Italy is a really particular, extremely various and magical nation the place I feel you might be simply as more likely to discover magnificence in a quiet, cobbled backstreet or conventional trattoria as in its gorgeous seashores or extraordinary countryside.
I’ve lived in Italy for a few years and like to share my favorite locations. Some are well-known, and others are much less so…
1. Cinque Terre
Cinque Terre’s rugged, rustic, however breathtaking magnificence completely sums up why Italy is so revered as a journey vacation spot!
Situated on the gorgeous Italian Riviera shoreline, 5 brightly colored medieval villages cling jaggedly – and virtually impossibly – to the inhospitable coastal rocks.
It’s such an necessary place; it was declared a Unesco World Heritage Website in 1997. I recommend meandering across the slim streets, wandering the traditional vineyards clinging to steep terraces, and heading for a pesto pasta lunch (a regional speciality) at one of many native trattorias! Pure bliss!
Greatest time to go to: Late spring to early fall (Could to September) is good for mountaineering and exploring.
My highlights…
Having fun with a hike alongside the Blue Path which ignored the ocean and took me to 5 Insta-worthy villages!
Spending a day at Cinque Terre’s solely sandy seaside, Monterosso al Mare.
Happening a ship sundown tour and exploring the shoreline while watching the solar go down.
E book A Journey!
We will e book your journey hopping round Italy’s stunning locations by our free, top-rated journey planning service!
2. Lake Como
Famously house to George Clooney’s Italian villa, Lake Como is the third largest lake within the nation and a sizzling spot for vacationers and locals alike.
Historically, Lake Como has been referred to as a spot for rich individuals and political entities to retreat sometimes, however I’d nonetheless suggest a go to to anybody!
Lake Como is house to a number of castles and splendid lodging. If it’s good to get across the lake, its state-of-the-art water transport ferry system has been an necessary a part of the lake since its induction in 1826.
Greatest time to go to: Spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) supply gentle climate and fewer vacationers.
My highlights…
Visiting one of the iconic cathedrals in Italy, The Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, which additionally gives breathtaking panoramic views.
Exploring the museums and studying in regards to the historical past of Lake Como.
Having a enjoyable day trip at Lake Como Journey Park within the mountains surrounded by nature.
Going boating on the gorgeous lake, it’s severely stunning!
3. Tuscany Countryside
I truthfully suppose there isn’t any different place just like the Tuscan countryside on earth. I extremely suggest driving away from the cities and heading into a few of the most extraordinary surroundings on this planet!
It is a really magical place the place you’ll discover impossibly picturesque rolling hills and scenic drives the place the odd roaming wild hog or two will abruptly come into sight.
Additionally, count on breathtaking sunflower fields, olive groves which were right here for tons of of years, medieval ruins and a few of the most unimaginable vineyards on this planet.
Greatest time to go to: Late spring (April to June) and early fall (September to October) are excellent for nice temperatures and delightful landscapes.
My highlights…
Taking a visit to the pure sizzling springs in Bagno Vignoni and bathing within the attractive waters.
Exploring the romantic vineyards in Chianti and going wine tasting.
Reserving a sizzling air balloon tour in Lucca and having fun with the breathtaking views of the attractive landscapes.
Visiting the leaning tower of Pisa and capturing an Insta-worthy shot subsequent to the well-known landmark.
My resort alternative for Tuscan Countryside – Il Castro Luxurious Flats San Gimignano
4. Camogli, Liguria
Within the northern portion of the nation, the peninsula of Portofino homes small fishing villages. Among the many most notable and well-known villages is Camogli in Liguria.
This small port maintains a modest inhabitants of round 5,500 individuals and stays protected inside the Portofino Marine Protected Space.
Strolling by {the marketplace} or basking within the solar on Comogli’s coast is a welcomed exercise for vacationers and locals alike.
I like to recommend bringing your digital camera and taking many footage of each nook and cranny of this endearing and picturesque a part of the coast!
Greatest time to go to: Could to September for heat climate, excellent for seaside actions.
My favorite highlights
Tasting scrumptious Italian dishes at Ostaia da ö Sigu.
Stress-free on the Camogli’s rocky seaside and having fun with the glistening solar.
Renting a speedboat with a skipper and exploring the attractive gems solely reachable by water (the Pure Park of Portofino and Paradiso Gulf).
Taking an E-bike tour alongside the gorgeous shoreline and discovering church buildings and castles.
5. Calabria
Situated within the nation’s south, Calabria is a part of the land separating the Tyrrhenian Sea from the Ionian Sea and the sun-baked toe of Italy’s boot!
Some points of interest on this nation can seem to be a dressed-up present put in place for vacationers’ enjoyment, however that isn’t one thing you can see in Calabria.
This portion of the nation is quintessentially Italian, and I’m all the time charmed by it. Calabria has lovingly escaped the vacationer sport to offer an unspoiled and seemingly untouched view of basic Italy.
If you wish to see Italians as they’re slightly than a scripted rendition, I personally suppose Calabria is the place to go!
Greatest time to go to: Summer time (June to September) for the seashores, although spring and fall supply fewer crowds.
My must-do highlights…
Exploring the Pollino Nationwide Park, discovering the magnificent Raganello Canyon, and strolling alongside streams, bridges and gorges.
Visiting one of the prestigious monuments in Calabria, the traditional Aragonese fortress of Le Castella.
Having fun with the clear blue waters at Tropea.
6. Lake Garda
I feel this is likely one of the most jaw-dropping locations on this planet; it is a giant and impossibly picturesque lake nestled in Northern Italy surrounded by the gorgeous fortress city of Sirmione, the resort city of Riva del Garda, and plenty of charming and laid-back villages in between.
Head additional North and get to the well-known Dolomites Mountain vary.
I extremely suggest boating, wind-surfing, consuming on the many charming and cosmopolitan eating places, and customarily taking within the great vibe and jaw-dropping surroundings.
Greatest time to go to: Late spring to early fall (Could to September) for water sports activities and out of doors actions.
My private highlights…
Bathing in thermal springs in Garda Thermal Park.
Having fun with a household day at Gardaland Park, which options over 30 thrilling rides, show-stopping musical performances and spectacular mild exhibits.
Exploring the charming and picturesque city of Sirmione house to a novel drawbridge entrance.
Biking across the lake and taking within the breathtaking views on a path suspended 50 metres above the water.
7. The Dolomites
Should you head additional north from Lake Garda, you’ll discover a few of Europe’s most spectacular mountain surroundings. Situated in northeastern Italy, with attractive surroundings and delightful resorts apart, there’s additionally lots to do.
Head there in winter and discover well-coordinated ski networks, the legendary circuit Sella Ronda, and loads of individuals who cross-country snowboarding and snowboarding. Go to in summer time and go mountaineering amongst gorgeous views and contemporary mountain air.
Greatest time to go to: Summer time (June to September) for mountaineering; winter (December to March) for snowboarding.
My private highlights…
Taking a hike across the spectacular Tre Cime di Lavaredo, well-known for its three magnificent and distinctive peaks.
Capturing an Instagrammable shot at Lago di Carezza the place the panoramic backdrop of the Latemar mountains displays onto the lake.
Having fun with the tradition and historical past that the Dolomites have to supply with a go to to Bolzano.
8. Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast
I like this space! Probably the most well-known space is the resort city of Sorrento, the place you’ll discover the addictive liqueur limoncello and, after all, loads of nice wine.
The town may also be used as a base to go to Pompeii, which was buried by Mount Vesuvius’ volcanic eruption in 79 AD.
Additional alongside the ruggedly stunning coast, you can see the impossibly picturesque and prosperous city of Positano and the small, fairly city of Amalfi. The world gives one of many world’s best coastal drives, so make sure to rent a automotive when you can; Fiat 500s are all the time an apt alternative!
I’d additionally suggest taking a ship from Sorrento to the romantic island of Capri, the place you’ll be able to see the attractive Blue Grotto, a sea cave flooded with sensible blue or emerald mild.
Greatest time to go to: Late spring to early fall (Could to October) for gentle climate and avoiding summer time crowds.
My private highlights…
Exploring the picturesque Previous City of Sorrento with its stunning pastel-coloured homes.
Taking a visit alongside the Amalfi Coast, which is well-known for being one of the gorgeous coastlines on this planet and overlooking crystal clear turquoise waters.
Mountain climbing the four-mile stretch of the Path of Gods which offers you with essentially the most breathtaking views of the Amalfi Shoreline.
Having fun with watching a sundown over the bay of Naples while listening to the musical delights of a busker in Villa Communale Park.
My resort alternative for Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast – La Casa di Peppe Visitor Home & Villa
9. Puglia
Puglia is situated within the southern area of Italy, on the heel of Italy’s boot. Initially ignored by vacationers for many years, it has turn out to be fairly the trendy place to take a trip lately!
Right here, you’ll be able to count on hill cities stuffed with fairly white ‘Trulli’ homes, centuries-old farmland and a spectacular Mediterranean shoreline.
This area is ideal for these wishing to style actual Italy and the fabulous blue sea and wonderful sandy seashores.
Except for the various Italian expertise, you’ll produce other causes to go to this area, together with the superb regional delicacies, picturesque olive groves, and plush inexperienced orchards.
Greatest time to go to: Could to September for seaside visits and gentle climate.
My private highlights…
Wandering across the historic metropolis of Leece and admiring the attractive Baroque structure created from distinctive stone.
Eating on the Masseria Il Frantoio and sampling its ever-evolving menu of genuine Italian dishes.
Visiting the long-lasting landmark of Sant at Torre Sant’Andrea and having fun with a swim by the archway in picturesque waters.
Taking a sizzling air balloon trip overlooking the pure panorama of Gravina, which was stuffed with canyons, hills and stone homes.
10. Verona Metropolis
Verona is a stunning, relaxed metropolis well-known for Shakespeare’s story of Romeo and Juliet. It has the third-largest Roman Enviornment in Italy, and I extremely suggest catching an opera throughout your go to.
UNESCO has awarded the town a World Heritage web site standing due to its city construction and structure, which embody Roman stays and historical castles.
As you’ll be able to think about, Verona is a really romantic metropolis, so when you take a accomplice, you by no means know, they may find yourself proposing! The Italian lakes are accessible from Verona, Lake Garda, Lake Como, and Lake Maggiore, a few of the most well-known.
The mountain lakes supply classically stunning pictures of this nation and are flanked by sleepy cobblestone villages and secluded gardens.
Greatest time to go to: Spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) supply gentle climate.
My private highlights…
Climbing as much as the highest of Torre dei Lamberti and seeing gorgeous views throughout the town.
Having fun with a buying journey at Piazza Delle Erbe which can also be an ideal out of doors eating spot on a sunny day.
Taking a stroll alongside the gorgeous Ponte Pietra bridge which connects the town to Teatro Romano and Castel San Pietro.
Wandering across the magical Giardino Gusti Gardens situated within the grounds of the historic palace.
11. Venice
Venice is likely one of the most well-known cities in Italy, and it’s constructed on water. It’s additionally typically cited as one of many world’s most romantic journey locations. In the midst of the town, you’ll discover the grand sq. ‘Piazza San Marco,’ the place the much more spectacular basilica resides.
Should you’re a tradition seeker, you’ll be spoilt for alternative right here; Venice has the world’s most inventive masterpieces per sq. kilometre, and quite a few church buildings, museums, and palaces are value visiting.
One other spotlight is the Bridge of Sighs (Ponte dei Sospiri), an enclosed bridge that crosses the Rio di Palazzo.
Should you’re a romantic and wish to trip in a gondola, bear in mind to take loads of cash—you’ll be charged a small fortune for the privilege.
Greatest time to go to: April to June and September to October to keep away from peak vacationer seasons.
My highlights…
Experiencing a novel manner of getting round by taking one of many well-known gondola rides by the town.
Tasting an array of contemporary flavours on the Mercati di Rialto and see how the native Italians create their signature dishes.
Climbing the spiral staircase of Scala Contarini Del Bovolo which has a viewpoint on the prime overlooking the town.
12. Bologna
Bologna is a shocking metropolis identified for its magnificence, left-wing politics, wealth, and, most significantly, delicacies. It’s the capital of the Emilia-Romagna area in northern Italy. Should you arrive by practice, transfer swiftly away from the station to soak up the town’s most stunning websites.
Many arcades permit you to discover the town even when it’s raining. I like to recommend wandering across the backstreets till you come upon one of many many stunning squares the place you’ll be able to cease for a restaurant or gelato.
Bologna additionally boasts the oldest college on this planet, based in 1088. Most individuals go to the town to find its famend culinary delights, which embody tagliatelle al ragù, lasagne, tortellini served in broth, and fried gnocchi.
Greatest time to go to: Spring and fall (April to June, September to October) for essentially the most nice climate.
My private highlights…
Viewing the spectacular artwork at Bologna Nationwide Gallery which featured work courting again so far as the thirteenth century.
Haggling for an eclectic vary of things in a energetic environment on the historic markets at La Piazzola.
Indulging in a home made tortellini in broth at Trattoria da Me.
Exploring one of many coolest locations within the metropolis, Ghetto Ebraico which was stuffed with buying, bars and eating places.
13. Florence
Florence is a powerful and interesting place and an artwork lover’s dream. A preferred metropolis nestled within the rolling hills of the Tuscany area, Florence has lots to supply its many guests.
For starters, there are quite a few museums stuffed with well-known work and sculptures and two locations I like to recommend are the Pitti Palace and the Uffizi.
The latter hosts works by Caravaggio, Leonardo da Vinci, and Michelangelo and receives roughly 1.6 million vacationers a yr (you must e book earlier than you go, or you’ll sadly face a protracted wait).
Additionally, take your time to discover the remainder of Tuscany. Generally known as the Renaissance nation, the area gives a few of the world’s most stunning and romantic pure surroundings.
The extraordinary countryside and shoreline maintain the relaxed vacationers glad, and the ever-flowing provide of advantageous wine and delicacies will definitely please the meals connoisseurs.
Greatest time to go to: April to June and September to October for fewer vacationers and fulfilling temperatures.
My highlights…
Climbing 414 steps to the highest of Giotto’s Bell Tower and photographing the magnificent views overlooking the town.
Having fun with a day of buying at San Lorenzo out of doors market which was stuffed with distinctive items and souvenirs.
Ending off a day of exploring by watching the sundown forged a sensational mild throughout the town at Piazzale Michelangelo.
My resort alternative for Florence – 25hours Lodge
14. Rome
It’s inconceivable to tour Italy with out visiting its well-known capital, Rome. This really unimaginable metropolis is stuffed with historical past spanning over twenty centuries—you may say Rome is the world’s greatest open-air museum.
As you wander the streets, the structure will depart you in awe, so pack your digital camera.
There are various websites to find, essentially the most well-known being the Coliseum, the Vatican, St. Peter’s, the Trevi Fountain and my private favorite, the Pantheon.
You in all probability received’t get to see all of them in a weekend nevertheless it gives you a purpose to return! Rome’s cafe tradition can also be world-famous, and for an actual Rome expertise, select from considered one of many piazzas and watch the world go by with (an costly) expresso.
Greatest time to go to: April to June and September to October for cooler temperatures.
My private highlights
Admiring the structural structure on the historic Colosseum, considered one of Italy’s most iconic landmarks.
Strolling up the 135 Spanish Steps and capturing an Insta-worthy shot between the Piazza di Spagna and the Piazza Trinita dei Monti.
Making a want on the most well-known fountain within the Europe, Trevi Fountain.
15. Sardinia
This massive island off the coast of Italy is a favorite vacation spot for Italians and wealthy footballers. More often than not, it’s a quiet and stress-free island, however widespread areas can get very busy in the summertime, so you could e book early to remain at the very best locations. To succeed in Sardinia, you’ll be able to sail or fly into Alghero, Cagliari, or the port city of Olbia.
The island is gorgeous, and in comparison with many vacation island resorts in Europe, it stays comparatively unspoiled.
No high-rise concrete motels are right here; even the resort areas are surprisingly tasteful. I’d personally suggest Sant’antioco and San Pietro, as these are essentially the most distant and conventional areas.
Sardinia’s shoreline is world-renowned, so that you received’t have to look far for superb seashores and clear water wherever you keep.
Greatest time to go to: June to September for seaside actions, whereas spring gives milder temperatures.
My highlights…
Taking a ship tour which was a beautiful method to discover the gorgeous shoreline.
Visiting the petite city of Bosa which was stuffed with engaging colourful structure.
Spending the day stress-free on a Sardinia seaside and exploring the hidden coves.
16. Sicily
The biggest island within the Mediterranean Sea makes a wonderful vacation vacation spot. Like Sardinia, it has glorious seashores and great delicacies, solely far cheaper.
Additionally, you will have the luxurious of going island-hopping—the Aegadian Islands, Aeolian Islands, and Pantelleria Lampedusa are all close by and accessible. Sicily is a standard and rustic island with a wealthy tradition and a potent mixture of structure, arts, delicacies, literature, and music.
Right here, you’ll be able to sit on seashores, go to archaeological websites, or pattern the domestically caught fish. Be sure to embody a go to to the Selinunte, an historical constructing containing 5 temples centred on an acropolis.
The east coast of Sicily is extra developed and tourist-friendly, and the west coast is extra untouched.
As you journey down the ladder, you’ll be amazed at how pleasant the Sicilian individuals are and the way happy they’re that you just selected to go to Sicily.
Greatest time to go to: Late spring to early fall (Could to October) for seaside visits and nice climate.
My favourite highlights…
Visiting the petite fishing city of Cefalù, which was stuffed with vibrant boats, and taking a dip within the picturesque turquoise waters.
Discovering Mount Etna volcano on an organised tour was an unimaginable expertise!
Watching the sundown by the white limestone cliff of Scala dei Turchi which is known for its distinctive form.
17. Capri
A favorite with honeymooners and well-heeled vacationers, this resort island has attracted guests because the Roman Instances and has maintained its gorgeous magnificence.
It’s a small island in Italy’s Bay of Naples and is house to rugged landscapes, yacht-filled coves, upscale motels and loads of boutique retailers stocking every thing, from Italian wine to designer trend.
You possibly can’t depart with out visiting the Blue Grotto, one of the stunning locations in Italy. It’s a pure darkish cavern the place the ocean is a shocking electrical blue (really daylight passing by an underwater cave).
Greatest time to go to: Could to September for heat, sunny days.
My favourite highlights…
Taking a chairlift to the height of Mount Solaro and capturing the breathtaking views that attain so far as the Calabria mountains.
Having a romantic dinner on the conventional Italian restaurant La Capannina.
Visiting the Grotta Azzurra, the place the solar displays an uncommon blue glow all through the cave.
Exploring the spectacular sea cliffs surrounding the island by boat.
18. Portofino
Portofino is considered one of my favorite under-the-radar gems! This picturesque fishing village is likely one of the most well-known vacation resorts on the Italian Riviera. This vacation spot is good for a romantic escape with the one you love!
Portofino gives tranquillity, charming structure, and true nature. This stunning village has been a prime spot for the wealthy and well-known because the Fifties.
Greatest time to go to: April to September for out of doors exploration.
My highlights…
Window buying on the luxurious boutiques on the marina entrance and hidden down slim alleys.
Taking a motorcycle tour and absorbing the panoramic views of the Gulf.
Visiting the open-air museum and admiring the up to date paintings and the Mediterranean Sea on the identical time.
Experiencing the well-known diving spot close to San Fruttuoso Seashore and discovering the distinctive bronze statue underwater.
19. Milan
That is the Italian metropolis to go to for buying, trend, and delightful (and really well-dressed) individuals!. It’s a cosmopolitan, fast-paced metropolis that draws designers, artists, photographers, and fashions worldwide. There are additionally many different causes to go to.
Folks apart, Milan can also be well-known for its extraordinary structure, artwork, historical past, and meals and for its love of soccer—its two essential golf equipment have made the town one of the football-loving locations in Europe.
There’s additionally nice structure, together with the Duomo di Milano, glorious artwork galleries (Milan is house to one of the well-known Renaissance work in historical past—Leonardo da Vinci’s The Final Supper), and unimaginable retailers, operas, bars, and eating places.
Milan is kind of the foodie metropolis and is known for its typical Italian dishes like Risotto, minestrone and polenta, and I’d recommend attempting all of them!
Greatest time to go to: Spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) for cooler climate.
My private highlights…
Watching a soccer match at San Siro Stadium, one of many largest in Europe, and be a part of the roaring environment.
Exploring the Sforzesco Citadel which featured a number of museums and a good looking courtyard.
Spending a day buying within the trend capital of the world on the Golden Triangle which is stuffed with luxurious manufacturers.
Wandering by the inventive road artwork in Isola and capturing pictures for my Instagram.
20. Elba Island
Simply north of the Tuscan Archipelago sits Elba Island, it’s remained a reasonably under-the-radar vacation spot in Italy nevertheless it’s an more and more fashionable place to vacation.
Round 30,000 individuals populate the attractive Italian island, however that quantity considerably will increase throughout its tourist-filled summer time months.
Elba Island is situated in Italy’s Archipelago Toscano Nationwide Park and is named the nation’s third-largest island. Sardinia and Sicily are the one bigger islands in Italy. Cavo Seashore and Spiaggia Delle Tombe are among the many hottest and picturesque seashores on Elba Island.
Like most islands, snorkelling and diving are widespread vacationer actions.
Greatest time to go to: June to September for seaside actions and heat temperatures.
My favourite highlights…
Exploring one of the historical buildings situated on Elba Island, the Fortress of Volterraio the place I noticed breathtaking views of the Gulf of Portoferraio.
Experiencing a sundown boat tour across the island while taking within the magnificent surroundings and having fun with an aperitif created from domestically grown lemons.
Mountain climbing as much as the Capanne Mount, the best peak of the island and capturing the panaromanic views.
Kayaking round stunning island and taking a swim within the crystal-clear waters.
21. Lake Orta
Lake Garda and Como are essentially the most well-known lakes in Italy, however in order for you extra rest than a tourist-ridden vacation spot, Lake Orta is the place to go!
Locals are inclined to gravitate to Lake Orta when they should recharge. On the centre of Lake Orta is a small island, Isola San Giulio, house to a century-old monastery and basilica.
Take a ferry to the island and absorb the great and tranquil environment!
Greatest time to go to: April to June or September to October for gentle climate.
My private highlights…
Slowing down and having fun with a stroll across the lake which is surrounded by a set of Insta-worthy photograph spots!
Having fun with the seaside golf equipment situated alongside the sandy shores and swimming in one of many cleanest lakes in Europe!
Exploring the well-known Villa Taranto gardens and admiring the colourful colors of the spectacular flower beds.
22. Ischia Island
Situated on the Tyrrhenian Sea, Ischia Island is likely one of the many volcanically fashioned islands. Situated about 30 km from Naples, vacationers journey to this unbelievably stunning island as it’s the largest of the Phlegreen Islands in Italy. To get out to Ischia Island, guests should take a ferry.
Two ferries convey individuals to the island. One takes 1.5 hours whereas the opposite is only one hour journey time, so select the precise one to your wants.
As soon as there, I like to recommend simply kicking again and having fun with the great thing about this island whereas watching the daring cliff jumpers!
