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Best Things to Do in Italy & Top Activities

Italy offers an endless array of experiences, no matter the season. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, the list of fun things to do in Italy is truly remarkable. Whether you’re wondering what to do in Italy for the first time or seeking new adventures, this guide to the top things to do in Italy will help you plan an unforgettable trip. Let’s explore the best activities in Italy to inspire your journey.

Last updated: 10.06.2025

Visit the Colosseum and Ancient Rome

Colosseum.
One of the first places that comes to mind when thinking about top things to do in Italy is the Colosseum in Rome. Standing as an awe-inspiring testament to the engineering brilliance of the ancient Romans, this amphitheatre has captivated visitors for centuries. Completed under Emperor Titus in 80 AD, the Colosseum once held over 50,000 spectators who gathered to witness thrilling gladiatorial contests, mock naval battles, and dramatic performances.

Today, exploring the Colosseum transports you back in time. You can wander through its vast arena, peer into the underground hypogeum where animals and fighters awaited their turn, and admire panoramic views from the upper tiers. If you want to experience the very best of Rome with expert guidance, consider joining the Gems of Rome and Sorrento tour.

Take a Gondola Ride in Venice

If you’re searching for fun things to do in Italy that embody romance and old-world charm, this is it. Venice itself is a city like no other — an intricate maze of waterways, marble palaces, and hidden squares where time seems to stand still. As you glide along the canals in a traditional gondola, you’ll pass under arched bridges and alongside opulent buildings that date back to the Renaissance and earlier. Gondoliers often share local legends, point out historic sites, or sing traditional Venetian songs, adding a unique cultural layer to the experience. Whether you choose a daytime ride to admire the architectural splendour or an evening journey lit by the soft glow of lanterns, this is one of the most atmospheric activities in Italy.

For those looking to experience the magic of Venice along with two other timeless cities, the Bella Italia! tour to Venice, Florence and Rome offers an ideal option, taking you through Italy’s most iconic destinations, blending art, history, and unforgettable local experiences.
Gondola in Venice, Italy.

Indulge in Italian Cuisine

Italian dish
No visit to Italy is complete without indulging in its culinary delights. Sampling regional dishes and participating in local food traditions is one of the most enjoyable activities in Italy. Every region boasts its own specialities, shaped by centuries of history, geography, and culture. In Bologna, known as the culinary heart of Italy, savour rich ragù alla Bolognese served with handmade tagliatelle. In Naples, enjoy authentic Neapolitan pizza crafted with simple yet perfect ingredients. The seafood markets of Sicily, the truffle dishes of Piedmont, and the creamy risottos of Lombardy all offer unique flavours to discover.

For a deeper connection to Italian gastronomy, join a cooking class where you can learn traditional techniques from local chefs. Explore bustling food markets, participate in a wine and cheese tasting, or dine at a family-run trattoria where recipes are passed down through generations.

Enjoy World-Class Shopping in Milan

For fashion lovers and style enthusiasts, a shopping spree in Milan is one of the most exciting things to do in Italy. As the country’s fashion capital and one of the world’s most influential style hubs, Milan offers a shopping experience like no other. Here, historic elegance meets cutting-edge design across a dazzling array of boutiques, flagship stores, and artisan workshops. Start your journey in the famous Quadrilatero della Moda, a luxurious district bordered by Via Montenapoleone, Via della Spiga, Via Sant’Andrea, and Via Manzoni. In this exclusive area, you’ll find haute couture from Italian icons, alongside prestigious international brands.

Don’t miss the spectacular Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, a 19th-century glass-domed arcade where luxury shops, elegant cafés, and historic bookstores create a refined shopping atmosphere.
For more contemporary finds, visit the trendy boutiques in the Brera district or hunt for unique vintage treasures in the vibrant Navigli area. Whether you’re seeking designer fashion, artisanal accessories, or exquisite home décor, shopping in Milan is one of the most rewarding activities in Italy — a blend of culture, craftsmanship, and style that perfectly captures the spirit of the country.

For a more rounded experience of the region, the Best of Northern Italy tour is a wonderful choice. It takes you through Milan’s vibrant streets and stylish boutiques, then on to the romantic shores of Sirmione and Lake Como, before ending in enchanting Venice. It’s an excellent way to combine the best things to do in Italy with a taste of the country’s northern charm.

Discover Masterpieces in Florence

Florence, Italy.
If you’re considering what to do in Italy to immerse yourself in the country’s artistic achievements, few cities compare to this Renaissance capital. Florence is home to the Uffizi Gallery, one of the most celebrated art museums in the world. Its vast collection includes works by Botticelli, Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, Caravaggio, and Raphael — paintings and sculptures that have defined Western art for generations. Beyond the Uffizi, the city itself is an open-air museum. Admire the grandeur of the Florence Cathedral, walk across the medieval Ponte Vecchio lined with jewellers, and visit the Accademia Gallery to marvel at Michelangelo’s David.

If you want to combine Florence with two of Italy’s other legendary cities, the Dolce Italia tour to Venice, Florence, and Rome allows you to explore Italy’s cultural heart through its most iconic destinations.

Drive the Amalfi Coast

The Amalfi Coast is one of the most breathtaking stretches of coastline in the world. Driving along this dramatic route is among the top things to do in Italy for travellers seeking natural beauty and Mediterranean allure. Wind along sheer cliffs above the azure waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea, connecting a series of enchanting villages — each with its own unique character. Start in Positano, with its pastel-hued houses cascading down the hillside and continue to Amalfi, where you can relax in sun-drenched piazzas. High above the sea lies Ravello, a serene town famed for its panoramic gardens and classical music concerts. Throughout your journey, savour regional cuisine such as fresh seafood, handmade pasta, and lemon-infused desserts.

For those dreaming of combining Italy’s iconic cities with the sparkling coastline of Amalfi, the Bella Italia with Amalfi tour takes you through Venice, Florence, and Rome, before guiding you to Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast — an ideal way to experience both Italy’s cultural treasures and its coastal charm in one unforgettable journey.
Positano, Italy.

Explore the Ruins of Pompeii

Pompeii, Italy.
Exploring the ruins of Pompeii is one of the most compelling activities in Italy for history enthusiasts. In 79 AD, Mount Vesuvius erupted with catastrophic force, burying the prosperous Roman city of Pompeii under metres of volcanic ash. This sudden disaster preserved the town remarkably well, providing a vivid snapshot of ancient Roman life.
Today, walking through the streets of Pompeii is like stepping into a time capsule. You’ll see the outlines of homes, shops, temples, and theatres, many adorned with colourful frescoes and intricate mosaics. Public baths, bakeries, and even graffiti reveal fascinating details of daily existence. The haunting plaster casts of residents who perished in the eruption add a poignant human element to the site. Visiting Pompeii is one of the best things to do in Italy to connect with its ancient past and gain a deeper understanding of Roman civilisation.

Tour the Vineyards of Tuscany

Tuscany’s vineyard-draped hills are a haven for wine lovers and those seeking a slower pace of travel. Touring this iconic region is what to do in Italy if you want to combine natural beauty with world-class gastronomy. The landscape here is defined by rolling hills, cypress-lined avenues, medieval hilltop towns, and endless rows of vines. Join a guided wine tour to visit renowned estates and meet passionate winemakers. Learn about the production of celebrated wines such as Chianti Classico, Brunello di Montalcino, and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano. Stroll through sun-dappled vineyards, tour centuries-old cellars, and sample exceptional vintages paired with local delicacies like Pecorino cheese and artisanal olive oil.
Beyond the wine, Tuscany offers charming villages to explore, such as San Gimignano with its medieval towers and Montepulciano with its Renaissance architecture.

For an itinerary that seamlessly combines Tuscany’s charm with Italy’s most iconic cities, the Bella Italia with Tuscany tour takes you through Venice, Florence, and Rome, with time to explore the beauty of Tuscany, including the enchanting village of Castiglione d'Orcia — a perfect way to savour the very best of Italy.
A day spent in Tuscany’s wine country offers a harmonious blend of sensory pleasures and cultural immersion — one of the most enriching things to do in Italy.
Italy is a country where every moment can become an unforgettable experience. From exploring ancient ruins and timeless art to tasting regional cuisine, discovering stunning coastlines, or shopping in the world’s fashion capital, there is truly no shortage of things to do in Italy. Whether your perfect day involves wandering historic streets, sipping wine in sun-drenched vineyards, or indulging in a bit of retail therapy, Italy offers something to inspire every traveller. So start planning your journey today — the beauty, culture, and spirit of Italy are waiting to be explored.

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