What are some of the most intoxicating places in Italy? Are you planning a trip to this mind-boggling country of Southern Europe and perplexed about which places to cover?
A crown jewel of the Mediterranean, Italy is such a diverse country. Apart from the quaint landscapes, exceptional wines, and astonishing ruins, Italy also serves as one of the magnificent honeymoon destinations of the world. From Da Vinci to Montessori and Versace, the places in Italy serve as home to some of the finest minds of the world. It also has an enormous number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Whenever people think of Europe, the first thing that comes to their mind is a glass of Bordeaux in front of the Eiffel. A visit to Lake Como of Italy will change that mindset! The places in Italy genuinely do live up to their hype and expectations.
Without further ado, let’s get started.
12 most beautiful places in Italy
1. Rome
Let’s commence with the central-western portion of the Italian peninsula, the capital of both Italy and Lazio- Rome.
This is one of the most iconic places in Italy, if not the best, and is a complete tourism juggernaut. More than four million tourists from everywhere around the world rush to this ancient city to have a look at its cobblestoned streets.
Rome has also played host to some of the most significant historical events.
1.1. Colosseum
The architecture present in the places in Italy is truly spectacular, and the Colosseum is living evidence of the same fact. The moment you step a foot inside the Colosseum, you can begin to imagine your life as a gladiator.
1.2. Roman Forum
Walk a few steps from the Colosseum, and have a look at the Roman Forum. This is an original representation of what it used to be like before during the Roman Empire. Elections, prosecutions, markets, and processions were a day-to-day activity here.
1.3. Trevi Fountain
If you need some good luck, keep some loose changes in hand and try to get back your luck by throwing a euro in the sparkling waters of the Trevi Fountain.
1.4. Pantheon
Pave your way inside the shadow cloaked Pantheon in case it gets scorching. This is an example of how well the Roman preserves and take care of their history!
1.5. Vatican City
A visit to Rome is inadequate without the glorious Vatican City! St. Peter’s Basilica- one of the most eminent churches in the world is a real gem here. It is revered for its imposing dome and vast halls. The Basilica is a symbol of opulence as well as grandeur.
1.6. St. Peter’s Square
Step foot into the Sistine Chapel to see the world-famous Michaelangelo’s ceiling painting. Do check out the Piazza del Popolo, too, for some impressive Instagram photos.
You won’t be able to realize or understand the grace and charm of these places in Italy till you experience the beauty with your own two eyes.
2. Pompeii
You can venture for Pompeii on a day-trip from Rome as it is just a three-hour drive. Pompeii, which was once one of the most flourishing and sophisticated places in Italy, met a tragic fate when it fell prey to the eruption of Mt. Vesuvius back in 79 A.D. The city was enveloped in ashes and soot for almost a thousand years after that!
Pompeii, which looks like an archaeological sit at first glance, has more to it when you step foot. Pompeii deserves a special mention for its well-maintained ruins. Some of the things are still buried in ashes and pumice as an aftermath of the volcanic activity.
Tourists can take a look at the ruins that represent the ancient way of living.
Sorrento Peninsula is an hour’s drive from Pompeii. Enjoy a culinary experience unique to the region. See how one of the most beloved cheeses of the world- Mozzarella is made.
3. Island of Capri
Catch a boat to visit the divine Island of Capri. It is a tiny hill town situated in the Bay of Naples. It’s the rugged yet undeniably picturesque landscape is to die for. Both Italians and foreigners choose Capri- one of the isolated places in Italy for a weekend getaway.
3.1. Blue grotto
Take a boat to the heavenly lit blue grotto. This almost feels like a magical lagoon that has been illuminated by turquoise blue waters.
3.2. Funicular Railway
Experience the small town like never before. Take a trip around in its funicular railways and explore its winding alleyways in a new innovative way. Please pay a visit to its dreamy gardens of Augustus and do shop in the exclusive cute little boutiques all over the place.
3.3. Tyrrhenian Sea
Finally, sit down for a glass of Aperitif and breathe in the exquisite picture-perfect views of the mousseux Tyrrhenian Sea. After all, these are the moments we long for!
4. Amalfi coast
This 50 kilometers long stretch of phenomenal coastline line consisting of pastel-colored fishing villages and quaint beaches will give you a warm welcome upon arrival.
4.1. Positano
Stop to admire a view of the terraced houses of the artist’s paradise of Positano. Clinging to the cliff, this town is a gorgeous gem embedded in the Amalfi coast.
Before traveling to the center of the town where you can shop at the local boutiques, explore the Arab style gardens. Have your breath taken away inside the Grand Amalfi Cathedral.
The facade of the cathedral is only matched by its interior, which features a dramatic boxed ceiling, Egyptian granite columns, and large crucifixes constructed from wood.
4.2 Ravello
This is one of the most adorable places in Italy for the art lovers out there. Ravello is also known for its cute villas and is indeed a posh town located in the heart of the Amalfi coast.
5. Naples
This is indeed one of the exotic places in Italy. Apart from being the epitome of art and architecture, Naples is also home to any historical sites as well. Overall it gives off vibrant vibes and has some of the best nightlife of Italy.
5.1. The art of culinary
This is also one of the exclusive places in Italy that are among the few great pizza places in the world. Not only pizza, other Italian delicacies like Spaghetti and Parmigiana are also the brainchild of the talented chefs of Naples. The people here take pride in their cuisine and support sustainable dining.
6. Italian Lake District
One of the extraordinary tourist places in Italy, the Italian Lake District, is mainly located across entire Northern Italy. The northern parts of the lakes are relatively higher than the southern regions as they dive deep into the Alps.
If your heart aches for good weather as well as stunning scenic beauties, this is a must-visit in Italy.
6.1. Garda
Garda is the largest lake and offers breath-taking views of the mountains.
6.2. Lake Como
But Lake Como is stunning on a different level. The mountain sceneries are marvelous, and some people even consider this to be a piece of paradise. The forests that are located at its water’s edges complete the look.
6.3. Maggiore
Maggiore is located further west from Lake Como. Though it is not as popular as the other two, it offers some of the best views too. If you want to isolate yourself and take in what nature has to offer, then Maggiore is the place for you.
7. Cinque Terre
The name means five villages and is one of the best places in Italy. It includes five villages namely Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore.
Located in the Liguria region of Italy, Cinque Terre comprises of majestic landscapes and ancient wine terraces that are almost a hundred years old. The cliffs of this region pave the path for many iconic hiking trails. 
The blue trail is the most famous one as it joins all the five villages. Again, it is not too steep or difficult, and people of all ages can use this trail.
8. Milan
Though thoroughly destroyed by WWII, Milan still shines as one of the wealthiest places in Italy and as well as the world.
This is the fashion hub of Italy and is bubbling with iconic shops of different world-class fashion icons. Leonardo da Vinci’s painting ‘The Last Supper’ is also one of the many reasons behind this city’s incredible popularity.
Sforzesco Castle is a shining beauty here in Milan. This city is also home to one of the world’s largest and renowned Gothic Churches- the Castello Sforzesco. 
For all the opera fans out there, the La Scala Opera House is your piece of opera paradise on earth.
9. Tuscany
Tuscany, an example of excellence, is yet another one of the gorgeous places in Italy. World-famous for its vineyards and succulent grapes, this place is too popular among tourists.
9.1. Siena
Siena is such a city in Tuscany that is overflowing with its share of charms. The 14th-century medieval buildings, especially the Torre del Mangia, define the beauty of Siena. 
Consider climbing to the top of the Torre del Mangia if you want to be swept away by the views of the city and its wineries. Tip: Don’t forget to taste the country’s finest gelatos here in the streets of Siena.
9.2. San Gimignano
The medieval architecture is a confluence of both Romanesque as well as Gothic style. This intricate architecture lits up the entire town of San Gimignano. The town is known for its white wine and saffron.
9.3. Elba
Elba is a beautiful Tuscan island. Located in the Tyrrhenian Sea, this island is very close to Corsica of France.
9.4. Pisa
All of you are well acquainted with the Leaning Tower of Pisa. But did you know there are other astonishing places in Pisa? Piazza Dei Miracoli and Cattedrale di Pisa are the two other architectural buildings that are located just beside the Leaning Tower. 
9.5. Florence
The capital of the Tuscany region- Florence, is another one of the best places in Italy. The city attracts a huge crowd for its mesmerizing beauty.
The terracotta tiled Duomo is an exquisite sight here.
10. Venice
Venice is one of the most alluring places in Italy, if not entire Europe. This whole city is so unique that it is built upon a bayou and is surrounded by the Adriatic Sea. This archipelago that comprises of almost 118 islands, has a network of bridges, tunnels, and canals.
One of the most iconic canals is named the Grand Canal. This canal has also taken upon the responsibility of diving the entire city into two different halves. Venice is also considered a lovers spot.
The Square and Basilica of St. Mark and Rialto bridge are some names that are worth mentioning. Take a private boat or a gondola and take a magical tour of the winding canals with your date! 
11. Sicily
Apart from being the largest island of the Mediterranean Sea, Sicily is one of the most visited and picturesque places in Italy. The art and culture scenes of Sicily are thriving, and it is also home to the Mediterranean culture. Make sure that you check out Palermo’s Baroque churches.
Sicily is home to Mt.Etna, which is the tallest active volcano of Europe.
12. Modena
This can be considered a hidden gem in Italy. Apart from its enthralling landscapes, it is also an exciting place for all the automobile enthusiasts as it is close to Maranello, which is the home of the Ferrari Museum.
Admire the stunning variety of luxury cars that are put on display in the main Pavillion. Enjoy the showcase that speaks of the spectacular tales of Enzo Ferrari himself. There are also stunning projection displays that show you all the details of automobile making.
These are just some of the most striking places in Italy that you need to check out on your next trip. But keep this in mind that this country has an endless option of captivating beauties to offer.
What are some of the must-visit places in Italy in your view? Let us know down in the comments if you ever have been to any of these places in Italy. Also, click here if you are interested to know about more gorgeous locations like this!
Last Updated on by Nitisha Upadhye
Want to go Rome…