Top 10 Best Cities to Visit in Italy and When
Discover the 10 best cities to visit in Italy, with tips on when to go, what to see and why each destination is perfect for couples and first-time travellers.
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If it’s your first time in Italy, deciding where to go can feel a bit overwhelming: there’s just so much to see.
That’s why we’ve put together this guide to the 10 best cities to visit in Italy, with tips on the best time to go, what to see and why each one deserves a spot on your itinerary.
1. Rome - The Eternal Must-See
Best time to visit: Spring or Autumn
No list of Italian cities would be complete without Rome: the Eternal City, where every street feels like a step back in the history. One moment you’re standing in front of the Colosseum, imagining the roar of the ancient crowds; the next, you’re sipping an espresso near a Baroque fountain that looks like it came out from a movie.
Rome is layered with history, from the ruins of the Roman Forum to the grandeur of St. Peter’s Basilica. Art lovers will get lost in the Vatican Museums, home of the Sistine Chapel, while romantics can stroll hand in hand through Villa Borghese or watch the sunset from the Pincian Hill.
Toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain (yes, it’s touristy, but do it anyway), climb the Spanish Steps and end your day with a plate of cacio e pepe or carbonara in a trattoria tucked into the cobbled alleys of Trastevere.
Rome is unforgettable, especially for first-time travellers and couples who want to feel the soul of Italy in every corner.
⏰ Want to see all the essentials in just 48 hours? Check out our 2 Days in Rome itinerary.
2. Florence - Renaissance in Every Corner
Best time to visit: April, May or October
Florence isn’t just a city: it’s a full-on Renaissance daydream. As soon as you arrive, you’ll see red rooftops, marble statues and that soft golden light that makes the whole city feel like a painting.
From the Uffizi Gallery to Michelangelo’s David, every corner holds a masterpiece. But Florence is also made for slow travellers: morning walks along the Arno, getting lost in artisan workshops in the Oltrarno area and sipping wine on a quiet piazza while the sun sets behind the Duomo.
For couples, it’s pure romance. Plan your climb to Piazzale Michelangelo in the late afternoon: the view over the rooftops and the Brunelleschi’s dome, bathed in golden light, is one of those moments you’ll carry with you forever.
📌 If you're planning to spend more than a day here, don’t miss our 2 Days in Florence itinerary: it covers all the must-see spots, where to eat and even tips for a quick trip to the Tuscan countryside.
3. Venice - The Floating Fairytale
Best time to visit: February (for Carnival), March or November
Venice is a city built on water, where streets are canals and boats replace cars. Start your visit with a classic gondola ride. Yes, it’s touristy, but gliding under the Rialto Bridge or through the quieter canals of Dorsoduro is an experience you won’t forget.
Then, put the map away and explore on foot: Venice reveals its true charm when you wander without a plan. Around every corner, you might find a quiet square, a still canal or a hidden church you didn’t expect.
For a splash of color, hop on a vaporetto and head to Burano, a small island famous for its lace-making tradition and houses painted in every shade of the rainbow.
Art lovers should plan a visit to the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, while romantics will fall for the golden light that hits St. Mark’s Square at sunset hour.
4. Amalfi Coast - Cliffs, Color & Charm
Best time to visit: May or September
The Amalfi Coast looks just like the postcards: colorful houses stacked on cliffs, winding roads with sea views and villages that feel made for slow walks and long lunches.
Positano is the most famous town and it’s easy to see why. From the beach to the viewpoints, everything looks like a movie set. But don’t skip also Amalfi with its cathedral and pretty piazza, or Ravello, perfect if you want peace, gardens and wonderful panoramas. Praiano is another quieter, more local alternative that’s just as beautiful.
Amalfi Coast is the ideal spot for couples: wake up with the sea outside your window, take a boat ride in the afternoon and end the day with a candlelit dinner by the water.
5. Cinque Terre - Cliffside Charm & Sunsets
Best time to visit: May - June or September
Cinque Terre is where rugged coastline meets colorful villages. Made up of five tiny towns (Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore), this UNESCO-listed stretch of Ligurian coast is a dream for travelers who love hiking, sea views and slow living.
The iconic Sentiero Azzurro connects the villages and offers some of the most scenic coastal trails in Italy. Vernazza, with its charming harbor and vibrant houses, is a favorite for many and, once you see it, you’ll understand why.
Cinque Terre is perfect for active couples and anyone looking to experience the more authentic side of Italy. Just bring your walking shoes and be ready to fall in love with the views, the food and maybe even the train rides between the towns.
6. Milan - Modern, Chic and Surprisingly Fun
Best time to visit: April (Design Week), October
Milan is often skipped by travelers heading straight to Rome or Venice, but it’s a city full of energy, style and surprises. Here, you’ll find ancient churches next to designer boutiques, quiet streets just steps away from buzzing bars and a mix of old and new that works perfectly.
Start with the big sights: the Duomo is stunning (don’t forget to go up to the rooftop!) and the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is worth a stop even if you’re not shopping. But Milan has so much more. Check out some hidden gems, explore the top attractions and if you're here with your partner, try one of these romantic experiences.
In the evening, head to the Navigli district: it’s one of the best places to relax, especially at sunset. The canals reflect the warm light, people fill the cafes and the atmosphere is perfect for a drink plus a slow stroll.
7. Naples - Gritty, Bold, and Delicious
Best time to visit: Spring or autumn
Naples is loud, messy, full of life and packed with flavors you’ll remember forever. If you want to experience the real Italy, this is for sure the right place.
First, the pizza. Naples is where it all began and, once you'll try it here, every other pizza will feel like a bad copy. Head to L’Antica Pizzeria Da Michele or Sorbillo for a true classic.
But this isn’t just about food. The historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with narrow alleys, colorful buildings and laundry hanging overhead. Visit the Duomo di San Gennaro, walk down Spaccanapoli and explore Napoli Sotterranea, the underground tunnels that run beneath the city.
For art and archaeology lovers, the National Archaeological Museum is a must: it holds some of the best finds from Pompeii.
Speaking about Pompeii: it’s just a short train ride from Naples or you can join a guided tour to make the most of the experience. Combine it with a visit to Mount Vesuvius and you’ll get a powerful sense of the history (and the drama) of this region.
8. Verona - Romance Beyond Romeo & Juliet
Best time to visit: Spring or September
Verona is a charming city in the northern of Italy full of romantic corners, cobbled street and piazzas that invite you to slow down.
Start your visit in Piazza Bra, home to the impressive Arena di Verona, a Roman amphitheater that still hosts operas and concerts under the stars. If you’re lucky enough to catch a show, it’s an unforgettable experience.
From there, walk over to Piazza delle Erbe, one of the prettiest squares in Italy. Surrounded by frescoed buildings and lively cafés, it’s the perfect spot for a spritz break. Just around the corner, you’ll find Juliet’s House, with the famous balcony.
Cross the Ponte Pietra for a beautiful view over the Adige River, then head uphill to Castel San Pietro. The short climb will reward you with panoramic views of the city.
9. Palermo - Culture Clash in Sicily’s Heart
Best time to visit: April - June or September
Palermo is noisy, colorful and full of life: a city that surprises you at every corner. It’s a mix of cultures like nowhere else in Italy: Arab domes, Norman churches, Baroque palaces and simply amazing street food.
Your first stop should be at the Ballarò or Vucciria markets. You’ll see fresh fish, heaps of spices, sizzling arancini and hear vendors shouting in Sicilian dialect. Grab a snack and soak in the magical atmosphere.
Just a few minutes away, step into the grand Teatro Massimo, one of the biggest and most beautiful opera houses in Europe. Even if you don't like really much opera, the building itself is worth seeing.
For a view you won’t forget, head up to Monreale, a hillside town just outside the city. The cathedral there is famous for its golden mosaics and the terrace offers one of the best panoramas of Palermo.
Other highlights? The Palatine Chapel, tucked inside the Norman Palace, with its stunning Byzantine interiors. And if you’re into the unexpected, visit the Catacombs of the Capuchins, a little creepy, but a very unique experience.
10. Bologna - Food, Arcades and Locals’ Favorite
Best time to visit: September–October
Bologna, in Emilia-Romagna, is known for its long arcades, medieval towers and extraordinary dishes.
The best way to dive into local life is through its food. Wander through the narrow lanes of the Quadrilatero, the city’s historic market area, and you’ll be tempted by trays of fresh tortellini, wheels of Parmigiano Reggiano and slices of mortadella served with a glass of local wine. Nearby, the Mercato delle Erbe blends tradition and modern vibes, with casual eateries perfect for a relaxed lunch or an early evening aperitivo.
For a view over Bologna’s iconic red rooftops, climb the Asinelli Tower. There are 498 steps to reach the top, but the skyline is worth every breath. If you prefer something more relaxed, take a walk under the endless portici (Bologna has over 60 km of covered arcades!).
Don’t miss Piazza Maggiore, the main square, and the massive San Petronio Basilica, one of the largest churches in the world. Nearby, Archiginnasio and the old university buildings are a peek into Bologna’s scholarly soul (this is, after all, home to the oldest university in Europe).
And of course… eat! Try tagliatelle al ragù (never call it "spaghetti bolognese" here), tortellini in brodo and lasagna verde. Whether you're sitting in a trattoria or grabbing a bite from a street stall, the food in Bologna will never disappoint you.
Conclusion
Italy isn’t just one destination: it’s many different worlds packed into a single country. From the ancient streets of Rome to the seaside villages of the Amalfi Coast, each city has its own rhythm, flavor and charm. Whether it’s your first time visiting or you’re planning a romantic escape, this list is a great place to start building your perfect Italian itinerary.
Choose the cities that match your style and don’t stress about trying to see everything in one trip. Italy will always be here, ready to welcome you back more and more.
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