lines.

11. Say Hello to David in Florence

Florence is often considered Italy’s most picturesque city, rich in art and culture. It’s the birthplace of Renaissance art, housing masterpieces by iconic artists like Michelangelo and Botticelli. Stroll through the historic center to visit landmarks like the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore.

Top sights in Florence: Piazza del Duomo, Ponte Vecchio, Statue of David at Galleria dell’Accademia, and many more.

12. Visit Boboli Gardens

While in Florence, be sure to explore the beautiful Boboli Gardens, meticulously arranged by the Medici Family. This amazing outdoor museum features Renaissance statues, scenic grottos, and fountains. Don’t miss the Grotta del Buontalenti, an artificial cave adorned with stunning formations.

13. Indulge in Italian Food

Italy is a culinary paradise. Experience local delights in Tuscany, including Schiacciata with balsamic, fresh pasta, and heavenly gelato. Joining a food tour in Florence can give you a comprehensive taste of the area’s culinary delights.

14. Drink Wine in Tuscany

Tuscany is a wine lover’s haven, with picturesque vineyards and charming villages. Stay in a Tuscan villa to experience the serene countryside while indulging in wine tastings and cooking classes.

15. Stop by Siena

While Florence serves as Tuscany’s capital, Siena boasts a medieval charm that shouldn’t be overlooked. Home to Europe’s most beautiful medieval square, it’s worth your visit for its historical significance.

16. Explore Milan

Milan stands as the fashion capital of Italy, filled with finance and art. Don’t miss the opportunity to see Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper at Santa Maria delle Grazie. Also, take a moment to marvel at the impressive Duomo di Milano, the world’s third-largest cathedral, and explore the historic Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II.

17. Bask in the Most Enchanting Hot Springs

In Tuscany, the Saturnia Hot Springs stand out as a remarkable destination for relaxation. These natural thermal springs offer a refreshing escape as you immerse yourself in their healing waters.

18. Visit Juliet’s Balcony in Verona

Renowned as the “City of Love,” Verona offers romantic experiences tied to Shakespeare’s tale of Romeo and Juliet. Be sure to stop by Juliet’s Balcony, where visitors leave love notes in homage to the fictional lovers.

19. See the Mummies of Palermo

Discover the Catacombs of the Capuchin monks in Palermo, where over 8,000 mummies provide a unique glimpse into Sicily’s past. Dating back to the late 16th century, this haunting attraction is both intriguing and historically significant.

20. Experience Car Culture in Emilia Romagna

Famous for its automotive heritage, Emilia Romagna is where iconic brands like Ducati, Ferrari, and Lamborghini originated. Head to the Ferrari Museum for an exhilarating experience.

21. Drive a Fast Car – Preferably Ferrari or Lamborghini

In Italy, the thrill of driving a sports car should not be missed. Experience the exhilaration of driving a Ferrari on the renowned Auto Dromo di Modena, the birthplace of Enzo Ferrari.

22. Wine and Dine in Bologna

Bologna is hailed as the gastronomical capital of Italy. Sample authentic Italian cuisine and explore historic sites like the Asinelli Tower and Teatro Anatomico, all while soaking up the vibrant atmosphere of this charming city.

23. Sample Balsamic Vinegar, Gelato, and Parmigiano Romano

The Bologna region is celebrated for its exquisite balsamic vinegar and cheese. Discover the art of balsamic production and indulge in gelato at Gelato University. It truly is a foodie’s paradise.

24. Climb Mount Etna

Add adventure to your itinerary by considering a climb to Mount Etna, one of the world’s most active volcanoes. Located in Sicily, it promises a thrilling experience for adventure seekers.

25. Say Hi to George at Lake Como

When exploring Lake Como, you may not run into its famous residents, but you will encounter breathtaking landscapes. This northern gem, with charming lakeside villages, invites relaxation and exploration.

26. Visit the Ruins of Pompeii

Outside of Naples, Pompeii remains one of Italy’s most significant historical sites. This UNESCO World Heritage site preserves a snapshot of life before the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD.

27. Go Hiking in the Dolomites

The Dolomites represent a stunning tableau of nature, offering myriad hiking trails for every level of adventurer. From gentle meadows to challenging peaks, it’s a hiking paradise you cannot afford to miss.

28. Pay a Visit to Gargano

Discover the enchanting Gargano Peninsula, a hidden gem in Italy. This less-traveled region showcases pristine coastlines, natural parks, and idyllic seascapes, making it a worthwhile addition to your itinerary.

Frequently Asked Questions about Italy

• What is the #1 tourist attraction in Italy?
  • The Colosseum in Rome
• What is Italy best known for?
  • Rich history and cultural heritage
  • Renowned cuisine, including pasta, pizza, and gelato
  • Iconic landmarks such as the Leaning Tower of Pisa and Venice’s Grand Canal
  • World-class art and contributions to the Renaissance movement
• Where is a must in Italy?
  • Rome, especially for its historical sites like the Vatican and the Roman Forum
• Which is the most visited place in Italy?
  • Rome, due to its array of historic sites, museums, and cultural attractions
• What are 2 must-visit cities in Italy?
  • Florence, for its unparalleled Renaissance art and architecture
  • Venice, for its unique canals and romantic ambiance

These are the top things to do in Italy. Make sure to include these experiences in your travel plans to this breathtaking country. With five visits under our belt, we continue to discover new treasures in Italy, making it a destination you can revisit again and again.

For more tips on what to see and do in Italy, start planning your adventure today!

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to plan your next trip? Utilize these reliable resources for your journey.

Book Your Flights: Begin by finding great flight deals on Skyscanner. It’s a trusted option we’ve used for years.

Find the Perfect Hotel: Discover the best prices for accommodations on Booking.com or TripAdvisor depending on your location.

Apartments for Rent: For short-term stays, check VRBO for competitive rates.

Protect Your Trip: Ensure you have travel insurance before departing. We recommend:

• Safety Wing – Ideal for occasional travelers.
• Medjet – Offers global air medical transport and travel assistance.

Arrange Your Activities: For activities like tours, tickets, and summits, consider Get Your Guide.

For more travel support, visit our Resources Page, which highlights companies we trust while traveling.