Does any country boast as many holiday destinations as Italy? Probably not.
Italy has no shortage of places to stir the soul. The majesty of Rome, the romance of Venice, and the indulgence of the Amalfi Coast; all exuberantly beautiful destinations, among others, that will give you much to treasure.
Here are five must-see spots that offer a unique taste of la dolce vita.
The Amalfi Coast – Cliffside Charm and Coastal Luxury
In 1953, Steinbeck famously penned: “It is a dream place that isn’t quite real when you are there and becomes beckoningly real after you’ve gone.” He was talking of Positano, the postcard-perfect bay in the Amalfi Coast filled with pastel-hued buildings and winding, cobbled piazzas surrounded by lemon trees.
Spend lazy afternoons sipping limoncello in Positano or exploring the gardens of Ravello; this stretch of coastline delivers big on both beauty and luxury. The best way to experience the coastline’s magic is to take one of the many curated Amalfi Coast tours, which can include boat excursions, wine tastings, or guided hikes along the Path of the Gods — perfect for travelers wanting an in-depth taste of the region’s charm. La vita è bella, after all.
Rome – The Eternal City
No trip to Italy is complete without experiencing Rome. There are very few cities in the world quite as illustrious as this, and it’s difficult to understand what the fuss is all about until you set foot on its infamous streets.
This bustling capital is where the remnants of the Empire and its gladiatorial days meet Renaissance masterpieces, cobbled piazzas, and majestic churches, of which there are over 900. Tour the Colosseum, walk the cobbled streets of Trastevere, sip an Aperol Spritz on some Vespa-filled backstreet, and explore Vatican City — home to St. Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel. Not to mention the increasingly cool food, art, and drinks scene that’s been growing over the past few years.
There are a few other reasons that will make you fall in love with Rome, and it is definitely a must-visit for your visit to Italy.
Venice – A City Like No Other
Romantic, mysterious, delicate, and completely unique, Venice is a city built over water. It is famous for its canals, gondolas, and historic architecture–think beautifully preserved palaces, churches, and glorious Renaissance masterpieces. Take a stroll through St. Mark’s Square, cross the Rialto Bridge, or get lost in the city’s enchanting alleys to witness the mix of crumbling old-world glamour and mysterious chic vibes.
Being a major tourist town, it can get crowded. To escape the crowds, visit in the shoulder seasons and explore nearby islands like Burano, known for its brightly colored houses.
Florence – The Birthplace of the Renaissance
Florence has a thriving art scene. Admire masterpieces at the Uffizi Gallery, climb to the top of the Museo dell’Opera del Duomo to marvel at the sheer volume of architectural history contained in one piece, and soak in the atmosphere of this beautifully preserved city.
Oh, and don’t forget to treat yourself to a coffee and a cornetto alla crema at Rivoire in Piazza Della Signorina. It’s also a great jumping-off point to explore Tuscany’s wine country. A day trip through Chianti or Val d’Orcia adds flavor (literally) to any Florence itinerary.
Lake Como – Tranquil Waters and Timeless Luxury
A favorite holiday spot that draws everyone from Frank Sinatra to Madonna, Sir Winston Churchill to Donatella Versace, and Sir Alfred Hitchcock to Sir Richard Branson, Lake Como sits tucked against the picturesque Alpine landscapes with its tranquil waters and balmy climate.
This northern gem is perfect for travelers looking to unwind in style. Stroll the promenade in Bellagio, tour grand villas like Villa del Balbianello, or simply soak in the mountain views from a lakeside café.
From cultural capitals to coastal getaways, Italy is bursting with experiences just waiting to be discovered. Start planning your next adventure today — one unforgettable destination at a time.
