Italy Travel Guide
Discover the best places to visit and things to do in Italy with this comprehensive travel guide. From cultural attractions, outdoor adventures, hiking routes, and more, learn everything you need to know to plan your trip to Italy.
- Introduction to Italy
- List of Places to Visit in Italy
- Museums
- Historical Places
- Mountains and Countryside
- Beaches and Islands
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Italy
- Hiking Routes
- Biking Routes
- Best Things to Do in Italy: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Italy
- Food and Drink Scene of Italy
- Where to Stay in Italy: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Italy: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Italy
- Best Time to Visit Italy
- Do’s and Don’ts of Italy
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Italy: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Italy
- Where to Go Next from Italy: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Italy
Italy is a country located in southern Europe, known for its rich history, art, architecture, food, and wine. It is home to some of the world’s most famous landmarks, including the Colosseum, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, and the Vatican. From the snowy peaks of the Alps in the north to the sun-kissed beaches of the south, Italy makes for an unforgettable travel experience. This comprehensive travel guide will help you plan your trip to Italy and make the most of your time in this beautiful country.
List of Places to Visit in Italy
Italy is filled with many beautiful cities, towns, and attractions that are worth a visit. Below is a list of some of the most popular places to visit in Italy:
- Rome
- Florence
- Venice
- Milan
- Naples
- Amalfi Coast
- Cinque Terre
- Lake Como
- Tuscany
- Sicily
- Sardinia
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
Italy is home to a rich cultural heritage, and there are many museums and historical places to explore.
Museums
- The Vatican Museums, Rome
- Uffizi Gallery, Florence
- Palazzo Barberini, Rome
- Museo Nazionale Romano, Rome
- Galleria Borghese, Rome
- Palazzo Pitti, Florence
- Palazzo Reale, Naples
Historical Places
- Colosseum, Rome
- Pantheon, Rome
- Roman Forum, Rome
- Pompeii, Naples
- Leaning Tower of Pisa, Pisa
- Duomo di Milano, Milan
- Doge’s Palace, Venice
Natural Attractions of Italy: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
Italy is blessed with some of the world’s most breathtaking natural scenery. From mountains, lakes, beaches, to countryside, there are many opportunities for outdoor adventures and scenic views.
Mountains and Countryside
- The Dolomites, Trentino Alto Adige
- Lake Como, Lombardy
- Apennine Mountains, Central Italy
- Chianti Wine Region, Tuscany
- Amalfi Coast, Campania
Beaches and Islands
- Sardinia
- Sicily
- Capri
- Cinque Terre
- Polignano a Mare, Puglia
Hiking/Biking Routes of Italy
Italy is a popular destination for hikers and bikers, with many trails offering incredible scenery.
Hiking Routes
- The Via Francigena, Central Italy
- Sentiero degli Dei, Amalfi Coast
- Cinque Terre National Park, Liguria
- The Path of the Gods, Amalfi Coast
- The Dolomites Trek, Trentino Alto Adige
Biking Routes
- Veneto Bike, Veneto
- Lake Garda Loop, Lombardy
- Tuscany’s Wine Region, Tuscany
- The Alps, Northern Italy
Best Things to Do in Italy: Activities and Tours
There is no shortage of things to do in Italy, from food tours, wine tastings, art classes, and more.
- Food and wine tasting in Tuscany
- Pizza-making class in Naples
- Gondola ride in Venice
- Scuba diving in Sardinia
- Opera show in Verona
- Vespa tour in Rome
- Hot air balloon ride over Tuscany
Week-Long Itinerary for Italy
If you have one week to explore Italy, we recommend the following itinerary:
- Day 1-2: Rome
- Day 3-4: Florence and Tuscany
- Day 5-6: Cinque Terre
- Day 7: Venice
Food and Drink Scene of Italy
Italy is famous for its delicious food and drink, and it is an important part of its culture.
Must-Try Dishes
- Pizza, Naples
- Pasta with Bolognese sauce, Bologna
- Gelato, throughout Italy
- Risotto alla Milanese, Milan
- Truffles, Umbria
- Focaccia, Liguria
Local Beverages
- Espresso, throughout Italy
- Aperol Spritz, throughout Italy
- Chianti, Tuscany
- Limoncello, Amalfi Coast
- Prosecco, Veneto
- Grappa, Veneto
Where to Stay in Italy: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
Italy offers accommodation options for every budget and travel style, from budget hostels to luxury hotels and guesthouses. Below are some suggestions for where to stay in Italy:
- Hostels: Ostello Bello, Milan; The Yellow, Rome; PLUS Florence, Florence
- Hotels: NH Collection Grand Hotel Convento di Amalfi, Amalfi Coast; Baglioni Hotel Regina, Rome; Hotel Brunelleschi, Florence
- Guesthouses: Casa Sant’Andrea, Naples; La Favia 7, Sicily; Al Palazzetto, Venice
What to Buy in Italy: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
Italy is known for its high-quality artisanal products, and they make the perfect souvenir to bring home.
- Leather goods, Florence
- Limoncello, Amalfi Coast
- Ceramic pottery, Umbria
- Olive oil, Tuscany
- Balsamic vinegar, Emilia Romagna
- Murano glass, Venice
Local Culture and Customs of Italy
Italians have a rich cultural heritage, and they are known for their warmth, love for family, and food. It is important to respect the local customs and traditions when visiting Italy.
- Dress appropriately when visiting churches and religious sites
- Eat slowly and savor the food
- Don’t take leftovers home from a restaurant
- Always say “Ciao” and “Grazie” when greeting and thanking someone
Best Time to Visit Italy
The best time to visit Italy is from April to June and from mid-September to October. This is when the weather is pleasant, and the crowds are thinner.
Do’s and Don’ts of Italy
Do:
- Learn some Italian phrases before visiting
- Take a siesta in the afternoon
- Drink wine with every meal
- Take a tour of the local market
Don’t:
- Wear flip-flops in churches
- Order a cappuccino after 11 am
- Touch the produce at the market
- Forget to validate your train ticket
Safety and Health
Safety in Italy
Italy is generally a safe country, but it is important to be aware of pickpockets, especially in crowded areas and tourist hotspots.
Health in Italy
Italy has a good healthcare system, but it is important to have health insurance when visiting. The tap water is safe to drink, but it might taste different from what you are used to.
Getting to Italy: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near Italy
- Leonardo da Vinci International Airport, Rome
- Milan Malpensa airport, Milan
- Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport, Sardinia
- Palermo Airport, Sicily
- Naples International Airport, Naples
Bus Stations Near Italy
- Rome Tiburtina Bus Station, Rome
- Central Bus Station, Milan
- Firenze Autostazione Sita Nord, Florence
- Pisa Bus Station, Pisa
Other Options
- Trains: Italy has a good train network that connects most of the major cities and towns.
- Cruise ships: Italy is a popular destination for cruise ships, with many ports of call along the coast.
- Car rental: Italy is best explored with a car, and there are many car rental companies available.
How to Get Around in Italy
Italy has an excellent public transportation network, including buses, trains, and the metro. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available.
Where to Go Next from Italy: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
If you have more time to explore, consider visiting some of Italy’s neighboring countries or nearby destinations.
- France: Nice, Monaco
- Austria: Vienna, Salzburg
- Croatia: Dubrovnik, Split
- Switzerland: Zurich, Lucerne
Conclusion
Italy is a beautiful country with a rich cultural heritage and endless opportunities for adventure and exploration. Whether you are looking for art and history, food and wine, or natural scenery and outdoor activities, Italy has something for everyone. We hope this comprehensive travel guide helps you plan your trip to Italy and makes it a memorable experience.
Italy Image Gallery
![Rome (seen from Trinità dei Monti)](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/8/84/Vue_des_toits_depuis_la_Sainte-Trinit%C3%A9-des-Monts%2C_Rome%2C_Italy.jpg/100px-Vue_des_toits_depuis_la_Sainte-Trinit%C3%A9-des-Monts%2C_Rome%2C_Italy.jpg)
![Florence (River Arno, with Ponte Vecchio in the foreground)](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/7/74/Florence_bridges.jpg/100px-Florence_bridges.jpg)
![The Pantheon, a huge Roman temple, which is a symbol of the Roman civilization in Italy.](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/a/a5/Pantheon%2C_Rome.jpg/100px-Pantheon%2C_Rome.jpg)
![The Trevi Fountain, symbol of 18th century Baroque Italy.](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/e/e1/Panorama_of_Trevi_fountain_2015.jpg/100px-Panorama_of_Trevi_fountain_2015.jpg)
![The modern 1960s Pirelli Tower in Milan is often considered a symbol of the new Italy, and of post-war economic growth and reconstruction.](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/4/4e/Paolo_Monti_-_Servizio_fotografico_-_BEIC_6338550.jpg/100px-Paolo_Monti_-_Servizio_fotografico_-_BEIC_6338550.jpg)
![Pisa (the Piazza dei Miracoli, with the cathedral and the leaning tower)](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/e/ee/Here_it_is%2C_The_Piazza_dei_Miracoli%21_Pisa%2C_Italy.jpg/100px-Here_it_is%2C_The_Piazza_dei_Miracoli%21_Pisa%2C_Italy.jpg)
![Naples (a view over the city, showing Vesuvius)](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/e/e7/ViewofNaplesBay.jpg/100px-ViewofNaplesBay.jpg)
![Venice (the grand canal)](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/a/a3/Canal_Grande_Chiesa_della_Salute_e_Dogana_dal_ponte_dell_Accademia.jpg/100px-Canal_Grande_Chiesa_della_Salute_e_Dogana_dal_ponte_dell_Accademia.jpg)
![Bologna (the red terracotta roofs and brick towers of the city's skyline)](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/b/bc/Bologna-SanPetronioPiazzaMaggiore1.jpg/100px-Bologna-SanPetronioPiazzaMaggiore1.jpg)
![Milan (the Piazza del Duomo, with the city's stunning medieval cathedral)](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/e/ea/20110724_Milan_Cathedral_5260.jpg/100px-20110724_Milan_Cathedral_5260.jpg)
![Italy's high speed rail network](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/8/84/Italy_TAV.png/100px-Italy_TAV.png)
![Palermo (cathedral)](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/5/56/Palermo-Sicily-Italy_-_Creative_Commons_by_gnuckx_%283492692842%29.jpg/100px-Palermo-Sicily-Italy_-_Creative_Commons_by_gnuckx_%283492692842%29.jpg)
![Roman bikinis. Mosaic from the Villa Romana at Piazza Armerina, Sicily.](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/1/11/Bikini_mosaic.jpg/100px-Bikini_mosaic.jpg)
![Florence's cathedral; bell tower by Giotto to the left and the tower of the Palazzo Vecchio in front](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/d/d2/Florence_duomo_fc01.jpg/100px-Florence_duomo_fc01.jpg)
![The Uffizi gallery in Florence, considered one of the most prestigious art museums in the world.](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/2/24/Galleria_degli_Uffizi_Florence.jpg/100px-Galleria_degli_Uffizi_Florence.jpg)
![Wine-growing holding in the Chianti region](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/8/87/Vineyards_in_Chianti_Country.jpg/100px-Vineyards_in_Chianti_Country.jpg)
![Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II in Milan](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/1/18/Galleria_Vittorio_Emanuele_II_from_TownHouse_Hotel.jpg/100px-Galleria_Vittorio_Emanuele_II_from_TownHouse_Hotel.jpg)
![Trofie with pesto alla Genovese.](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/4/49/Troffiette_genovese.jpg/100px-Troffiette_genovese.jpg)
![A traditional Italian meal, with beef with sauce and dark red wine.](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/2/22/RedMeatWine.jpg/100px-RedMeatWine.jpg)
![A cold limoncello on a warm night](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/3/37/Limoncello_2005.jpg/100px-Limoncello_2005.jpg)
![Mounted Carabinieri in Milan.](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/9/9a/Carabinieri_a_cavallo.jpg/100px-Carabinieri_a_cavallo.jpg)
![Careggi hospital in Florence.](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/a/aa/Careggi_Hospital_entry.jpg/100px-Careggi_Hospital_entry.jpg)
![Pay phones in Milan](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/4/45/Pay_phones_outside_Duomo%2C_Milan.jpg/100px-Pay_phones_outside_Duomo%2C_Milan.jpg)