14 Most Beautiful Cities in Italy
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Italy is filled with some amazing cities and towns to explore. Each one is similar yet drastically different, which can make it hard to plan the perfect trip to this picturesque country, and each one is filled with great Italian food. Luckily, all of the most beautiful cities in Italy are in this post.
Out of all the countries, we’ve visited, Italy is still one of our favorites. There’s just something about this country, and every place that you visit feels completely different than the last.
Keep reading to learn all about the best and most beautiful cities in Italy.
Most beautiful cities in Italy
Florence
First up is Florence, one of the best places to visit if you love arts, history, or culture. It’s home to some important art pieces and served as the birthplace of the Renaissance.
Florence is easily one of the best places to live in Italy. It’s the center of arts and culture in the country, and you could easily spend quite a few days here, despite the city’s small size. This lovely city is also the perfect spot to start a Northern Italy road trip, thanks to its prime location.
What to Do in Florence
Climb to the top of the Duomo. I did this during my trip to Florence, and it really made me fall in love with the city. Though there are around 400 steps to get to the top, I’m here to tell you that the view is extremely rewarding. Just remember that you have to purchase a ticket ahead of time to do this. Trust me; it’s one of the best Italy landmarks you can’t miss!
See the view from Michelangelo Square. This is the same view in the picture above! Michelangelo Square is a piazza located up on a hill in Florence. It’s a bit of a trek to get to the top, but you pass a whole bunch of fun craftsmen and vendors on the way up. The other option is to take a bus or drive to the top!
Marvel at David in the Bargello Museum. David is one of the most popular sculptures in the world created by Donatello. Though the sculpture is bound to be swarmed by tourists, it’s still worth seeing.
Cinque Terre
Cinque Terre is truly the best place that I visited during my trip to Italy! Plus, I’m here to tell you that, yes, this place does exist, and it does look exactly like the pictures.
What to Do in Cinque Terre
Hike between the villages! The easiest way to do this is by purchasing a Cinque Terre card. It doesn’t take long to hike between the villages either, and the views along the way are absolutely incredible. Try to hike earlier in the morning to beat the crowds.
See picture-perfect Manarola. Manarola is the most popular of the villages, mostly because it’s so picturesque! The photo above is of Manarola from the perfect photo-taking spot. Visit at sunset for an even better view!
Try pesto on any type of Italian dish. Pesto is from an area right near the Cinque Terre and absolutely should be tried while you’re here. I suggest trying it on pasta in Riomaggiore. You won’t regret it!
Pisa
Ah, Pisa, the town of the infamous Leaning Tower! Honestly, this town is quite quaint, but it’s worth it to visit and at least spend a few hours seeing some of the most important sites. I recommend visiting on a day trip from Florence, which is super easy to do.
What To Do in Pisa
Take a touristy photo with the Leaning Tower of Pisa. So, this is a given, but you have to do it. Your trip wouldn’t be complete without it, to be honest. Try to visit earlier in the morning to avoid all crowds, though.
Go inside the Cattedrale di Pisa. This is the gorgeous cathedral located right next to the leaning tower. It’s honestly so gorgeous inside. Keep in mind that it is free to enter, but you have to get a free ticket with a timed entry in order to go inside.
Venice
Venice is truly one of the most beautiful cities in Italy. I know that so many people think that it’s truly hit or miss, but I loved it. You really don’t need long to visit the city, though. I saw all the best sights in 24 hours and even visited all the best Venice Instagram spots.
Though I would’ve loved to spend more time in Venice, I saw everything on my list and walked almost every part of the city! Plus, Venice is a great way to start a trip for 10 days in Italy.
What To Do In Venice
Go on a Gondola ride! Keep in mind that this can be quite pricy. The prices that I saw averaged 80 euros, but that can, of course, change on the season and on the year. I recommend trying to find other travelers to share the boat with because then you can split the cost!
Check out St. Mark’s Square. This is the busiest place in the whole city. Everyone is usually here since it’s right next to the water and the Doge’s Palace. It’s also aptly named for being situated directly next to Saint Mark’s Basilica.
Visit St. Mark’s Basilica. Inside St. Mark’s Basilica is even more gorgeous than the outside! The cathedral is free to visit, but you do have to make sure your shoulders and knees are covered in order to enter.
Visit Murano, Burano and Torcello by Vaporetto. There are tons of beautiful islands right off Venice’s coast, and these ones are 100% worth viewing.
Rome
Have you really visited Italy if you haven’t visited Rome? This is where dreams are made of and it’s one of the most beautiful cities in Italy, even if it’s often visited by tourists.
What To Do In Rome
Throw a coin into the Trevi Fountain. You really have to do this, but remember to throw with your right hand over your left shoulder and not the other way around! Keep in mind that it can get really busy in front of the Trevi Fountain, but it is 100% possible to avoid crowds by visiting early in the morning right at sunrise.
Walk up the Spanish Steps. If it’s springtime, you have even more of a reason to do this! The whole staircase gets covered in azaleas, and it’s truly beautiful. You used to be able to sit on the steps, but recently in 2019, that is no longer possible. I think it just makes the steps even more gorgeous because you’re less likely to get someone awkwardly sitting in your shot now.
Take a day trip to Vatican City. It’s basically located almost in Rome! The Vatican Museums you do have to pay to enter, but you can go into the basilica for free. Though you have to wait in line, I can guarantee that it’s one of the most gorgeous basilica interiors you’ll ever see.
✈️ Are you planning a trip to Rome? Check out this helpful post about what a local wants you to know about the city!
Amalfi Coast
Similar to Cinque Terre, the Amalfi Coast is one of the most popular coastal villages to visit in Italy. While Cinque Terre is in northern Italy, the Amalfi Coast is in the south.
What to Do in the Amalfi Coast
Relax and soak up some sun on the beach. Though the beaches are so busy, they truly are so relaxing. Try to visit earlier in the morning so that you can get a good spot.
Go on a boat tour! This is one of the best ways to learn more about the area. They oftentimes will even bring you to the nearby islands, which will only show you more beauty!
Walk the Path of Gods. If you’re a sucker for great sights, you have to walk this trail! It offers some of the best views of the coast.
✈️ Interested in doing a two-week trip? Check out this 2-week Italy itinerary featuring the Amalfi Coast.
Milan
Milan is known for being home to some of the best fashion in the world! The city is also known for its amazing architecture but has lots of great areas to explore. This is one of the most beautiful cities in Italy; you won’t want to miss it.
What To Do In Milan
Visit the Duomo di Milano. This cathedral is truly gorgeous on the outside and is even more pretty on the outside. Even if you don’t go inside, you have at least to check out the square in front of it to see it in all of its glory.
Go shopping. There is no way that you can visit Milan and not go shopping. Though this city is home to many high-end and luxury shops, there are also a good amount of budget-friendly stores.
Explore the Sforzesco Castle. Anytime there’s a chance to see a castle in Italy, you have to hop on it!
Naples
Most people will visit Naples just because it’s located near Pompeii and therefore serves as a perfect spot to stay. However, the city itself shouldn’t be overlooked because it’s home to some amazing scenery and top sights!
What To Do In Naples
Explore Mount Vesuvius. There’s a hiking trail near here that you can do to get one of the best views of it. This is the very volcano that destroyed Pompeii.
✈️ Planning a trip here? Check out this post on How to Visit Pompeii & Vesuvius in One Day!
Visit Ovo Castle. This is the gorgeous castle that’s in the photo above! It’s located right on the water and has some of the best views. Visit at night to see it right around sunset – you won’t regret it.
Check out history at the Royal Palace of Naples. Did someone say royal palace!? This palace has since been converted into a museum and has served as a top tourist sight ever since. It was popularly used by the House of Bourbon for many years.
Capri
Ah, Capri. Another gorgeous coastal town in Italy that absolutely must be explored, especially during the warmer months! As one of the most beautiful cities in Italy, Capri is one of the top places to visit.
What To Do In Capri
Take a boat to the Blue Grotto. This cave got its name because the blue waters actually reflect off the inside of the cave. The only way to visit is to go on a boat tour, so you’ll want to book ahead. Trust me; it’ll be worth it.
Walk up to Monte Solaro. The top of this mountain has amazing views of the city down below. You can even see the water as far as the eye can see!
Explore the Gardens of Augustus. I’m a sucker for tranquil gardens, and that’s exactly what the Gardens of Augustus are. These botanical gardens are known for their great views of the water.
Verona
Almost everyone and their mother knows of Verona, but only because of its mention in Shakespeare’s Romeo & Juliet. There are actually some great spots to explore in this adorable town, and it’s one of the most beautiful cities in Italy.
What To Do In Verona
See Juliet’s House. This is the house that Shakespeare was supposedly inspired by when writing Romeo & Juliet. You can see the exact balcony that he used for inspiration in his play.
Write letters to Juliet. Yes, you can really do this! You can write a letter and either mail it or deliver it yourself.
Explore the Verona Arena. Though this amphitheater is essentially a smaller version of the Colosseum, it’s still just as interesting. It’s also always a lot busier than its Roman counterpart. You might even be able to catch an Opera show here!
Enjoy a drink at one of Verona’s bars. With so many bars to choose from, you truly have your pick of the lot!
Sorrento
Sorrento is a gorgeous resort town that is best known for its amazing views of the Bay of Naples, but there is also so much more to see there! It’s one of the most beautiful cities in Italy.
What To Do In Naples
Walk around Piazza Tasso. The piazzas in Italy are always so busy, which makes them a great spot to visit. This square is known for its statue, but be sure also to check out the pastel yellow church.
See art at the Correale Museum. This art museum is located inside a villa from the 18th century! Even if you aren’t an art fan, you’re sure to love it here.
Relax at the Villa Comunale. If you’re looking for a place to lift your feet up and just take in the views in Naples, this is the place to do it. There are benches everywhere, and you’re bound to find at least a quiet part of the park just for yourself. This is the perfect picnic spot too!
Siena
Tuscany was my favorite region of Italy, just because of how amazing and scenic it is. Siena, Italy is located on top of a hill in Tuscany!
What To Do In Siena
Walk around Piazza del Campo. This piazza is split into wedges, almost like a clock! This is also one of the biggest piazzas in the whole country and holds a lot of importance to the city of Siena.
Visit the Tower of Mangia and Pubblico Palace. This is the town hall in Siena, and it’s a great example of Italian Gothic architecture! The tower is one of the best landmarks in the city.
Explore the Duomo di Siena. This Duomo is very different than the one in Florence but is still just as magnificent. It’s most well-known for its mosaics, so be sure to look out for them!
Lake Como
Lake Como is a huge lake in Northern Italy that is incredibly scenic and peaceful. Of course, there are many different villages around the lake. Below, find some of the best activities to do near the lake!
What To Do Near Lake Como
Visit the Villa Carlotta. This villa is a museum filled with some amazing art. Plus, it’s located right on the water and looks incredibly magnificent from the outside.
Explore the Villa Monastero. This villa is home to a breathtaking garden right on the lake. It’s also now a museum.
Check out the Mediterranean Villas. The houses around here are incredibly bright and festive – it almost seems like Cinque Terre in a way.
Palermo
Palermo is the capital of Sicily and is best known for its amazing cathedral! Some say that it’s Palermo is the gateway to Sicily, and it’s truly one of the pretty cities in Italy that you won’t want to miss out on.
What To Do In Palermo
Visit the Norman Palace. This palace is from the 9th century and is so large and stature that you couldn’t miss it if you tried. Today, it’s a museum that you can explore!
See a show at the Massimo Theater. The Massimo Theater is best known for its opera and acoustics! Book tickets ahead of time to ensure admittance.
Marvel at the Cattedrale di Palermo. Palermo is most well-known for this cathedral. It was built in the 12th century and holds the tombs of some of Italy’s royals.
From Palermo, you can easily take a trip to Calabria too! Here’s an amazing 5-Day Calabria itinerary for your next trip.
Now you know all of the most beautiful cities in Italy!
FAQs: Most Beautiful Cities in Italy
If you can only visit one city in Italy, we highly recommend visiting Rome.
The Alps form a natural border between northern and southern Italy, with some of the highest peaks in Europe found here. This region is known for its beautiful lakes like Lake Como and Lake Garda, and there are many picturesque towns and villages, such as Verona and Bologna.
Italy is a country that boasts some of the most beautiful and romantic attractions in the world – from its cobblestone streets to its centuries-old churches and cathedrals to its art galleries and museums. It is also known for its delicious cuisine, including pasta, pizza, gelato, and more.
The country’s culture has something for everyone to enjoy: spectacular architecture, stunning views, gorgeous beaches, friendly people, and an unbeatable atmosphere.
There is no better place to explore than Italy – no matter if you are a solo traveler or with a group of friends or family. Italy offers an unforgettable experience in every corner of the country that will stay with you forever.
The Leaning Tower of Pisa is located in the city of Pisa, Italy. The Leaning Tower of Pisa is one of the most famous landmarks in all of Italy, and a visit to the city is not complete without catching a glimpse of this remarkable structure.
Italy is a country that has been a source of inspiration and beauty for centuries. It’s known for its picturesque shorelines, rolling hills, vineyards, and impressive architecture of both the ancient and modern eras.
From the art of Florence to the canals of Venice, there is something for everyone to enjoy in Italy. There’s something special about the Mediterranean light that brings out the vibrant colors of Italian culture—from the bright orange terracotta rooftops to the lush green countryside.
Add to this a bustling nightlife, delicious cuisine, warm people, and hospitable culture, and it’s easy to see why so many fall in love with Italy on their first visit.
More Italy Posts
A trip to Italy is truly unforgettable! We have tons more Italy posts to help you plan your trip. Check them out below!
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- 9 Best Walking Tours of Venice Italy
- Venice Instagram Spots: 15 Best Places to Take a Picture in Venice, Italy
- 16 Best Foods to Eat in Italy
- 15 Must-See Famous Buildings in Europe
This is such a great list – I really need to explore more of Italy after reading about the places!