Best Things to Do in Italy

Dream of exploring Italy? From ancient ruins to stunning coastlines, Italy offers unforgettable experiences. Discover Rome’s Colosseum, Florence’s art, and Venice’s canals. Explore Tuscany’s vineyards, hike Cinque Terre, and relax on Lake Como. Learn how to plan your perfect Italian adventure and book your dream trip today!

Important information

• Italy offers major historical cities like Rome, Florence, and Venice, plus scenic regions like the Amalfi Coast, Cinque Terre, and Lake Como.
• Key historical sites include the Colosseum and Roman Forum in Rome, Pompeii, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, and the Valley of the Temples in Sicily.
• Unique activities include gondola rides in Venice, boat tours along the Amalfi Coast, cooking classes focusing on regional Italian dishes, and wine tasting in Tuscany.
• Visitors can explore Italy’s rich culture through opera performances, visits to world-class art museums, and exploring ancient ruins.
• Planning an itinerary involves listing must-see destinations, deciding on the length of stay in each location, researching transportation, and booking accommodations and tours in advance.

Discover the Best Things to Do in Italy

Italy offers a wealth of experiences, from exploring ancient wonders like Pompeii and the Valley of the Temples to indulging in its renowned cuisine. Historic cities such as Rome, Florence, and Venice are essential destinations. However, Italy’s beauty extends beyond its cities to breathtaking landscapes like the Amalfi Coast, Cinque Terre, and Lake Como. Savor the flavors of Tuscany with a wine tasting or glide through Venice’s canals on a gondola. For a deeper cultural immersion, explore Italy’s world-class art museums and historical sites.

Creating Your Travel Itinerary

Plan your Italian adventure by following these steps:

Exploring Italy’s Iconic Cities

Embark on an Italian adventure, beginning in Rome, where ancient marvels such as the Colosseum and Roman Forum await. Then, immerse yourself in the Renaissance beauty of Florence, home to artistic treasures at the Uffizi Gallery. Experience the romance of Venice with gondola rides along its enchanting canals. Explore the fashion capital, Milan, and admire the Duomo di Milano. Savor Turin’s elegance and culinary delights before venturing to Verona, the backdrop of Shakespeare’s enduring love story, Romeo and Juliet.

Rome: The Capital of Ancient Empire

Rome, Italy’s capital, is renowned worldwide for its rich culture and history. The city’s incredible ancient ruins offer a glimpse into the powerful Roman Empire, bringing history to life.

Florence: Cradle of the Renaissance

Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance, is where art and culture flourished. Witness Michelangelo’s David and the magnificent Duomo. The city’s historic streets pulse with life, brimming with vibrant markets and artisan workshops. History is palpable in Florence.

Venice: The City on Water

Venice, built entirely on water, offers a unique travel experience. Canals replace roads, and gondolas become the taxis, carrying visitors from all over the world. Must-see attractions include:

• the iconic St. Mark’s Square,
• the Doge’s Palace,
• the Rialto Bridge.

Steeped in history and romance, Venice captivates all its visitors, securing its place as a top travel destination.

Milan: The Fashion and Design Capital

Milan, the world-renowned fashion and design capital, pulsates with creativity. Home to influential designers and exclusive boutiques, the city hosts major fashion events throughout the year. Beyond its stylish reputation, Milan boasts stunning architecture, including the iconic Duomo di Milano and the Teatro alla Scala opera house. Visitors can explore luxurious shopping districts and savor a vibrant culinary scene. Art enthusiasts will marvel at Leonardo da Vinci’s “The Last Supper” at the Santa Maria delle Grazie convent. For a unique blend of history and modernity, the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II offers a memorable shopping experience.

Turin: Architectural Grandeur and Cuisine

Turin, Italy is a city renowned for its stunning architecture, culinary delights, and rich history. Architectural gems such as the iconic Mole Antonelliana and the majestic Royal Palace are must-see attractions. History buffs and art enthusiasts will appreciate the world-renowned Egyptian Museum. Turin is also a culinary paradise, attracting food lovers with its diverse and delicious offerings.

Verona: Shakespeare’s Romantic Haven

Verona, home to Shakespeare’s star-crossed lovers, is a literary pilgrimage. This romantic Italian city offers a wealth of experiences, from the Arena di Verona’s spectacular performances in a stunning Roman amphitheater to the tranquil escape offered by the beautiful Renaissance Giardino Giusti. Verona’s Shakespearean charm makes it a truly unforgettable destination.

Enchanting Regions and Landscapes

Tuscany: Rolling Hills and Vineyards

Tuscany’s famed countryside captivates visitors with its picturesque vineyards and charming villas. Scenic drives wind through rolling hills and olive groves, offering breathtaking views. For an immersive experience, agriturismos provide a taste of rural life and authentic Tuscan cuisine. Wine enthusiasts are drawn to the region’s world-renowned vineyards, which produce exceptional wines. While historic cities like Florence beckon, the irresistible charm of the Tuscan countryside remains a highlight for many.

The Amalfi Coast: Cliffs and Seaside Charms

The Amalfi Coast captivates with breathtaking cliffs and vibrant towns like Amalfi and Positano. Its rich maritime history invites exploration, from scenic hikes to boat tours offering unforgettable views. Picturesque villages dot the landscape, home to Michelin-starred restaurants and a wealth of outdoor activities. Explore the stunning coastline, savor the culinary delights, and immerse yourself in the beauty of the Amalfi Coast.

Cinque Terre: Five Idyllic Villages

Cinque Terre, a string of five picturesque villages, adorns the Italian Riviera coastline. These car-free and vibrant villages, Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore, cling to the cliffs with their colorful houses. Terraced vineyards enhance the already stunning landscape, and hiking trails weave between these charming towns. Visitors can explore the area by boat, swim in the crystalline waters, and savor the region’s exquisite cuisine and wines, making for an unforgettable Cinque Terre experience.

Lake Como: Luxury and Serenity

Lake Como captivates visitors with its stunning vistas. Luxurious villas grace the shores, while tranquil beaches beckon. Charming towns like Bellagio, Varenna, and Menaggio draw tourists from around the globe. Boat tours provide a unique vantage point, allowing exploration of iconic landmarks such as Villa Melzi and Villa Carlotta, renowned for their exquisite architecture and gardens. While watersports are available, many simply savor the lake’s serene ambiance. A visit to Lake Como is an experience to be cherished.

Sardinia: Coastal Beauty and Ancient Ruins

Sardinia effortlessly combines luxury and laid-back charm. While the Costa Smeralda shines with its upscale resorts and pristine beaches, the island offers so much more. Venture beyond the glamour to explore medieval towns and discover ancient ruins. Sardinia truly has it all.

Sicily: Legends and Cultural Heritage

Sicily, a captivating island in the heart of the Mediterranean, invites you on a journey through time. Explore a diverse cultural tapestry woven from Greek, Roman, Arab, and Norman influences.

Historical Landmarks and Cultural Heritage

Vatican City: Spiritual and Artistic Treasures

Vatican City, nestled within Rome, is the heart of the Catholic Church and a place of immense significance. This city-state boasts St. Peter’s Basilica, a breathtaking architectural marvel. The renowned Vatican Museums draw visitors worldwide. Within the museums lies the Sistine Chapel, home to Michelangelo’s awe-inspiring frescoes.

Pisa: The Iconic Leaning Tower

Pisa’s iconic Leaning Tower, a freestanding bell tower for the city’s cathedral, attracts visitors worldwide. Its tilt, a result of unstable foundations, adds to its remarkable allure. This architectural marvel is a truly unforgettable sight.

Pompeii: A Glimpse into Roman Life

The remarkably preserved Roman city of Pompeii offers a unique glimpse into daily life nearly 2,000 years ago. In 79 AD, Mount Vesuvius erupted, encasing the city in volcanic ash and tragically freezing its citizens and their surroundings in time. This catastrophe, however, preserved buildings, artifacts, and even human remains, providing invaluable archaeological data about Roman civilization. Today, visitors can explore Pompeii’s streets and wander through homes, shops, and public spaces, gaining insight into Roman urban planning, architecture, and social structures.

Matera: Ancient Cave Dwellings

Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is renowned for its sassi, ancient cave dwellings carved directly into the rock. The city’s rock-hewn churches and homes are a testament to its rich history, making Matera a truly unique destination.

Valley of the Temples: Greek Ruins in Sicily

Journey to Agrigento, Sicily, and discover the remarkably preserved Valley of the Temples. Dating back to the 5th century BC, these stunning ruins showcase magnificent Doric architecture from the Hellenic period, offering a captivating glimpse into ancient Greek culture. Explore these well-preserved remnants and uncover fascinating insights into the life and beliefs of this ancient civilization. A visit to the Valley of the Temples is an unforgettable experience.

Unique Experiences and Activities

Experience Italy’s rich history with guided tours of its captivating historical sites. Discover breathtaking coastal views and picturesque islands with boat tours, ranging from romantic gondola rides in Venice to scenic excursions along the Amalfi Coast. Immerse yourself in Italy’s culinary scene with hands-on cooking classes, often including market visits and highlighting regional specialties like pasta and pizza. Witness Italy’s artistic heritage through opera performances in historic theaters and vibrant traditional festivals showcasing local customs. Explore Italy’s vineyards in Tuscany or Piedmont, savoring delicious local wines, or embark on food tours to delve into regional specialties and culinary traditions. Finally, explore Italy’s numerous UNESCO World Heritage sites, each a testament to the country’s rich history and culture.

• Guided tours of captivating historical sites.
• Boat tours offering breathtaking coastal views and visits to picturesque islands, including gondola rides in Venice and trips along the Amalfi Coast.
• Hands-on cooking classes focused on regional specialties like pasta and pizza, often incorporating market visits.
• Opera performances in historic theaters and vibrant traditional festivals celebrating local customs.
• Wine tasting tours in the vineyards of Tuscany or Piedmont.
• Food tours exploring regional specialties and culinary traditions.
• Exploration of UNESCO World Heritage sites, showcasing Italy’s rich history and culture.

Guided Tours of Historical Sites

Explore Italy’s rich history with a guided tour. Skip the lines at iconic landmarks such as the Colosseum, Roman Forum, Pompeii, and Vatican City, maximizing your sightseeing time. Tours are available in multiple languages and cater to various interests, including art, architecture, archaeology, and specific historical periods. Discover the past with an expert guide for a truly enriching experience.

Boat Tours and Rides

Embark on a unique Italian adventure by exploring its stunning beauty from the water. Boat tours and rides offer unforgettable experiences, from gliding through Venice’s canals in a gondola to cruising the Amalfi Coast or island hopping to Sardinia and Sicily by ferry. Discover Italy’s coastal charm and create lasting memories.

Cooking Classes: Learn Italian Recipes

Embark on a culinary journey and discover the art of authentic Italian cooking. Our hands-on classes delve into traditional recipes, from crafting pasta from scratch to exploring regional specialties. Imagine mastering the perfect pizza or unlocking the secrets of a creamy risotto. Immerse yourself in time-honored culinary traditions, often complemented by delightful wine tastings. Learn to prepare spaghetti carbonara, a beloved Roman dish, or uncover the rich flavors of Milanese risotto. Savor the true taste of Italy.

Opera and Cultural Performances

Italy pulsates with artistic energy, offering a vibrant array of cultural performances. From the grandeur of opera and ballet to the lively rhythms of traditional folk music, there’s a captivating experience for every taste. World-renowned venues like Milan’s Teatro alla Scala and Venice’s Teatro La Fenice showcase these spectacular performances. Italy’s cultural heart also beats strongly in smaller venues and festivals, offering intimate encounters with local and emerging talent. These intimate settings provide a unique window into Italian culture. Experience Italy’s diverse and captivating artistic landscape.