28 Best Things to Do in Italy

Italy is a country that never stops amazing me. No matter how many times I visit, I always find something new to love. With its ancient history, world-class art, jaw-dropping landscapes, and food that ruins all other food for you, Italy is the kind of place that feels like a dream come to life. From the Colosseum in Rome to the colorful villages of Cinque Terre, the rolling vineyards of Tuscany to the dramatic cliffs of the Amalfi Coast, this country has something for every type of traveler.

If you’re planning a trip to Italy, you’re in for an adventure filled with breathtaking sights, incredible food, and unforgettable moments. This guide rounds up some of the absolute best things to do in Italy, whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, an art lover, or just someone who loves exploring new places.

28 Best Things to Do in Italy

This post isn’t just a list, it’s your go-to guide for making the most of your trip to Italy. I’ll cover why Italy is worth visiting (spoiler: it 100% is), plus all my favorite tips on what to see, what to skip, and how to make your adventure as smooth and unforgettable as possible. Whether you’re renting a car to cruise through Tuscany, booking guided tours through Rome’s historical center, or planning a dreamy day trip to the Amalfi Coast, this roundup has everything you need to experience the very best of Italy.

And honestly? Sometimes the best thing to do is nothing at all, just soaking it all in. Sip a spritz during aperitivo hour (my personal favorite, no contest), people-watch in a sunny piazza, and let the magic of the moment find you.

So let’s dive in and start planning your Italian adventure!

Is Italy Worth Visiting?

Let me just say this: Italy isn’t just worth visiting, it’s worth visiting over and over again. I’ve been lucky enough to travel here multiple times, and every single trip feels like a new experience.

What I love most about Italy is how it blends history, culture, food, and natural beauty so effortlessly. One minute you’re standing in the shadow of the Colosseum, imagining the gladiator battles that happened 2,000 years ago, and the next, you’re sipping a spritz at a modern café in the middle of Rome’s historical center.

And the food? Life-changing. Whether it’s fresh seafood along the Amalfi Coast, rich ragù in Emilia Romagna, or a perfectly simple plate of cacio e pepe in Rome, every meal feels like a moment worth savoring.

But Italy isn’t just about famous landmarks and amazing food. It’s the little moments that make it so special. It’s tossing a coin into the Trevi Fountain, watching the sunset over Cinque Terre, or getting lost in a quiet Tuscan village and stumbling upon the best pasta you’ve ever had.

If you love stunning cities, delicious food, and incredible landscapes, then Italy is 1000% worth the trip.

The blog post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one I may make a small commission at absolutely no additional cost to you. I appreciate your support! 

What Are the Best Things to Do in Italy?

Now that we’ve established that Italy is a must-visit, let’s dive into the best things to do in this incredible country. I’ve broken them down by region so you can easily plan your itinerary based on where you’re going.

Best Things to Do in Rome, Italy

Rome is a living museum and the perfect place to start your trip to Italy. The Eternal City is packed with ancient ruins, stunning piazzas, and some of the best food in the country. I’ve prioritized at least a quick stop in Rome each time I’ve been to Italy, and I think I always will. 

Explore the Colosseum

There’s no better way to kick off your Rome experience than at the Colosseum. This iconic amphitheater is over 2,000 years old, and walking through it feels like stepping back in time. It’s one of those places where you can literally feel the weight of history, which unfortunately does not include Lizzie McGuire actually performing there. (But they really had us all believing that she did). 

I’ve visited the Colosseum a few times, and there are a few different ways you can go about it—on a guided tour, with just an audio guide, and even completely unguided. Each option has its pros and cons, and honestly, it just depends on your interests and how much time you have.

If you’re a history buff (or just want someone to explain all the wild gladiator stories), then a guided tour is 100% worth it. A good guide will point out details you might have missed, share fascinating stories, and give context that really brings the ruins to life.

On the flip side, if you’re short on time or just want to explore at your own pace, going without a guide can still be super enjoyable. I’ve done this too, and while you won’t get quite as much background, it’s still incredible to wander through the ancient arches and imagine what it was like back in the day. If you want a middle ground, I recommend picking up an audio guide. You’ll get the highlights without the structure of a full tour, which is perfect if you like to roam freely.

Best time to visit: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid the big crowds. Spring and fall usually offer the best weather that is not too hot and not too chilly.

What to bring: Comfortable shoes (there’s a lot of walking on uneven stone), plenty of water, and your camera. Rome’s sun can be brutal, especially midday, so don’t forget sunscreen—you’ll thank me later.

Related: How to Visit The Colosseum

Wander Through the Roman Forum

Right next to the Colosseum, the Roman Forum was the heart of ancient Rome—a place filled with basilicas, temples, and government buildings. Walking through the ruins, you can almost picture what life was like here centuries ago. Many tours and tickets to the Colosseum even include your entry to the Roman Forum, so plan to visit both in one go. 

Best time to visit: Morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures.

What to bring: A hat, water, and good walking shoes—the terrain is uneven.

Toss a Coin in the Trevi Fountain

No trip to Rome is complete without tossing a coin into the Trevi Fountain, it’s basically a rite of passage when visiting Italy for the first time. This stunning Baroque masterpiece is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks, and yes, the legend is true: toss a coin over your left shoulder with your right hand, and you’re guaranteed to return to Rome (I’ve done it every time, and so far, so good!).

But let me be real with you—it’s always busy. Like, shoulder-to-shoulder with strangers trying to snap selfies kind of busy. If you want to actually enjoy the fountain (or get that postcard-worthy photo), you need to go early, and I mean before sunrise early. We went around 5:30 a.m. in May and shared the space with maybe a handful of other early birds who all had the same goal. It was peaceful, quiet, and totally magical watching the city slowly wake up.

That said, even if you visit during peak hours, it’s still worth stopping by. It’s one of those places that feels just as dreamy as it looks in photos, and the energy is infectious no matter the time of day.

Best time to visit: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds. Spring and fall have the best weather. 

What to bring: Comfortable shoes, water, and a camera. Rome’s sun can be brutal, so sunscreen is a must.

Visit the Pantheon

The Pantheon is one of those spots that stops you in your tracks—even if you’ve seen a hundred photos of it before. Tucked into a picturesque piazza in the heart of Rome’s historical center, this ancient structure is massive in person and one of the most iconic landmarks in the city. It dates all the way back to ancient Rome and is incredibly well preserved, with those huge columns and its famous dome still standing strong nearly 2,000 years later.

While I haven’t been inside (yet!), I’ve spent time soaking in the view from one of the nearby cafes and restaurants—and honestly, there’s something pretty magical about sipping an espresso or having lunch with the Pantheon as your backdrop. Whether you go in or admire it from the outside, it’s 100% worth adding to your Rome itinerary.

Best time to visit: Early morning or golden hour for softer light and fewer crowds.

What to bring: A camera, comfortable shoes for walking the cobblestone streets, and a few euros if you want to grab a coffee or aperitivo nearby.

Best Things to Do in Tuscany, Italy

Tuscany is a dream come to life complete with rolling hills, vineyards, medieval towns, and some of the best wine in the world. If you’re planning a day trip from Florence, there are many guided tour options that allow you to visit multiple vineyards and include transportation. If you’re spending a few days in the Tuscan countryside, renting a car is the way to go. It gives you the freedom to explore charming hilltop towns, bounce between vineyards, and find those hidden gem restaurants you’d never reach without one.

If you’re nervous about renting a car in a foreign country, don’t be. We were too, it was actually our first time ever renting a car at all, let alone abroad, but the whole process ended up being way smoother than expected. I recommend using AutoEurope and picking the car up at the Florence airport, which made it easy to avoid driving through the busy city center. From there, we cruised through the countryside, stopping at wineries, scenic overlooks, and incredible spots for long, wine-filled lunches. If you’re up for a little adventure, renting a car in Tuscany makes the experience so much more memorable. 

Wine Tasting in Chianti

Chianti is famous for its bold red wines, and visiting a vineyard here is a must-do for wine lovers. Take a guided tour of a local winery, learn about the winemaking process, and enjoy tastings with stunning vineyard views. 

If you’re looking for the perfect spot to stay, eat and drink, I highly recommend the hotel and vineyard we stayed at. It was the most relaxing and peaceful stay, complete with an infinity pool overlooking the rolling hills.  

Best time to visit: Fall (September-October) for harvest season, or late spring for good weather and smaller crowds. 

What to bring: A notebook to jot down your favorites and space in your luggage for a bottle or two.

Explore San Gimignano

San Gimignano is a medieval town straight out of a fairytale. Its skyline of medieval towers makes it one of the most picturesque towns in Italy.

Best time to visit: Spring and fall for mild weather and fewer crowds.

What to bring: Comfortable shoes—the cobblestone streets can be steep!

Best Things to Do Along the Amalfi Coast, Italy

The Amalfi Coast is truly pure magic—dramatic cliffs, colorful cascading villages, and some of the most breathtaking coastal views you’ll ever lay eyes on. Every twist and turn of the coastline feels like a scene out of a movie, with lemon groves, turquoise waters, and postcard-perfect towns like Positano and Ravello that are almost too beautiful to be real. Whether you’re soaking up the sun on a pebbled beach, sipping limoncello with a view, or cruising along the coast by boat, it’s the kind of place that stays with you long after you’ve left.

Visit Positano

With its pastel-colored houses cascading down the cliffs, Positano is one of the most beautiful places in Italy—and honestly, it lives up to the hype. I opted to stay right in the heart of town at the most perfect boutique family-owned hotel, and it was such a good decision. Being able to wander the quiet streets early in the morning, before the cruise ship crowds rolled in, made the experience feel even more magical.

Spend your days exploring steep stairways and colorful boutiques, grabbing handmade ceramics and breezy linen sets, then head to the beach for a salty dip. Don’t miss the cliffside restaurants with jaw-dropping views, limoncello spritzes that taste like sunshine, and lemon sorbet served in an actual lemon (yes, it’s a thing, and it’s amazing).

Best time to visit: Late spring (May) or early fall (September) for great weather without the summer crowds.

What to bring: A swimsuit, sunscreen, and a hat because there’s not much shade.

Related: 20 Things to Do in Positano 

Take a Boat Trip to Capri

A day trip to Capri is the perfect way to see one of Italy’s most luxurious islands. The Blue Grotto is the highlight, with glowing blue waters that look surreal.

Best time to visit: Summer (June-September) for the best weather, but book tours in advance.

What to bring: Swimsuit, towel, and motion sickness medication if you get seasick.

Best Things to Do in Vatican City

Vatican City may be the world’s smallest country, but it’s packed with some of the most awe-inspiring sights in Italy. Whether you’re here for the stunning art, rich history, or the sheer grandeur of St. Peter’s Basilica, this tiny state leaves a huge impression.

Explore St. Peter’s Basilica

As one of the most famous churches in the world, St. Peter’s Basilica is a must-see whether you’re religious or not. The massive dome, breathtaking frescoes, and intricate sculptures make it one of the most impressive buildings in Italy. If you’re up for a bit of a workout, climbing to the top of the dome rewards you with some of the best panoramic views of Rome.

Best time to visit: Early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds. Off-season (November to March) is best for a quieter experience.

What to bring: Modest clothing (no shorts, tank tops, or short dresses), a camera (no flash photography inside), and comfortable shoes for all the walking.

Pro Tip: Some guided tours offer early or after-hours access, which makes for an even more special experience.

Visit the Vatican Museums

The Vatican Museums are an absolute must for art and history lovers. Home to thousands of masterpieces, the collection includes works from Michelangelo, Raphael, and Leonardo da Vinci. The Sistine Chapel is the crown jewel, with its famous ceiling frescoes painted by Michelangelo—trust me, seeing it in person is nothing short of surreal.

Best time to visit: Later in the afternoon or mid-week to avoid the biggest crowds.

What to bring: A camera (photos allowed, but no photos in the Sistine Chapel), a bottle of water (it’s a long walk through the museum), and comfortable shoes.

Pro Tip: Skip-the-line tickets or guided tours are 100% worth it—this place gets packed.

Related: Visiting The Vatican

Best Things to Do in Florence, Italy

Florence is the heart of the Renaissance, where you’ll find some of the most famous artworks and architecture in the world. Whether you’re an art lover, history buff, or just here for the views, Florence delivers big on beauty.

See Michelangelo’s David at the Galleria dell’Accademia

Seeing Michelangelo’s David in person is one of those “wow, is this real?” moments. Pictures don’t do justice to the insane level of detail in this sculpture—the veins in his hands, the lifelike expression, the sheer scale of it. It’s a must-see in Florence.

Best time to visit: Late afternoon or off-season (October to March) for smaller crowds.

What to bring: A camera (no flash allowed), and pre-booked tickets to avoid long waits.

Climb the Duomo for the Best View in Florence

Florence’s iconic dome is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Italy. The climb to the top is a workout, but the view is unreal. You’ll get a 360-degree panorama of the city and Tuscan countryside.

Best time to visit: Early morning or sunset for the best light and fewer crowds.

What to bring: Good walking shoes (those stairs are no joke) and a small water bottle.

Pro Tip: If you’re not up for the climb, rooftop restaurants like B-Roof offer stunning views without the stairs.

Visit the Uffizi Gallery

The Uffizi Gallery is a paradise for art lovers, housing some of the most famous works of the Renaissance, including Botticelli’s “The Birth of Venus”. Even if you’re not an art buff, it’s still worth visiting just to see the sheer talent on display.

Best time to visit: Mid-week and in the late afternoon to avoid peak crowds.

Pro Tip: A guided tour helps you make sense of all the history here without getting overwhelmed.

Walk Across Ponte Vecchio at Sunset

The Ponte Vecchio is one of the most charming spots in Florence. This medieval bridge is lined with gold and jewelry shops, making it a beautiful place for an evening stroll. At sunset, the view over the Arno River is stunning.

Best time to visit: Sunset for the best lighting.

What to bring: A camera, and maybe some extra cash if you feel like splurging on jewelry.

Best Things to Do in Venice, Italy

Venice is a floating dream, with romantic canals, charming bridges, and historic buildings that feel straight out of a fairytale. But what really makes it special is the feeling you get just wandering—no agenda, no map, just you and the city.

I loved getting lost in the maze of canal-lined streets, stumbling across tiny piazzas, local bakeries, and quiet corners where the only sound is the water gently lapping against the stone. The real magic is in the slow moments: sipping an espresso by the water, crossing one of the hundreds of little bridges, or watching the golden light hit the buildings at sunset. ✨

Pro tip: Head out early in the morning or stay out after dark when the day-trippers leave. The city feels even more magical then.

Take a Gondola Ride Through the Canals

Yes, it’s touristy. Yes, it’s expensive. But a gondola ride in Venice is an experience you won’t forget. Gliding through the narrow canals, past historic palaces, while your gondolier steers with ease? It’s magical.

Best time to go: Late afternoon or early evening for fewer crowds and golden-hour lighting.

What to bring: Euros for payment (approximately 100), and a light jacket if going in the evening.

Pro Tip: Negotiate the price before getting in, and opt for a less touristy canal for a more peaceful ride.

Visit St. Mark’s Basilica

This Byzantine masterpiece in Venice’s historical center is one of the most breathtaking churches in Italy. The gold mosaics shimmer in the sunlight, and the views from the rooftop terrace are worth the small fee.

Best time to visit: Early morning before the crowds take over.

What to bring: Modest clothing (shoulders and knees covered) and a small bag (large backpacks aren’t allowed).

Explore the Doge’s Palace & Walk the Bridge of Sighs

Venice’s Doge’s Palace was the seat of power for centuries, and its lavish interiors and eerie dungeons make for an unforgettable visit. Walking across the Bridge of Sighs, which once led prisoners to their fate, adds a haunting layer of history.

Best time to visit: Afternoon for smaller crowds.

Pro Tip: A guided tour helps you understand the fascinating history of the Venetian Republic.

Best Things to Do in Cinque Terre, Italy

Cinque Terre is one of Italy’s most beautiful coastal destinations, with five colorful villages built into rugged cliffs overlooking the sea.

Hike the Coastal Trails

If you love epic views, the trails connecting the villages are the best way to experience Cinque Terre. The hike from Monterosso to Vernazza is challenging but unforgettable, offering breathtaking sea views.

Best time to visit: Spring or early fall for mild weather.

What to bring: Hiking shoes, water, and a swimsuit (some trails end at the beach!).

Swim in Monterosso

Monterosso has Cinque Terre’s only large sandy beach, making it the perfect spot for a swim after a long hike.

Best time to visit: Summer for warm water, September for fewer crowds.

What to bring: A swimsuit, flip-flops, and a towel.

Best Things To Do in Emilia-Romagna, Italy

If you’re a foodie, welcome to paradise. Emilia-Romagna is Italy’s ultimate food capital. This region is home to some of the most famous Italian dishes, and everything tastes better at the source. Whether you’re diving into a bowl of authentic Bolognese, sampling Parmigiano-Reggiano straight from the producer, or exploring its historic cities, this area is an essential stop for any Italy itinerary.

Taste Authentic Bolognese in Bologna

Bologna is the birthplace of ragù alla Bolognese (aka the real deal Bolognese sauce, not the stuff you find in the U.S.). Here, it’s slow-cooked to perfection and served with fresh egg pasta like tagliatelle instead of spaghetti.

For the best experience, head to a family-run trattoria where they’ve been perfecting the recipe for generations. Osteria dell’Orsa and Trattoria Anna Maria are top picks.

Best time to visit: Fall—hearty pasta tastes even better when it’s a little chilly outside.

What to bring: An appetite and a willingness to abandon all carb-related guilt.

Climb the Asinelli Tower for the Best View of Bologna

Move over, Pisa—Bologna has its own leaning tower! The Asinelli Tower is the tallest medieval tower in Italy, and climbing its 498 steps rewards you with a stunning panoramic view of the city.

It’s a serious leg workout, but the red rooftops of Bologna stretching out below make it 100% worth it.

Best time to visit: Spring or fall for cooler weather.

What to bring: Sneakers and a camera—this is one of the best viewpoints in the city.

Eat Your Way Through Parma’s Ham and Cheese Scene

Parma is famous for two things: Prosciutto di Parma and Parmigiano-Reggiano. A guided tour at a local producer is the best way to taste these Italian staples fresh from the source.

You’ll see how Parmigiano-Reggiano is aged, watch prosciutto being cured, and sample slices straight off the wheel or leg. Plus, you can stock up on some of the best souvenirs ever—authentic Italian cheese and ham.

Best time to visit: Spring for mild weather and fewer crowds.

What to bring: A reusable bag for all the cheese and ham you’re definitely buying.

Best Things To Do in Milan, Italy

Milan is Italy’s fashion and finance capital, but it’s also a city packed with history, world-class art, and incredible architecture. Whether you’re here for fashion, culture, or just a stylish city break, Milan has something for you.

See The Last Supper in Santa Maria delle Grazie

Seeing Leonardo da Vinci’s “The Last Supper” in person is one of those bucket-list experiences. This masterpiece is housed in a small church, and only a limited number of visitors are allowed in at a time, so planning ahead is key.

Tickets sell out months in advance, so book early or join a guided tour to secure a spot.

Best time to visit: Fall or winter to avoid peak tourist season.

What to bring: A guidebook or audio guide—you’ll want to fully understand the history behind the painting.

Shop (or Window Shop) in Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

Even if high-end shopping isn’t your thing, walking through Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is a Milan must-do. This glass-domed shopping arcade is one of the oldest in the world and is home to luxury brands like Prada and Gucci.

If you’re not in the market for designer fashion, grab a cappuccino or espresso at one of the cafés and just take in the atmosphere.

Best time to visit: Evening, when the arcade is beautifully lit.

What to bring: A credit card (if you’re feeling fancy) or just a camera for the aesthetic shots.

Climb to the Top of Milan’s Duomo

Milan’s Duomo is one of the most impressive cathedrals in the world, and its rooftop terrace is an experience you can’t miss. The intricate gothic spires, detailed statues, and breathtaking views over the city make the climb well worth it.

You can either take the stairs or an elevator (let’s be real, most people take the elevator).

Best time to visit: Spring, when the skies are clear and temperatures are mild.

What to bring: Comfortable shoes (even if you take the elevator, there are still some steps).

Take a Day Trip to Lake Como

Lake Como looks like it was plucked straight from a postcard. Located just an hour or so from Milan by train, it makes for an easy and unforgettable day trip if you’re craving a mix of nature, luxury, and old-world charm. Think colorful villas, cobblestone streets, waterfront cafes, and jaw-dropping views at every turn. Fun fact: Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones filmed some of Padmé and Anakin’s scenes right here at Villa del Balbianello, so yes, it’s cinematic-level stunning.

Best time to visit: Spring and early fall for fewer crowds and mild weather.
What to bring: Comfortable shoes, a light jacket (it can be breezy by the lake), and your camera—trust me, the photo ops are endless.
Pro tip: If you have the time before heading back to the train station, stay for sunset. The light on the water is next level, and there are plenty of scenic spots to grab a spritz and soak it all in.

Best Things To Do in Naples, Italy

Naples is gritty, chaotic, and absolutely full of character—in the best way. It’s the kind of city that hits all five senses at once: scooters buzzing past crumbling facades, laundry flapping in alleyways, and the smell of wood-fired pizza wafting through the air. It’s raw, real, and undeniably alive.

This is the birthplace of pizza, home to some of the best food in Italy, and a perfect base for exploring the Amalfi Coast or diving into ancient history at Pompeii.

Take a Day Trip to Pompeii

Visiting Pompeii is like stepping into a time capsule. When Mount Vesuvius erupted in 79 AD, it buried the entire city under ash, freezing it in time. Walking through the ancient streets, preserved homes, and even bakeries is both fascinating and eerie.

A guided tour is 100% worth it here—you’ll learn so much more about what life was like in ancient Rome.

Best time to visit: Spring or fall—Naples gets HOT in summer, and there’s little shade.

What to bring: Sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water—you’ll be walking a lot.

Try Authentic Neapolitan Pizza

Naples is the birthplace of pizza, and a classic Margherita here is a must. Made with San Marzano tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and a perfectly chewy, wood-fired crust—it’s simple, iconic, and unbelievably good.

Head to L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele or Sorbillo for the full experience (lines are part of the fun).

Pro tip: Go early to beat the crowds, and yes—eating it with your hands is totally acceptable.Best time to go: Lunch or early dinner

What to bring: Cash (some places are cash-only) and a solid appetite

Italy is the kind of place that stays with you long after you’ve left. Whether you’re wandering through ancient ruins, sipping wine in Tuscany, or exploring cliffside villages on the Amalfi Coast, every moment feels like a dream come to life.

So, if you’re planning a trip to Italy, start building that itinerary—because this country has way too much to offer for just one visit, and trust me, you’ll be back.

If you are interested in more resources to help plan your trip check out my other blog posts, including my complete list of my Italy Travel Tips, and you can always follow me on Instagram at @sierrainthecity.

Pin this post for later: