Italy is located in the south west part of Europe, extending into the Mediterranean Sea on a peninsula, bordered to the north by the Alps. It includes the islands of Sicily and Sardinia.
It shares its borders with France, Switzerland, Austria, and Slovenia. Additionally, it completely encircles two independent countries, Vatican City—the smallest country in the world—and San Marino, making them enclaves within Italy.
When you think of Italy, visions of Audrey Hepburn gliding through the streets of Rome in Roman Holiday might come to mind, alongside iconic landmarks like the Leaning Tower of Pisa and cinematic classics like The Godfather.
Italy is an amazing country rich with captivating history and culture, making it nearly impossible to narrow down the top 10 must-see attractions—yet here we are, ready to unveil the best of the best for your 2024 Italian adventure.
1. Discover the Wonders of Rome
Italy’s capital, Rome, is the third most populous city in the EU. Located in the central western portion of the Italian peninsula along the shores of the Tiber River, Rome houses Vatican City, the smallest country in the world, within its city boundaries.
Often referred to as the City of Seven Hills, Rome is considered the cradle of Western civilization. Founded in 753 B.C., it is among the oldest continuously occupied cities. The Vatican, with its rich art and history, is a must-visit. Even with only a few hours in Rome, visiting the Pantheon – the ancient Roman temple that has remained virtually intact, is essential.
The Trevi Fountain, designed by Nicola Salvini in 1732 and featured in Fellini’s “La Dolce Vita,” remains a favourite among tourists and locals alike. The Roman Forum, home to Trajan’s Market, the Via Biberatica, and the iconic Colosseum, should also be on your must list. Additionally, explore Rome’s streets for its delicious food, bakeries, coffee shops, pizzas and more.
2. Glide Through the Canals of Venice
Venice, located in northeastern Italy, is the capital of the Veneto region. The city is built on a group of 126 islands separated by open waters and canals, featuring a whopping 472 bridges.
The city served as the capital of the Republic of Venice for nearly a thousand years, from 810 to 1797. It was a significant financial and maritime power during the Middle Ages and the Renaissance.
Venice’s sovereignty ended in 1797 when Napoleon took control, and in 1866, the city became part of the Kingdom of Italy.
All transportation in Venice is conducted via water, utilising water taxis, gondolas, and vaporettos. A great way to explore the fascinating history of Venice is to join a free walking tour. These tours offer a unique perspective, showcasing lesser-known gems rather than just the main tourist attractions.
Of course, a visit to Piazza San Marco, the most famous square in Venice, is a must. Here, you should not miss the stunning Basilica San Marco, an ornate cathedral that dates back to 1063 and offers free entry.
You must also take a boat ride to Murano and Burano. Murano is renowned for its artisanal glass, while Burano is celebrated for its expertly handcrafted lace. And, of course, no visit to Venice is complete without a gondola ride. Though it may not be as romantic as it once was, it remains a quintessential Venetian experience.
3. Indulge in Culinary Delights in Bologna
This northern Italian city is known as the “fat city” for its rich cuisine and as the “red city” for its red-tiled rooftops and, more recently, its leftist politics. It is also called the “learned city” because it is home to the oldest university in the world, the University of Bologna – established in AD 1088.
Bologna has a well-preserved historical centre, largely thanks to a restoration project that began at the end of the 1970s.
Bologna is a haven for food lovers. Here, you can engage in cooking classes to learn how to make authentic Bolognese sauce or tour a local vineyard. The city is famed for inventing tortellini, tagliatelle, and, of course, Bologna sausage.
You can visit the coastal resorts, Ravenna and then take a food tour in Parma.
Explore the coastal resort towns of Cervia, Rimini, and Cesenatico. The kids will love it too.
If you are planning for a long vacation then you can relax on the beaches at one of the coastal resorts and enjoy the beautiful beach vibe there.
4. Take a Historical Tour of Florence
Florence, the capital city of the Italian region of Tuscany, was a major centre of mediaeval European trade and finance and one of the wealthiest cities of that era.
Widely regarded by scholars as the birthplace of the Renaissance, Florence also served as the capital of the Kingdom of Italy from 1865 to 1871. The historic centre of Florence has been a World Heritage Site since 1982.
The city also plays a significant role in Italian fashion and is ranked among the top 15 fashion capitals of the world.
The Uffizi Gallery in Florence houses a collection of priceless works, including Botticelli’s “The Birth of Venus.” The city’s leather markets also offer exquisite craftsmanship in a bustling, vibrant atmosphere.
Some spectacular sights to see are Michelangelo’s David, of course the amazing Uffizi Gallery, the frescoes on the dome of the Duomo, and the statues that are on display in the historic city centre.
Other top experiences are strolling across Ponte Vecchio, visiting the rooftop bars and restaurants, and watching the sunset over Florence from Piazzale Michelangelo.
5. Relax on the Amalfi Coast
The Amalfi Coast is a stretch of coastline in southern Italy, overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea and the Gulf of Salerno. Celebrated globally for its Mediterranean landscape and natural diversity, the coast is named after the town of Amalfi, which is the main historical and political centre and a hugely popular jet-set destination.
It has been an attraction for upper-class Europeans since the 18th century. The Amalfi Coast was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997. Among its highlights, Atrani and Vietri sul Mare are recognized as some of the most beautiful villages in Italy.
Renowned for its stunning beauty, the Amalfi Coast offers dramatic coastlines and luxury seaside resorts. Spend a day lounging on sun-soaked terraces or explore quaint coastal villages. The Path of the Gods, a famous walking trail, provides panoramic views of the Tyrrhenian Sea.
The drive along the Amalfi Coast is one of the most scenic drives in the world.
6. Explore the Ruins of Pompeii
Pompeii was an ancient city near Naples that was buried under 13 to 20 feet of volcanic ash and pumice when Mount Vesuvius erupted in 79 AD.
Largely preserved under the ash, Pompeii offers a unique snapshot of Roman life, frozen at the moment it was buried. It was a wealthy town with 10,000 to 20,000 residents at the time it was destroyed.
Pompeii remained largely buried until its rediscovery in the late 16th century, but it was not until 1960 that most of Pompeii was uncovered. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site because it is the only archaeological site in the world that provides a complete picture of an ancient Roman city.
Some popular sites to visit in Pompeii are the Forum Baths, the Pompeii Forum, which was known as the cultural and civic nerve of the city. You can also view the Stabian baths and the ancient amphitheatre.
Other than site seeing you can enjoy shows at the theatres of Pompeii. They give an insight into the entertainment of that era and how the place was a meeting space for the inhabitants of Pompeii.
At night enjoy dining at the famous Pompeii Scavi Café.
You can plan Pompeii for a day from Rome, from Naples, or from Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast.
7. Experience the Palio di Siena
This historic horse race, held annually in Siena, turns the entire city into a vibrant festival ground with deep-rooted mediaeval traditions. Each contrada, or district, competes fiercely in what is much more than a race; it’s the expression of local identity and pride.
Some of the top attractions are the cathedral and palaces of Siena; they are built of brick made from the local red clay. You can also see the historic old town, but have to prepare to do a lot of walking, most of it is uphill.
Other beautiful sites that will mesmerise you with their beauty are Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, Piazza del Campo, Palazzo Pubblico and Museo Civico, Torre del Mangia. You can also experience Il Palio – a Horse Race, where fully armoured knights ride through the narrow streets on horseback, reminding of the race’s history to the 1500s.
8. Hike in the Dolomites
For the active traveller, the Dolomites offer some of Europe’s most stunning hiking opportunities, with trails leading through alpine meadows and past serene lakes. The region is also a UNESCO World Heritage site, celebrated for its geological uniqueness and natural beauty.
In the Dolomites, you can expect to encounter some truly jaw-dropping sights. During the summer, take cable car rides to stunning viewpoints.
The Cinque Torri offers one of the easier hikes in the region. The trails from Lagazuoi to the Falzarego Pass and Tre Cime di Lavaredo feature iconic views that are perfect for both children and adults.
If you’re a mountain lover and want to experience Italy with a hint of Austrian charm, you could easily spend a delightful week here.
9. Attend an Opera in Verona’s Ancient Arena
Verona is a gorgeous Italian city in the Veneto region, divided by the Adige River, with most of the town situated on the south bank. The Venice like city, without the canals is approximately 30 km from Lake Garda and lies at the foot of the Lessinia Mountains.
The Arena di Verona, an ancient Roman amphitheatre, hosts a summer opera festival where the works of Verdi, Puccini, and other composers come to life in a setting that’s spectacularly unchanged since the first century AD.
Some attractions in Verona are – a walk across Ponte Scaligero, visit Piazza delle Erbe, Basilica di San Zeno Maggiore. Watch Verona from the top of Piazzale Castel San Pietro. One of the busiest spots here is Juliette’s house.
If you climb to the top of Torre dei Lamberti, you can get one of the best views of the city.
10. Enjoy the Countryside in Tuscany and Umbria
End your tour in the heart of Italy—Tuscany and Umbria. Known for their rolling landscapes, these regions offer a blend of cultural richness and rural charm. Explore the mediaeval towns, sample renowned local wines, and unwind in the tranquil countryside.
If you need a nice break from Italy’s bigger cities, Tuscany is one of the best places to visit. You can rent bikes and take a cycling tour of the wineries.
You can also take a tour of the hill towns of Tuscany. Top hill towns include San Gimignano, Pienza, Montalcino, Montepulciano, and Volterra.
Umbria has vast wine making regions and charming hilltop towns.
Known as the Green Heart of Italy, Umbria is famous for its picture-perfect rolling green hills.
Top sites in Umbria include Lake Trasimeno, Marmore Falls and the River Tiber. The regional capital is Perugia, known for its pristine mediaeval centre, cobbled alleys, arched stairways and piazzas.
Before leaving, don’t miss the Hot Air Balloon ride here.
By exploring different Italy tourism packages, one can gradually experience the different wonders of Italy—from its ancient ruins and artistic masterpieces to its breathtaking natural landscapes and culinary delights.
Each visit promises not only a journey through space but also through time, connecting with a culture that has shaped the Western world. Prepare to lose yourself in the romance and wonder of Italy, making memories that will linger far beyond 2024.
