Imagine sipping an espresso & watching the sun set over the Amalfi Coast, or walking the streets of Venice or Rome while travelling through Italy. Doesn’t it feel like a dream?
Italy is a journey through ancient history, Renaissance art, delicious cuisine, and coastal paradises that should be on everyone’s travel bucket list. It’s not just a straightforward destination. Everyone will want to see some of the famous sites and landmarks, of course, but in order to experience Italy completely, one must also explore some lesser-known gems and attractions that capture the essence of the nation.
Whether you’re traveling up and down the country in luxury by plane, or interrailing with just a backpack and a few friends, you’ve got plenty of adventures to do. Here are eight unforgettable sights that should be on every traveler’s Italian itinerary to fully explore the authentic Italy has to offer.
One of Italy’s most well-known landmarks, the Colosseum is a must-see if you’re going there. Constructed in 80 AD, the Colosseum is one of Rome’s most iconic landmarks and a symbol of Italy’s glorious past. You can visualize the great gladiator battles of the past and picture yourself crossing enormous arches. The Colosseum largest ancient amphitheatre ever built, is the largest standing amphitheatre in the world.
You can appreciate the engineering ingenuity and architectural design work that went into this historic site, in addition to its impressive appearance. When visiting the Colosseum, it’s a good idea to arrive early in the morning to avoid the afternoon tourist crush and long lines. Therefore, you should also pre-order. Opting for a guided tour can give you a richer understanding and context, leading to a more magical experience.
The Canals of Venice
Built on water and renowned for its system of canals, Venice is another famous landmark in Italy. Enjoy a gondola ride over the city beneath the Bridge of Sighs and take in the canal’s reflection of opulent residences and tall retail establishments. An unforgettable experience is created at night when Venice’s sparkling lights resemble the sky in a movie.
Other must-sees include the Doge’s Palace, St. Mark’s Square, and the Rialto Bridge, where you can take an afternoon tour of the city and see the variety of Italian architecture while travelling through Italy.Visit in the spring or fall if you want to go when it’s quieter, or if you’re going in the summer, check out the side canals for quieter attractions.
Florence's Duomo and Renaissance Art
Some of the best and most recognizable examples of Renaissance art, architecture, and culture can be found in the outdoor museum, which is located in Florence, the birthplace of Renaissance art. Visit the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, one of the biggest and most striking churches in the world, with its geometric and floral designs, for additional architecture and art. It was designed by Brunelleschi. Make sure to reserve your spot in advance at the museums to avoid missing the must-see Michelangelo’s notorious David and Botticelli’s The Birth of Venus.
- The Duomo refers to the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore in Florence, Italy.
- According to britannica, when it was consecrated in 1436, it was the largest church in the world, holding up to 30,000 people.
The Leaning Tower of Pisa
Completed inside the 14th century, the sector-famous leaning tower of Pisa is a feat of science, and also notable for the classic ‘holding up the tower photograph to proportion with pals and circle of relatives. But the amusement would not prevent you there, you can go to the relaxation of the Piazza dei Miracoli or the Square of Miracles, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that includes the leaning tower.
Monuments consist of the Duomo di Pisa, which is a grand cathedral and a masterpiece of Romanesque architecture, and the baptistry, a circular construction dedicated to baptism and built in 1152.
The Amalfi Coast
Situated on Italy’s west coast, the Amalfi Coast is a striking stretch of cliffs, charming and vibrant little towns, and azure waters. Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello are the main towns to visit; they provide picture-perfect views from the edge of high cliffs.
According to the amalfi coast wikipedia, one of the coolest natural attractions is the Grotta dello Smeraldo (“Emerald Grotto”), a sea cave where sunlight makes the water glow emerald green.
You can take a boat trip to Capri after riding a Vespa along the winding coastal roads when you’re not on the beach or sipping an Aperol spritz on the balcony. Try to go between May and September for the best tan and the height of the season if you enjoy the sun, the sea, and a leisurely pace.
The Ruins of Pompeii
Pompeii is well-known for its historical significance, which has been preserved for the present. Mount Vesuvius, buried in ash, erupted in 79 AD, preserving the ancient civilization and producing one of the world’s best archaeological sites. For an eerie look into the lives of Italians hundreds of years ago, you could spend a whole day walking through the streets, houses, and frescoes. This is more immersive than any museum and gives you a hands-on experience that you will remember forever.
It is recommended that you purchase a neighborhood guide for the tour to gain additional context. You can also hike up Mount Vesuvius for a great view of Pompeii.
Lake Como
On the other end of the scale, Lake Como offers serenity and elegance. Heading to the north of Italy, these great lakes are surrounded by mountains and elegant villas. When you’re not lounging by the lake, you can take a day trip by ferry between Bellagio, Varenna, and Como town to explore the lakeside gardens and Trattorias. Adored by celebs and nature lovers alike, Lake Como is a must-see destination for a calm and toned-down experience to remember.
Verona
The city of Romance, Verona, is also in northern Italy in the Veneto region, and often overshadowed by Venice and Rome, but it should receive more attention. Made famous by Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, you can go and visit Juliet’s balcony, located in the beautifully preserved old town. The town is also home to an ancient Roman Arena that still hosts operas that you can purchase tickets to see.
Another highlight is the Adige River. A great evening walk involves crossing the Ponte Pietra, Verona’s oldest Roman monument, and finishing the evening with a glass of local wine whilst watching the sunset.
Get visiting!
Italy boasts an incredible wealth of attractions, from breathtaking architecture to stunning natural landscapes, offering something to captivate every traveller. It is truly a destination that could make you consider swapping your british citizenship for an Italian one. So what are you waiting for? Book your next trip to Italy now!
