30 Best Places To Visit in Italy
Italy, a country steeped in history, art, and culinary delights, beckons travelers with its diverse landscapes and cultural treasures. Whether you're drawn to ancient ruins, Renaissance art, or picturesque coastlines, Italy offers a plethora of destinations that cater to every traveler's interests. Here’s a curated list of the 30 best places to visit in Italy, along with the best time to experience each destination's unique charm:
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Rome
Average temperatures:
- Spring (April to June): 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F)
- Autumn (September to October): 15°C to 27°C (59°F to 81°F)
Venice
Best time to visit: April to June, September to November
Average temperatures:
- Spring (April to June): 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F)
- Autumn (September to November): 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F)
Florence
Best time to visit: April to June, September to October
Average temperatures:
- Spring (April to June): 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F)
- Autumn (September to October): 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F)
Cinque Terre
Best time to visit: May to September
Average temperatures:
- Summer (May to September): 18°C to 28°C (64°F to 82°F)
Amalfi Coast
The Amalfi Coast is renowned for its dramatic coastline dotted with pastel-colored villages clinging to cliffs overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea. Explore the charming towns of Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello, famous for their Mediterranean architecture, lemon groves, and panoramic views. Visit the historic Amalfi Cathedral and enjoy leisurely boat trips to discover hidden coves and sea caves.
Best time to visit: May to September
Average temperatures:
- Summer (May to September): 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F)
Capri
Capri, an island in the Bay of Naples, is known for its rugged coastline, the Blue Grotto sea cave, and designer boutiques. Take a chairlift ride to Mount Solaro for panoramic views, explore the Roman Villa Jovis ruins, and relax in the chic Piazzetta. Enjoy swimming in the azure waters, savor local cuisine at seaside restaurants, and soak in the island’s glamorous atmosphere.
Best time to visit: April to June, September to October
Average temperatures:
- Spring (April to June): 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F)
- Autumn (September to October): 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F)
Siena
Siena’s well-preserved medieval architecture, annual Palio horse race, and Gothic cathedral make it a must-visit destination in Tuscany. Wander through the Piazza del Campo, visit the majestic Siena Cathedral (Duomo), and explore the historic Contrade neighborhoods. Climb the Torre del Mangia for panoramic views of the city and enjoy traditional Tuscan cuisine at local trattorias.
Best time to visit: April to June, September to October
Average temperatures:
- Spring (April to June): 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F)
- Autumn (September to October): 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F)
Milan
Milan, Italy’s fashion and design capital, boasts iconic landmarks such as the impressive Duomo di Milano and Leonardo da Vinci's masterpiece, "The Last Supper." Explore the Quadrilatero della Moda for haute couture shopping, visit the historic La Scala opera house, and admire modern art at the Fondazione Prada. Indulge in Milanese cuisine at local trattorias and experience the city’s vibrant nightlife.
Best time to visit: April to June, September to October
Average temperatures:
- Spring (April to June): 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F)
- Autumn (September to October): 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F)
Pisa
Pisa is famous worldwide for its iconic Leaning Tower, a bell tower in the Piazza dei Miracoli (Square of Miracles). Visit the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta and the Baptistery, marvel at the Camposanto Monumentale cemetery, and climb the Leaning Tower for panoramic views of the city. Explore Pisa’s historic center with its lively cafes, vibrant markets, and picturesque riverside promenade.
Best time to visit: April to June, September to October
Average temperatures:
- Spring (April to June): 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F)
- Autumn (September to October): 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F)
Verona
Verona, famously known as the setting of Shakespeare’s "Romeo and Juliet," is a charming city steeped in history and romance. Visit the well-preserved Arena di Verona, an ancient Roman amphitheater, explore Juliet's House with its iconic balcony, and stroll across the picturesque Ponte Pietra bridge. Discover Verona’s culinary delights, from traditional trattorias to modern bistros, and enjoy local wines from nearby Valpolicella vineyards.
Best time to visit: April to June, September to October
Average temperatures:
- Spring (April to June): 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F)
- Autumn (September to October): 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F)
Naples
Naples, a vibrant city located on the Bay of Naples, is famous for its rich history, art, and culinary delights. Explore the historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, visit the Naples National Archaeological Museum to see artifacts from Pompeii and Herculaneum, and wander through the vibrant Spaccanapoli street. Indulge in authentic Neapolitan pizza, visit the Naples Cathedral, and take a day trip to the nearby Mount Vesuvius and Pompeii archaeological site.
Best time to visit: April to June, September to October
Average temperatures:
- Spring (April to June): 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F)
- Autumn (September to October): 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F)
Bologna
Bologna, the capital of the Emilia-Romagna region, is renowned for its medieval architecture, rich culinary tradition, and Europe’s oldest university. Explore the historic Piazza Maggiore, visit the iconic Two Towers (Due Torri), and discover Bologna’s extensive network of porticoes. Indulge in local specialties such as tortellini and mortadella at traditional osterias and trattorias, and climb the Asinelli Tower for panoramic views of the city.
Best time to visit: April to June, September to October
Average temperatures:
- Spring (April to June): 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F)
- Autumn (September to October): 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F)
Turin
Turin, the capital of Piedmont in northern Italy, is known for its Baroque architecture, art galleries, and elegant squares. Explore the historic Royal Palace of Turin, visit the Mole Antonelliana with its National Cinema Museum, and stroll through the lush Valentino Park along the Po River. Experience Turin’s rich chocolate and coffee culture, sample regional wines such as Barolo and Barbaresco, and enjoy traditional Piedmontese cuisine at local trattorias.
Best time to visit: April to June, September to October
Average temperatures:
- Spring (April to June): 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F)
- Autumn (September to October): 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F)
Lake Como
Lake Como, nestled in the foothills of the Alps, is renowned for its stunning scenery, elegant villas, and picturesque towns. Explore the charming villages of Bellagio, Varenna, and Menaggio along the lake’s shoreline, visit historic villas such as Villa del Balbianello and Villa Carlotta, and take a scenic boat cruise on the lake. Relax in lakeside cafes, enjoy water sports like sailing and windsurfing, and hike the surrounding mountains for breathtaking views.
Best time to visit: May to September
Average temperatures:
- Summer (May to September): 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F)
Sicily
Sicily, the largest island in the Mediterranean Sea, offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Explore ancient Greek temples in Agrigento’s Valley of the Temples, visit the historic city of Palermo with its Norman Palace and vibrant markets, and relax on the stunning beaches of Taormina and Cefalù. Discover Mount Etna, Europe’s tallest active volcano, and indulge in Sicilian cuisine, known for its fresh seafood, arancini, and cannoli pastries.
Best time to visit: April to June, September to October
Average temperatures:
- Spring (April to June): 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F)
- Autumn (September to October): 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F)
Sorrento
Sorrento, located on the scenic Sorrentine Peninsula overlooking the Bay of Naples, is known for its stunning cliffs, panoramic views of Mount Vesuvius, and picturesque citrus groves. Explore the historic center with its charming alleys and boutiques, visit the Baroque-style Sorrento Cathedral, and relax in waterfront cafes along Marina Grande. Take day trips to the nearby Amalfi Coast, Capri island, and Pompeii archaeological site, and savor local specialties such as limoncello liqueur and seafood dishes.
Best time to visit: April to June, September to October
Average temperatures:
- Spring (April to June): 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F)
- Autumn (September to October): 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F)
Assisi
Assisi, a medieval hill town in Umbria, is famous as the birthplace of St. Francis of Assisi, Italy’s patron saint. Visit the Basilica of St. Francis with its stunning frescoes by Giotto, explore the Roman Temple of Minerva, and wander through the charming streets of the historic center. Enjoy panoramic views from the Rocca Maggiore fortress, visit the Eremo delle Carceri hermitage in the nearby Monte Subasio Park, and experience Assisi’s peaceful atmosphere and spiritual heritage.
Best time to visit: April to June, September to October
Average temperatures:
- Spring (April to June): 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F)
- Autumn (September to October): 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F)
Pompeii
Pompeii, an ancient Roman city near Naples, was buried under volcanic ash after Mount Vesuvius erupted in 79 AD. Explore the well-preserved ruins of Pompeii, including the Forum, amphitheater, and wealthy villas with intricate frescoes. Visit the nearby archaeological site of Herculaneum, relax in the gardens of the Villa dei Misteri, and learn about daily life in ancient Rome at the Pompeii Archaeological Park’s exhibitions and multimedia displays.
Best time to visit: April to June, September to October
Average temperatures:
- Spring (April to June): 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F)
- Autumn (September to October): 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F)
Lucca
Lucca, a charming medieval town in Tuscany, is famous for its well-preserved Renaissance walls that encircle the historic center. Explore the narrow streets lined with medieval towers and churches, visit the imposing Lucca Cathedral with its Romanesque facade, and climb the Guinigi Tower for panoramic views of the city. Rent a bike and cycle along the tree-lined walls, attend the Lucca Summer Festival for live music performances, and savor traditional Tuscan dishes at local trattorias and osterias.
Best time to visit: April to June, September to October
Average temperatures:
- Spring (April to June): 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F)
- Autumn (September to October): 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F)
Padua
Padua, a historic city in the Veneto region, is known for its prestigious university, frescoed Scrovegni Chapel, and bustling markets. Explore the historic center with its medieval palaces and piazzas, visit the majestic Basilica of Saint Anthony, and relax in the scenic Prato della Valle square. Discover Padua’s botanical garden, one of the oldest in Europe, take a boat ride along the Brenta River to visit nearby Palladian villas, and savor regional cuisine at traditional osterias and trattorias.
Best time to visit: April to June, September to October
Average temperatures:
- Spring (April to June): 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F)
- Autumn (September to October): 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F)
Ravenna
Ravenna, known for its stunning Byzantine mosaics and historic monuments, is a UNESCO World Heritage site in Emilia-Romagna. Explore the ancient churches and basilicas adorned with intricate mosaics, including the UNESCO-listed Basilica of San Vitale and Mausoleum of Galla Placidia. Visit the 5th-century Archbishop’s Chapel, discover Ravenna’s Roman and early Christian heritage at the National Museum, and stroll through the picturesque gardens of the Classe archaeological park.
Best time to visit: April to June, September to October
Average temperatures:
- Spring (April to June): 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F)
- Autumn (September to October): 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F)
Trieste
Trieste, a port city on the Adriatic Sea, is known for its rich cultural heritage, literary cafes, and scenic waterfront. Explore the historic Piazza Unità d'Italia, visit the imposing Miramare Castle with its lush gardens overlooking the sea, and discover Trieste’s eclectic architecture, including the Roman amphitheater and neoclassical palaces. Wander through the vibrant Borgo Teresiano district, sample Trieste’s coffee culture with a visit to the historic Caffè San Marco, and explore the Karst Plateau’s caves and grottoes.
Best time to visit: May to September
Average temperatures:
- Summer (May to September): 18°C to 28°C (64°F to 82°F)
Matera
Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Basilicata, is known for its ancient cave dwellings (sassi) carved into limestone cliffs. Explore the Sassi di Matera with its cave churches and rock-cut houses, visit the ancient Rupestrian churches adorned with frescoes, and stroll through the picturesque streets of the Civita district. Discover Matera’s cultural heritage at the Casa Grotta di Vico Solitario museum, attend the annual Festa della Bruna festival, and savor local cuisine at trattorias serving traditional dishes like orecchiette pasta and lamb skewers.
Best time to visit: April to June, September to October
Average temperatures:
- Spring (April to June): 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F)
- Autumn (September to October): 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F)
Orvieto
Orvieto, a hilltop town in Umbria, is famous for its stunning Gothic cathedral and underground tunnels carved into the volcanic rock. Explore the historic Piazza del Duomo, visit the Orvieto Underground to discover ancient Etruscan artifacts, and admire the frescoes inside the Orvieto Cathedral. Take a tour of the Pozzo di San Patrizio well and enjoy panoramic views from the Torre del Moro tower. Experience Orvieto’s culinary delights, including local wines such as Orvieto Classico and traditional Umbrian dishes like porchetta and truffles.
Best time to visit: April to June, September to October
Average temperatures:
- Spring (April to June): 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F)
- Autumn (September to October): 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F)
Bari
Bari, the capital of Puglia in southern Italy, is known for its historic old town, bustling ports, and picturesque seaside promenade. Explore the Basilica di San Nicola with its Romanesque architecture and relics of St. Nicholas, visit the Swabian Castle overlooking the Adriatic Sea, and wander through Bari Vecchia with its narrow alleys and traditional orecchiette pasta makers. Relax on Bari’s sandy beaches, sample local seafood specialties like raw sea urchins and octopus salad, and take day trips to nearby Alberobello’s UNESCO-listed trulli houses and the Gargano National Park’s rugged coastline.
Best time to visit: April to June, September to October
Average temperatures:
- Spring (April to June): 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F)
- Autumn (September to October): 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F)
Lecce
Lecce, the “Florence of the South,” is known for its stunning Baroque architecture, ancient Roman ruins, and vibrant cultural scene. Explore the historic center with its ornate churches and palaces, visit the Roman Amphitheater and archaeological museum, and admire Lecce’s unique architecture, including the Basilica di Santa Croce and Piazza del Duomo. Discover Lecce’s traditional crafts such as papier-mâché and leccese stone carving, sample local wines like Negroamaro and Primitivo, and savor regional dishes such as rustico leccese pastries and puccia bread sandwiches.
Best time to visit: April to June, September to October
Average temperatures:
- Spring (April to June): 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F)
- Autumn (September to October): 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F)
Aosta
Aosta, located in the Italian Alps near the border with France and Switzerland, is known for its Roman ruins, medieval castles, and stunning mountain scenery. Explore the ancient Roman Theatre and Arch of Augustus, visit the towering Forte di Bard overlooking the Dora Baltea River, and wander through Aosta’s historic center with its Romanesque churches and museums. Take a scenic cable car ride to Pila ski resort for hiking and skiing in the Mont Blanc massif, experience Aosta Valley’s culinary specialties like fontina cheese and polenta concia, and explore nearby Gran Paradiso National Park’s alpine lakes and wildlife.
Best time to visit: June to September
Average temperatures:
- Summer (June to September): 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F)
Alberobello
Alberobello, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Puglia, is famous for its unique trulli houses with conical roofs, narrow streets, and picturesque olive groves. Explore the Rione Monti district with its traditional trulli homes and souvenir shops, visit the Trullo Sovrano museum and Casa Pezzolla ethnographic museum, and admire panoramic views from the Belvedere lookout. Discover Alberobello’s cultural heritage, including local crafts like pottery and lacework, sample traditional Apulian dishes such as orecchiette pasta with cime di rapa and burrata cheese, and take day trips to nearby Locorotondo’s vineyards and the coastal town of Polignano a Mare.
Best time to visit: April to June, September to October
Average temperatures:
- Spring (April to June): 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F)
- Autumn (September to October): 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F)
Bologna
Bologna, the capital of the Emilia-Romagna region, is renowned for its medieval architecture, rich culinary tradition, and Europe’s oldest university. Explore the historic Piazza Maggiore, visit the iconic Two Towers (Due Torri), and discover Bologna’s extensive network of porticoes. Indulge in local specialties such as tortellini and mortadella at traditional osterias and trattorias, and climb the Asinelli Tower for panoramic views of the city.
Best time to visit: April to June, September to October
Average temperatures:
- Spring (April to June): 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F)
- Autumn (September to October): 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F)
Turin
Turin, the capital of Piedmont in northern Italy, is known for its Baroque architecture, art galleries, and elegant squares. Explore the historic Royal Palace of Turin, visit the Mole Antonelliana with its National Cinema Museum, and stroll through the lush Valentino Park along the Po River. Experience Turin’s rich chocolate and coffee culture, sample regional wines such as Barolo and Barbaresco, and enjoy traditional Piedmontese cuisine at local trattorias.
Best time to visit: April to June, September to October
Average temperatures:
- Spring (April to June): 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F)
- Autumn (September to October): 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F)
This expanded version provides more detailed information about each destination in Italy, including historical sites, cultural attractions, and culinary specialties, along with the best times to visit and average temperatures.