Organizing a vacation in Italy can seem like an arduous task, right?
Our Bel Paese is so rich in history, art, and unique places in the world that choosing where to go becomes a real challenge. That’s why we decided to group together in one guide the most beautiful places in Italy.
In our beautiful peninsula, every corner of land has something special to offer. We are ready to introduce you to those places that everyone should see at least once in their life.
Ready for this unforgettable journey? Let’s go!
1. Leaning Tower of Pisa (Torre di Pisa)
Let’s start exploring the most beautiful places in Italy by talking about the Leaning Tower of Pisa.
Known worldwide for its unique tilt, this bell tower is part of the beautiful Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, located in the famous Piazza del Duomo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987.
The tower consists of 294 steps, and if you climb all the way to the top, you’ll be rewarded with a spectacular view of the city of Pisa and the magnificent Piazza del Duomo.
If you’re afraid of heights and don’t want to climb to the top of the bell tower, don’t worry – you can take beautiful photos even from the garden surrounding the structure. And of course, you can’t leave Pisa without taking the obligatory photo pretending to hold up the leaning tower!
2. Ponte Vecchio (Old Bridge)
Moving from the sea to the city, we arrive in Florence, the Tuscan capital known worldwide for its artistic treasures and as one of the most beautiful places to visit in Italy.
Here, among the city’s infinite wonders, is the Ponte Vecchio, a bridge rich in historical shops that connects the two poles of the city, offering tourists a picturesque view of the Arno River.
This bridge is one of the best places in Italy to admire unique panoramas, and it’s also the perfect spot for couples in love looking for stunning places to take special souvenir photos.
3. Piazza del Campo
With its unique shell-shaped form, Piazza del Campo, also known as Il Campo, is the main square of Siena and one of the most beautiful places to see in Italy if you’re on vacation here.
Every year, the famous Palio delle Contrade (Palio of the Contradas) takes place here – a horse race where the seventeen historic contradas (districts) of Siena compete against each other. This event transforms the city’s square into a veritable stage where you can witness a unique event in the world.
4. Piazza Navona
Built at the request of Pope Innocent X, Piazza Navona embodies the luxury and grandeur of Roman Baroque and represents not only a gem of the capital, but also one of the most beautiful things to see in Italy.
Imagine sitting in one of the historic restaurants dotting the piazza, enjoying a plate of pasta while admiring the splendid Baroque works that surround you.
This piazza is an open-air work of art, a silent witness to centuries of history and culture. Every corner, every fountain, and every building tells a part of the great history of Rome, a city that continues to enchant and seduce anyone who sets foot in it.
5. The Pantheon
In the ranking of the most important attractions to visit in Italy, we certainly couldn’t leave out the Pantheon in Rome.
During your visit to the Pantheon, take a moment, sit on one of the benches inside, and simply observe. Admire the perfection of the Corinthian columns, the symmetry of the spaces, and the elegance of the marble floor.
This building is a true poem written in stone, a silent witness to the rich history of the Eternal City.
6. The Colosseum (Colosseo)
Among the places to see in Italy, the Colosseum is obviously at the top of the list. It is the most iconic monument of ancient Rome, celebrated in the historical film “Gladiator” starring a young Russell Crowe.
Originally known as the Flavian Amphitheater, this extraordinary amphitheater is the largest in the world and can accommodate between 50,000 and 87,000 spectators.
Walking inside is like flipping through the pages of a living, pulsating history book, where every arch, every step, and every corner tells stories of courage, passion, and drama. Entering the Colosseum is more than just a visit to a monument – it’s a true journey through time that will leave you fascinated and enriched, with indelible memories of an era that has shaped our history.
7. Trevi Fountain (Fontana di Trevi)
Among the most iconic places in the capital is also the Trevi Fountain. Although it has often been the victim of vandalism by disrespectful tourists, no one has managed to tarnish the wonder of this place to date.
If you visit here, don’t forget to follow the tradition and toss a coin into the water with your right hand over your left shoulder – it’s said that this gesture ensures your return to Rome! This ritual was made famous by Federico Fellini’s film “La Dolce Vita,” and it’s still an unmissable moment for every visitor.
The Trevi Fountain is also the perfect place to take breathtaking photos, especially in the evening when it’s illuminated and becomes even more picturesque. Don’t miss the opportunity to take a selfie with the majestic statue of Neptune!
8. St. Peter’s Basilica (Basilica di San Pietro)
Italy is home to thousands of extraordinary places, and although it’s not part of our country, the Vatican can also be considered one of the most beautiful things to see in Italy. It’s here that the majestic St. Peter’s Basilica, the seat of the Holy See, is located.
This imposing basilica, with its iconic dome designed by Michelangelo, is a masterpiece of Renaissance and Baroque architecture that houses countless masterpieces from that era within its walls.
Don’t forget to climb to the top of the dome – from here, the panoramic view of Rome is simply breathtaking and will offer you a unique vantage point to appreciate the vastness and beauty of the Eternal City.
9. San Galgano Abbey (Abbazia di San Galgano)
As you can imagine, many tourist attractions in Italy tell the story, traditions, and cult of past civilizations, and the San Galgano Abbey, near Siena, gives us a demonstration of how places of worship were designed in the distant 1200s.
The unique feature of this place has piqued the interest of directors from all over the world, so much so that the abbey has been the protagonist of numerous films.
10. Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore
When you think of Florence, the first thing that comes to mind is surely its iconic dome. This belongs to the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, the city’s most majestic edifice.
This church is a true architectural masterpiece and is undoubtedly one of the beauties of Italy that you must visit. In addition to being one of the largest cathedrals in the world, what has made this place so important is the long list of artists who contributed to its construction, including Giotto and Brunelleschi.
For all art lovers wishing to discover the most beautiful places in Italy, we’re sure that a visit to this neo-Gothic jewel will provide you with unique emotions that you’ll carry in your heart forever.
11. Basilica of Santa Maria Novella
Located across from the square that bears its name, the Basilica of Santa Maria Novella in Florence presents itself to its audience with a majestic white marble façade created by the celebrated Leon Battista Alberti.
This enchanting edifice is one of the first monuments that visitors see upon arriving by train, and it gives a realistic preview of the numerous other architectural wonders that populate the Tuscan capital.
12. Palazzo Vecchio (Old Palace)
Palazzo Vecchio, one of the most illustrious symbols of Florence, is located in Piazza della Signoria and is a living testimony to the city’s rich cultural and political heritage.
This palace was not only the residence of the Florentine government but also the hub of the city’s political and social activities. Its tower, the Torre di Arnolfo, standing 94 meters tall, offers a breathtaking view of the city for those willing to climb its 223 steps.
From here, you’ll have the opportunity to look around and let yourself be amazed by one of the most beautiful places in Italy, treating your eyes to a unique panorama in the world.
13. San Gimignano
Perched on the splendid hills southwest of Florence, San Gimignano is one of the most famous breathtaking places in Italy.
The charm of this place is palpable even before arriving in the city. Indeed, the view you get along the way to San Gimignano is that of a medieval village immersed in greenery, from which the characteristic towers protrude.
The scenery this town offers is unique, and it’s no coincidence that San Gimignano is still one of the places in Italy most besieged by tourists from all over the world.
14. Monteriggioni
Continuing with the tour of medieval villages, another beautiful place to visit in Italy is Monteriggioni, a true fortress perched on a hill overlooking the Sienese countryside.
This little treasure still preserves its historic buildings and is entirely surrounded by its ancient walls. These walls have recently been made accessible to visitors, allowing tourists to enjoy a marvelous view of the rolling hills.
15. Civita di Bagnoregio
Civita di Bagnoregio, a small fraction of the municipality of Bagnoregio in the province of Viterbo, is a hidden gem in the heart of Lazio that every tourist should discover. Known as “the dying city,” a name given by the writer Bonaventura Tecchi who spent his youth there, Civita is one of the most beautiful villages in Italy.
This fascinating medieval village, perched on a hill and accessible only by a pedestrian bridge, offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding valley.
Walking through its ancient alleyways is like taking a step back in time, with stone buildings that tell splendid stories of distant eras.
16. Castellana Caves (Grotte di Castellana)
Adding to Italy’s extraordinary landscapes are its hidden treasures, such as the Castellana Caves. This complex of karst cavities in Puglia extends for about 3 kilometers, offering truly unique visions.
The natural entrance, called La Grave, is a 60-meter-deep sinkhole that introduces a breathtaking path through incredibly beautiful stalactites and stalagmites.
The unique rock formations and extraordinary colors, like the intense red of the Corridoio del Deserto due to iron minerals, make visiting the Castellana Caves an unforgettable experience, combining adventure and wonder in an unparalleled underground setting.
17. Valley of the Temples (Valle dei Templi)
What makes our Bel Paese a unique place in the world is the rich intermingling of peoples that has left us an inheritance of works of inestimable value.
Among these is the famous Valley of the Temples, one of the places you absolutely must see in Italy. Located not far from the splendid city of Agrigento, this valley is a symbol of Greek influence in Italy.
Walking among the temples of this place, you’ll feel as if you’ve been transported to ancient Greece, and you’ll be amazed by the ingenuity of the architects of that time and the splendid Greek statues scattered throughout the valley.
18. Mount Etna (Etna)
Imagine walking on a landscape that seems to come straight out of a dream, where the ground is black and gray, dotted with volcanic rocks and smoking craters. The seemingly barren terrain is furrowed by ancient lava flows that wind like petrified rivers under the blue sky.
The air is fresh and crisp, and every step reveals a new breathtaking view, with panoramas extending all the way to the sparkling sea in the distance. This incredible scenario, which could easily be mistaken for the lunar surface, is in fact Mount Etna, one of the most active volcanoes in the world and one of the most beautiful destinations to visit in Italy and, specifically, in Sicily.
Don’t miss the opportunity to experience this extraordinary adventure: visit Etna and let yourself be enchanted by one of the most incredible places on our planet.
19. Scala dei Turchi (Turkish Steps)
This majestic white marl cliff, sculpted by wind and sea, rises like a natural staircase that seems carved by divine hands. Its smooth, undulating, dazzlingly white surface contrasts with the crystal-clear azure of the sea, creating a postcard-perfect scene that leaves every visitor breathless.
The Scala dei Turchi owes its name to the incursions of Saracen pirates, known as the “Turks,” who found refuge in these coves.
Today, it is one of the places you absolutely must visit in Italy, a place where nature and history merge in a breathtaking panorama. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore this corner of paradise and let yourself be enchanted by the extraordinary beauty of this Sicilian destination.
20. Riserva Naturale dello Zingaro (Zingaro Nature Reserve)
The Riserva Naturale dello Zingaro, located along the northwestern coast of Sicily between Castellammare del Golfo and San Vito Lo Capo, is a natural paradise that stretches for about seven kilometers, offering panoramic trails, hidden coves, and crystal-clear bays.
Here you can walk along cliffside paths overlooking the sea, snorkel in turquoise and limpid waters, or simply relax on pristine white beaches. The wild, unspoiled beauty of the place, combined with the tranquility that pervades it, makes the reserve one of the most enchanting spots in Italy and an unmissable stop if you’re exploring the hidden treasures of Sicily.
21. Frasassi Caves (Grotte di Frasassi)
Imagine entering an underground realm where nature has sculpted, over the course of millions of years, a crystal palace with stalactites and stalagmites that seem the work of an artist. Welcome to the Frasassi Caves, one of the most fascinating underground treasures of the Marche region.
Walking through the different halls, such as the Ancona Abyss, one of the largest underground cavities in the world, and the Candeline Hall, with its delicate stalactites resembling lit candles, you’ll feel transported to a magical world.
Every corner of the caves offers wonders to discover, with plays of light that enhance the purity of the calcite crystals. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the Frasassi Caves and let yourself be enchanted by the unique beauty of this particular tourist destination in Italy.
22. Marmore Waterfalls (Cascata delle Marmore)
Located in Umbria, near the city of Terni, the Marmore Waterfalls are among the highest in Europe at 165 meters tall, and represent one of the most enchanting places in Italy.
The surrounding park is rich with panoramic trails that allow you to explore various vantage points of the waterfalls, each with its own unique charm.
In addition to their natural beauty, the waterfalls are wrapped in fascinating legends, such as that of the nymph Nera who, according to tradition, eternally cries for love, creating the waterfalls with her tears.
Let yourself be enveloped by a place where nature and history meet in a spectacular embrace, and experience the adventure of discovering one of Italy’s most renowned beauties.
23. Lake Trasimeno (Lago Trasimeno)
Located in the heart of Umbria, this is the fourth largest lake in Italy. The beauty of Lake Trasimeno lies in its atmosphere and the numerous activities it offers: you can take boat trips to the islands of Maggiore and Polvese, walk along the trails that skirt the shores, or relax on one of its many beaches.
For lovers of history and culture, the villages surrounding the lake, such as Castiglione del Lago and Passignano sul Trasimeno, offer medieval castles, ancient churches, and charming alleys to explore.
Moreover, the area is renowned for its traditional cuisine, with restaurants serving lake fish-based dishes and local specialties accompanied by excellent wines. A must-try!
24. Piana di Castelluccio di Norcia
The Piana di Castelluccio di Norcia, located in the heart of the Monti Sibillini National Park, is one of the most famous places in Italy that every tourist should visit at least once in their life.
This vast plateau, situated at about 1,450 meters above sea level, is famous worldwide for the spectacular flowering that occurs every year between late May and early July.
During this period, the plain transforms into a mosaic of vivid colors, with millions of wildflowers blooming in a symphony of red, yellow, blue, and white, creating a landscape that seems to have come straight out of a painting.
25. Gola del Furlo
The Gola del Furlo is a nature reserve located between the Pietralata and Paganuccio Mountains in the Marche region. This spectacular gorge has been sculpted over millennia by the erosion of the Candigliano River, and with its green waters, rocky walls where eagles nest, and enchanting panoramas, it represents the perfect place for those who love hiking and photographing unique landscapes.
In addition to its natural beauty, the Gola del Furlo boasts a unique historical heritage: the ancient Via Flaminia runs through here, with the extraordinary 3rd century BC Roman gallery that connected the Tyrrhenian Sea to the Adriatic. This combination of nature and history makes the Gola del Furlo an unmissable destination for those seeking an experience out of the ordinary.
Come and discover this corner of paradise and let yourself be amazed by a landscape that seems straight out of a postcard.
26. Parco Nazionale del Gargano
The Parco Nazionale del Gargano in Puglia is one of the most beautiful vacation spots in Italy.
This natural paradise offers numerous nature trails, perfect for exploring the lush vegetation and observing the many species of animals and birds that find refuge here.
Discover the tourist destinations along the coast and let yourself be enchanted by the area’s beauty.
Enjoy an excursion on one of the many trails immersed in nature, or set out by kayak along the rugged coastline, discovering hidden coves and unspoiled beaches accessible only by sea.
Whatever type of activity you prefer, the Parco Nazionale del Gargano promises unforgettable adventures and moments of pure relaxation, offering you one of the most fascinating landscapes in Italy.
27. Monti Sibillini National Park (Parco Nazionale dei Monti Sibillini)
The Monti Sibillini National Park, situated between the Marche and Umbria regions, extends over a vast area of more than 70,000 hectares, embracing a mountain range that offers breathtaking landscapes, enchanted valleys, and imposing peaks.
The Sibillini Mountains are known for their extraordinary biodiversity, hosting a rich variety of flora and fauna, including rare species such as the Apennine wolf and the golden eagle.
This place is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. The hiking trails that crisscross the park offer spectacular views, including the famous Anello dei Sibillini and the trail to the summit of Monte Vettore, the park’s highest peak. Set out to discover this splendid place and let yourself be enchanted by the unique wonders hidden among the mountains.
28. Monte Subasio
Monte Subasio, located in the heart of Umbria, near the picturesque city of Assisi, is a 1,290-meter-high peak.
From its summit, you can enjoy a 360-degree view of the Umbrian Valley, with its enchanting agricultural landscapes and medieval cities dotting the horizon.
For pilgrims, Monte Subasio is inextricably linked to the figure of St. Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of Italy. The trails winding around the mountain offer the opportunity to retrace St. Francis’ steps and visit places of great spiritual significance, such as the Eremo delle Carceri, an ancient retreat and prayer site immersed in greenery.
Visit Monte Subasio to experience a place where nature, history, and spirituality intertwine, and discover a corner of Italy where the beauty of the landscape and the depth of tradition blend harmoniously.
29. Riviera del Conero
The Riviera del Conero, located on the Adriatic coast of the Marche region, is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Italy. This stretch of coastline, extending from Ancona to Numana, is characterized by white cliffs plunging into the sea, pebble beaches nestled in coves, and lush vegetation that creates a breathtaking contrast with the crystal-clear azure of the sea.
What makes this place so special is its unique combination of natural beauty, culture, and tranquility. Beaches like Sirolo and Portonovo are perfect for relaxing and swimming in limpid waters, while the nearby historic towns offer a rich cultural and gastronomic heritage to discover.
This place also holds surprises for those who love outdoor activities: from snorkeling and hidden sea caves to panoramic trails, everything here is able to provide you with an unforgettable vacation.
30. Villa Borghese
A place you absolutely must see if you’re in Italy is Villa Borghese: a green treasure in the heart of Rome that every tourist should discover. With its 80 hectares, this vast city park is the ideal place to lose yourself in relaxing walks along tree-lined avenues and lush meadows.
Strolling through its alleys, you’ll find historic buildings, picturesque small structures, elegant fountains, and ponds. Inside the park is also the Galleria Borghese, a museum that houses masterpieces by Bernini, Caravaggio, and Raphael, making it an unmissable stop for art lovers.
31. Trulli of Alberobello
The Trulli of Alberobello in Puglia are one of the most fascinating tourist destinations in Italy. These characteristic limestone constructions, with their conical roofs, create a fairytale landscape that seems to have come straight out of a storybook.
Walking through the streets of Alberobello, you can admire these unique dwellings up close, visit museums that recount their history, and immerse yourself in the authentic atmosphere of this picturesque village.
The Trulli are a living testament to Apulian tradition and culture, making Alberobello an unmissable stop for anyone wishing to discover the authentic heart of Italy.
32. Tremiti Islands (Isole Tremiti)
The Tremiti Islands, also known as the “Pearls of the Adriatic,” are a small archipelago off the Puglia coast and represent a true gem of the Adriatic Sea.
Among the most renowned islands are San Domino, famous for its marine caves and enchanting beaches, and San Nicola, an authentic open-air museum. With its ancient fortifications and the Abbey of Santa Maria a Mare, San Nicola recounts centuries of history and fascinating legends.
Visiting these islands, voted among the most beautiful places in Italy, means immersing yourself in a corner of paradise where nature and history merge in an unforgettable embrace.
33. Uffizi Gallery (Galleria degli Uffizi)
Florence is art. Confirming this is the splendid Uffizi Gallery, an art museum that houses some of the most important Italian paintings ever, and is known worldwide as one of the best places to visit in Italy.
By booking your guided tour of the gallery, you can admire the famous works created by the greatest Italian masters of all time, such as Giotto, Caravaggio, Botticelli, Da Vinci, and many others.
Walking from one corridor to another in the palace, you’ll be so enraptured by the beauties that lie behind each room that by the end of the visit, you’ll feel deeply enriched and satisfied to have experienced something like this.
34. Vatican Museums (Musei Vaticani)
Walking through the corridors of the Vatican Museums is like taking a journey through centuries of history, art, and culture.
This extraordinary museum complex is one of the largest and most important in the world, with a collection that embraces everything from masterpieces of classical antiquity to works by the great masters of the Renaissance.
One of the most exciting aspects for a tourist is the opportunity to admire up close the Sistine Chapel, with its famous ceiling frescoed by Michelangelo.
But strolling through the Vatican Museums also means discovering unexpected treasures, such as the Egyptian, Etruscan, and Roman art collections, each with unique pieces that tell fascinating stories of past civilizations. And don’t forget to visit the Cortile della Pigna, an oasis of tranquility where you can rest and reflect on everything you’ve seen.
35. La Scarzuola
Hidden among the Umbrian hills near Montegabbione, La Scarzuola is one of Italy’s best-kept secrets, a place where reality intertwines with fantasy in surprising ways.
This complex, which seems to have come out of a dream, is a labyrinth of theaters, towers, staircases, and gardens that evoke alchemical symbols, utopian visions, and architectural wonders. Every corner of this “city-theater” is designed to amaze and stimulate the mind, transforming the walk into a dreamlike journey.
The surreal beauty of La Scarzuola, with its architecture that defies conventions and its mystical atmosphere, makes it one of the Italian beauties you absolutely must visit and promises to leave every guest awestruck.
The Most Beautiful Places in Italy to Visit During Your Vacation
Are you planning your vacation in Italy, but your stay is not too long and you don’t know which of these wonders to visit?
It all depends on the region you’ve decided to stay in. At Anita Villas, we want to give you a dream stay wherever you decide to relax, by offering you luxury villas in Italy in different regions:
- Villas in the Marche
- Villas in Tuscany
- Villas in Sicily
- Villas in Apulia
- Villas in Emilia-Romagna
- Villas in Lazio
- Villas in Umbria
- Villas in Abruzzo
Find the right vacation home for you and enjoy your totally relaxing vacation with Anita Villas.