Italy's diversity is as vast as its history and landscapes. This guide will tell you everything you need to know about the ten best places to visit in Italy, so you can make the most of your visit to the “Bel Paese”.

Best places to go in Italy: from North to South

From the snow-capped peaks of the Alps all the way down to the sun-drenched shores of Sicily, Italy offers a variety of experiences that cater to every traveller’s taste. We take you on a journey from north to south, telling you everything you need to know about the variety of destinations Italy has to offer.

Lake Como: A fairytale destination

Starting in the north of Italy, the Alpine region surrounding Lake Como boasts breathtaking mountain ranges, picturesque lakes, and charming villages where time seems to stand still. Lake Como itself is the most famous of these lakes and stretches along the Swiss-Italian border. It’s considered one of the most beautiful places in Italy and popular amongst the rich and famous, who mainly flock to the city of Como itself. Aside from the stunning views of the lake, Como itself is peppered with impressive architecture and quaint little streets, made more impressive by the towering green mountains that enclose it: it’s no wonder that many choose it as their luxury wedding destination. Lake Como was even featured in one of the Star Wars films! It’s easily doable as a day trip from Milan, so don’t miss out on this gem in the north of Italy.

Venice: The Floating City

Known as the "City of Canals," Venice enchants visitors with its romantic waterways, magnificent architecture, and rich cultural heritage, including iconic landmarks like St. Mark's Square and the Grand Canal. Venice is known as one of the most romantic cities in Italy, and is an obvious choice for couples looking for a romantic getaway together. However, regardless of who you visit Venice with, the “floating city” with its picturesque canals and cobbled lanes is a must-visit on the northeastern coast of Italy.

Cinque Terre: Five unmissable fishing villages

This UNESCO World Heritage Site comprises five colourful fishing villages perched along the rugged Ligurian coastline, offering breathtaking views, hiking trails, and fresh seafood. Meaning “Five Lands” in Italian, Cinque Terre in the northwest of the country is a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. The best way to see all five villages is to embark on the Sentiero Azzurro, or Blue Trail, a hiking trail that connects them all together and offers stunning views of the coastline and surrounding landscape. For travellers seeking authentic Italy beautiful places, it’s not to be missed.

Florence: The birthplace of the Renaissance

Venturing further south, Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance, is a living museum of art and history, home to masterpieces like Michelangelo's David, Brunelleschi's Duomo, and Botticelli's Birth of Venus. For travellers looking for a city break with a healthy balance between holiday relaxation and culture, we highly recommend Florence as an all-rounder in terms of Italy places to visit.

Rome: The Eternal City

Italy's capital is a treasure trove of ancient wonders, from the iconic Colosseum and Roman Forum to the majestic Vatican City, home to St. Peter's Basilica and the Sistine Chapel. Renowned for its iconic landmarks of Baroque architecture, such as the Trevi Fountain, one of the largest and most famed fountains in the world, the “Eternal City” is truly a remarkable destination. Beyond the historical buildings and sites that the capital has to offer, delight in its charming neighbourhoods, outdoor cafes, and lively markets. We simply couldn’t miss Rome off our list of the ten best places to go in Italy!

Naples: A bustling city with an ancient past

A vibrant city with a rich historical, cultural and artistic heritage, Naples is famous for its bustling street life and historic landmarks in the surrounding neighbourhoods, such as the ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum. Located on the southwestern coast of Italy, Naples is a vibrant hub of activity, with colourful street markets and a calendar full of cultural events and festivals year-round. Spaccanapoli, a long straight street that divides the historic centre, is lined with shops, cafes, and churches, offering a glimpse into daily life in Naples. The Bay of Naples offers breathtaking views of the imposing silhouette of Mount Vesuvius in the distance, a constant reminder of the famous eruption in Pompeii. Finally, Naples is known as the birthplace of pizza, so make sure you don’t leave this historic city without ordering one!

Amalfi Coast: Italy’s most iconic coastline

Stretching along the southern edge of the Sorrentine Peninsula, just south of Naples, the Amalfi Coast captivates visitors with its dramatic cliffs, azure waters, and charming towns like Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello. Each has its own unique character, with narrow cobblestone streets, pastel-coloured buildings, and panoramic viewpoints. The Amalfi Coast has a rich history dating back to ancient times, with influences from the Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, and Normans, and Amalfi itself was a powerful maritime republic during the Middle Ages. Nowadays, the Amalfi Coast is better known as a picturesque holiday destination, offering fresh seafood and sun-ripened produce, which make it one of the most tranquil places to visit in Italy.

Sardinia: A Mediterranean paradise

West of Naples and in the heart of the Med lies Italy's second-largest island, boasting some of the clearest waters and whitest sands in the Mediterranean. Beyond its endless opportunities for sunbathing, swimming, and snorkelling, Sardinia offers fascinating archaeological sites like the ancient Nuragic civilization's stone ruins and the stunning Costa Smeralda. Sardinia is also known for its cuisine, characterised by its simplicity, freshness, and use of local ingredients. Traditional dishes include pane carasau (crisp flatbread), culurgiones (stuffed pasta dumplings), porceddu (roast suckling pig), and seadas (fried pastry filled with cheese and drizzled with honey).

Puglia: A rural retreat brimming with culture and beauty

Stretching as far south as the heel of Italy's "boot," Puglia is a region of Italy known for its beautiful villages, breathtaking coastline, and expansive olive groves, as well as its distinctive conical “trulli houses” in Alberobello and stunning coastal towns like Polignano a Mare and Ostuni. Puglia is dotted with masserie, traditional fortified farmhouses that have been converted into accommodation and restaurants. Staying in a masseria offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience Puglian hospitality, cuisine, and rural life. Puglia is without a doubt one of the best places in Italy to experience a balance of rich culture and relaxing beaches.

Sicily: A volcanic island adventure

The largest island in the Mediterranean, and located next to the southernmost top of the Italian peninsula, Sicily boasts a mixture of history, culture, and natural beauty, including ancient Greek temples, Baroque cathedrals, and Mount Etna, Europe's tallest active volcano. If you’re looking for an island getaway, Sicily has unbeatable coastal beauty, from its dramatic cliffs to soft, sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. Its cuisine is influenced by Greek, Arab, Spanish and Norman culinary traditions, making it as diverse as its history and landscapes.

Don’t miss out on the most beautiful places in Italy

It’s no surprise that Italy is many people’s favourite holiday destination. With good year-round weather, numerous options for city breaks, and some of the nicest beaches in the Med, whichever part of Italy you visit, you’re sure to have an amazing time.

Find out more about Shop&Fly