14 Bucket List-Worthy Cities in Italy for Unforgettable Memories

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From the glamorous Amalfi Coast to Rome’s rich history, Italy offers endless opportunities to explore. Thanks to all the bucket list-worthy cities, crafting the perfect itinerary for the country catered to your interests and preferences is easy.

Immerse yourself in authentic Italian culture and dive headfirst into your dream vacation at these must-visit cities in Italy.

Rome

A trip to Italy would be incomplete without visiting Rome, the country’s capital. Located in the central Lazio region, Rome is famous for its history and landmarks. Top sights include the Colosseum, Pantheon, and Trevi Fountain.

This centuries-old city boasts a romantic charm evident around every street corner. Rome is a pasta lover’s paradise renowned for regional specialties like cacio e pepe and carbonara. Anyone interested in art, culture, and food should consider booking a Roman holiday.

Florence

Florence is a picturesque escape in Italy’s famed Tuscany region. It’s considered a hotspot for Renaissance art and architecture. The Duomo, a massive Gothic cathedral, is Florence’s most famous attraction.

Art enthusiasts will enjoy spending an afternoon at the Galleria dell’Accademia or the Uffizi Gallery. These impressive museums display works by legendary artists like Michaelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci.

Positano

Enjoy a beach holiday at the cliffside village of Positano. It’s the ideal place to spend an afternoon touring the Amalfi Coast, a lavish vacation destination. Due to its small size, you can visit most of Positano’s top sights in a few hours.

While exploring Positano, you’ll spot relics of the Byzantine Empire and its distinct architectural style. When the weather is nice, locals and tourists flock to the public beaches to lounge and swim. There are also hiking trails throughout the surrounding foothills to distance yourself from the crowds.

Milan

Milan, Italy’s fashion capital, is a bustling cultural hub with intricate medieval buildings, luxury shops, and stunning murals. While it can be pricey, Milan is worth the splurge.

Many fashion lovers visit Milan to shop in the high-end stores throughout the city. Global brands like Prada, Armani, and Valentino have headquarters in Milan, making it an exciting place to hone your style and shop until you drop.

Bologna

Add the lively metropolitan area of Bologna to your Italy itinerary. This northern Italian town transports visitors back in time with every step. Wander the city squares and ancient structures to immerse yourself in authentic Italian culture.

Tourists can sightsee the city’s sprawling public gardens, museums, and monuments. After working up an appetite, sample indulgent foods like tortellini, bolognese, sausages, and cheese. Bologna is a must-visit for its rich cultural heritage and acclaimed local cuisine.

Venice

Couples seeking a romantic getaway will have an unforgettable time exploring Venice. This unique city spans over 100 small islands connected by canals and bridges. It’s a postcard-worthy place to reconnect with your special someone.

Venice’s distinct design and striking architecture are idyllic for a once-in-a-lifetime vacation. Take a gondola ride through the city’s heart, dine on exceptional food, and tour the local art galleries and museums. 

Pompeii

One of Italy’s most well-known UNESCO World Heritage Sites is Pompeii. It’s the ideal day trip to learn about ancient history and culture in southern Italy. Pompeii was preserved following a massive eruption of Mount Vesuvius, which buried the area in ash.

Today, Pompeii is a testament to the once-thriving Roman Empire. The sprawling archaeological site showcases what life was like in Italy centuries ago. Excavated homes and streets provide insight into the city’s norms and traditions, an exciting opportunity for lovers of the past.

Turin

Many budget travelers flock to Turin, an affordable alternative to more expensive Italian locales. Turin is a beautiful city in the country’s northern area set against a backdrop of the Alps. Despite its posh atmosphere, Turin has an impressive selection of free and low-cost activities.

Popular Turin attractions include Museo Egizio, a renowned Egyptian museum, and the opulent Palazzo Madama. Embark on a walking tour to familiarize yourself with the city and its top monuments. Those with a sweet tooth can also set off on a tasting odyssey of Turin’s many chocolate shops. 

Naples

As the third-largest city in Italy, Naples has many things to see and do. Situated on the Gulf of Naples, it offers picturesque waterfront views. Here, you can enjoy the sound of ocean waves while strolling through outdoor markets and massive cathedrals.  

Naples is famous for being the birthplace of pizza, so grab a slice while people-watching in one of the public plazas. History buffs can tour the old city center to learn how Naples became the city that stands today. Don’t miss Napoli Sotterranea, a fascinating underground system of caves and tunnels. 

Verona

Step into Shakespeare’s dramatic world of fiction with a trip to Verona, one of the best places to visit in Italy. After experiencing the one-of-a-kind city for yourself, it’s easy to understand why he made it the setting of Romeo and Juliet. Literary fanatics can visit Juliet’s House, a local residence dating back to the 13th century that is rumored to have inspired the romantic play.

Other notable highlights are the Verona Arena and Piazza delle Erbe. Since Verona sits on the Adige River, there are also numerous bridges ideal for snapping photos of the cityscape. Exploration opportunities abound throughout Verona.

Pisa

Pisa is home to one of Italy’s most recognized landmarks, the Leaning Tower. This quirky monument was completed in 1372 and attracts international visitors hoping to score the perfect photo with its signature lean. However, there’s much more to discover during your time in Pisa.

There are countless examples of classic Italian architecture throughout the city. Plazas, bridges, and churches adorn the streets of Pisa. A leisurely stroll will allow you to find hidden gems, like quaint boutiques and coffee shops. 

Amalfi

The famed city of Amalfi overlooks the Gulf of Salerno, located off Italy’s southwest coast. It boasts dramatic seaside cliffs and undeniable coastal charm. Travelers often visit Amalfi to savor its fresh seafood and admire the rugged scenery.

Consider stopping in Amalfi during a road trip along the coast. Its vibrant buildings and crystal-clear waters are always stunning, and you’ll create lasting memories at this idyllic waterfront destination. 

Portofino

Uncover the magic of the Italian Riviera in Portofino. This small fishing village is instantly recognizable for its brightly-colored homes and harbor views. What Portofino lacks in size, it makes up for in beauty.

The alluring city sits on the Ligurian Sea, making it a popular place to spot sailboats and yachts. Cozy restaurants serving Mediterranean-inspired cuisine line Portofino’s cobblestone streets, creating a picturesque scene. 

Palermo

Head to Palermo for an authentic taste of island life in Italy. Palermo is the capital of Sicily, an island southwest of the Italian mainland. The city honors its past and present for an unparalleled cultural experience.

Centuries-old royal palaces, cathedrals, and ruins dominate Palermo, while remnants of the Byzantine era are evident in its historic art and architecture. The numerous city markets make Palermo a fantastic place to shop for local foods and handmade goods. 

Explore more delicious destinations

Italy is a haven for food lovers, but many other places can satisfy your craving for adventure and mouthwatering cuisine. Indulge in a food-centric getaway to the most delicious vacation spots worldwide.