La Bella Italia – the country of pizza, pasta, pesto, wine, and romance. If you’re planning a trip to Europe’s most beautiful Mediterranean gem, you should know which places to visit.
Aside from the main tourist destinations, why not go off the beaten path and explore the country leisurely? Have a cup of strong Italian espresso in Rome, climb the endless stairs in Amalfi Coast towns, the Colosseum, or explore art masterpieces in Florence.
Read on to discover 5 of the most beautiful places in Italy and see the land of “La Dolce Vita” in all its beauty.
1. Rome, the Capital of Italy
If you’re wondering where to go in Italy, the country’s Capital city of Rome is the first on your list. Its history, architecture, culture, and food will delight your senses, and strolling through the narrow streets will make you feel like a local.
Don’t miss the main attractions: the Colosseum, the Pantheon, the Trevi Fountain, the Roman Forum, the Sistine Chapel in the Vatican, and St. Peter’s Basilica. You can cover every important spot on city excursions with a tourist guide.
2. Cinque Terre
Cinque Terre (meaning “Five Lands”) is one of the must see places in Italy if you want to explore the country away from the common tourist spots. The cluster of five picturesque villages is situated in the northwest coastline of Italy and consists of Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore.
Take a few days to explore the narrow alleys, beautiful beaches, and breathtaking views. Each village has something to offer, so embrace la dolce vita and live as the Italians do – with gusto.
3. Tuscany
If you’re looking for romantic places to go in Italy, Tuscany and its endless landscapes, delicious cuisine, and historic cities will meet all your expectations. Start in Florence, the regional capital, which is considered the birthplace of the Italian Rennaissance. There, you’ll find some of the most valuable art pieces such as:
- Michelangelo’s Statue of David
- Lorenzo Ghiberti’s Gates of Paradise
- Sandro Botticelli’s Birth of Venus
- The Fountain of Neptune by Bartolomeo Ammannati
- Duomo di Firenze (The Florence Cathedral)
Continue your tour to Pisa to see the Leaning Tower, and move on to Sienna, Chianti, and Maremma for some exquisite Italian wine.
4. The Amalfi Coast
The Amalfi Coast is a popular tourist destination attracting thousands of visitors year-round. It’s known for the limoncello liqueur made of locally grown lemons, but also for popular vacation spots like Sorrento, Salerno, Amalfi, Atrani, Ravello, Praiano, and Positano.
Most of the villages and towns on the coast are mountainous, which means you’ll have to climb hundreds of stairs to get around. There are also boats to the nearby islands of Ischia, Capri, and Procida, where you can get the best views.
5. Venice
Venice is one of the best places to visit in Italy if you’re newlyweds or a couple. Romance is present on every corner and canal in this wondrous city. Though it’s overcrowded year-round, you can still explore it on a gondola or walk around its most popular attractions.
Don’t miss the St. Mark’s Basilica and St. Mark’s Square, the Bridge of Sighs, the Grand Canal, Ca’ d’Oro, and the Casanova Museum.
These Are 5 of the Most Beautiful Places in Italy
The country of pasta and pizza is home to some of the most beautiful churches, breathtaking views, historic art pieces, and rich architecture. These are just some of the most beautiful places in Italy you should visit on your next trip.
Need more travel inspiration? Read some of our other articles to discover the best travel tips and things to do around the world.