preloaddefault-post-thumbnail

There are plenty of reasons that Italy tops so many travel lists. From world-class art and architecture to fine food and wine, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this southern European country. If Italy is in your travel future, don’t miss these seven destinations.

Rome

This historic city is still filled with some of the most important and noteworthy sights in Italy, including the Colosseum, Roman Forum, Piazza di Spagna and Trevi Fountain. Rome is also home to Vatican City, where you’ll find St. Peter’s Basilica and the famed Sistine Chapel.

Florence

Tuscany’s capital city overflows with classical art and architectural wonders. Structures like the Duomo and the Baptistery with its bronze doors are must-sees, while everyone can appreciate Michelangelo’s masterpiece, David, at the Accademia Gallery.

Venice

Laced with canals that beckon you to take a gondola ride through the city, Venice is truly a city of romance. Beyond the beautiful waterways, you’ll find the city is filled with churches, palaces and magnificent squares like Piazza San Marco.

Genoa

Italy’s historic seaport city is best explored through its Old Town, where medieval walls protect ancient palaces, baroque buildings and ancient churches. Alongside the ancient Roman ruins, you’ll find modern marvels like one of Europe’s largest aquariums.

Milan

The shops of Milan would make any shopaholic woozy. This designer mecca is where fashion trends are born, especially in the high-end Quadrilatero d’Oro. Beyond the labels and high-end designs, you’ll find art is plentiful in the city. You can enjoy an opera performance at the renowned Teatro alla Scalla or see Da Vinci’s Last Supper painting at Santa Maria delle Grazie.

Perugia

Don’t let Umbria’s capital city fool you: Beneath its gothic exterior lies one of Italy’s most cosmopolitan cities. The hill town is one of the best places for foreigners to learn Italian, thanks to its universities, and it also boasts a top jazz festival every summer. 

Naples

Best known for pioneering Italian dishes like pizza and spaghetti, Naples is also one of Southern Italy’s most notable destinations. The coastal city bursts with museums, churches and history that will make your head spin, but you can always unwind with a slow walk along the shore.

(Main image: liakapelke)

About the author

Marissa WillmanMarissa Willman earned a bachelor's degree in journalism before downsizing her life into two suitcases for a teaching gig in South Korea. Seoul was her home base for two years of wanderlusting throughout six countries in Asia. In 2011, Marissa swapped teaching for travel writing and now calls Southern California home.

Explore more articles