13 amazing places in Italy to add to you itinerary. Everything travel. Forever Living Yes.
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ITALY – 13 Amazing Cities To Add To Your Itinerary!

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What Cities In Italy Will You Visit?

Italy is a stunning country that draws every type of traveller from all over the world, and it’s easy to see why. Famous for its rich cultural heritage, mouthwatering cuisine, and iconic landmarks, Italy is a place where every street, piazza, and coastline has a story to tell.

Foodies, prepare yourselves, Italy is a never-ending feast. From wood-fired pizzas to creamy risottos, fresh pasta, and heavenly tiramisu, there’s something to satisfy every craving. Whether you’re wandering through pretty cobblestone streets, sipping espresso in a sunlit cafe with views, or enjoying a romantic gondola ride, Italy offers experiences that appeal to every type of traveller.

With so many incredible places to explore, it can be tricky to know where to start. In this blog, I’ll take you through 13 beautiful Italian cities to visit in 2026, each one packed with culture, history, and unforgettable experiences. And while I’m not ranking them in any particular order, I promise each city has its own magic waiting to be discovered.

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Language & Currency & Transport In Italy

Currency: Italy uses the Euro (€). Credit and debit cards are accepted almost everywhere, but it’s handy to carry some cash for small cafes, markets, and local shops.

Language: The official language is Italian. While English is widely spoken in tourist areas and with younger generations, learning a few phrases like ‘Ciao’ (hello) or ‘Grazie’ (thank you) goes a long way with locals.

Transport: Italy is well connected by trains, buses, and domestic flights. Within cities, walking is often the best way to explore, but public transport, taxis, and rideshares make getting around easy. High-speed trains between major cities like Rome, Florence, Milan, and Venice are fast, convenient, and a great way to see the country.

Venice

Venice is pure magic and is often referred to as the ‘City of Canals’. Think winding canals, pastel-coloured buildings, and gondolas gliding by as you wander tiny cobblestone streets. St. Mark’s Square and the Doge’s Palace are must-sees, but honestly, the best part is getting a little lost and discovering quiet corners, hidden cafes, and secret bridges. Don’t forget a gelato in hand, it just makes everything feel even more unreal as you explore these streets of Italy.

You should 100 per cent visit Venice because it is unlike anywhere else in the world. Every turn offers something new to admire, from historic architecture to peaceful waterways. Whether you are exploring famous landmarks or stumbling across quiet streets and family-run cafes, the city has a way of making every moment feel unforgettable.

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Romantic gondola ride near Rialto Bridge in Venice, Italy.

Fun Things To Do In Venice

  • St. Mark’s Basilica & Doge’s Palace: If you’re searching for a rich history in the streets of Venice, this 3-hour St.Mark’s Basilica & Doge’s Palace Guided Tour does just that. They will take you to the most iconic landmarks where you’ll learn about the city’s fascinating past, witness Tintoretto’s stunning frescoes, and ascend the majestic Giant’s Staircase for breathtaking views.
  • Vivaldi’s Four Seasons: For a musical treat, pre-book a ticket to the Four Seasons Concert at Cuola Grande di San Teodoro. The 90-minute show will whisk you back to 18th-century Venice, with performers dressed in traditional Venetian costumes. Tickets are in high demand, so book early to avoid missing out on this unforgettable experience.

Best Excursions!

– Venice

🩵 Looking for Accomodation? Check out Beautiful Places To Stay for hotels to stay in Venice.

Rome

Rome, the capital city of Italy, is a city where history is everywhere you look. From the Colosseum to the Roman Forum and countless piazzas, there is a constant sense of awe and discovery. Walking through the streets, you are surrounded by centuries of architecture, art, culture, and yummy food and pizza spots.

You should definitely visit Rome, it is a city full of energy and wonder. Whether you are exploring iconic landmarks, wandering charming neighbourhoods, or enjoying authentic Italian cuisine, every moment feels extraordinary and unforgettable. I spent 36 hours in Rome and jam-packed it with activities, which were just epic!

Please note that the Jubilee will be in full swing from 24 December 2024 to January 6th 2026. Expect many more visitors than usual, and consider this special event when prepping and planning your visit to Rome.

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Rome, the Colosseum. Credit: SCStock (Adobe)

Fun Things To Do In Rome

  • The Vatican: A trip to Rome isn’t complete without a visit to the Vatican. You must visit the Vatican Museums, the Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica! You can take a Vatican Guided Tour, which is super worth it because it gives you fast-track access to skip long queues (the queues were like 500+ people). You’ll also experience one of the holiest sites in Christendom up close and personal, with a guide providing fascinating insights.
  • Hop-On-Hop-Off (HOHO) Bus: For the best value and convenience of getting around, hop on a HOHO Bus. This allows you to see all the top attractions in Rome at your own pace. Get on and off at any stop to explore the city’s wonders, from historical landmarks to hidden gems. It’s the perfect way to cover multiple sights without breaking the bank, and my favourite activity to do in every country and city!

Best Excursions!

– Rome

🩵 Looking for hotels in Italy? Check out Beautiful Places To Stay for places to stay in Rome.

Milan

Milan is Italy’s most modern and stylish heartbeat. Home to designer boutiques, contemporary art, and stunning architecture like the Duomo, the city blends history with modern flair. Expect to find cafes, galleries, and quiet streets that give the city a surprisingly relaxed and welcoming vibe.

You should add Milan to your travel itinerary, as it offers a perfect mix of culture, fashion, and food. From world-famous shopping to incredible art and architecture, it is a city that inspires and leaves you wanting to snap up every corner. It’s the perfect day or two stop in Italy.

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Piazza del Duomo in Milan. Credit: MoustacheGirl (Adobe)

Fun Things To Do In Milan

  • Milan’s Iconic Duomo: Visit Milan’s iconic symbol with a Guided & Headset Tour to Duomo, including the terraces, the museum, and its 600-year-old cathedral. Learn about the cathedral’s history while enjoying panoramic city views from the balcony. This is a super popular attraction, one of Milan’s top sights, which is worth skipping the queue for, so don’t miss out!
  • Bernina Red Train, Swiss Alps & St Moritz: Take an epic scenic journey to the highest train-accessible point in Europe, exploring the stunning Swiss Alps and the luxurious resort town of Saint Moritz in Switzerland’s Engadin Valley. Then, board the Bernina Red Train for a breathtaking 2.5-hour ride along a dramatic alpine route recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site on this cool Bernina Red Train, Swiss Alps & Moritz Tour!

Best Excursions!

– Milan

🩵 Searching for places to stay? The Beautiful Places To Stay guide includes hotels in Milan.

Tuscany/Florence

Take a trip to Tuscany/Florence, one of Italy’s most Instagrammable destinations. Every street corner has a cathedral, a gelato shop, or a piece of art older than most countries. It’s popular for sipping wine, eating pasta, and enjoying postcard views.

You can add this to your itinerary, like the millions of visitors who explore there yearly, flocking to see its historic centre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This romantic destination is for the heart. If you want an exciting multi-destination adventure, consider taking a ferry from Ancona to the beautiful country of Montenegro!

Landscape of a farmhouse, hills, and vineyard in Florence, Tuscany. Everythingtravel.

Landscape of a farmhouse, hills, and vineyard in Florence. Credit: Photocreo Bednarek (Adobe)

Fun Things To Do In Tuscany/Florence

  • Pisa, Siena, & San Gimignano: Experience the best of Tuscany in one unforgettable day. From Florence, visit the iconic towns of Pisa, Siena, and San Gimignano, each offering its own slice of Italian beauty. Wander Siena’s stunning main square and admire its Gothic cathedral before enjoying a delicious three-course Tuscan lunch with local wine. Then, explore the charming medieval streets of San Gimignano before heading to Pisa to snap a photo of the world-famous Leaning Tower up close.
  • Line Skip: Enjoy priority entry to Italy’s greatest art treasures with a Priority Uffizi Gallery Entrance Ticket. On this trip, you’ll see masterpieces by Michelangelo, Da Vinci, and Giotto inside. It also includes an audio guide that explains Florence’s masterpieces at your own pace. This is a must-see for art lovers!

Best Excursions!

– Tuscany/Florence

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🩵 Check out Beautiful Places To Stay In Italy for hotels in Tuscany/Florence.

Naples

Naples is vibrant, lively, and full of character. Narrow streets, bustling markets, and centuries of history give the city an energy all its own. From stunning views of the Bay of Naples to famous landmarks like the historic centre, there is always something to discover.

You should definitely make Naples a priority, as it is the birthplace of pizza and Italian culture at their most authentic. The city’s atmosphere, food, and history make every visit feel rich and unforgettable; add it to your itinerary!

view of Naples, Italy. 13 cities to visit in Italy.

View of Positano – A famous old Italian resort in Naples. Credit: Neirfy (Adobe)

Fun Things To Do In Naples

  • Naples City & Underground: Enjoy the underground City of Naples with an entry ticket and guided tour in the heart of the historic centre. Your guide will take you through 2,400 years of history while you admire the remains of the Greek-Roman Aqueduct and the Roman Theatre on a City & Underground Tour.
  • Street Food Tour: As the birthplace of pizza, Naples is the destination to experience authentic, delicious treats on a guided Street Food Tour. Join a local guide who knows all the hidden gems and best street food spots in the city. As you wander through Naples’ lively streets, you’ll learn about its rich culinary traditions while tasting local favourites such as folded pizza, meatballs, taralli, and crispy crocche.

Best Excursions!

– Naples

🩵 Check out Beautiful Places To Stay In Italy for hotels to stay in Naples.

Palermo

Palermo, the capital of Sicily, is Italy’s rebellious teenager: loud, proud, and full of drama. Picture a city where every building has survived at least three invasions, and people argue passionately about whose grandma makes the best cannoli.

Palermo is one of those places that you just can’t hate. It’s chaotic but charming, with such good vibes. You should 100 per cent visit Palermo because it offers a unique Sicilian experience unlike anywhere else. The food, culture, and lively streets combine to make every moment exciting and memorable. You’d be crazy not to add it to your itinerary!

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Cefalu, a medieval village in Palermo. Credit: Balate Dorin (Adobe)

Fun Things To Do In Palermo

  • Ancient Greek Temples: Take the Valley of the Temples Tour from Palermo to explore the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Hera, Concordia, and Apollo. You’ll visit Palermo’s museums, learn about the country’s rich history, and enjoy the sights at your own pace.
  • Western Sicily: Discover three top sites in western Sicily on a full-day tour to Segesta, Erice, and the Salt Pans of Trapani. This 8-hour tour brings good vibes and views, with the sites being relatively close to Palermo, giving you plenty of time to explore each location. It’s an epic tour to consider!

Fun Excursions!

– Palermo & More Cities

🩵 Check out Beautiful Places To Stay In Italy for hotels in Palermo/Sicily.

Lake Como

Lake Como, Italy’s glamorous celebrity hideout, is an Instagrammable spot you’ve probably seen on your timelines. It’s a beautiful place with peaceful vibes and great photo opportunities. Stunning mountains and boujee villas surround you, perfect for the ultimate retreat.

You should definitely add Lake Como to your travel itinerary, because it is a peaceful escape that combines natural beauty with Italian charm. Whether you are taking a boat ride or exploring small towns along the shore, it is a place you will never forget. If you’re looking for some downtime and have limited time during your trip to Italy, Lake Como is the one location you MUST stop by.

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The park of Villa Balbianello in Lenno, Lake Como. Credit: Fischers (Adobe)

Fun Things To Do In Lake Como

  • Classic Wooden Boat: Opt for a Classic Wooden Boat for an unforgettable time! With elegant wooden interiors, leather seating, and heating for cooler months, it offers year-round comfort and luxury for up to 11 guests. Complete with sun awnings, weather covers, and refreshing drinks on board, the boat tour promises an unforgettable experience as you explore Lake Como’s hidden gems, breathtaking villas, and exclusive hotels.
  • Discover Italy & Switzerland: As if Lake Como isn’t enough, add to its beauty with a one-day guided tour to explore the best of Italy and Switzerland via Lake Como. This tour includes visits to the beautiful towns of Bellagio and Lugano. Your guide will share interesting facts about Lake Como and recommend activities during your free time at each stop.

🩵 Check out Beautiful Places To Stay In Italy for hotels in Lake Como.

Genoa

Genoa, well known for being Christopher Columbus’s birthplace, is a great city to visit if you’re a fan of architecture. Its grand buildings and ancient alleyways attract travellers seeking great photo spots. Although it’s not as popular as Rome, it’s a nicer way to experience Italy without the heavy tourism; the pictures will be lit!

You should consider visiting Genoa because it combines history, culture, and authentic Italian life. From the harbour to the historic streets, Genoa will leave you feeling like you learned something cool about Italy.

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Piazza del Ferrari is the main square in Genoa. Credit: Sergey Yarochkin (Adobe)

Fun Things To Do In Genoa

  • Aquarium of Genoa: Explore the Aquarium of Genoa, Europe’s largest display of aquatic biodiversity! Home to over 5,000 animals from 400 species, you’ll see everything from seals and jellyfish to penguins and sharks. Don’t miss the bottlenose dolphins in the open-air pools of the Cetacean Pavilion, designed by Renzo Piano. I love a good aquarium!
  • Guided Walking Tour of Genoa: Get a vibe for the city on a two-hour guided walking tour to uncover Genoa’s many treasures. You’ll explore the stunning Palazzi dei Rolli, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and visit various landmarks and museums. This tour is a fantastic way to see Genoa’s iconic sites.

Best Excursions!

– Genoa & More Cities

🩵 Check out Beautiful Places To Stay In Italy for hotels in Genoa.

Bari

Bari, the capital of Italy’s Puglia region, is where the locals’ vibes make it feel more like a community. It’s a mix of the old and the new, offering more than people know; it’s an underrated gem. Bari is home to beaches, amazing pasta, and the Basilica of Saint Nicholas (yep, the guy who inspired Santa). It’s also a great place to visit if you’re looking for a buzzing nightlife atmosphere.

If you’re also looking for a multi-destination adventure, you can hop over on a ferry from Bari to the beautiful Greek Islands, Croatia, and Albania. Now, what an adventure that would be!

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Alleyway in the old white town of Bari, Puglia, Southern Italy. Credit: Kanturu (Adobe)

Fun Things To Do In Bari

  • Rickshaw Food Tour: Treat yourself to sightseeing and food tasting on a Rickshaw Food Tour. You’ll ride the narrow streets with an expert guide and catch glimpses of elderly ladies making pasta and kids playing on the streets. It’s a delightful insight into the daily life of Italians in Bari. whilst tasting delicious local delicacies!
  • Pasta Experience Walking Tour: Don’t miss the chance to learn the art of making Italian pasta in Bari. On this Pasta Experience Walking Tour, your local guide will show you through the city before stopping at a local house in the Old Town to learn how to make pasta. Enjoy a glass of red wine to finish off the tour. It’s a mouthwatering and authentic Italian experience!

Best Excursions!

– Bari

🩵 Check out Beautiful Places To Stay In Italy for hotels to stay in Bari.

Catania

The vibrant city of Catania is a great destination to add to your Italy travel itinerary! It sits at the foot of the ever-rumbling Mount Etna! Here, you’ll find the locals are so chilled yet ready to dodge lava at any moment. The volcano also plays a part in how the city looks, with a mix of Baroque beauty and volcanic black lava stones making everything look like it was designed by someone who just really loves charcoal. It’s definitely a destination that will intrigue you.

Catania blends history, culture, and natural beauty in a way few cities can. From exploring the markets to seeing Etna’s power up close, this Sicilian city will leave a lasting impression.

Catania, Italy. 13 destinations to visit in this European place. Everything travel.

The Basilica di Sant’Agata and the Chiesa della Badia di Sant’Agata are in Catania’s main square. Credit: Renata Sedmakova (Adobe)

Fun Things To See in Catania

  • Explore Mount Etna: A trip to Catania isn’t complete without exploring Mount Etna! Join the Mount Etna Morning or Sunset Trip for an epic day out. You’ll ascend 2,000 meters with your experienced guide to explore Mount Etna’s craters, landscape, and lava flow cave. Afterwards, indulge in a tasting tour featuring Sicilian Cantucci biscuits and Zibibbo wine at Europe’s tallest active volcano.
  • Custom Private Tour: Discover Sicily’s second-largest city your way with this Private Customizable Tour. Pick your preferred duration and choose your interests, such as history, food, or local life. Then set off to explore Catania like a true local, uncovering hidden gems, learning fascinating stories, and getting insider tips on the best places to eat, see, and experience.
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🩵 Check out Beautiful Places To Stay In Italy for hotels in Catania.

Sorrento

Sorrento is a postcard-perfect place with stunning cliffs, clear blue waters, and lemon trees, basically, the ultimate Mediterranean dream. Here, you could take Instagram-worthy shots that show everyone you’re living your best YES. You can also hop over to Capri from Sorrento, making this spot a great base for exploring and relaxing in this colourful beauty.

So, if you’re looking to unwind in a little less touristic spot and prefer chilled vibes, Sorrento is the spot to add to your Italian travel bucket list.

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Small fishing boats are at Marina Grande Harbour in Sorrento. CreditL Gistel (Adobe)

Fun Things To Do In Sorrento

  • Positano, Amalfi, & Ravello: If you want to make the most of Sorrento, do an 8-hour tour to explore the gorgeous villages of Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello. Each stop offers unique beauty along the stunning Amalfi Coast Drive, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its breathtaking views. Your guide will share insights into Sorrento and recommend must-see attractions, making the Positano Amalfi & Ravello Tour the perfect day out!
  • Pompeii & Mt. Vesuvius: Pair a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage ruins of Pompeii with an unforgettable walk up Mount Vesuvius. This guided day trip from Sorrento includes round-trip transport, skip-the-line entry to Pompeii, and tours of both sites. Wander through the fascinating remains of the ancient city, then take a scenic hike to the volcano’s rim, where you’ll see stunning mountains on this Pompeii & Mt. Vesuvius Tour.

Best Excursions!

– Sorrento

🩵 Check out Beautiful Places To Stay In Italy for hotels to stay in Sorrento.

Bologna

Bologna, a city in northern Italy, is a hotspot for medieval architecture and red-hued buildings. It’s also a popular location for foodies, with the city often being referred to as La Grassa (The Fat One). In this hot spot, you can find delicious fresh pasta and rich ragu.

Did you know that Bologna’s university is the oldest in the world? So, the city has the brains to match its beauty. It’s a place where history, culture, and food blend into one delicious adventure, all under the watchful eye of the iconic Two Towers. It’s an iconic destination, be sure to add it to your Italian travel itinerary!

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Italy, Piazza Maggiore in Bologna, the old town hall tower. Credit: Yasonya (Adobe)

Fun Things To Do In Bologna

  • Legendary Cars: Motor Valley is the heart of Italy’s legendary car culture, home to some of the industry’s most iconic names. Getting between the factories and museums can be tricky. Still, this Legendary Cars Tour makes it easy, taking you straight to three must-visit spots for sports car lovers in Emilia Romagna: the Ferrari Museum, Lamborghini Museum and Factory, and Pagani Museum and Factory.
  • Food & Market Tour: Join a Food & Market Tour in Bologna and treat your taste buds to the city’s incredible flavours. With a local guide leading the way, you’ll start the day with a classic Italian breakfast before sampling fresh pasta, balsamic vinegar, cheese, wine, and gelato, plus a surprise dish revealed along the way. You’ll walk through Bologna’s charming streets between tastings, learning all about its rich food culture and why it’s known as Italy’s capital of gastronomy.

Best Excursions!

– Bologna

🩵 Check out Beautiful Places To Stay In Italy for hotels in Bologna.

Amalfi Coast

The Amalfi Coast is really the biggest dream of all. Picture pastel-coloured houses built on cliffs, bright lemon groves, and the sparkling Mediterranean Sea stretching out before you. This is an ultimate getaway spot with good vibes and gorgeous beaches, and it is usually high up on any traveller’s list.

From the Amalfi Coast, follow cool winding roads to discover towns like Positano and Ravello for a full-day experience. Or simply chill and take in the surreal scenery the Amalfi Coast has to offer. Whatever you do, make sure you visit this fabulous location in Italy!

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Bridge over the beach at the Amalfi Coast. Credit: Fei Huang (iStock)

Fun Things To Do In The Amalfi Coast

  • Amalfi Coast by Boat: Do an exciting Boat Adventure Tour from the Amalfi Coast, where you’ll uncover sea caves, hidden beaches, and the charming town of Positano. You’ll find secret caves where you can take a refreshing swim in the pristine waters and soak up the coastal beauty at these secluded spots. It’s a great way to spend the day outside.
  • Sail to Capri Island: Set sail on a Small-Group Boat Excursion to Capri Island and discover why it’s considered one of the world’s most beautiful destinations. Then, you’ll cruise along the stunning Sorrento Coast, exploring Capri’s picturesque beaches, bays, and legendary grottoes. Enjoy delicious snacks and drinks on board as you take in breathtaking views.

🩵 Check out Beautiful Places To Stay In Italy for hotels to stay in the Amalfi Coast.

That’s A Wrap!

As you can see, Italy is a country that never stops giving. Every city tells its own story, from ancient ruins and romantic canals to buzzing piazzas and seaside escapes. Whether you’ve fallen for the energy of Rome, the elegance of Lake Como, or the flavour of Bologna, each destination adds a new layer to the charm of Italy.

So, pack your curiosity, bring an empty stomach, and get ready to fall head over heels for this beautiful destination. Whether you visit one city or all thirteen, Italy will leave you inspired, well-fed, and already dreaming of your next trip back. What are you waiting for? It’s time to say YES to an adventure of a lifetime!

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