Italy is home to some of the world's most breathtaking sights, from mighty mountains and picturesque lakes to stunning beaches. If you're planning a trip to this country, here are some of the must-see places and attractions you should definitely visit!
One of Italy's most famous landmarks, Michelangelo's David is a must-see in Florence. Located in the Galleria dell'Accademia, you can find tours with guides who will explain the sculpture and its meaning to you.
Florence
If you’re planning a trip to Italy and want to see some of the country’s most famous landmarks, Florence is one place you won’t want to miss. This beautiful city, known as the capital of Tuscany, has a rich history and is home to a number of UNESCO World Heritage sites.
A major draw of the city is its architecture, particularly the spectacular Duomo. The cathedral is the fourth-largest in the world and is covered in a mixture of pink, green, and white marble. The church is also known for its exquisite mosaic floors and stunning frescoes.
The best way to appreciate the beauty of the cathedral is to climb up the 414 steps that lead up the tower, which offers amazing views over Florence. But if you want to see the most stunning artwork, head inside the dome. It’s an experience that will leave you breathless.
Another great spot to admire the city’s architectural masterpieces is the Museo dell’Accademia. This museum houses a collection of Italian art from the 13th to 17th centuries. You’ll find works from painters like Giotto, Michelangelo and Raphael.
As you can imagine, this museum is incredibly popular, so be sure to get timed tickets ahead of time. It’s also worth going early, especially in the spring or fall when the light is brighter and more enchanting.
You’ll also want to take a walk down the Ponte Vecchio. While the bridge is often crowded, it’s an incredible sight that’s well worth the effort.
This bridge is another great example of the city’s architectural masterpieces. It was built by Nicola Pisano in the 16th century, and its sweeping lines and unique construction are a sight to behold.
But it’s not just the bridge that draws crowds, as there are plenty of other spots around Florence where you can enjoy a panoramic view over the city. In particular, you should check out the Loggia dei Lanzi, which is lined with statues and is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The Loggia dei Lanzi is a great example of how the city tries to turn seemingly uninspiring places into treasures. The square is lined with wide arches and the sculptures on show are all as beautiful as those found in the city’s most famous museums.
Venice
The city of Venice is a must-see destination for travelers from all over the world. It has a lot to offer, from art and culture to landmarks and elements that make it recognizable around the world.
One of the best things to do in Venice is to explore the canals and narrow streets. This is a great way to get a feel for what the city is like and you can see all of the incredible palazzos along the canals.
Another great thing to do in Venice is to walk across the famous Rialto Bridge. This bridge is the oldest and most well-known bridge spanning the Grand Canal. It is known for its amazing architecture and the beautiful views from its vantage point.
During the summer, this bridge can become busy with tourists and vendors. So it's a good idea to visit the bridge in the early morning or late afternoon when you can take your time and enjoy the view.
To avoid the crowds and to make the most of your trip, it's a good idea to join a tour. These tours will save you the hassle of waiting in line, and you'll be able to see all of the highlights of the city.
For some people, the most important part of their trip to Venice is simply to get lost in the beauty of the city. However, if you want to really experience all that this charming town has to offer, it's a good idea to take a few days and explore the different areas of Venice.
The most popular area in Venice is St Mark's Square, home to the basilica of San Marco. The square is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and there are many things to do in this area. You can also go to the Doge's Palace.
When visiting this area, it's a good idea to go inside the basilica to see the beautiful mosaics. There are many places to get a closer look at the interior of this church, including the Treasury that holds the relics of St. Mark, the Pala d'Oro - a Byzantine gold altar screen - and the Transept Chapels.
Verona
The Italian city of Verona is home to many must-see places and attractions. Its charming backstreets, quaint squares and colourful buildings make this a popular tourist destination in the country. A visit to Verona can be a memorable one for history buffs, Italophiles, foodies and wine lovers alike.
The ancient town of Verona was a major Roman settlement, and it boasts the largest open air amphitheatre in Europe. It was built in the 1st century CE, and it remains an important part of the city's history.
Today, the ancient town of Verona is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its architectural highlights include the circuit walls, the large 1st century CE amphitheatre and several monumental gates.
Another famous landmark in Verona is the San Zeno Maggiore basilica. It's an impressive building, made from a warm-colored combination of tufa stone and bricks. It features a striking altarpiece and cloisters that are also stunning.
There are also a few interesting museums in Verona, such as the Museo del Cinema. You can find a wide variety of artefacts here, including sculptures, paintings and other works of art.
If you're interested in shopping, the main streets to explore are Via Mazzini and Corso Porta Borsari. These streets feature shops and boutiques representing both upscale brands and cheaper international chains.
To get a great view of the city, pay a small fee and climb up the Torre dei Lamberti. This medieval tower is 84m tall and offers 360-degree views over the whole city.
You'll need a ticket to climb up the tower, so you'll want to buy yours in advance. You can then admire the beautiful views from the top, while also learning more about the city's history.
Verona is a great place to explore in the winter as well, as there are Christmas markets throughout the city. These are not only fun to visit, but they are also a good way to get out and experience the city at night.
For a romantic walk through the historic center, you may want to take your time and enjoy the lovely Piazza Erbe, which is diamond-shaped and lined with handsome palazzi. It's a lovely place to stroll and chat with locals while you soak up the atmosphere.
Ischia
The most famous Italian island, Ischia, is a beautiful place full of tufa rock, pretty fishing villages and black-sand beaches. It's also a popular holiday destination for locals. While international visitors have traditionally preferred the glitzier shores of nearby Capri or the Amalfi Coast, Ischia's reputation is catching up with its neighbors.
A visit to Ischia is a good way to escape the glitz of Italy's main cities, while still getting a taste of the region's rich culture and history. It's home to a number of attractions that are worth checking out during your stay, from the 15th-century Aragonese Castle in Ischia Ponte to English-style La Mortella Gardens in Forio.
Hiking in Ischia's tufa forests is one of the best ways to discover this island's volcanic past. A trek up Mount Epomeo, a remnant of the island's last eruption, is a good place to begin.
There's no shortage of things to see in Ischia, and many of them are free or very cheap to do. You can hike the cliffs around Punta Spacccarello, or head to the Bosco di Zaro, a series of established trails in a beautifully wooded area on the northern tip of Ischia.
You can also stroll from the port to the village of Ischia Ponte, exploring its quiet back lanes and classic Mediterranean architecture. Then take a trip to the Castello Aragonese, an imposing 15th-century castle that's been a favourite among tourists for centuries.
If you're looking for something a bit more eerie, don't miss the cemetery of the Poor Clares. They had an unusual tradition of propping up their nuns' bodies until they decomposed, and the graveyard is full of these relics.
Another must-see attraction in Ischia is the Villa Arbusto, a museum with a fantastic collection of Roman and Greek artifacts. It's a great spot to learn about the island's fascinating history, and you can even tour the ancient baths in the villa!
Other free attractions in Ischia include Sant'Angelo beach below Serrara Fontana and Sorgeto beach, where you can enjoy a unique experience of bathing in bubbling hot spring water. The bar at Sorgeto serves aperitivo drinks and snacks on floating rubber rings so you can relax in the thermal pools while sipping on an Italian beverage.
