Italy has never left the list of travelers’ most favorite destinations for decades. The country features a line of irresistible charms, from the fresh limoncello poured for a hot summer day in Amalfi Coast to the romantic streets of Florence. Moreover, Italy is the mecca for culture, history, and art that cannot be found anywhere else. We understand that it would be challenging to choose just a few cities amidst of Italy’s endless collection. But no worries, our community of experienced travelers and local hosts have picked the 16 best cities in Italy to visit. We are not just talking about Rome and Milan, but also less-discovered cities that will make the adventurer inside of you happy!
Best Cities in Italy for You to Visit – Summary
- Florence
- Rome
- Cagliari
- Catania
- Milan
- Venice
- Syracuse
- Verona
- Orvieto
- Bari
- Lecce
- Naples
- Palermo
- Bolzano
- Mantua
- Siena
1. Florence
Florence is a living masterpiece. Dotted with century-years-old renaissance buildings and gothic churches, the capital of Tuscany is considered one of the most beautiful cities in Italy. For that reason, millions of travelers visit Florence and marvel at its exquisite cityscape every year. Want to know a fun fact about Florence? Alright, here you go – Florence is the birthplace of gelato! So, after you take a city tour around Florence, you can end the day with authentic gelato. Imagine having a sweet treat in the middle of a charming, gothic-styled city. Sounds like an amazing way to experience Italy!
Must-see places:
- Churches: Duomo Cathedral, Santa Maria Novella, Santa Croce Cathedral, Medici Chapel
- Palace: Palazzo Vecchio, Palazzo Pitti, and Palazzo Medici Ricardi
- Museum: Galileo Museum, Museum of San Marco, Academia Gallery, Museo Stibbert, and Uffizi Gallery
- Squares or piazza: Piazzale Michelangelo, Piazza Della Republica
Things to do: Wine tasting, stroll around the exquisite, renaissance-style Boboli Garden, find high-quality leather goods in San Lorenzo street, and read some books while sipping coffee in Oblate Library.
Best time to visit: Summer (from June to August) for sunny skies, hotter but mild temperatures, and no rainfall
2. Rome
There is no reason to miss Rome when traveling to Italy, especially for first-timers. This capital of Italy is home to glorious buildings and landmarks, like the world-famous Colosseum and the Trevi Fountain where your wishes can come true. Rome keeps the record of some of the world’s most significant historical period, including the Ancient Roman Empire to the Renaissance period. Although Rome has been packed with tourists, local TripLeader Tatiana told us about the lesser-known side of the city which she shows to her TripMates. “You can see the panoramic terraces of Capitoline Hill, admire some of Caravaggio paintings, or relax at the Orange Garden,” she mentioned.
Must-see places:
- Landmarks: Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, the Roman Forum, St. Peter Basilica, and the Pantheon
- Museum: Vatican Museum and Musei Capitolini
Things to do: Stroll around Rome on foot, peek at the Vatican City through the Knights of Malta keyhole, enjoy the view of Rome from Parco Savello, and grab some Italian dishes in Campo Dei Fiori’s historic market.
Best time to visit: All year-round, especially in spring (from mid-March to mid-June) and fall (from mid-September to mid-December) for pleasant weather, mild temperatures, and a generally sunny day.
3. Cagliari
The Southern Italian city looks nothing like Italy. It is dotted with pristine beaches, sparkling aquamarine waters, seaside boulevards, and prehistoric sites. Cagliari looks more like a Greek city rather than an Italian. However, this breathtaking seaside city is the capital of Sardinia, a region of Mediterranean Italy.
Cagliari is a multicultural city. Since a millennium ago, lots of powerful civilizations reigned in the city. They heavily influenced Cagliari’s culture, architecture, and cuisine. You can see the remnants of the Arabs, Italians, and Punics in historical sites. Therefore, Cagliari is one of the best cities in Italy to travel to.
Must-see places:
- Churches: Santuario di Nostra Signora di Bonaria (Shrine of Our Lady of Bonaria), and Santa Maria Cathedral.
- Beach: Poetto Beach, Sant’Elia Beach, and Nora Beach
- Others: Orto Botanico, Museo Archeologico Nazionale, Il Castello, Bastione di Saint Remy, and Roman Amphiteatre
Things to do: Stroll around and see gorgeous ships in Marina, buy some local goods in Mercato di San Benedetto Market, and see the 13th-century Elephant Tower at night.
Best time to visit: Summer to early fall (June-September) for sunny skies and hot temperatures that are perfect for dipping yourself in the Mediterranean sea.
4. Catania
TripLeader Monica, who was born and raised in Italy, recommended visiting Catania for a relaxing and crowd-free holiday. Nestled on the foot of Mount Etna, Catania offers both breathtaking nature and a beautiful city. The small city is dotted with Romanesque churches and cathedrals, magnificent castle walls, and earthy-colored buildings. At noon, the city is alive with its local fresh market, restaurants, and local fair. However, at night, the city turns vibrant with its hype clubs, clinking glasses, and strong beers.
If you love to try new cuisines, you must visit Catania. The city is an emerging Italian town for cuisines. You can find superb street foods and delicious Italian classic dishes all over the city. In addition, you must try Catania’s wine and spirits, like the fantastic Etna Wine. A food tour to Catania is definitely worth trying!
Must-see places: Cattedrale di Sant’Agata, Teatro Romano, Monastery of San Nicolo, and 11th-century Aci Castello.
Things to do: Grab some Catania cheese, see the best views of Catania from Chiesa della Badia di Sant’Agata church, savor Catania’s dishes, and take a day trip to Mount Etna
Best time to visit: Summer (from May to September) for overall sunny skies, mild weather, and no rain; Winter (from November to February) for cold but not freezing temperatures and exciting winter activities.
5. Milan
The city is a must-visit for fashion lovers! Milan is a world-class fashion capital, where lots of brilliant fashion designers and brands are based. You can see their stores line up on Galleria Vittorio Emanuelle II, giving out lavish vibes.
Besides the high-end stores and shopping craze, Milan has more to offer. The city is decorated with century-old landmarks and medieval-styled buildings. It is also home to the largest church in Italy, which is Duomo Cathedral. The elegant and lavish atmosphere in Milan makes it the most luxurious city in Italy.
Must-see places:
- Churches: Santa Maria dell Grazie Church, Duomo Cathedral, and San Bernardino alle Ossa
- Shopping: Galleria Vittorio Emanuelle II (a line of high-end boutiques in a medieval-renaissance style gallery)
- Others: Sforza Castle, Brera District, Leonardo da Vinci Museum, and La Scala Opera House
Things to do: See the authentic Last Supper mural in Santa Maria dell Grazie Church, try Milanese pasta and risotto, book a cruise tour in Navigli District, and see the San Siro Stadium, home to A.C. Milan football club.
Best time to visit: Spring (from March to May) for pleasant weather; Early fall (September) for lower prices and cool temperatures.
6. Venice
Venice has been internationally recognized as one of the best cities in Italy for tourists. The city is a UNESCO World Heritage site for its spectacular canals, as well as stunning gothic churches and splendid castles. Besides that, Venice’s romantic atmosphere attracts travelers from all around the world.
The best thing to do in Venice is go for a gondola ride. You can see a series of gothic-styled buildings, beautiful bridges, and the famous Gran Canal in one ride. Also, remember to take your camera with you. Venice’s magnificent landscape looks perfect in pictures!
Must-see places:
- Churches: Saint Mark’s Basilica and Santa Maria della Salute
- On the canal: Grand Canal, Palazzo Ducale, Bridge of Sighs, Ponte di Rialto,
- Others: Scuola Grande, Galleria d’Arte Moderna, and Doge’s Palace
Things to do: See glassblowing workshops in Murano Islands, explore Venice and its canals on foot, and glance at Venice’s sunset from Fondaco dei Tedeschi Rooftop Terrace
Best time to visit: Late spring – from April to mid-June- for warm weather and bustling tourism; and autumn – from September to October – for lower prices and pleasant temperatures.
7. Syracuse
Situated on the shores of Southern Italy, Syracuse offers both a brilliant natural landscape and a splendid city. Syracuse looks a lot more like Greece than Italy with its ancient artifacts and landmarks. Actually, it is because of Syracuse’s long history of being the settlement of various empires, from the ancient Greeks to the Byzantines. For that reason, Syracuse is dotted with magnificent ruins, fascinating temples, and medieval-styled churches.
If you are dreaming of a lovely and interesting seaside city, Syracuse is for you. You will never get bored in this beautiful city, as you can spend the whole day relaxing on the beach, strolling around the promenades, and visiting historical sites. Get ready to be mesmerized by Syracuse’s timeless beauty!
Must-see places: The Temple of Apollo, the Tomb of Archimede, Ortigia Island, Fountain of Diana, Syracuse Cathedral, and Neapolis Archeological Park
Things to do: Stroll around Piazza del Duomo, watch the sunset from Arethusa Fountain, see the locals’ daily activities at Syracuse harbor, and relax on the beaches
Best time to visit: Spring and Summer (from March to August) for sunny skies, pleasant weather, and the perfect temperature for dipping yourself in the sea-March to mid-June) and fall (from mid-September to mid-December)
8. Verona
Verona hides a tragic yet beautiful love story behind its glorious Roman landmarks and medieval UNESCO-listed buildings. Yes, the city is the setting of a legendary Shakespearean piece, Romeo and Juliet. Due to the legacy of the star-crossed lovers, romance is all over Verona’s air.
Verona is one of the best cities in Italy for history, art, and literature lovers. Travelers will be mesmerized by the historical buildings, museums, and castles that are scattered all over the city. Moreover, Verona has a well-preserved, Colosseum-like amphitheater, which is Verona Arena.
Must-see places: Verona Arena, Castle Vecchio, Giardino Giusti, Scaliger Tombs, Basilica of San Zeno Maggiore, and Piazza dei Signori.
Things to do: Drop a letter at Casa de Giulietta (House of Juliet), take a Romeo-Juliet walking tour, see Verona from a bird-eye perspective in Torre del Lamberti Tower, grab a coffee in Piazza Bra, and watch the sunset from Castel San Pietro.
Best time to visit: February for Valentine’s Day, spring (March-May) for pleasant weather, and early fall (September) for lower prices and cool temperatures.
9. Orvieto
Perched dramatically on a volcanic cliff in Umbria, Orvieto is one of Italy’s most enchanting hill towns. The city’s medieval skyline, dominated by its grand cathedral, looks straight out of a fairytale. Stroll through quiet cobblestone lanes, enjoy the panoramic countryside views, and soak in the slower pace of Italian village life.
Orvieto is also a delight for food and wine lovers. The town is famous for its crisp white wine — Orvieto Classico — and comforting Umbrian cuisine, from truffle pasta to hearty stews. Beneath the city lies a network of ancient underground tunnels and caves, offering a fascinating glimpse into its mysterious past.
Must-see places: Duomo di Orvieto, Orvieto Underground, Torre del Moro, and Pozzo di San Patrizio.
Things to do: Take a wine-tasting tour, visit the underground city, climb Torre del Moro for panoramic views, and savor truffle-based dishes.
Best time to visit: Spring (April to June) for green landscapes and pleasant weather; Autumn (September to November) for harvest season and fewer crowds.
10. Bari
Overlooking the Adriatic Sea, Bari is a coastal city that perfectly combines the charm of old Italy with the energy of a modern port town. Its old quarter, Bari Vecchia, is a maze of whitewashed alleyways where you can watch locals hand-roll pasta and hang laundry between the streets — a glimpse into everyday southern Italian life.
Bari is a paradise for food lovers. Its signature dish, orecchiette alle cime di rapa, is a must-try, along with fresh seafood caught straight from the Adriatic. The city also offers lively nightlife, beautiful sea views, and easy access to other Puglian gems like Alberobello and Polignano a Mare.
Must-see places: Basilica di San Nicola, Bari Vecchia, Lungomare Nazario Sauro, and Castello Normanno-Svevo.
Things to do: Stroll through Bari Vecchia, try handmade orecchiette, relax by the seafront promenade, and take a day trip to Polignano a Mare.
Best time to visit: Late Spring to Early Autumn (May to September) for beach days and festivals; Winter (December to February) for a calm local atmosphere and mild temperatures.
11. Lecce
Often called the “Florence of the South,” Lecce is a hidden gem in Puglia bursting with Baroque beauty. The city’s creamy limestone buildings glow golden in the sunlight, while its maze of streets invites you to wander and get lost. Lecce perfectly balances laid-back southern charm with a vibrant local culture — from lively piazzas filled with chatter to artists selling handmade crafts on the streets.
If you love history and architecture, Lecce will steal your heart. The city boasts some of the most beautiful Baroque churches in Italy, while its restaurants serve rich, rustic Puglian dishes. Try the famous puccia sandwich or pasticciotto pastry with an espresso for a true local experience. Lecce is also close to the Adriatic coast, making it easy to enjoy both city strolls and seaside relaxation. “Also, when you’re lucky, see Pizzica concerts. This ancient tradition belonged to a region and originated from the bite of a tarantula,” added TripLeader Cris, who hosts stays in Lecce.
Must-see places: Basilica di Santa Croce, Piazza del Duomo, Roman Amphitheater, and Porta Napoli.
Things to do: Take a walking tour of Lecce’s Baroque architecture, taste pasticciotto leccese, explore artisan workshops, and take a short trip to the nearby beaches of Otranto or Gallipoli.
Best time to visit: Spring (April to June) for blooming scenery and mild weather; Autumn (September to October) for warm days and fewer tourists.
12. Naples
Here goes the question: “What city in Italy has the best food?” Our expert travelers, including local TripLeader Roberta and Monica, harmonically answers Naples. Although Naples has been known with being chaotic, the food tour around the city is immaculate. TripLeader Roberta, who was born in Italy, mentioned that you can try the most authentic margherita pizza – sizzling hot from ovens in small trattorias. Besides that, dishes like pasta frittata, cuoppo fritto, taralli, sfogliatella and babà give you the best look to Italian cuisine. With that being said, Naples is one of the best cities in Italy to visit, especially for gastronomy-loving travelers.
Must-see places: National Museum of Archaeology Napoli, Catacombs of San Genaro,
Things to do: Go on a food tour, sail along the Amalfi Coast
Best time to visit: February for Valentine’s Day, spring (March-May) for pleasant weather, and early fall (September) for lower prices and cool temperatures.
13. Palermo
Located on the island of Sicily, Palermo offers splendid natural landscapes and memorable city views. The Italian city is dotted with historical, renaissance buildings, and laidback cube-shaped houses. The city is situated on the Italian coastline, overlooking the brilliant blue Tyrrhenian Sea.
Palermo is considered a safe place to travel. Moreover, it is a friendly and warm city. You can easily find smiling faces and mingle with locals in Palermo. To do so, try visiting local markets and grabbing some Palermo goods, like a glass of Marsala wine.
Must-see places:
- Churches: Cattedrale di Palermo, St. John of the Hermits La Cappella Palatina, and La Martorana
- Others: Teatro Massimo, Quattro Canti, and Norman Palace
Things to do: Grab some Aperol Spritz, see the city and sunset from Cattedrale di Palermo, and hunt for food and fresh produce in local markets.
Best time to visit: Spring (March – mid-June) for mild weather and festivals; and October for cool temperatures and lower prices
14. Bolzano
Looking for an Italian city with a beautiful landscape and lesser crowds? Then, visit Bolzano! The city is situated between the verdant hills of northern Italy. It has an extravagant view of the Italian Alps as its backdrop. Furthermore, the city is filled with laidback, classic European-style houses, small churches, and lovely historical buildings. Bolzano looks like a city out of a children’s book.
Bolzano has an interesting history of being the settlement of various civilizations, from prehistoric times to the middle ages. It is presented through Bolzano’s interesting attractions, like the 17th Century Franciscan Church and the frozen 5,000 years-old caveman Ötzi.
Must-see places: Via dei Portici, Bolzano Duomo, Mareccio Castle, Piazza Walther, and Castle Roncolo
Things to do: Grab some Tyrolean cuisines, go wine-tasting, see Ötzi the millennium-year-old frozen man, and ride a cable car to Ritten Village.
Best time to visit: Summer (from June to August) for sunny skies, warmer temperatures, and the harvest season of wine
15. Mantua
One of the fun facts about Mantua is the fact that it is enclosed by three artificial lakes. For that reason, this northern Italy city has a special charm. Mantua is a UNESCO-listed city for its stunning renaissance buildings and lavish churches. Moreover, the city is also famous for its superb wine and delicious food. Mantua offers you the best visual and sensory experience.
Even though Mantua is unique and fascinating, there aren’t many tourists visiting the city. In that case, Mantua stays underrated and is a hidden gem in Italy. It is one of the best cities in Italy if you are looking for a serene and crowd-less vacation.
Must-see places: Basilica di Sant’Andrea, Ducal Palace, Rotondo di San Lorenzo, and Mantua Cathedral
Things to do: Go wine tasting, take a food tour in Mantua, marvel at the murals on the walls of Ducal Palace, and take a walk by Mantua’s lakes.
Best time to visit: Spring (from mid-March to May) for pleasant weather, mild temperatures, and lower prices
16. Siena
“The Heart of Tuscany” – a nickname of Siena. The city earned its nickname as it is located in the region of Tuscany. Contrary to the neighboring Florence, Tuscany is hearty and laid back. The city is dotted with earth-colored houses and down-to-earth neighborhoods. However, it is also considered the perfect medieval town by UNESCO for its dark, mysterious, and noble atmosphere.
Must-see places: Piazza de Campo, Siena Cathedral, Pubblico Place, Tower of Mangia, and Duomo Museum
Things to do: See Palio horseback riding, marvel at the Porta del Cielo, stroll around the narrow medieval streets of Siena, and see the magnificent gothic Orartoria.
Best time to visit: Spring (from April to mid-June) for blooming flowers, pleasant weather, and less rainfall; Fall (September to October) for cool weather and vibrant fall festivals.
These stunning Italian cities are perfect for your next trip to Italy. Make sure to put them on your bucket list and get ready to be enchanted by their beauty. But, do you know that Italian cities can be pricey? In order to get the best out of them, you might need a travel buddy to share great moments, stories, and even costs!
If you are looking for a travel buddy for your next trip to Italy, JoinMyTrip got you covered! You can connect with other like-minded travelers and find an awesome trip in JoinMyTrip. Moreover, there are TripLeaders that would gladly guide you all over Rome and other Italian cities.
So what are you waiting for? Go for your dream trip with us!