The Best Things To Do In Italy: The Italian Bucket List
I am smitten with Italy. Each time I visit I fall in love with it a little bit more. Around 63 million tourists visit annually making it the fifth most visited country in the world. When it comes to things to do in Italy, I could easily find a few hundred, but I have chosen places to visit in Italy that I think will give you a great overall view of the country.
If it is your first visit to Italy choose a few cities and see the highlights. Rome is a good starting point, where ancient and modern stand shoulder to shoulder in this vibrant city. From there it is easy to head either north or south, depending on what you want to see
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1. Rome
Rome, the eternal city, is a treasure trove of history, art, and culture and the best place to visit in Italy to start exploring. Begin your journey at the iconic Colosseum, where the ancient gladiators once fought, and feel the weight of history in its towering walls. Stroll through the Roman Forum, where the remains of ancient temples hint at tales of the mighty Roman Empire.
Marvel at the breathtaking beauty of the Vatican City, home to St. Peter’s Basilica and the awe-inspiring Sistine Chapel, adorned with Michelangelo’s masterpieces. Throw a coin into the Trevi Fountain, a symbol of luck and love, and explore the charming streets of Trastevere, lined with quaint cafes and artisan shops. With its rich tapestry of experiences, Rome promises an unforgettable journey through time and culture.
Recommended: Priority Access Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Tour OR Spanish Steps, Trevi, Navona and Pantheon Sunset Tour AND Vatican: Museums & Sistine Chapel Entrance Ticket
How much time should you spend in Rome?
The amount of time you spend in Rome largely depends on your interests and what you hope to experience in the city. You can explore the main highlights in one day by rushing around and ticking the main sights in Rome off your list. However, in two to three days you can explore charming neighbourhoods, emjoy authentic Italian cuisine and soak in the unique sights in Rome.
MORE TO READ ON ROME: 20 Not to be missed Attractions in Rome | Where to stay in Rome | Best areas and hotels in 2023 | What to eat in Rome
2. Milan
Milan, a bustling metropolis known as Italy’s fashion and design capital, offers a vibrant blend of historical landmarks and contemporary charm. Don’t miss the magnificent Duomo di Milano, a Gothic masterpiece with countless spires and intricate sculptures.
It is also home to Leonardo da Vinci’s iconic masterpiece, “The Last Supper,” housed in the refectory of the Santa Maria delle Grazie church.
Whether you are religious or an art aficionado or neither, seeing the Last Supper is a special moment. For me, it was a bit like seeing the Taj Mahal in India, totally surreal and a very special moment.
Recommended: Da Vinci’s Last Supper Skip the line guided tour and Cathedral and Duomo’s Terraces Entrance Ticket
How long do you need in Milan?
You can easily see the main sights in Milan in one day. Milan can also be visited as a day trip if you are based in Venice or Florence, one of the must see cities in Italy. It is also easy to visit Lake Como from Milan.
More to read: 18 Interesting things to do in Milan
3. Lake Como
Lake Como is in the north of Italy in Lombardy. The area covered by the lake is around 146 square kilometres. Many villas on the edge of the lake are the secret hideaways of A-List celebrities which is not surprising with the stunning landscape and amazing views. In many ways, it reminds me of Lake Lugano in Switzerland. If you are looking for a romantic place in Italy you will love Lake Como.
Recommended: From Milan: Como, Lugano and Bellagio Exclusive Boat Cruise AND Como Lake: Villas Highlights & Exclusive Boat Tour
How much time in Lake Como
Lake Como is an easy day trip from Milan. If you have more time you can spend a day wandering through the pretty streets of the villages.
4. Florence (Firenze)
Florence is one of the best places to visit in Italy. Florence is the cradle of the Renaissance and is one of my favourite places in Italy. Florence is packed with must-see spots like the Florence Cathedral(Duomo) and the Uffizi Gallery, showcasing art by big names like Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci. Don’t miss the Ponte Vecchio Bridge and the Piazzale Michelangelo for killer views of the city and surrounding hills.
Recommended: Skip-The-Line Uffizi Gallery Timed Entrance Ticket OR Timed Entrance Ticket to Michelangelo’s David AND Pasta and Tiramisu Cooking Class with Wine
How many days in Florence is enough?
You can rush around Florence and see the best of Florence in one day. I recommend spending at least two to three days in Florence enjoying all that this pretty Italian city has to offer beyond the museums. Florence is also an excellent base to take a day trip to Tuscany.
More to read on Florence: Where to stay in Florence |The best areas 2023 UPDATE | The best things to do visiting Florence for the first time
5. Tuscany
Tuscany is known for its stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Explore the charming medieval hill towns like Siena with its iconic Piazza del Campo and San Gimignano with its ancient towers. Indulge in the region’s world-class wines with a visit to the picturesque vineyards of Chianti, and try the delectable flavours of Tuscan cuisine in one of the best destinations in Italy.
Recommended: Tuscany by Vespa Full-Day Tour to Chianti Wine Region OR From Florence: Day Trip Pisa, Siena & San Gimignano w/Lunch AND From Florence: Chianti & San Gimignano Tour with 2 Tastings
How many days in Tuscany?
You can visit Tuscany easily on a day trip from Florence, but ideally, you need at least three days to four days or longer to soak up the small villages in Tuscany and some of the gorgeous tourist places in Italy.
6. Siena
Siena is home to the world-famous horse race, the Palio, but it is also a charming medieval Tuscan hillside town that is worth spending some time exploring. Start the day at the beautiful shell-shaped Piazza del Campo built over an old marketplace. Enjoy wandering through the streets while you gaze at the panoramic view of the countryside. Don’t forget to try some of the local specialities like panforte (a spiced Sienese fruit and nut cake) and ricciarelli (sugar-dusted chewy almond biscuits) and of course a hearty bowl of pasta with a glass of Tuscan wine.
Recommended: Pisa, Siena, San Gimignano with Lunch and Wine in Chianti
More to read: The best things to do in Siena
How long in Siena?
It is easy to visit Siena on a day trip from Florence. It is a small town so one day in Siena is enough.
7. Pisa
The Tower of Pisa began as a vertical construction, but during the building, it developed a 10-degree lean because of the marshy ground where it was built. The 60-metre tower continues to lean. It is periodically closed when work is being done on it, but at other times you can climb the 284 stairs to the viewing platform for breathtaking panoramic views.
Is Pisa worth visiting? It is often on a list of Italian things to do. If you are in the area or on the way to another destination in Italy stop for a few hours to take in the sights.
Recommended: Reserved Entrance to Leaning Tower of Pisa & Cathedral
8. Cinque Terre
Cinque Terre lies between La Spezia and Levanto and is a UNESCO World Heritage site on the Italian Riviera. The 5 picturesque villages are perched on top of the craggy cliffs and there are plenty of things for you to do in Cinque Terre. It is also a popular area for hiking, much like the Amalfi Coast.
You can laze on the beach, or enjoy the local cuisine with the freshest seafood ingredients. Each of the villages, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, Riomaggiore, and Monterosso, have something unique about them so try and visit each of them if time allows. You can easily take a day trip from Florence or Milan if you are pressed for time.
Recommended: Cinque Terre from Florence OR Cinque Terre from Milan
How long in Cinque Terre?
As previously mentioned you can spend one day in Cinque Terre, but for the best experience to enjoy one of the beautiful places in Italy you need at least two to three days.
9. Venice
Venice is like stepping into a fairytale and is one of the best places in Italy to visit. Why? It may be crowded, but it is compact and easy to see the main sights in Venice. It’s buzzing with life and surrounded by stunning architecture like St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace. And of course, the Grand Canal is what Venice is all about!
It is not surprising that Venice is one of the top cities in Italy and on many people’s bucket lists.
Recommended: Venice: Doge’s Palace Reserved Entry Ticket AND Grand Canal Gondola Ride with App Commentary AND Venice: Waterbus and Mainland Bus Pass
How much time in Venice?
You can spend just one day in Venice and see the highlights, but it is better to spend 2 to 3 days in Venice. That way you can explore the other islands and some of the less touristy parts of Venice.
More to read: 35 Travel Tips for Venice: How to See Venice like a Local | The Best Way to spend a Day in Venice
10. Naples
Naples is a vibrant city steeped in history and culture. Renowned for Neapolitan pizza, and the UNESCO-listed historic centre with its colourful markets and baroque landmarks Naples should be on your Southern Italy itinerary. From exploring the catacombs and exploring nearby Pompeii to enjoying panoramic views, Naples offers an unforgettable blend of experiences.
Recommended: Naples Underground Entry Ticket and Guided Tour AND Pompeii Ruins & Mount Vesuvius Day Tour OR From Naples: Amalfi Coast Full-Day Trip
How much time in Naples?
You can easily see Naples in one day, but you may decide to stay longer if you plan to use it as a base to explore further afield.
More to read: 15 Of the Best Things to Do in Naples
11. Herculaneum (Ercolano)
While everyone tends to head to Pompeii, the site of Herculaneum is relatively unknown. Both towns were destroyed when Mt. Vesuvius erupted in 79 AD. Herculaneum was covered in lava flow instead of the volcanic ash that covered Pompeii. The lava was difficult to remove so the town was not looted and many artefacts were preserved. Herculaneum is not far from Naples and is not nearly as busy as a visit to Pompeii.
Recommended: From Naples Herculaneum Skip-the-Line Tour with Archaeologist OR Herculaneum Skip the line entrance ticket and audioguide
More to read: Visiting Herculaneum: The other Pompeii
12. Travel the road along the Amalfi Coast
This is one of the most iconic road trips in the world and top destinations in Italy. When it comes to stunning scenery, narrow winding roads, cliffs and crazy drivers the Amalfi Coast has it all. The 48 km stretch of road clings to the cliff, defying gravity. With vineyards and lemon groves above you and a sparkling ocean below you can’t help falling in love with this magical corner of Italy. If the idea of driving leaves you weak at the knees you can always join one of the many tours that take you to the beautiful towns along the coast.
13. Sorrento
Sorrento, nestled along the Amalfi Coast, will captivate you with its stunning views, culinary delights like limoncello, and charming streets filled with shops and cafes. You can explore the historic centre, laze on the beach or visit nearby attractions such as Positano or Capri for an unforgettable Italian escape.
Recommended: Capri Boat Tour with Blue Grotto Visit OR Positano, Amalfi and Ravello Sharing Tour from Sorrento AND Sorrento: Farm Visit with Pizza Lesson, Wine, and Limoncello
How long in Sorrento?
One day in Sorrento is enough to see the main sights in Sorrento. It is, however, a good base, with ways access to explore the Amalfi Coast one of the top places to visit in Italy
More to read: 24 Epic things to do in Sorrento
14. The Island of Capri
The Blue Grotto or Grotta Azzurra on the island of Capri is a cave in the side of the mountain and can only be reached by rowing boat and one of the memorable experiences in Italy. The light streams through crevices and creates a sparkling display inside the cavern. The best time for visiting is between 12 noon and 2 pm when the light is perfect. Avoid visiting the grotto on heavily overcast days when the effect is much less dramatic.
Recommended: From Sorrento: Capri Boat Tour with Blue Grotto Visit and From Naples: Island of Capri Full-Day Tour with Lunch
How long in Capri?
Normally 1 day in Capri is enough. It can be visited as a day trip from Naples or Sorrento.
15. Go skiing in the Dolomites
If you enjoy the great outdoors then a visit to the Dolomites is a must. The scenery is imposing and there are a wide range of activities to keep you busy. There are 12 different ski resorts scattered in the mountains along the Austrian border. Many of the peaks reach staggering heights and you can ski around 1200 km of trails, for all levels, that crisscross the region. In summer hiking is popular.
How Long Should You Spend in the Dolomites?
The ideal duration for a visit to the Dolomites depends on your interests and planned activities. Generally, spending five to seven days allows you to explore the region’s landscapes, outdoor activities, and cultural experiences. However, shorter trips focusing on specific activities or interests can range from a long weekend to a week.
16. Sicily
Anyone who likes archaeological sites and ancient history will be fascinated by the gorgeous ruins in Sicily that date from the 5th century BC. The Valley of the Temples is in Agrigento. The Doric Temples are incredibly well preserved and perched on a hill above the town, which means that you will also have some wonderful panoramic views from the historical site to enjoy.
Recommended: Agrigento: Valley of the Temples E-Scooter Tour AND Agrigento: Valley of the Temples Skip The Line & Guided Tour
Sicily – Stromboli
How many places in the world can you hike up an active volcano? This is one of the a unique activities in Italy. I’m not sure, but Stromboli in Sicily is one of them. It is an easy walk and you can go up to a height of 400 metres on your own. If you want to hike further towards the crater you need a certified guide to take you through the clouds of ash.
The journey to the top takes around 3 hours, but it is such an exciting experience that the time flies and the views are spectacular once you reach the top.
Recommended: Stromboli: Sunset Trekking at Sciara del Fuoco
17. Verona
Verona is best known for its romantic atmosphere and rich history. It offers a captivating blend of ancient landmarks, charming streets, and culinary delights. Highlights include the well-preserved Arena di Verona, the historic centre’s medieval architecture, Juliet’s House, and indulging in traditional Veronese cuisine and Amarone wine. Verona is a small city and a word of warning, it is packed with tourists much like Venice.
Recommended: Verona: History and Hidden Gems Guided Walking Tour
Best things to do in Italy: Best Places to visit in Italy Map
There are many cool things to do in Italy that will enchant and inspire you. From the timeless grandeur of Rome’s ancient ruins to the romantic canals of Venice and the breathtaking landscapes of the Dolomites, there’s something for everyone.
Don’t miss out on trying delicious Tuscan food, getting artsy in Florence, and feeling the romance in Verona. Whether you’re into history, food, or just soaking up the atmosphere, your trip to Italy will create special memories.
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