Italy is a boot-shaped peninsula protruding into the Mediterranean Sea and one of the most popular holiday destinations among the European countries. The country is divided into different regions by the crisscrossing mountains. These regions make Italy travel full of variety. Each region has its own flavor.
The top of Italy is cut across by the Alps, whose long mountain route is enriched with thin glacial lakes. From the west of the Alps, the Apennines create a streak towards the south of the peninsula. There are numerous places to see in Italy amidst these mountains as well.
Despite the history dating back to more than thousands of years, the actual Italian history begins with the Etruscans civilization that lived between the Arno and Tiber rivers. Although there are very few Italy tourist attractions hailing from this period, but you can learn more about it in the archeological museums.
In the third century BCE, Etruscans were ousted by the Romans, and later in the second century BCE, they became the central power of Mediterranean landmass stretching from India to Scotland. The remains of the great Roman Empire is one of the biggest attraction for people to visit Italy. After the fall of the Roman Empire, Italy was fragmented into several city-states, and political units which were brought together under Italian Unification and the Italian nation was founded in 1861.
Owing to the constant power struggles, some of the best cities to visit in Italy flourished during the Renaissance era, which symbolizes art, technology, and academic progression amidst the brutal warfare. Icons like Michelangelo, Raphael, Leonardo da Vinci, etc. are Italy’s gift to the world. Some of the best places to visit in Italy hail from the renaissance period when art and culture was at its peak in the nation.
Apart from intellectuals, Italy is also cherished for its landscapes, architecture, fashion, opera, film, and food. The best places in Italy are also some of the most renowned attractions in the world The country’s rich cultural legacy can be attributed to various ancient inhabitants and their lingering influence.
The southern and central Italy revels in the ways of Greek and Etruscan civilization, while the remaining country is substantially thriving under the Roman culture. Some of the best places to go in Italy are the ancient Roman towns of Pompeii and Herculaneum. Italy houses dozens of World Heritage sites, 700+ cultural institutes, 300+ theaters, and approximately 6000 libraries with more than 100 million books. With world favorite ‘Pizzas’ and brands like Prada, Versace, Gucci, Armani, etc. explorers are thrilled to explore Italy destinations.
Popular Cities / Places to Visit in Italy
1. ROME
This capital city of Italy is famous for its rich history and culture. Rome tops the list of famous places in Italy with ancient glories like the Colosseum, the Pantheon, the Forum, the Appian Way, and the Palatine Hill.
2. VENICE
Venice is one of the most beautiful places in Italy. And a lover’s paradise with its gondola rides and interconnected canals.
3. MILAN
Milan is the holy grail of tourists with its fantastic fashion, art, landmarks, theatres, and museums. It is among most beautiful places in Italy in terms of landscapes and historical landmarks.
4. FLORENCE
This Tuscan capital is a true embodiment of the art and architectural whimsey belonging to the Renaissance era. With monuments like Duomo, the bell tower, Michelangelo’s ‘David’ sculpture at The Galleria dell ‘Accademia, “Perseus with the Head of Medusa” statue, Florence is among top places to visit in Italy.
5. NAPLES
Naples is known for its classic white cobblestone pathways and picturesque ocean side. Among all Italy tourist places, Naples boasts the title for bearing true taste of the country.
6. CINQUE TERRE
This town stands on a cliff by the ocean with colorful buildings spread across the coastline. It is among the most beautiful things to see in Italy. The town is also recognized among UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
7. PISA
Most known for the Leaning Tower of Pisa, the city is home to several iconic places and sites. The city is also home to the iconic Duoma, Cathedral of Pisa, Baptistery of St. John, Campo Santo and many more. It is known as a college town and has a fun, vibrant vibe to it owing to the young crowd. This vibrant culture makes it popular among Italy holiday destinations.
8. AMALFI
This is yet another beautiful coastal city settled along the slope of the mountain. The very geography of Amalfi validates its inclusion among picturesque places to see in Italy. It is known for its vibrant and colorful buildings as well as equally vibrant interiors of these buildings.
9. CAPRI
Capri is a quintessential island city with unmatched coastal scenic beauty on all sides. It is a place popular for leisure as well as sightseeing. It is among top places to explore during Italy travel to capture some amazing pictures.
10. VERONA
This quaint city is famous for being backdrop for Shakespearean plays Two Gentleman of Verona and Romeo & Juliet. The town has great number of Italy tourist attractions from the Roman era, earning it the title “Little Rome”.
11. SIENA
This Tuscan city is home to several medieval buildings. It is full of red brick buildings with red roofs. If you can get to high towers and look at the skyline of the city, it is quite wonderful. It is also known for the famous Palio Horse Race.
12. BOLOGNA
Bologna is known for its UNESCO protected porticoes. You can explore amazing medieval architecture. It is also one of most beautiful places in Italy to explore on foot.
13. GENOA
Genoa is still the busiest sea-port in the country and is also home to several Italy tourist attractions which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The city has several marvels of renaissance and baroque styles of architecture. Genoa is also visited for coastal hike trails close to the city.
14. TURIN
Turin is one of the most culturally and historically rich cities in Italy. It is home to grand works of architecture and world class museums. Being one of the most flourishing cities during the renaissance, the city exhibits a lavish cultural heritage which is kept alive today as well.
