Italy is one of the most beautiful countries in the world and there are many wonderful places filled with exciting things to do and see. Millions of tourists visit the country annually and tourism is an important part of the Italian economy. Here are 5 beautiful places in Italy that you should visit.
Vagabondish is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn a small affiliate commission. Read our disclosure.
#1: Genoa
Genoa is the country’s largest sea port and it has played a large part in maritime trade for many centuries. Be sure to visit Piazza de Ferrari, a stunning square, and see the bronze statue. Visit the old town to see Romanesque Cathedral of San Lorenzo and its lovely frescoes. The area also has lots of great beaches and fishing villages to explore. There are many ferries that you can catch from the city if you are looking for a day on the water.
#2: Naples
Naples is the less than three hours by car from Rome and it is a beautiful romantic city to visit. If you are only visiting for a few days, then you’ll be pleased to know that the transfer from Naples International Airport is very short so you’ll be able to start exploring right away. You’ll love the stunning frescoes of Duomo di San Gennaro, the city’s cathedral. You can also visit exciting architecture like Royal Palace and Castel Nuovo. Be sure to try the pizza whilst you are visiting this exciting city. Take the time to explore the active volcano of Mt. Vesuvius where you can go hiking, witness wine excavation and see ruins.
#3: Umbria
The region of Umbria is in central Italy and it is a charming mix of medieval towns and dense forests. Visit the capital city of Perugia and you will find Roman, Etruscan, and medieval monuments to explore. Head over to Assisi so that you can see the birthplace of St Francis, the patron saint of ecology. Join a truffle hunting expedition where you can learn how to find these tasty morsels. The area is known for its fabulous food and wine so make sure that you leave time to indulge in the cuisine that the area has to offer.
#4: Puglia
Puglia, found in the boot heel shape of the country, is less popular with tourists but there are many fabulous things to do and see. There are hundreds of km of coastline to explore, beautiful hill towns to wander through and you can join a farm stay program and see what farming is like in this beautiful area. Take a trip to Alberobello, a UNESCO World Heritage site, to see the cone shaped roofs of the trulli buildings. Lecce is a town that is known for its stunning examples of baroque architecture.
#5: Sorrento
Sorrento is located above the Bay of Naples and if you stay in a villa here you could wake up to stunning views of Mt. Vesuvius and the Isle of Capri. Wander through Old Sorrento where you can see colourful buildings and dine on simple and amazing food. Sorrento Cathedral has a stunning clock tower and the interior is filled with amazing frescoes. This is also a great place for shopping and you can pick up stylish jewellery and stylish leather goods.