40 Italy Landmarks To Experience Once in Your Lifetime

When it comes to the best Italy landmarks to see before you die, the list is daunting. Are you really going to be able to make it to Lake Como and the Vatican, Pompeii and the Ponte Vecchio, Cinque Terre and the Canals of Venice?

It’s impossible to see all of Italy in a single trip. And the single most common mistake I see travelers make in Italy is planning way too much in too little time — a zoom-across-the-country itinerary seeing so much and feeling so little. (Oh, and you can read the full list of Italy travel mistakes here!)

So which landmarks of Italy are worth visiting? You’ve got your major churches, historic landmarks, and piazzas, but there are a lot of gorgeous natural wonders that often get overlooked, but are worth visiting as well.

Here are some of the best Italy landmarks. Hope you enjoy planning your Italy trip!



Table of Contents

Italy Landmarks Map Trevi Fountain Ponte Vecchio Lake Como Leaning Tower of Pisa Cinque Terre Milan Duomo Mount Etna Canals of Venice Val d’Orcia Pompeii Dolomites Vatican City Lucca City Walls Amalfi Coast Valley of the Temples, Sicily Pantheon Prosecco Hills Scrovegni Chapel Aeolian Islands Doge’s Palace Castel Sant’Angelo Sassi di Matera Parma Cathedral Herculaneum Siena Cathedral Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, Milan Porticoes of Bologna  Erice Piazza del Plebiscito Etruscan Necropolises Pitti Palace and Boboli Gardens Segesta Burano Roman Forum Mount Vesuvius Neapolis Archeological Park, Siracusa Frasassi Caves Trulli of Alberobello Arab-Norman Palermo The Colosseum





Italy Landmarks Map

Above is the full map of Italy landmarks, via Google Maps. You can also access it here.

Use this map to help you plan your dream Italy itinerary — without running yourself ragged in the process!

And now, on to the list of the best Italy landmarks to visit once in your life. You’re going to love these places.

Trevi Fountain in Rome, via Shutterstock

Trevi Fountain

Submitted by Claire of Europe in Winter

When you’re visiting Rome, don’t miss the incredible Trevi fountain! Located in the Trevi district of Italy’s capital city, on a busy, largely pedestrian intersection, this architectural marvel has been impressing tourists for centuries.

The fountain you see today dates back to the 18th century, although there has been a water source on this site since 19 BC, in the Ancient Roman era. It’s actually the oldest water source in the entire city. 

It was remodeled in the 18th century by order of Pope Clement XII, who wanted to show off the city’s grandeur by way of a showstopping fountain. His idea certainly worked, as it remains one of the best landmarks in Italy to this day!

Showcasing various legends, the entire image of the Trevi fountain is built around the concept of “taming the waters.” Statues of gods Oceanus, Abundance and Health all stand around the fountain and represent using and living with water.

It’s traditional to throw coins into the fountain; legend has it that if you throw one, you’ll return to Rome, if you throw two, you’ll fall in love with an Italian and if you throw three, you’ll marry them! These coins (totaling around €1.5 million or $1.7 million per year) are collected periodically and donated to charity. 

The fountain has appeared in many films and TV shows, including La Dolce Vita and To Rome With Love , which has helped it maintain its status as one of the very best things to see in Rome. If you’re visiting in the summertime, it’ll likely be teeming with tourists, but if you’re on a winter city break to Rome, you’ll find the crowds much more manageable.

Read More: Where to Stay in Rome: Best Neighborhoods & More

Ponte Vecchio in the evening, via DepositPhotos

Ponte Vecchio

Submitted by Amber of Amber Everywhere

Stretched across the Arno River in Florence is Ponte Vecchio, the only bridge in Florence that survived World War II. Since its construction, Ponte Vecchio has served as a sort of local marketplace. Vendors would sell everything from meat to gold, though butchers were banned in 1595 as part of a measure to clean up the bridge. That decree remains in place to this day, so now only goldsmiths and jewelers are permitted to operate on Ponte Vecchio.

A bridge was first constructed in this spot along the river in 996 AD, but the current structure was completed in 1345 AD. This example of living history is a must-see on any trip to Florence, and experiencing places like Ponte Vecchio is one of the top reasons to visit Italy .

When you walk across the bridge, you’ll see large display cases with gold and high-end watches, all a minimum of 18k. If you’re not in the market for some jewelry, the bridge is a wonderful place to stroll and watch the sunset. It’s worth noting, however, that the best place to see Ponte Vecchio is actually from the next bridge down the river, Ponte Santa Trinita. 

If you’re lucky, you may experience Ponte Vecchio while listening to a particularly talented street performer sing or play a traditional instrument. Be sure to toss them a few coins if you enjoy their performance, and remember to take a video so you can capture the entirety of the experience for your loved ones at home. 



Lake Como

One of the most beautiful places to visit in Northern Italy is Lake Como, a world-famous lake surrounded by mountains. Nestled in between Italy and Switzerland, Lake Como is home to dozens of beautiful and interesting towns.

George Clooney famously made Lake Como his home (and encouraged Ocean’s 12 to be shot here). But you don’t have to be a movie star to enjoy the glamorous lifestyle on Lago di Como.

The easiest gateway to Lake Como is the town of Como, which is less than an hour by train from Milan. But once you arrive, hop on one of the many ferries to explore Como’s smaller, prettier towns, like Bellagio or Varenna. Because the lake is Y-shaped, it’s faster and much more beautiful to get around by boat.

And once you’re here? It’s all about you, darling! Shop for Italian wares in local boutiques. Have a tagliere at an outdoor cafe and watch the sunset turn the villages gold. And if you’re visiting during a hot summer day, take one of the many cable cars up into the mountains for beautiful views and cooler temperatures.

Raise a glass of Franciacorta, the local sparkling white wine, because you will have a day to remember at Lake Como!

Read More: Three Weeks in Northern Italy: An Itinerary



Leaning Tower of Pisa

Submitted by Martina of PlacesofJuma

The Leaning Tower of Pisa is definitely one of the most famous landmarks in Italy and moreover a place to visit at least once in your life! This remarkable attraction is located in  Pisa in Tuscany , which is also home to an international airport, if you are planning to come by flight.

Built between 1173 and 1372, the Leaning Tower of Pisa has fallen into disrepair. Many years later, between 1990 and 2001, this free-standing bell tower had to be closed completely because its slope was too dangerous and needed restoration.

Finally, the tower has been straightened by 4 degrees, but don’t worry, the tower is still visibly curved, which you can see in all the iconic images.

Together with the Cathedral, the Baptistery, and the Cemetery, which are all located in Piazza dei Miracoli, the Leaning Tower of Pisa is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Admission to Piazza dei Miracoli is free of charge, and so is taking pictures of the Leaning Tower.

However, climbing to the top of the tower  is also a unique experience, as the view from the top is breathtaking. Since the Leaning Tower is one of the most famous Italy landmarks, there is always a long line — be sure to book ahead!

Read More: Best Day Trips from Florence



Cinque Terre

Submitted by Dymphe of Dym Abroad

One of the best landmarks in Italy to visit is the area of Cinque Terre. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is located in the region of Liguria. Cinque Terre consists of five villages: Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore.

The villages are all very beautiful to see, and the colorful houses are picturesque. Furthermore, there are many  Instagrammable places in Cinque Terre  that will make some of the best photos of your trip.

Each village has a unique aspect that makes it great to visit. For example, Vernazza has beautiful viewpoints, and Monterosso al Mare has a long, beautiful beach.

An iconic restaurant to visit in Manarola is Nessun Dorma, which has one of the best views in Cinque Terre (as well as beautiful bruschetta!).

It’s easy to travel between the villages, as they’re all connected by train and there’s a pass that allows you to make unlimited train journeys between the villages. And if you’d like, you can hike between the villages for even more beautiful nature and viewpoints.

Cinque Terre is easily accessed by train from cities including Genoa, La Spezia, and Pisa.

Duomo of Milan, via DepositPhotos

Milan Duomo

Submitted by Lowri of Many Other Roads

The Duomo in Milan is a must-visit landmark when traveling to Italy. It’s not only one of the largest churches in the world, but also an iconic architectural masterpiece that will take your breath away. 

The stunning facade makes this cathedral truly awe-inspiring. Inside, you’ll find intricate artwork that captures the beauty and grandeur of the structure.

The Duomo’s history is just as captivating as its architecture. Construction began on this church in 1386 and it took nearly 600 years to complete! It took several generations of architects, artisans, and sculptors who worked tirelessly over the centuries.

No trip to Milan would be complete without visiting the Duomo. You can explore its grandeur from the outside, and also pay for tickets to tour the interior or ascend to the top of one of its many spires for an incredible view of the city. 

In the summer season, it is worth buying skip-the-line tickets in advance . And as this is a religious building, make sure your shoulders and knees are covered, or they will not let you in.



Mount Etna

Submitted by Annabel of Smudged Postcard

Mount Etna is the best-known sight on the Italian island of Sicily. Seen on the flight into nearby Catania, this active volcano is a constant presence to those who live on and visit the island.

Standing more than 3,000 meters above sea level, Mount Etna is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Sicily. There is a cable car to the summit of the mountain, but hiring a guide and exploring some of the lesser-known areas of this national park is a more rewarding way to understand Mount Etna.

There are lava bombs to discover, ice caves to explore, and vast lava fields and slopes to hike. Of all the brilliant things to do in  Sicily with kids , this mountain is, without doubt, one of the most exciting destinations in Eastern Sicily .

The volcano can be visited on a day trip from Taormina or Catania , cities that have experienced the force of the volcano firsthand on more than one occasion. There are refuges to stay in for those looking for a longer hiking experience, but there are also hotels at all price ranges in the foothills of the mountain.

The soil around Mount Etna is rich in nutrients making the region a popular destination for wine production. There are many wineries to visit in this area, as well as wine hotels.

Read More: Where to Go in Eastern Sicily



Canals of Venice

Submitted by Lavinia D of Continent Hop

When it comes to a city of romance like Venice, surprisingly, numbers speak more than anything. This is the city where 118 islands are combined together with around 150 canals and 400 bridges. So, of course, the canals of Venice make the city what it is today — a perpetually popular destination in Italy.

You will find so many things to do and places to see around the Grand Canal that it is a must for every Italy itinerary .

The best way to soak in the grandeur of sights around Venice canals is to ride a vaporetto — a floating public transport system in the city. These boats essentially function as buses in Venice! Opt for Line 1, as it is slower and will let you cover everything from the breathtaking Santa Maria della Salute to the centuries-old Rialto Bridge.  

You may have heard that gondola rides are popular in Venice, and they are so because of the numerous movies they have been featured in. While you won’t go far, it’s a romantic way to take in the quieter, more intimate canals that the vaporetti are too big to access.

No matter how you choose to explore the canals of Venice, you’ll be enchanted by this incredible Italy landmark.



Val d’Orcia

Submitted by Anita from Anita Beyond The Sea

When it comes to Italy’s natural wonders, there are few places as beautiful as the Val d’Orcia. Situated in the South of Tuscany close to Siena, the  Val d’Orcia  is well known for its picturesque small villages, rolling hills and endless cypress roads that seem plucked directly from Renaissance famous.

Even though Val d’Orcia is about the same size as Chicago, the landscapes vary quite a bit. From the lunar fields of Biancane di Leonina, to the famous cypress lanes of Poggio Covili or Agriturismo Baccoleno, it’s all dazzling to the eye. Spring brings red poppies atop the green hills; winter brings misty mornings; summer brings gold to the landscape.

And how not to mention the beautiful villages. The romantic town of Pienza is probably the most beloved, and for good reason, but also Montalcino, known for its Brunello wine, and Bagno Vignoni, famous for its thermal spas, each deserve a quick stop. You can visit independently with your own car, or visit them all on a tour from Florence .

These villages are also known for their culinary excellence. Pici are a must to try. A hand-stretched pasta similar to spaghetti, they are perfect with  pancetta  (bacon) or  cacio e pepe  (cheese and pepper).

Would you like to know more about what to see in the valley? Be sure to check out the  Val d’Orcia most iconic spot , and put together an itinerary to figure out your time in this beautiful place.

Read More: Into the Val d’Orcia

Ancient ruins of Pompei with volcano Vesuvius at back during sunset, via DepositPhotos

Pompeii

Submitted by Cris from LooknWalk

When Mount Vesuvius erupted in 79 ACE, it wiped out nearby cities, including Pompeii. Pumice and ash fell on its streets and buildings, killing around 3,000 people; the rest of the population had already fled.

The entire city remained frozen in time until 1748, when a surveying engineer discovered it. Today, it’s an excavation site and outdoor museum, easily reachable from both Rome and Naples. It’s one of the few ancient cities in the world that have been preserved in detail, offering the possibility to see how people lived during those times.

When planning to visit Pompeii, remember it’s an entire city, so plan accordingly: wear good walking shoes, bring a water bottle, and, if you visit in summer, a bandana or hat is vital. Shade is limited here.

If you aren’t opting for a guided tour with an archaeologist and prefer to  visit Pompeii  on your own, make sure to tick some of the most important attractions in Pompei.

The main square of a Roman town, the Forum, is surrounded by various temples, shrines, and stores. Enclosed by colonnades, the main buildings around it are the Temple of Jupiter, the Basilica, and the Temple of Apollo.

The House of Menander is a large and very well-preserved house that once belonged to a merchant. The interior walls are decorated with scenes from Homer’s Iliad.

The House of the Vettii is probably the most interesting in the city and preserves some of the best frescoes and still has some of its original marble decoration. The massive amphitheater at the far end of the city seated 12,000 spectators and is the oldest surviving Roman amphitheater, built before Rome’s Colosseum.  

Villa dei Misteri, outside of the main excavation site, contains some of the finest surviving ancient paintings.



Dolomites

Submitted by Diana of Travels in Poland

Located in northern Italy, the Italian Dolomites are one of the most beautiful and picturesque mountain ranges in the world.  Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Dolomites have jagged peaks, cliffs, and numerous valleys, which holds town and villages that attract tourists throughout the year.

The Dolomites have a unique geological formation, as they are a type of limestone, formed over millions of years. Many plants and animals in the Dolomites can only be found here, and it’s especially good for bird watching (the beard vulture and golden eagle are two local celebrities).

And of course, the Dolomites are a fantastic location for outdoor enthusiasts. Skiing, mountain biking, snowboarding, paragliding, and hiking are among some of the most popular activities throughout the year. Hiking is particularly amazing as there are various routes and cable cars that take visitors up throughout different areas of the mountains.

Exploring villages between the Dolomites is a must. Many villages are small but have stunning views from the valleys and many unique artisan shops sprinkled throughout various cities.

There are numerous individual and family-owned hotels, along with campgrounds for RVs and tent campers. It’s a good idea to reserve far in advance for summer travel, as summer is short here and the Dolomites are very popular.

Read More: How to Spend Three Days in the Dolomites

Vatican City after rainfall, via Shutterstock

Vatican City

Submitted by Nausheen of Globe Gazers

One of the ultimate Italy landmarks to visit in your lifetime is Vatican City. The smallest country in the world, Vatican City is an independent city-state surrounded by Rome and the seat of the Roman Catholic Church. Only the clergy and Swiss guards who protect the Vatican City are allowed to live there. 

Key points of interest within Vatican City are the Vatican Museums (home to Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel) and St. Peter’s Basilica. Vatican City is overflowing with religious and artistic significance, so the recommended way to experience it is with a guided tour ( this one includes all the major sites ). 

Be sure to check out some of the 17 best Vatican tours to help you design your visit. In addition to visiting the Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica, you can even attend a papal audience for a chance to see the Pope in person. No matter your religion, a visit to Vatican City is a worthwhile addition to any Italy bucket list. 

Be sure to follow the dress code — both men and women should have their knees and shoulders covered. Opt for long pants, skirts or dresses and sleeved tops rather than sleeveless.  

Lucca City Walls, via DepositPhotos

Lucca City Walls

Submitted by Ali from  Berlin Travel Tips

The town of Lucca in Tuscany is well worth visiting for many reasons, but the old city walls are the main attraction here.  Like most cities in Europe, Lucca had fortified walls built around the city for protection.

But the walls you see today have been rebuilt several times. Romans actually built walls here more than 2,000 years ago, a second set of walls was built here in the Middle Ages, another set in the end of the 1500s, and then they were rebuilt yet again from the mid 1600s to early 1800s.

While many cities have pieces of their old walls, Lucca’s city walls are one of the largest examples of intact city walls still standing in Europe. You can enjoy this Italian landmark by walking along the top of the walls or from the lawns below outside the walls. It’s also worth exploring Lucca’s old town, including two different towers you can climb for views of the city and its surrounding walls.

Visiting Lucca feels like going back in time with its gorgeous streets and old-world atmosphere. It’s only 1 hour and 20 minutes away from Florence by train, so it’s easy to visit as a day trip from Florence , but it’s also quite enjoyable if you decide to spend the night.

Amalfi Coast is one of the top Italy Landmarks! Via Shutterstock.

Amalfi Coast

Submitted by Isabella of Boundless Roads

If you are traveling to Southern Italy, one of the most spectacular Italian landmarks is the Amalfi coast — or Costa Amalfitana .

Located in the Italian Region of Campania, south of Naples, the Amalfi Coast is the 50 kilometers of coastline that stretches from the towns of Positano to Vietri Sul Mare. 

Along the rugged coast, you will find several cute towns perched on the surrounding hills with spectacularly breathtaking views. 

The best way to travel along the Amalfi coast is by car because you will want to stop at every viewpoint and enjoy the incredible postcard-worthy sights, and you wouldn’t be able to do it if you take the bus. 

Also, you should keep in mind that the road from Naples to the Amalfi coast is also packed with interesting sites, such as the archeological sites of Ercolano (Herculaneum) and Pompeii, as well as the pretty town of Sorrento, which makes a great base for exploring this region.

The prettiest and most popular town on the Amalfi Coast is Positano, so if you’re in a rush, make sure you don’t miss it, although the towns of Amalfi and Atrani are quite beautiful as well.

The best time to visit the Amalfi Coast is May, June, or October. These months have wonderfully pleasant weather (you can even swim in June or October) and while fairly busy, aren’t as packed as the peak months.

July, August, and even September these days are becoming the most popular months of the year to visit the Amalfi Coast, when crowds are heaving and prices are sky-high. Know that if you visit in the winter, it will be cold and almost everything will be closed, though if you’re just here for the photos and atmosphere, you might enjoy it.



Valley of the Temples, Sicily

Submitted by Maggie of The World Was Here First

One of the top attractions on the island of Sicily is, without a doubt, the incredible Valley of the Temples just outside of the town of Agrigento. Located in the south of Sicily, the site is easily reached from both Palermo and Catania, making it easy to  spend a day in Agrigento .

The Valley of the Temples is a UNESCO World Heritage Site consisting of well-preserved Greek temples dating back to the 5th Century BCE. As one of the largest archaeological sites in Sicily, plan to spend at least a couple of hours taking in the incredible temples here.

The most impressive temple in the park is the incredible Temple of Concordia, one of the best-preserved temples in the world. Still mostly intact after thousands of years, you can even see this beautiful ancient structure from the highway.

Other temples in the archaeological park include the beautiful Temple of Heracles, the Temple of Juno, and the Temple of Dioscuri. You can also opt to visit the Regional Museum of Archaeology while in the park, should you wish. 

If you’re planning a trip to Sicily and want to be whisked back to ancient times, you absolutely cannot miss the Valley of the Temples near Agrigento.

Read More: The Joys and Challenges of Traveling in Sicily



Pantheon

Submitted by Deanne of Scenic and Savvy

The Pantheon in Rome is a must-see landmark while visiting Italy. Known for its impressive size, architectural design, and rich history, the Pantheon began as a pagan temple but now serves as a Christian church. The current structure, built around 126 ACE, is the best preserved building from ancient Rome.

The exterior of this architectural wonder includes 16 giant Egyptian-granite columns with marble bases surrounding the portico. Inside the building, the world’s largest unsupported concrete dome — stretching 142 feet in diameter — comes into view.

The center of the coffered dome contains a large opening, or oculus, which lets sunlight flood through (and occasionally rainfall, too). 

It’s believed that when Michelangelo saw the Pantheon for the first time, he said it looked more like the work of angels, not humans. The Pantheon houses an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, and tombs, including the final resting place of the famed artist, Raphael.

Located right in the heart of Rome between Piazza Navona and Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon is easy to fit into even a  short Rome itinerary . There is no fee to enter the church, but there is a dress code — shoulders and knees must be covered, and hats are not allowed.



Prosecco Hills

Submitted by Lyndsay from The Purposely Lost

Located just north of Venice, the Prosecco Hills of the Veneto region of Italy are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most incredible Italy landmarks, especially for wine fans!

With its stunning views of rolling hills, vineyards, and quaint villages, the area is known for producing the world-famous Italian sparkling wine Prosecco.

While only nine provinces within the regions of Friuli-Venezia Giulia and the Veneto have the ability to produce this wine varietal, the hills between the towns of Conegliano and Valdobbiadene form the protected area and receive the distinguished D.O.C.G. (designation of controlled and guaranteed origin) label.

A visit to the Prosecco Hills is a must for any traveler looking to experience the beauty of northern Italy — with a side of bubbly!

On a vineyard tour, you’ll learn about this delicious sparkling wine’s history and production process and get to sample some of the best Prosecco in Italy and other local wines.

If you’re already planning a trip to Venice, it’s easy to add a  Prosecco tour from Venice  since many pick you up right from the city center. Otherwise, you can take the train to Conegliano and hire a car service or use a local taxi to visit the vineyards.

Scrovegni Chapel, via DepositPhotos

Scrovegni Chapel

Submitted by