It can be difficult to choose between the Italian cities and decide what to see in Italy. There is so much to do in every region and every city. This post will show you the top 10 cities in Italy to visit. You might find it difficult to choose one, or all of them. Italy is rich in history, beautiful architecture, delicious food, and a vibrant way of life. Each city has its own unique specialty that you won’t find elsewhere. This is due to Italian history, which explains why each city-state in Italy had its own culture and architecture before the unification. It makes it possible to find different Italian destinations, while still being similar.
Italy’s 10 most beautiful cities
This list contains 10 top cities in Italy. These are some of the most popular cities in Italy. If you like urban areas, bustling streets, and a wide variety of activities, these cities will be a great choice!
1. Rome
Piazza Navona, Rome – photo by Helga Dosa
If you have never been to Rome, then you haven’t seen Italy. The Italian capital is a museum in itself. Every hill, square, and street has something amazing waiting for you to discover. You can’t miss the Colosseum, Pantheon and the Trevi Fountain when you visit Rome.
Also, you must visit the Vatican City, St Peter’s Basilica and Trastevere. Rome is more than landmarks and museums. Rome is all about color, life, and good food. For traditional Italian cuisine, visit Trastevere, an authentic neighborhood.
You should also not miss Piazza Navona and its neighboring Roman streets. Stop by on Via del Governo Vecchio for an aperitivo, or a great Spaghetti Cacio e Pepe! Rome, one of the most beautiful cities in Italy, is definitely worth a visit!
2. Florence
The birthplace and home of the Renaissance. Florence, one of the most beautiful cities in Italy. It is as easy to arrive in Florence as it is in Rome. Florence has its own airport but you can also get there by bus, train, and car. Florence is a city full of culture, art, and museums you should explore. The Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore and its surroundings are the main attractions of Florence.
Piazza della Signoria is another must-see place in Florence. You can explore the sculptures on the square, or, if time permits, you can enter the Palazzo Vecchio for a Renaissance touch. For stunning Renaissance art and Michelangelo’s statue of David, don’t miss the Uffizi Gallery and Galleria dell’Accademia.
The Ponte Vecchio bridge in Florence is worth a visit. You can also enjoy the sunset from PiazzaleMichelangelo. You should also try the delicious Tartufo (truffles), and the Bistecca alla Fiorentina, paired with great wines. Florence isn’t just one of Italy’s most beautiful cities, it’s also one the largest cities in Italy.
3. Venice
Venice, one of the most beautiful cities in Italy, should be on every tourist’s list. It is a beautiful city, with narrow streets running along the canals. Venice, an island city, can be reached by boat, train, and bus. You can also fly into Venice and take a ferry.
If you don’t feel like walking, the Vaporetto or the water taxis will take you around Venice. Gondola rides are a highlight of Venice. However, they are only for entertainment and not transportation. Piazza San Marco, or St Mark’s Square is the center of Venice. You can’t miss this spot in Venice. You can stop by to have a coffee or an aperitivo in this square. Enjoy the stunning view of the square from the surrounding buildings.
The Doge’s Palace in Venice and the Grand Canal (Canale Grande), which is the main canal sliding through Venice, are another highlight. There are many bridges to be seen among the many canals of the city. The Rialto Bridge is a highlight. We’ve collected the best day trips and where to stay in Venice in separate posts.
4. Milan
Milan, Italy’s financial and fashion capitals. Lombardian is one of the most popular cities in Italy. It’s famous for its many faces. You must visit Milan’s Duomo di Milano and the Galleria Vittorio Emmanuele II.
It is home to some of the most prestigious luxury brands from Italy and Italy. The Teatro alla Scala, Europe’s most renowned opera house, is also located in Milan. Milan has many faces, which is one of its best qualities. It’s possible to travel back in time as you explore the city.
The modern era, including the financial district and Isola neighborhoods, is the first. You can then explore the trendy neighborhood of Brera which is full of art galleries, cultural attractions, and showrooms. You can get a glimpse into the authentic Milan by crossing the historic centre of Milan and stopping at any of the bars along the canals to enjoy a drink.
5. Bologna
Bologna, the capital of the Emilia Romagna area. It is located about an hour from the east coast and halfway between Milan and Florence. Bologna has an international Airport and many train lines passing through the city. It is also very convenient to get there. You can also reach Bologna by train or bus!
Bologna is home of the oldest university in the world, dating back to 11th century. While you’re touring the city, make sure to visit the old anatomy class! Bologna’s food is another highlight and the reason it’s one the most popular cities in Italy. Bologna is home to some of the most well-known Italian dishes including Bolognese sauce (Bolognese Ragu) and many types of handmade egg pasta.
You must try Tagliatelle al Ragu at least once when you are in the city. A bolognese made in Italy is the best! It’s a must to stroll around the city centre and discover the Piazza Maggiore. Here you will also find fresh food street markets.
Bologna is also known for its porticoes! The city boasts 38km of beautiful porticoes, with columns and arches. Last but not least, be sure to visit the leaning towers Bologna, Garisenda and Asinelli. For a stunning view of Bologna, you can climb the Asinelli Tower!
Here are some more of the top cities in Italy to visit
6. Verona
Verona, Italy – photo by Helga Donsa
Verona is one of the most beautiful cities in Italy and also one of its most romantic. Verona is well-known for its famous tale of Romeo and Juliet. It feels like there are the same vibes throughout the city. Verona is home to some charming streets lined with stunning houses, beautiful plants, and breathtaking piazzas.
You must visit Piazza Bra and Piazza delle Erbe if you are in Verona. This is the most beautiful square of Verona. The Arena di Verona is the third largest Roman Empire amphitheater.
These are just a few of the many things you should see in Verona: Juliet’s House and Castelvecchio for stunning views. You can also visit Lake Garda, one of the most stunning lakes in Italy from Verona.
7. Turin
Torino is a city that appears to be underrated in Italy. However, it’s one of the most beautiful cities in Italy. It is located in northern Italy, about an hour from Milan. It’s a city where you can learn a lot about the Italian royal history!
Torino was once the capital of House of Savoy in the 16th century. It was also the capital for a brief period of time of Italy in the 19th. It is lined with beautiful streets and stunning palazzos that reflect the Baroque age. You will also find impressive royal palaces, the Cinema Museum, the Egyptian Museum, and Mole Antonelliana.
You should also visit Torino to learn more about the automotive history of the city. It is the home of Lancia and Fiat, two well-known brands. The Automotive Museum is also located in the city.
8. Naples
Naples has a vibrant, varied, and important city. It offers a truly memorable experience to its visitors. The most well-known dish in Naples is the pizza! Naples has an international airport that allows you to fly directly into the city. However, you can also travel by train, bus or ferry boat.
The Duomo di San Gennaro, and the breathtaking Castel Nuovo are two of Naples’ most popular attractions. We must mention the most well-known Italian volcano, which is also close to Naples. A day trip can be planned to see the Vesuvius volcanic eruption, and the other ancient cities destroyed by it. The most well-known city that was covered by the volcanic lava is Pompeii, but Herculaneum can be just as impressive and important as Pompeii.
Naples is a city that can’t be left without trying pizza. It’s impossible not to try the Neopolitan Pizza. It’s simple and delicious! Check out our list of top places to stay in Naples.
9. Genoa
Genoa was once an important maritime city-state. It’s still one of the top cities in Italy and the North. Genoa is home to its own airport. However, it is also within easy reach of Turin and Milan (about one hour from each).
The historic center of Genoa is a must-see when visiting Genoa. After that, you should visit Porto Antico which is the historic port of Genoa. You will find the European’s largest aquarium, the botanical gardens and Bigo Crane. This crane can be climbed up to 40m for a spectacular view of Genoa.
Other things to do in Genoa include visiting Palazzo Reale and Galleria Nazionale di Palazzo Spinola. Don’t forget about the beach and fresh seafood and fish dishes!
10. Palermo
Let’s now head south to Sicily. Palermo, with its mixed culture and wonderful vibes, is one of the most beautiful cities in Italy. You can get to the city via a separate airport.
Palermo is vibrant, with many street markets and stalls selling fresh produce, from fruits to fish. Palermo also has a rich culture, with the largest opera house in Italy. You will also find many beautiful fountains and squares decorated with unique and interesting churches.
One of the top attractions in Palermo is Quattro Canti. The statues representing the four seasons, positioned face-to-face in the Baroque buildings. The city is full of stunning architecture, incredible food, great weather, and sun. This is a must-see city for anyone who loves warm places.
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These are the top 10 cities in Italy to visit.
We’ve already mentioned that the top 10 cities in Italy are the most popular and best places to visit. This will help you decide where to go next. Palermo and Naples are great options for those who love the south. Rome and Florence are great places to visit if you love history and culture. Bologna, an Italian city with a calmer atmosphere and great food, is the place for you! Venice offers unique and stunning experiences! Verona and Turin are the best places to visit in North Italy. These are the top 10 cities in Italy.
