Discover Italy: The 20 Best Places to Visit

Italy’s diverse landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture make it a captivating destination for travelers from around the globe. Whether you’re exploring ancient ruins, indulging in world-class cuisine, or simply soaking up the beauty of its natural wonders, Italy never fails to enchant and inspire. Not sure what to add to your bucket list? Here are the 20 best places to visit in Italy.

Jump to:

• Rome
• Siena
• Florence
• Venice
• Milan
• The Amalfi Coast
• Cinque Terre
• Sicily
• The Dolomites
• Lake Como
• Naples
• Puglia
• Sardinia
• Pompeii
• Bologna
• Verona
• Ischia
• Trieste
• Pisa
• Castelmezzano
• Stay connected with an eSIM

Related: Italy Travel Guide: Everything You Need To Know

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Rome

Rome is a living museum. Walking through the streets feels like a journey back in time, from the monumental Colosseum to the majestic Roman Forum. Piazza Navona, with its beautiful fountains, and the Pantheon, with its ancient architectural prowess, remind visitors of the city’s glorious past.

Related: The 25 Best Things To Do in Rome

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Siena

The medieval city of Siena is known for its fan-shaped piazza, Il Campo, and the historic Palio horse race. The remarkable Duomo di Siena boasts intricate marble floors and an impressive art collection. Strolling through the ancient streets, visitors are transported to the Middle Ages.

Related: Explore Italy: Top 5 Day Trips From Florence

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Florence

The birthplace of the Renaissance, Florence boasts an unparalleled artistic heritage. Marvel at masterpieces by Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, and Botticelli, and wander through the charming streets of this cultural capital.

Related: The 20 Best Things To Do in Florence

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Venice

A city like no other, built on a network of canals and adorned with exquisite palaces and churches. Lose yourself in the maze of narrow streets, take a romantic gondola ride, and experience the magic of St. Mark’s Square.

Related: How Many Days Do You Need in Venice? 3 Itineraries To Plan Your Trip

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Milan

Milan, the world’s fashion capital, offers an exhilarating mix of contemporary style and historic charm. Its impressive Duomo is a Gothic masterpiece, and Leonardo’s Last Supper, tucked away in Santa Maria delle Grazie, is a must-visit. For shopping enthusiasts, the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II provides an extravagant retail experience.

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The Amalfi Coast

The Amalfi Coast is famed for its extraordinary beauty and coastal cliffs dotted with pastel-hued towns like Positano and Amalfi. Travelers can indulge in local limoncello, explore sun-drenched vineyards, or enjoy a relaxing day at the beach with stunning views of the turquoise Mediterranean Sea.

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Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre, comprised of five villages nestled on rugged cliffs, is a hiker’s paradise. The villages are connected by scenic coastal paths, each providing a serene escape with terraced vineyards, colorful houses, and a mix of tranquil harbors and beaches.

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Sicily

An island of contrasts, where ancient ruins, Baroque architecture, and stunning landscapes converge. Explore the majestic Valley of the Temples, hike Mount Etna, and savor Sicilian cuisine bursting with flavor.

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The Dolomites

A paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, the Dolomites are a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for their jagged peaks, pristine lakes, and picturesque alpine villages. In the summer, hiking and cycling are popular pursuits, while in winter, the area becomes a prime skiing destination. The towering peaks and serene lakes paint a picture of alpine perfection.

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Lake Como

Lake Como has charmed visitors for centuries with its elegant villas and lush gardens set against the backdrop of the Alps. The towns of Bellagio, Varenna, and Como each offer distinctive vibes — from upscale shopping and dining to quiet, cobblestoned streets perfect for a leisurely stroll.

Related: Milan to Lake Como Day Trip: Everything You Need To Know

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Naples

The vibrant city of Naples is the birthplace of pizza and the gateway to the ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum. Its Historic Center is a UNESCO World Heritage site, with imposing castles, and the dazzling Spaccanapoli, a street that seems to split the city in two.

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Puglia

Puglia, the “heel” of Italy’s boot, is an increasingly popular destination. With its whitewashed hill towns, ancient farmland, and hundreds of kilometers of Mediterranean coastline, Puglia delivers the genuine charm of southern Italy.

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Sardinia

A paradise for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts, Sardinia boasts crystal-clear waters, rugged coastlines, and ancient ruins. Relax on the stunning beaches of Costa Smeralda or hike through the scenic landscapes of the interior.

Related: The 20 Most Beautiful Islands in the World

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Pompeii

Step back in time and explore the ancient city frozen in the shadow of Mount Vesuvius. Wander through remarkably preserved ruins, including temples, villas, and amphitheaters, and gain insight into daily life in ancient Rome.

Related: Rome to Pompeii Day Trip: Everything You Need To Know

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Bologna

A gastronomic delight, Bologna is renowned for its rich culinary tradition and medieval architecture. Explore its historic center, home to the oldest university in the western world, and savor the flavors of Emilia-Romagna cuisine.

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Verona

Verona is forever associated with the tragic love story of Romeo and Juliet. Visitors can explore the alleged residence of Juliet, with its famous balcony. Beyond this lore is a wealth of Roman history, including the Arena — a well-preserved Roman amphitheater still in use today.

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Ischia

A lush island retreat in the Bay of Naples, Ischia is renowned for its thermal spas, verdant landscapes, and scenic coastline. Relax in natural thermal pools, explore picturesque villages, and soak up the island’s laid-back atmosphere.

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Trieste

Trieste, at the crossroads of Latin, Slavic, and Germanic cultures, offers an intriguing mix of history and architecture. Its grand Piazza Unità d’Italia is Europe’s largest sea-facing square and provides a majestic setting for evening passeggiata (casual stroll).

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Pisa

Famous for its iconic Leaning Tower, Pisa offers much more than a single architectural marvel. Explore the beautiful Piazza dei Miracoli, visit the impressive Cathedral and Baptistery, and stroll along the Arno River.

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Castelmezzano

Tucked away in the rugged landscape of Basilicata, Castelmezzano is a hidden gem known for its breathtaking scenery and adrenaline-pumping activities, such as zip-lining through the Lucanian Dolomites.

Stay Connected With an eSIM From Airalo

No matter where you travel, stay connected with an Airalo eSIM. Airalo gives you access to affordable eSIMs for 200+ countries and regions — including Italy.

Why Airalo? Here are a few reasons to use an Airalo eSIM when you travel:

• Connect to a mobile network within minutes of arrival.
• Choose from flexible local, regional, and global data plans.
• Eliminate the need to find a local SIM vendor.
• Say goodbye to expensive roaming charges.
• Store multiple eSIM data plans on your device.

Planning a trip to Italy? Get an Italy eSIM to stay connected during your trip.