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Our Top 10 Best Cities in Italy to Visit

Italy is a country that needs no introduction. With its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture, Italy boasts some of the most fascinating cities in the world. From ancient ruins to modern art, and from rolling hills to beautiful coastlines, Italy has something for everyone. Here are the best cities to visit in Italy and what makes each one so special.


Last updated: 17.06.2025

Rome - The Eternal City


Rome, the capital of Italy, is a living museum. The city’s rich history is evident everywhere you look, from the ancient ruins of the Colosseum to the majestic Roman Forum. Visitors can walk down the same streets that Roman emperors once roamed. Rome’s piazzas, such as Piazza Navona and Piazza di Spagna, are surrounded by charming cafes and stunning architecture. Don't forget to visit the Vatican City, home to St. Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel, where you can admire Michelangelo’s masterpiece. The best time to visit is in spring or fall when the weather is pleasant and the crowds are thinner. The city is also famous for its vibrant nightlife, with trendy bars and restaurants offering a taste of authentic Roman cuisine. For history buffs, a visit to the Roman Pantheon and Castel Sant'Angelo is a must. For an unforgettable experience, take a nighttime stroll along the Tiber River or watch the sunset from one of the city’s famous viewpoints. Rome is truly a city that never stops impressing.

Florence - The Art Capital

Florence, the cradle of the Renaissance, is a city that feels like a living art gallery. Known for its art, history, and architecture, Florence is home to iconic masterpieces by Michelangelo, Botticelli, and Leonardo da Vinci. The Uffizi Gallery, one of the most famous art museums in the world, houses incredible works that span centuries of Italian art. The Duomo, with its stunning cathedral and Giotto’s bell tower, offers panoramic views of the city. Florence is also renowned for its beautiful piazzas and bridges, like the Ponte Vecchio. Spring and fall are the best times to visit for pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Florence’s food scene is also extraordinary, with Tuscan specialties like ribollita, pappa al pomodoro, and the famous Florentine steak. After exploring the city’s art, head to the Boboli Gardens for a peaceful walk or relax at a café in Piazza della Signoria. Florence is a city for lovers of art, culture, and good food.

Tip for visiting:
When visiting Florence, it's essential to wear comfortable shoes for exploring the city's cobbled streets. Florence is best experienced on foot, as many of its top attractions, such as the Duomo, Uffizi Gallery, and Ponte Vecchio, are within walking distance of each other. To avoid the crowds, consider visiting major attractions early in the morning or later in the afternoon. Don't forget to try the local cuisine, especially Tuscan specialties like ribollita and the famous Florentine steak. Lastly, if you want to skip the lines at popular museums, book tickets in advance or opt for a guided tour to make the most of your time in the city.

Venice - The City of Canals

Venice is unlike any other city in the world. With its intricate network of canals, winding streets, and historic palaces, Venice feels like stepping into a fairy tale. The Grand Canal, lined with Renaissance and Baroque buildings, is the main artery of the city, and a gondola ride is a classic Venetian experience. St. Mark's Square is another must-visit, home to the grand basilica and the famous Campanile. Venice’s labyrinth of alleys and bridges invites exploration, offering countless hidden gems. The best time to visit is during the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn when the weather is milder, and the crowds are more manageable.
The city’s unique architecture and history will captivate you, from the Doge’s Palace to the Rialto Bridge. Venice is also famous for its Venetian glass, particularly from the island of Murano, which you can visit during your trip. Explore Venice’s islands, including Burano, known for its colorful houses and lace-making tradition. For a romantic getaway, Venice is perfect, with stunning views, cozy cafes, and hidden corners to explore. Experience the magic of this one-of-a-kind city on a Best of Northern Italy tour.

Naples - Gateway to the Amalfi Coast


Naples, located on the southwestern coast of Italy, is the birthplace of pizza and offers a truly authentic Italian experience. The city’s historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage site, filled with narrow streets, bustling markets, and vibrant energy. Naples is also the gateway to the Amalfi Coast, where you can visit stunning coastal towns like Positano, Ravello, and Amalfi. The city is home to incredible historical landmarks, such as the Royal Palace of Naples and the ancient ruins of Pompeii, just a short drive away. Naples is best visited in the spring or early fall when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. The city’s food scene is a major draw, especially for pizza lovers. Try the famous Neapolitan pizza, made with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil, cooked in a wood-fired oven. For a true taste of Naples, visit the Spaccanapoli, the narrow street that cuts through the heart of the historic center, lined with pizzerias and traditional shops. Naples is also known for its beautiful views of Mount Vesuvius, the active volcano that famously erupted in 79 AD.

Bologna - The Food Capital

Bologna, often overshadowed by Italy’s more famous cities, is a food lover's paradise. Known as the gastronomic heart of Italy, Bologna is the birthplace of Bolognese sauce, and it’s the perfect place to indulge in delicious Italian food. The city’s historic center is home to beautiful medieval buildings, with two towers, Torre Asinelli and Torre Garisenda, offering incredible views of the city. Bologna is also known for its porticoes, the longest in the world, which make walking around the city a pleasant experience, no matter the weather. The best time to visit is during the fall, when the city's food festivals take center stage.
Bologna is famous for its cuisine, especially its pasta dishes like tortellini, tagliatelle, and lasagna.Don’t forget to visit the Mercato di Mezzo, a historic food market where you can sample local delicacies. Tuscany: Gastronomic Tour will give you the chance to explore not only Bologna but also the surrounding regions, tasting local wines and traditional dishes. Bologna is also a great base for exploring nearby cities such as Florence and Venice, making it an ideal stop on your Italian journey. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and incredible food, Bologna is one of the best cities in Italy to visit.


Bologna is often referred to as the culinary capital of Italy. It's famous for its rich food culture, particularly for being the birthplace of Bolognese sauce, which is known as ragù in Italy. The city is also home to the oldest university in the world, the University of Bologna, founded in 1088. Bologna boasts beautiful medieval architecture, including the iconic Two Towers, Torre Asinelli and Torre Garisenda, which offer stunning views of the city. The city’s porticoes, or covered walkways, stretch over 38 kilometers and are a UNESCO World Heritage site. Bologna is also famous for its vibrant markets, such as the Mercato di Mezzo, where you can sample fresh produce, cheeses, and cured meats.

Siena - A Medieval Masterpiece


Siena, nestled in the heart of Tuscany, is a city that captivates with its medieval charm and historical richness. Known for its well-preserved Gothic architecture, Siena feels like stepping back in time to an era of knights, noble families, and religious fervor. The city's iconic Piazza del Campo is one of the most beautiful medieval squares in Europe, where the famous Palio horse race takes place every year. A visit to Siena offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it one of Italy’s most unforgettable destinations. Whether you're an art lover, a history enthusiast, or simply seeking to immerse yourself in the timeless charm of Tuscany, Siena is a must-see gem.

Verona - The City of Romeo and Juliet

Verona is known worldwide as the setting for Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. The city’s most famous landmark is Juliet's House, where visitors can see the iconic balcony and leave love notes on the walls. Verona is also home to the well-preserved Arena di Verona, an ancient Roman amphitheater that still hosts opera performances today. The best time to visit Verona is in the spring or early summer when the weather is pleasant and the city is full of life. In addition to its Shakespearean connections, Verona boasts beautiful medieval architecture, such as the Castelvecchio and the Piazza delle Erbe. Verona is located near Lake Garda, making it an excellent base for exploring the lakeside region. The city’s food scene is just as remarkable, with local specialties like risotto all’Amarone and the famous Verona cake. Verona is also known for its wine, particularly its Valpolicella region, which produces some of Italy’s finest reds.

Amalfi Coast - Breathtaking Views


The Amalfi Coast is one of the most picturesque regions in Italy. With its dramatic cliffs, charming villages, and crystal-clear waters, the coast offers some of the most stunning views in the world. The best time to visit the Amalfi Coast is in the spring or fall when the weather is pleasant and the crowds are smaller. The towns of Positano, Ravello, and Amalfi are the most popular stops, each offering unique views, history, and cuisine. Take a stroll through Positano’s narrow streets lined with boutique shops and cafes or visit Ravello’s beautiful villas and gardens. Amalfi, with its historic cathedral and stunning coastal views, is another must-see destination. The Amalfi Coast is also known for its delicious cuisine, particularly seafood and lemon-infused dishes. It is a great place to relax, unwind, and enjoy breathtaking scenery. To experience the best of the Amalfi Coast, consider joining a Bella Italia with Amalfi tour, which combines the beauty of the coast with visits to other Italian landmarks.
  • 50 kilometers

    Length of the Amalfi Coast
  • 60,000 residents

    The Amalfi Coast is home to around
  • 5,000 tons

    The area produces lemons annually.

Cinque Terre - Coastal Charm

Bologna, often overshadowed by Italy’s more famous cities, is a food lover's paradise. Known as the gastronomic heart of Italy, Bologna is the birthplace of Bolognese sauce, and it’s the perfect place to indulge in delicious Italian food. The city’s historic center is home to beautiful medieval buildings, with two towers, Torre Asinelli and Torre Garisenda, offering incredible views of the city. Bologna is also known for its porticoes, the longest in the world, which make walking around the city a pleasant experience, no matter the weather. The best time to visit is during the fall, when the city's food festivals take center stage.
Bologna is famous for its cuisine, especially its pasta dishes like tortellini, tagliatelle, and lasagna.Don’t forget to visit the Mercato di Mezzo, a historic food market where you can sample local delicacies. Dolce Italia with Amalfi will give you the chance to explore not only Bologna but also the surrounding regions, tasting local wines and traditional dishes. Bologna is also a great base for exploring nearby cities such as Florence and Venice, making it an ideal stop on your Italian journey. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and incredible food, Bologna is one of the best cities in Italy to visit.


The best time to visit Cinque Terre is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October). During these months, the weather is mild, and the crowds are smaller compared to the peak summer months. The temperatures are perfect for hiking along the cliffs and exploring the colorful villages without the extreme heat or large tourist crowds.

Italy offers a wealth of destinations for every type of traveler. From historical cities and picturesque coastal towns to delicious food and wine regions, best cities to visit in Italy will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.

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