Best Places to Visit in Italy—Based on Your Style

One visit to Italy, and it's easy to see why millions of tourists choose this destination every year. With its irresistible blend of ancient history, vibrant culture, diverse landscapes, and of course, world-class cuisine, Italy delivers something for every kind of traveler.

Whether you’re planning your first visit, traveling with kids, looking for a romantic escape, or seeking off-the-beaten-path adventures, this guide breaks down the best places to visit based on your travel style, interests, and region. And if you're hoping to experience la dolce vita without spending a fortune, Going’s travel memberships can help you find incredible flight deals to get you there for less.

Become a Going member and start receiving cheap flight alerts. 

Best places to visit in Italy for first-timers

Rome

A well-made Rome itinerary is the ultimate introduction to Italy. In this iconic city, ancient ruins blend seamlessly with bustling piazzas and modern espresso bars. Whether you're wandering the Roman Forum or tossing a coin into the Trevi Fountain, the city captures the heart of history lovers and culture seekers alike.

• Location: Lazio, Central Italy
• Best time to visit: March–May, September–October
• Top attractions: The Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, Vatican Museums

Florence

Florence, Tuscany, is the Renaissance capital of the world and an absolute must for first-time visitors to Italy. The city is a walkable museum packed with masterpieces by Michelangelo, Botticelli, and da Vinci—not to mention a thriving food scene. From panoramic sunsets at Piazzale Michelangelo to evenings in cozy wine bars, Florence is beautiful at every turn.

• Location: Tuscany, Central Italy
• Best time to visit: April–June, September
• Top attractions: Uffizi Gallery, Florence Cathedral, Ponte Vecchio

Venice

Built on water, shaped by history, and perfect for slow exploration—Venice is like no other city on earth. Lose yourself in alleyways, float beneath romantic bridges, and admire Byzantine mosaics at St. Mark’s Basilica. Venice has been dealing with overtourism for years, so target early or late in the year to enjoy this floating city with fewer crowds.

• Location: Veneto, Northeastern Italy
• Best time to visit: April–May, late September
• Top attractions: Grand Canal, St. Mark’s Basilica, Doge’s Palace, Rialto Bridge

Amalfi Coast

The Amalfi Coast offers some of Italy’s most stunning coastal views and is ideal for travelers seeking relaxation with a touch of glamour. The towns here cling to cliffs above the sea, each one offering charm, cuisine, and breathtaking vistas. June is a particularly great time to go—before the peak summer heat and high-season pricing set in.

• Location: Campania, Southern Italy
• Best time to visit: May–June, September–October
• Top attractions: Positano cliffs, Ravello gardens, Amalfi Cathedral, coastal hikes

Where to go in Italy by type of traveler

For families

Rome

Rome is a living history lesson that kids and adults can enjoy together. Visit the Colosseum, enroll in gladiator school, or take a gelato break after a visit to the Pantheon.  It’s also a great opportunity for day trips from Rome to places like Tivoli or Pompeii.

• Location: Lazio, Central Italy
• Best time to visit: Spring, early fall
• Top attractions: Colosseum (family tours), Trevi Fountain, Villa Borghese, Explora children’s museum

Lake Garda

Lake Garda is Italy’s most family-friendly lake destination. It features shallow swimming areas, bike paths, and a number of theme parks—Gardaland, one of Europe’s largest amusement parks, and the Parco Natura Viva safari zoo are top attractions. Resorts around the lake cater to families with pools, kids’ clubs, and water activities.

• Location: Northern Italy, between Lombardy, Veneto, and Trentino
• Best time to visit: May–September
• Top attractions: Gardaland theme park, Malcesine cable car, lakeside promenades

Tuscany

Tuscany is ideal for a relaxed family vacation. With many opportunities for agritourism, children can experience farm life, help make pasta, and learn about the Italian countryside safely. Towns like Lucca and Siena are compact and calm, making them easy to explore with kids.

• Location: Central Italy
• Best time to visit: Late spring, early fall
• Top attractions: Rolling countryside, agriturismo stays, medieval towns like San Gimignano and Siena

Sicily

Sicily is full of family-friendly attractions, from volcano tours to Mount Etna and ancient ruins in Agrigento to sandy beaches with calm water and welcoming family-run hotels. Besides, public transport and ferry systems make it easy to get around, and Sicilian food is both delicious and child-approved.

• Location: Southern Italy (island)
• Best time to visit: April–June, September
• Top attractions: Valley of the Temples, beaches in Cefalù, Mount Etna, family-friendly seaside towns

For couples or honeymooners

Venice

Venice is consistently ranked as one of the most romantic destinations in the world. The lack of cars creates a uniquely quiet atmosphere, perfect for couples seeking uninterrupted time together. Best of all, the gondola rides, opera performances at Teatro La Fenice, and luxurious canal-side hotels set the perfect tone for an unforgettable honeymoon or anniversary.

• Location: Veneto, Northeastern Italy
• Best time to visit: Late spring, early fall
• Top attractions: Gondola rides, St. Mark’s Square, sunset over the Grand Canal

Amalfi Coast

The Amalfi Coast is the ideal backdrop for a romantic film. Not only does it have great views and boutique hotels, but the dining is also notable. Towns like Ravello offer romantic gardens and terrace restaurants overlooking the sea, while Positano’s beaches and hillside hotels provide postcard-perfect landscapes. The Amalfi Coast is also easy to combine with Naples or Capri for extended romantic itineraries.

• Location: Campania, Southern Italy
• Best time to visit: May, September
• Top attractions: Romantic cliffside views, beachside aperitivos, boat tours to Capri

Verona

Verona is a compact, walkable city with rich cultural offerings, ideal for couples who enjoy a balance of romance and sightseeing. The Arena di Verona hosts summer opera performances in its Roman amphitheater, and the city is home to Juliet’s House, where you can visit the Juliet Club and become one of her secretaries.

• Location: Veneto, Northern Italy
• Best time to visit: April–June, September
• Top attractions: Juliet’s balcony, Arena di Verona (opera), river walks

Lake Como

Lake Como has gained a lot of popularity recently for its tranquil waters, villa-lined shores, and upscale hotels. Couples can take scenic ferry rides between towns like Bellagio and Varenna, hike quiet lakeside trails, and enjoy fine dining with panoramic lake views. It’s also one of the most photogenic places in Italy.

• Location: Lombardy, Northern Italy
• Best time to visit: May–October
• Top attractions: Luxury villas, lakeside dining, boat rides to Bellagio and Varenna

For solo travelers

Florence

If you’re traveling to Italy on your own, Florence is compact, safe, and full of enriching experiences for solo travelers. The city is easy to explore on foot and offers dozens of museums, vibrant street life, and welcoming local cafés. Many accommodations, including hostels and boutique hotels, cater to solo guests, and day trips to Pisa or Chianti are easy to arrange.

• Location: Tuscany, Central Italy
• Best time to visit: March–May, October
• Top attractions: Duomo, Uffizi Gallery, Boboli Gardens, walking tours

Bologna

Bologna is often overlooked by travelers to Italy, but it’s an ideal option for solo travel thanks to its manageable size and emphasis on food culture. It’s a university town, which means plenty of budget-friendly options and a young, friendly atmosphere. Solo travelers can take food tours, visit medieval towers, or simply enjoy long meals in outdoor trattorias.

• Location: Emilia-Romagna, Northern Italy
• Best time to visit: April–June, September
• Top attractions: Porticos, food markets, Asinelli Tower, Piazza Maggiore

Naples

Naples is great for solo travelers looking for a more unfiltered Italian experience. It has a strong local identity, incredible food (especially pizza), and proximity to iconic sites like Pompeii and the Amalfi Coast. While the city can feel chaotic, its vibrant street life and affordability make it a good option for independent explorers.

• Location: Campania, Southern Italy
• Best time to visit: April–June, September
• Top attractions: Naples Archaeological Museum, pizza-making classes, day trips to Capri or Pompeii

Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre offers a mix of scenic hiking, beach relaxation, and colorful villages—all easily accessible by train. Solo travelers often enjoy the flexibility of hopping between the five towns, taking their time to hike the trails or lounge at beachside cafés. It’s also relatively safe and has a strong tourism infrastructure.

• Location: Liguria, Northwestern Italy
• Best time to visit: May–early July, September
• Top attractions: Vernazza’s harbor, Monterosso beach, hiking trails between villages

Best places to visit in Italy by interest

Best cities to visit in Italy

Milan

Milan is Italy’s fashion hub, but it’s also full of history and culture. It’s home to the Duomo, one of the most intricate cathedrals in Europe, and Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper. With two major airports and high-speed train connections, it’s an easy entry point for international visitors.

• Location: Lombardy, Northern Italy
• Best time to visit: April–June, September
• Top attractions: The Last Supper, Milan Cathedral, fashion district, Brera Art Gallery

Rome

Rome’s archaeological sites are unmatched, and public transport makes it relatively easy to explore. Whether you want to explore ancient forums, Vatican museums, or local markets, Italy’s capital city offers something for every interest.

• Location: Lazio, Central Italy
• Best time to visit: March–May, September
• Top attractions: Vatican Museums, Pantheon, Trastevere

Florence

Florence remains one of the best cities for culture-focused travel. Art lovers will find world-class collections at the Uffizi and Accademia, and the city’s architecture is worth a visit on its own.

• Location: Tuscany, Central Italy
• Best time to visit: April–June, September
• Top attractions: Uffizi, Accademia, Florence Cathedral, Piazza della Signoria

Bologna

Bologna is known as Italy’s culinary capital, but it also boasts well-preserved medieval streets and fewer crowds. It’s easy to get around, and it often feels more authentically Italian than more tourist-heavy cities.

• Location: Emilia-Romagna, Northern Italy
• Best time to visit: Spring, fall
• Top attractions: Historic arcades, Quadrilatero food market, Two Towers

Top places to visit in Italy for nature enthusiasts

Dolomites

The Dolomites offer some of Europe’s best hiking, skiing, and alpine scenery. In summer, well-marked trails full of greenery and rifugi (mountain lodges) make it easy to explore safely. In winter, it’s a world-class ski destination with nearly 800 miles of slopes.

• Location: Northeastern Italy, South Tyrol
• Best time to visit: June–September
• Top attractions: Tre Cime di Lavaredo hike, alpine lakes, cable cars

Sardinia

Sardinia is ideal for beachgoers and hikers alike. The island features over 1,100 miles of coastline, clear turquoise waters, and rugged mountains inland. It's also home to the Gennargentu National Park and Supramonte limestone ranges for serious trekking.

• Location: Mediterranean island, west of mainland Italy
• Best time to visit: June–September
• Top attractions: Costa Smeralda beaches, Gola Su Gorropu gorge, prehistoric Nuraghe sites

Abruzzo

Abruzzo offers a quieter, more authentic natural escape. The region has three national parks and a network of hiking and cycling trails. Wildlife watchers can spot bears, wolves, and chamois, and medieval towns offer places to rest without tourist crowds.

• Location: Central Italy, east of Rome
• Best time to visit: May–October
• Top attractions: Gran Sasso mountains, medieval villages, national parks

Lake Como

Lake Como blends natural beauty with stunning tourism infrastructure. The surrounding hills offer moderate hikes and panoramic views, while the lake provides water sports and boat access to nearby villages. It’s also relatively easy to access from Milan.

• Location: Lombardy, Northern Italy
• Best time to visit: May–September
• Top attractions: Ferry rides, scenic villas, hiking above Bellagio

For culture and history buffs

Rome

Rome is an open-air museum where nearly every street has historical significance. Key attractions include the Colosseum, Roman Forum, Pantheon, and Vatican City—all in close proximity.

• Location: Lazio, Central Italy
• Best time to visit: March–May, September–October
• Top attractions: Colosseum, Roman Forum, Vatican City, Capitoline Museums

Pompeii & Herculaneum

These ancient cities were buried by Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD and provide a unique insight into everyday Roman life. Excavations reveal homes, baths, and frescoes in astonishing detail. They’re accessible by train from Naples and ideal for a day trip.

• Location: Campania, Southern Italy
• Best time to visit: Spring, fall
• Top attractions: Ruins of Pompeii, Villa of the Papyri, plaster casts of inhabitants

Florence

Florence’s city center is a UNESCO World Heritage site full of masterpieces from Michelangelo, Botticelli, and Raphael. It’s not hard to see why Florence is often called the “Cradle of the Renaissance.”

• Location: Tuscany, Central Italy
• Best time to visit: April–June, September
• Top attractions: Renaissance art museums, Medici palaces, Santa Croce Church

Palermo

Palermo has been shaped by Greek, Roman, Arab, Norman, and Spanish influences. This multicultural heritage is reflected in its architecture, food, and traditions. The Palatine Chapel and markets like Ballarò are must-visits for history enthusiasts.

• Location: Sicily, Southern Italy
• Best time to visit: April–June, October
• Top attractions: Palatine Chapel, Palermo Cathedral, street food tours

Best places in Italy to visit by region

Northern Italy

Northern Italy includes the Alps, the lakes, and cosmopolitan cities like Milan and Venice. This region is ideal for fashion lovers, outdoor adventurers, and art enthusiasts.

• Location: Regions include Lombardy, Veneto, Piedmont, and Trentino-Alto Adige
• Best time to visit: May–September
• Top attractions: Milan fashion district, Dolomites hiking, Venice canals, Lake Garda, Lake Como

Central Italy

Home to Florence, Tuscany, and Rome, Central Italy has a bit of anything with rolling hills, historic towns, and artistic masterpieces. It’s one of the most balanced regions for scenery, culture, and cuisine.

• Location: Includes Tuscany, Umbria, Lazio
• Best time to visit: March–June, September
• Top attractions: Florence museums, Rome ruins, Tuscan hill towns, thermal baths

Southern Italy

This sun-soaked region includes Naples, Puglia, and the Amalfi Coast. Known for passionate people and bold flavors, Southern Italy is ideal for beach lovers and foodies.

• Location: Includes Campania, Calabria, Basilicata, and Puglia
• Best time to visit: April–June, September
• Top attractions: Amalfi Coast, Naples, Matera cave dwellings, Alberobello trulli

Islands

Italy’s islands (Sicily and Sardinia) offer some of the country’s best beaches, most dramatic landscapes, and oldest cultural traditions. Thanks to their distance from mainland crowds, you can find great offers on Europe’s best budget airlines.

• Location: Sicily and Sardinia
• Best time to visit: May–October
• Top attractions: Mount Etna, Palermo markets, Sardinian beaches, ancient ruins

When to visit Italy’s top destinations

How to find cheap flights to Italy

It’s not hard to see why Italy is one of the most popular destinations in the world. This Mediterranean country has something for everyone—whether you want to sip wine in Tuscany, hike alpine trails, or trace ancient steps through Rome. To find the best deals, it’s crucial to start looking early, remain flexible with your travel dates, and consider flying into alternative airports near major cities. For more expert travel tips, check out our full guide on how to find cheap flights.

No matter your travel style or budget, Going helps you find cheap flights to Italy. We track flight prices and send alerts when there are unusually low fares to Italy—so you don’t have to stress out with the search. With the Going app, you’ll be the first to know when ticket prices drop to Rome, Florence, Milan, and beyond.

Download Going’s app and start receiving flight deal alerts!