30 Cities in Italy Most Worth Visiting

There are so many cities in Italy worth visiting, yet so many tourists head to the same ones over and over: Rome, Florence, Venice, Milan, Naples. These cities are fantastic, but they are far from everything Italy has to offer.



I’ve been traveling extensively in Italy for about 20 years, have lived in Italy, visit Italy several times a year, and have explored all 20 regions of the country.



Over the years I’ve fallen hard for Bologna, Palermo, Naples, and Parma, just to start! And it seems like a new city every month!



What I wish more people knew about Italy was just how diverse its cities can be. Italy wasn’t even unified until 1861 — I promise you, stately Swiss-flavored Torino feels like a different country than wild, volcano-adjacent Catania! Even quiet, mountain-surrounded Trento (I met my husband there!) is a far cry from chic, modern Milan, not too far away.



So whichever region of Italy you choose to explore, whether Tuscany or Puglia or Piemonte, I encourage you to get into some cities that you didn’t know much about beforehand. The most famous cities in Italy don’t tell the full story, and in the smaller cities of Italy, there’s quite a bit of adventure waiting for you.





Table of Contents

Best Cities in Italy to Visit Naples Florence Rome Torino Venice Bologna Palermo Milan Lecce Parma Verona Salerno Siracusa Pisa Aosta Genoa Trento Viterbo Cagliari  Lucca Rimini Sorrento Padova Catania Olbia Perugia Bolzano Trieste Bari Matera








Best Cities in Italy to Visit



What are the quintessential cities in Italy to visit? Of course, you need to visit Rome , Florence , Venice , Milan , and Naples to round out the quintessential cities of Italy! What are some nice smaller cities in Italy to visit? If you’re a fan of smaller, more compact cities, I recommend visiting Parma , Perugia , Lucca , or Lecce , which are much calmer and more low-key. What are some good cities in southern Italy to visit? The north gets so much attention, but the south is sizzling! Don’t overlook Naples or Salerno in Campania, Lecce or Bari in Puglia, Matera in Basilicata, or Siracusa or Palermo in Sicily. What are some off the beaten path cities in Italy to visit? Want to avoid the tourist crowds? Head to Aosta , Salerno , Genoa , Viterbo , or Trieste , which are decently off the tourist trail.







Naples



Naples is wild, brash, and more fun than you thought a city could be. The third-largest city in Italy and unofficial capital of the south is famous for pizza and pastries, underground tunnels and royal palaces, stunning churches and some of the most vibrant street life you’ll find in the country.



Naples has a bit of a reputation for being a bit loud, a bit dirty, a bit freewheeling. Don’t let that stop you — Naples’ utter lack of pretension makes it one of the most down-to-Earth places to visit in the country! And you get excellent value for money here.



One of the most unforgettable experiences in Naples is to go all in on pizza. Of course, Naples is where pizza was first created, and here you have access to the best ingredients, from buffalo mozzarella from the nearby Cilento region to San Marzano tomatoes grown on Mount Vesuvius.



My favorite pizza spots are two of the most famous ones — Pizzeria Da Michele and Sorbillo! And if you want to try your hand at making pizza yourself, there are plenty of fun pizza-making classes .



Naples also makes a superb hub for day trips throughout Campania, from the ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum to the stunning Amalfi Coast to the islands of Capri, Ischia and Procida.



Where to Stay in Naples: One of my favorite mid-range places to stay is Sanfelice 33 Luxury Suites , which is close to the historic center of the city with colorful, modern rooms and balconies looking over the vibrant street life.







Florence



Submitted by Melanie Ferguson of Postcards & Places



The city of Florence, or Firenze in Italian, is a city steeped in art, history, and beauty. Located in the heart of Tuscany, about 145 miles (230 kilometers) northwest of Rome, it is surrounded by rolling hills and valleys. The city is divided by the Arno River, with the historic center located on the north side of the river.



What makes Florence special is its incredible wealth of art and architecture. The city has some of the world’s great museums and galleries, such as the Uffizi Gallery, which houses some of the most important works of the Renaissance, and the Accademia Gallery, where Michelangelo’s David sculpture stands. 



One unforgettable experience to have in Florence is to climb to the top of the iconic Duomo, the stunning cathedral with marble panels in various shades of green and pink, bordered by white, that dominates the city skyline. Its massive brick dome is the largest ever constructed. From the top, visitors are treated to breathtaking views of the city—well worth the challenging climb up the 463 steps!



And as the capital of Tuscany, there are so many day trips from Florence that will take you all over the picture-perfect region, from their rival city of Siena to the Chianti wine region.



Where to Stay in Florence: Because Florence’s historical center is small, staying there means you’re never too far from the action. For those looking for an alternative place to stay, the bohemian Oltrarno neighborhood is a great choice. As its name indicates, it’s located on the “other” (southern) side of the Arno, and it’s a bit quieter and less touristy than the city center. 



Read More: Best Day Trips from Florence, Italy







Rome



Submitted by Pam of The Directionally Challenged Traveler



Rome, the capital city of Italy, holds a special place in history and is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and contributions to art, architecture, politics, and Western civilization.



Rome has existed for over 2,500 years, giving it the nickname the “Eternal City” – and this can be found in all corners of the city. One minute you’ll be walking in a modern city and then you’ll be face to face with the iconic Colosseum. Spending  three days in Rome  is enough time to get a feel for the city and see most of the highlights. The Roman Forum and Palatine Hill are an impressive way to literally walk through time and experience ancient Rome.



There are also plenty of museums to captivate any traveler. The Castel Sant’Angelo is a beautiful building in itself with panoramic views of Rome, but it is a five-floor museum with secret corridors and ancient catapults. Art enthusiasts will enjoy the Borghese Gallery and the National Roman Museum which show the city throughout history.



A trip to Rome would not be complete without a food tour . A tour will give you insight into the neighborhoods of the city and the history of the dishes. Then try your hand at making traditional Roman dishes such as cacio e pepe or pasta carbonara. End the day with refreshing gelato in one of the city’s many piazzas, or the beautiful Trevi Fountain.



No matter what you do in Rome, you’ll agree that the romantic allure of the city is undeniable. The cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and mouthwatering food create an enchanting atmosphere that’s hard not to fall in love with.



Where to Stay in Rome: Every traveler is different, and I (Kate) encourage you to check out our guide to where to stay in Rome so you can find the neighborhood that is best for you!







Torino



Submitted by Antoine and Marielle of Offbeat Escapades.



Torino , located in the Piemonte (Piedmont) region, is one of the best cities to visit in Italy. Its unique blend of rich history, architectural marvels, vibrant culture, and delectable cuisine make it a truly special destination. The city offers a diverse set of experiences that will leave a lasting impression.



One place you cannot miss out on is the Palazzo Reale, or Royal Palace. This opulent residence was once home to the Savoy dynasty and now serves as a museum, showcasing their lavish lifestyle and exquisite art collections. Here you can also stroll through the Royal Gardens with its intricate statues and fountains, step into the palace to admire the halls and furnishings, and tour the Royal Armoury with its arms and armor from different historical periods.



Apart from the cultural and historical landmarks, Torino is also famous for its gastronomy, and no visit would be complete without indulging in the city’s renowned chocolate, the decadent gianduiotto or gianduja, a mouthwatering combination of hazelnut and chocolate that is like the grown-up sibling to Nutella.



Where to Stay in Torino: When it comes to accommodation in Torino, our recommended neighborhood to stay in is the Quadrilatero Romano. This historic district is in the heart of the city and provides easy access to many of Torino’s main attractions, including Piazza Castello and the Royal Palace, as well as restaurants and cafes.



Within the Quadrilatero Romano, one hotel that stands out is the NH Collection Torino Piazza Carlina . This elegant hotel combines modern comfort with historic charm, as it is housed in a beautifully restored 17th-century building. The rooms are stylishly appointed and offer all the amenities needed for a comfortable stay.







Venice



Submitted by Soline of On the Road Diary



Venice is often described as the city of canals, charming bridges and narrow cobbled alleys. This romantic city is perfect for a long weekend getaway, or a must-see stop on any Italy itinerary.



The atmosphere in the streets of Venice is alluring, mysterious and romantic. The secret passageways, grand architecture and meandering canals give the city a timeless quality. 



To better perceive the atmosphere of this wonderful city, you can take a gondola ride . It is an iconic activity to do in Venice. You will be surrounded by picturesque views of the ancient buildings and pass under countless bridges.



You can also visit its galleries and libraries, and enjoy some delicious Italian meals! From fresh seafood to homemade pasta, you can find the very best of Northern Italian food in Venice.



Where to Stay in Venice: During your visit, you should stay in the areas of San Marco, the heart of the city, or Giudecca, the peaceful island on the other side of the Venetian Lagoon. Couples who want be close to the action can stay at Residenza La Loggia , a family-managed traditional hotel near Piazza San Marco.



For solo travelers or backpackers, check out Generator Venice . It is a clean hostel with a great atmosphere, cheap and only a 10-minute ride by vaporetto (water bus) to San Marco.







Bologna



Submitted by Sarah of In Search of Sarah



One of the best cities to visit in Italy is Bologna. Located in the heart of the Emilia-Romagna region, this foodie capital of Italy is a perfect option for those seeking to explore historic architecture, immerse themselves in rich culture, and sample some of the best food you’ll find throughout the country .



Every corner is picturesque, with its orange and red buildings and rooftops lining the streets, a vast network of unique porticos, and plethora of museums to discover. Bologna is one of those cities that may not appear to have a lot to offer, but it will instantly captivate your heart as you continually find hidden gems scattered throughout the city.



An unforgettable experience in Bologna is to visit Le Due Torri, the iconic landmark of the city, and climb the Asinelli Tower. 498 steps up a wooden staircase lead you to one of the  best views of Bologna  and breathtaking 360 views of the city and beyond. The Asinelli Tower is the tallest medieval tower in the world and takes 10 minutes to climb up, but the views are worth the effort.



Of course, no trip to Bologna would be complete without sampling amazing dishes that ancient city is known for. Ragù Bolognese, tortellini, balsamico di Modena, Parmigiano Reggiano, and lasagne are found on virtually every menu and should be tried at least once!



Where to Stay in Bologna: For a comfortable night’s sleep with great amenities, check into Attico di Via D’Azeglio. This quaint hotel is just a 10 minute walk from Piazza Maggiore. Plush accommodations offer views of the terracotta rooftops and mountains, and includes breakfast at a local cafe downstairs.



Read More: 25 Best Food Experiences in Emilia-Romagna, Italy







Palermo



Palermo is an Italian city unlike any you’ve ever seen. The largest city in Sicily is located in the western part of the country, and is much a cultural melting pot as anywhere you’ll find in Italy.



Palermo is most famous for its Arab-Norman architecture, a UNESCO World Heritage Site consisting of several monuments of the city. From the stunning golden Palatine Chapel to the peaceful gardens of San Giovanni degli Eremeti and unusual red-topped churches of San Cataldo and La Martorana, you can easily see how Sicily was conquered by the Arabs, the Normans, the Spaniards, and more, each civilization’s art building upon the last.



Palermo is one of the best value-for-money cities I’ve visited in Italy, has easy access to lots of cool day trips like the Segesta ruins and the beach town of San Vito lo Capo, and it has a beautiful beach community (Mondello Beach) within the city.



One of the best things to do in Palermo is explore the unusual Palermitan cuisine, which features so many Sicilian specialties but has some extra-special dishes you’ll only find in Palermo. From panelle con pane (chickpea fritters in bread) to pasta con le sarde (sardine pasta with raisins) and stigghiola (intestines wrapped around green onions), you’ll find things in Palermo that will blow your mind!



I highly recommend the Classic Sicilian Food and Wine Tour with Streaty , which takes you to several spots and has a lot more sitting and relaxing than usual food tours.



And don’t miss the desserts — the pastries in Palermo are the best in Italy! Cannoli and cassata are two of the faves, but don’t be afraid to try whatever looks good.



Where to Stay in Palermo: I recommend staying in the Politeama neighborhood, which is one of the nicest neighborhoods in the city, with lots of shops and restaurants, and is walking distance from the center. Hotel Politeama is a mid-range property with stunning views.



Read More: 23 Fabulous Things to Do in Palermo, Italy







Milan



Submitted by Lowri Thomas of Many Other Roads



Milan is one of the best cities to visit in Italy for so many reasons. Boasting a unique combination of culture, fashion and stunning architecture, you will not be bored here.



From the iconic Duomo cathedral, which dominates the skyline, to the chic Montenapoleone shopping area, Milan offers something for everyone.



The best thing to do in the city is visit the renowned The Last Supper painting by Leonardo da Vinci. This iconic piece of work has been celebrated for centuries for its incredible detail and lifelike figures. Its beauty is further enhanced by its location — the refectory of the Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie.



This impressive piece of art can only be seen on a guided tour and tickets sell out fast. To make sure you see this on your trip, you need to book well in advance.  



For an epic trip, take an Italian helicopter tour for a truly special experience and see stunning Italy from above!



Also, thanks to its international airport, you will be able to reach Milan easily. Milan is well-connected by train and bus, and there are three nearby airports and many budget airlines that fly in here.



Where to Stay in Milan: For a place to stay, look no further than the Hotel Gran Duca Di York , which is centrally located and set in a stunning 18th-century palace. With its convenient location, you can easily explore all of the city’s attractions.







Lecce



Submitted by Robyn Dirk of Two Empty Passports



One of the best cities to visit in Italy is Lecce, located in the sun-kissed region of Puglia. Known as the Florence of the South, Lecce is a gorgeous, romantic city that should be included on any two-week itinerary in Puglia .



Lecce is renowned for its stunning Baroque architecture designed from the local golden Lecce stone. From intricate facades to grand churches to decorative buildings, these beautifully carved details can be admired from every corner of the city.



Make sure to visit Piazza del Duomo, the bustling main square surrounded by stunning architecture, including the impressive Lecce Cathedral with its soaring bell tower. And don’t miss the Basilica di Santa Croce, another Baroque masterpiece in the city.



Lecce allows you to step back in time with its ancient archeological sites sprinkled throughout the city. Take a glimpse into Lecce’s fascinating past as you wander the streets and explore the Roman Amphitheatre and Theatre.



Finally, Lecce stands tall above the rest with its delectable cuisine and tasteful wines. The best way to learn about Lecce’s history and appreciation for its cuisine is to experience it firsthand on a Guided History & Food Tasting Tour. Sample some of Lecce’s culinary delights like orecchiette pasta and pasticciotto pastries.



Where to Stay in Lecce: The best area to stay when visiting Lecce is in the romantic historic center. Treat yourself to luxury, at the  Patria Palace Hotel   with elegant rooms, tasteful décor, rooftop terrace, and panoramic views.







Parma



Parma is one of the most underrated cities in Italy, and one of my all-time favorites. I wish more people realized how amazing Parma is! Located in the Emilia-Romagna region, Parma boasts outrageously good cuisine, lots of art and culture, fantastic shopping, and an easy-to-get-to location between Milan and Bologna.



Parma is one of the most colorful cities in Emilia-Romagna, and the Cathedral of Parma (Duomo di Parma) is one of the most spellbinding cathedrals I’ve visited in northern Italy. Don’t miss the Baptistery either; both will blow you away.



If you’re into food, you’ll want to visit a Parmigiano Reggiano factory — there are plenty in the area! And if you’re interested in one of Italy’s best cured meats, visit Antica Corte Pallavicina in the nearby town of Polesine Parmense, where they can show you how they’ve been making culatello for generations (and even point out the hams reserved for King Charles).



But more than that, Parma is just a wonderful city to walk around and take in. Grab a tiny glass of wine from one of the bars, or sample prosciutto at one of the butcher counters. Take photos of the yellow, purple, and orange buildings. Parma has a way of casting its spell over you.



Where to Stay in Parma: Link124 Hotel is the top-rated mid-range hotel in the city, centrally located and modern with some nice design.



Read More: Ultimate Guide to Parma, Italy







Verona



Submitted by Yesenia of The Sisters Who Voyage



Verona is an enchanting city tucked away in Northern Italy’s Veneto region. It is filled with rich Roman history, magical Shakespearean notes, lively piazzas, and a romantic ambiance that draws travelers worldwide to explore its ancient history and unravel its rich culture.



While fair Verona is full of glorious things to do and countless reasons to visit, one of the most popular things that draw in travelers is Verona’s deeply intertwined past with Shakespeare’s tragic tale, Romeo and Juliet . In fact, Verona is home to the legendary fictitious Juliet’s House — an iconic must-visit attraction for hopeless romantics and literature fans.



After you have finished visiting Juliet’s balcony, you’ll see colorfully decorated walls filled with love notes, band-aids, and locks that adorn the gates. If you need love advice, you can leave a message for Juliet in the red mailbox or leave a sticky note on the designated walls if there’s room. 



All in all, Verona is a beautiful city to visit, and it offers an unforgettable experience that will leave you with fond memories and a newfound appreciation for the classical arts and Roman history. 



Where to Stay in Verona: If you’re wondering where to stay in Verona, you’ll want to stay in the Verona city center, a hidden gem of stunning and lively squares and winding cobblestone streets. A lovely place to stay would be Hotel Giulietta e Romeo . Its central location lets you easily explore some of Verona’s main tourist attractions, like the Arena di Verona and Piazza delle Erbe. 







Salerno



Submitted by Jo from  World Wild Schooling



Often overlooked for the more popular Amalfi coast towns, Salerno offers what those touristy places miss: the feeling of an authentic city. It’s got a bit of everything — history, culture, and a fabulous location on the Tyrrhenian Sea, less than an hour from Naples, on the opposite side of the Sorrentine Peninsula. 



One thing you can’t miss is the Salerno Cathedral. Dedicated to St. Matthew, it’s a classic example of Norman and Arab architecture. And right there in the historic center is the Minerva Garden, a botanic garden from medieval times with panoramic views from the cafe. Villa Comunale di Salerno is a municipal garden very close to Minerva Garden. They both make for a nice break from sightseeing.



You should also take a walk along the Trieste Lungomare, Salerno’s seafront promenade complete with palms, a great place to take in the sea air. And don’t miss the Salerno Harbour, bustling with activity and offering some fantastic views from the little cafe at the end of the harbor.



One of the best ways to explore Salerno is by taking a  guided walking tour . This way, you get to really experience the city, see all the hidden gems, and learn about its rich history.



Where to Stay in Salerno: When it comes to staying in Salerno, the Historic Center is a great choice. Here, you can be right in the middle of it all.  Casa Santangelo Suites  used to be the summer residence of the Marquess of Naples that’s been converted into a hotel. It’s right there in the heart of the Old Town, making it easy to explore Salerno and its attractions. Plus, it’s just 200 meters from the beach, making it a great place to relax and enjoy your vacation.







Siracusa



Submitted by Kelsea of Out of Office Mindset



Siracusa, Italy, is an ancient city with a fascinating history and vibrant culture. On the eastern coast of Sicily lies a city that was once considered among the most significant in the world. It served as a prominent hub for Greeks and its ruins today offer a fascinating insight into its lively history.



When visiting Siracusa (also known as Syracuse), the Neapolis Archaeological Park is a must-see. Here, you will be able to view many well-preserved Greek structures. The most impressive is the Greek Theater where many of the infamous Greek tragedies made their debuts.



Additionally, Isola di Ortigia is a must-visit! This island is home to the historic center of Siracusa and is the most beautiful place to visit in the city. On the island, there is a market with fantastic, fresh food and bountiful vendors. The sandwiches from market vendor, Caseificio Borderi, have been known to change lives!



Walking around the island, you will see Apollo’s temple, the fountain of Diana, the stunning Siracus Cathedral, and the impressive Castello Maniace Ortigia. Street performers are also common, making for a wonderfully entertaining adventure.



Where to Stay in Siracusa: Isola di Ortigia is a great section of Siracuse with a lot to do which makes it a great place to stay! Do be aware, however, that driving on the island has restrictions so be sure to follow the ZTL rules in place while you are there (learn more about that in Kate’s guide to driving in Italy ).



Algilà Ortigia Charme Hotel is an exceptional accommodation choice. Its antique furniture exudes a charming ambiance, which blends seamlessly with modern features such as air conditioning and internet connectivity.



Read More: Where to Go in Eastern Sicily







Pisa



Submitted by Travel Addicted Unicorn



Pisa is a charming city located in the Tuscany region of Italy, renowned for its iconic leaning tower, which has become an emblem of the city. The Leaning Tower of Pisa is poised at an angle of 5.5 degrees and has become one of Italy’s most popular tourist attractions, located in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Piazza dei Miracoli (Square of Miracles).



Visitors can climb 296 steps to the top of the tower, which offers breathtaking views of Pisa and the surrounding countryside and mountains. Its construction began in August 1173, and he tower began to lean soon after its construction due to the soft ground beneath it. The lean continued to increase over the years until engineers stabilized the tower in the 1990s.



The Piazza dei Miracoli is also home to several other buildings, including the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, the Baptistry of St. John, and the Camposanto Monumentale, which is a monumental cemetery.



Apart from the leaning tower and the buildings beside it, Pisa has several other notable landmarks. The Piazza dei Cavalieri (Knight’s Square) is a beautiful square that is home to the Palazzo della Carovana, which houses the prestigious Scuola Normale Superiore di Pisa. Another attraction to check out is Giardino Scotto, a large park situated on the right bank of the Arno River, near the city center.



Also, Pisa is home to several museums, including the Museo dell’Opera del Duomo, which is located near the leaning tower. The museum houses an impressive collection of medieval and Renaissance art and sculptures. The Museo Nazionale di San Matteo is another must-visit museum that features a vast array of Tuscan and Italian artworks.



In addition, Pisa is a great place to enjoy delicious Tuscan cuisine. The city has a vibrant food scene, with plenty of restaurants, cafes, and street food vendors serving up traditional Tuscan dishes, with more seafood than you might expect further inland. The easiest way to get to Pisa is via a train from  Rome , which takes about three hours with the high-speed train.



Where to Stay in Pisa: For accommodation, check out Grand Hotel Duomo which is a lovely hotel located a two-minute walk from the Leaning Tower.







Aosta



Have you heard of the city of Aosta, Italy? Aosta is the capital of the region of Valle d’Aosta (Aosta Valley), tucked away into the far northwest of Italy, surrounded by France, Switzerland, and Piemonte. Here you’ll be spoiled for views with jagged mountains in every direction!



Aosta is a small, French-flavored Italian city that many visitors use as a base for hiking and outdoor exploration. Plenty of people come to hike Gran Paradiso in the summer and ski Courmayeur in the winter. But don’t overlook the city of Aosta itself!



Aosta is home to some of the best preserved Roman ruins in the far north of Italy. The Valle d’Aosta Culture Pass gives you access to several of these sites in one ticket: the Roman amphitheater, Archeological Museum, Basilica di San Lorenzo, and the Forensic Cryptoporticus.



If you’re a wine fan, you’ll appreciate a visit to Grosjean Vineyards, where enthusiastic locals give you taste of the local blends with some Aostan snacks. You can take a bus here, but if you’re in the mood for a bit of exercise, it makes a nice hourlong journey from downtown Aosta on foot.



And don’t miss Aostan aperitivo! The city comes to life just before sunset, with locals sitting down for spritzes and snacks before dinnertime. The chestnuts wrapped in lardo are a delicious and unique Aostan specialty. (Just be warned, vegetarians and vegans — sometimes it seems like every dish in Valle d’Aosta is full of ham or cheese.)



Where to Stay in Aosta: Aosta has a small, fairly compact city center; staying in this area will give you easy access to all the city has to offer. Vecchio Mulino Guest House is a highly rated hotel located close to the river in a peaceful location, and has a cozy mountain interior with lots of wood and fireplaces!







Genoa



Submitted by Sarah of LifePart2 and Beyond



Many visitors tend to skip over Genoa and head straight to th