Bell’Italia! Imagine stepping into a country where each city is a chapter of a grand, unfolding story, where history whispers from cobblestone alleys, and every meal celebrates centuries-old traditions. Welcome to Italy, a heartwarming country where culture, eons of history, art, and gastronomy intertwine to create an exquisite tapestry of experiences. Paring Italy down to five cities isn’t easy. There are hundreds of charming small towns and picturesque burgs, where a fascinating mix of history, culture, and scenery hits you smack dab in the face. In today’s post, I’m sharing some of the cities I’ve enjoyed so far – this includes some classics and under-appreciated gems, ensuring you can experience the full spectrum of Italy’s charm.
Tourists and travel experts have long agreed that Italy is special place, so much so that the country has become a de facto bucket list destination for just about everyone. From verdant Tuscan vineyards and the serene canals of Venice to world-class fashion and phenomenal hiking trails, it’s easy to get overwhelmed when planning the right destinations for your perfect Italian itinerary. The first step, securing your Italy visa is relatively easy; the second, and oftentimes the most difficult, is the planning, hence came the need to create a list of my favorites to help you make the most of your trip.
Honestly, it doesn’t matter if you’ve been to Italy once, twice, or fifty times, I’m almost certain you’ll dream of going back to experience more. So here are some of the best cities in Italy to visit as a first-timer.
Let’s dive in,
1. Bolzano & The Dolomites
The Dolomites scratched an itch that I didn’t even know existed. From the very first day exploring the streets of Bolzano to getting lost along the hiking trails of Alpe Di Siusi, I spent two amazing weeks in the Northern region of Italy in a complete state of awe. The Dolomites is not a city, but rather a part of the Alpine mountain range that extends through the very heart of Europe. Imagine endless plains of lush greenery, serene, well-kept hiking trails, scenic drives, cable cars to spectacular viewpoints, and winter sports, along with a mouthwatering and hearty Austrian/Italian fusion cuisine are some of this area’s highlights.
This mountain range in northern Italy, a declared UNESCO World Heritage Site, was made for adventurous travelers who want to spend time connecting with nature (350,000 acres of it, to be exact). It’s an affordable entry point to the Alps without the hefty price tag that you’ll find in neighboring countries, like Switzerland and Austria.
Ortisei, Bolzano, or Cortina d’Ampezzo are the three cities to consider for accommodations. Bolzano is the biggest city to visit in this area and boasts an assortment of dining options, and shopping, as well as a convenient transportation system that will take you to a majority of the best hiking trails and sights in the area.
Explore on foot along one of the region’s many hiking trails, or visit in winter to hit the slopes. Other top sights include the Three Peaks, one of the Dolomites’ most recognizable features; and Alpe Di Siusi, the highest alpine meadow in Europe. As someone who has had the opportunity to hike some of the most renowned trails in the world, the Dolomites is — so far and by far — my favorite.
2. Florence:
There’s no question that Florence lives up to its nickname: the cradle of the Renaissance. Situated in the scenic Tuscan valley, Florence woos travelers with beautiful art galleries, historic streets, and amazing culinary experiences you just can’t have anywhere else. While walking through the streets you’ll easily understand why many of the most famous Italian artists and writers hail from there – it’s easy to feel inspired here.
In Florence, every stone and street has a story. The Tuscan capital’s dense pedestrian historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, packs plenty to keep your days full: the Duomo Cathedral, the Uffizi Galleries, Piazza della Signoria, Boboli Gardens, the Medici Chapels, and Santa Croce. While you’re soaking up the splendor, visit the romantic Ponte Vecchio, a 14th-century bridge overlooking the Arno River. Florence offers art aficionados the opportunity to see famous art pieces, from Michelangelo’s Statue of David to Botticelli’s masterpiece known as The Birth of Venus.
The cuisine offers a glimpse of the region’s heritage with dishes like “Pappa al Pomodoro” and “Ribollita,” which skillfully combine current ingredients with classic Tuscan cuisine. Savor the city’s famed Gelato and the legendary “Bistecca alla Fiorentina,” a must-try T-bone steak that’s commonly served over a glass of Chianti.
End your art-filled adventure with a glass of wine at the Piazzale Michelangelo, an iconic viewpoint that rewards visitors with incredible views and a glorious sunset to complete the day.
3. Milan:
Milan, Italy’s fashion heartbeat, presents a cosmopolitan façade that blends cutting-edge design with ancient wonders. This city is a testament to Italy’s ability to seamlessly merge the new with the old. As a premier destination for fashion, you can spend many days here visiting all the retail shops around Monte Napoleone and still feel like you have more to see. After some retail therapy, visit the magnificent Milan Cathedral (Duomo), or grab a drink along the canals in the very trendy Navigli district.
The 15th-century Sforza Castle has fascinating museums and historical interest for history buffs. Parco Sempione is a park that is free from the hustle and provides relief from hectic sightseeing.
There are several great destinations close to Milan, namely Lake Como which lies around 50 minutes outside the city. Italy falls into the Schengen zone so a Schengen visa comes in handy, especially if you want to visit other destinations from one of Milan’s three international airports.
4. Venice
Walking around Venice is, well, nothing less than idyllic. The atmospheric city built on water takes one back in time with a dazzling labyrinth of canals and bridges lined with Gothic architecture, dazzling palazzos, ornate churches, and moody corridors. And, while it’s notoriously easy to get lost, actually doing so adds to the joy of discovery. You never know where you might find the next romantic secret garden or scenic bar to enjoy a refreshing glass of Aperol spritz while gushing over the classical scenery.
People either love or hate Venice, and after spending a few days over the weekend in the city, I can understand why: it’s not a place to go without proper planning. Virtually all year round, it’s crowded, overpriced, confusing to first-timers (just what is the difference between a gondola, a vaporetto, and a traghetto: aren’t they all boats?) and, too often, the scene of many an Italian culinary murder. The city may indeed be geographically absurd, but it is transcendently, almost painfully beautiful, and entirely mesmerizing for romantics once you cut through all the clutter.
The Floating City is even more ethereal at water level, especially atop a gondola to observe the labyrinth from a different perspective. This city of canals attracts visitors to St. Mark’s Square, Doges Palace, the Gallerie dell’Accademia, and Peggy Guggenheim Collection museums, as well as the Teatro La Fenice opera house. Once you’ve had your fill of Venice, visitors can opt for a day trip to the surrounding islands: Murano and Burano being the most popular.
5. Rome:
Anyone who has never set foot in Rome may just as well say that he has never seen Italy. Rome, the country’s capital, proffers an empirical history that somehow is still alive and kicking, not past and done with, much like Istanbul’s. Rome is a museum unto itself. Referred to as “The Eternal City,” it is home to Vatican City, the Trevi Fountain, the Forum Romanum, and the Colosseum among other milestones and archaeological landmarks. Savor the delicious pasta dishes and walk through the narrow alleys admiring the blend of Rome’s modern and ancient spirit. Something amazing is to be found on every hill, every square, and every street.
There’s plenty to do here: such as seeing the historical Trastevere district, trying the local pasta dishes including the Carbonara or Cacio e Pepe, or relaxing with a live music jam around Piazza Navona. Those who know Italy say that Rome is not a location but an emotion! Proper planning will help you see many of the best destinations in the city in only three days, but make sure you book everything (including your Italy visa) in advance!
Meravigliosa Italia
Home to rich culture, historical landmarks, as well as natural wonders, it’s easy to understand why one can hardly find a boring city in Italy. I guarantee that you won’t be disappointed with any one of these destinations, and if you have any suggestions for alternative cities to visit, definitely let us know in the comments!
