I think we didn’t realize for a long time that Italy is probably the most frequent destination we return to. Although we go to Portugal for a month every year, we visit Italy several times a year. We are in the Dolomites every year (yes, we’re going again this year), and we’ve been to Rome and Tuscany several times, and we even spent a whole week in Venice. Today we bring you tips on where to go on vacation in Italy.
The full destination guide: Italy — guide and what to see
When to Go on Vacation to Italy
Go to Rome in spring or autumn to avoid the main tourist season. The same applies to Tuscany and Venice. If you’re heading to the sea, the best swimming weather will be from June to September.
Where to Vacation in Italy: the most Beautiful Places
Now let’s look at where to go in Italy for the sea and where to go in Italy for the mountains. We’ll show you the most beautiful places in Italy. Then let us know in the comments where your favorite places are and what we should visit in Italy. 😁
Dolomites
How many times have we been to the Dolomites? I can’t even count anymore, but we return there every year. We camped there, cycled through them, and explored them by caravan and car.
Our favorite season is autumn, when the Dolomites begin to turn golden. You definitely shouldn’t miss Lago Sorapis, Tre Cime, or Seiser Alm. Read about what to see in the Dolomites.
- Affordable accommodation suitable for dog owners: B&B Hotel Passo Tre Croci Cortina.
- Mid-range option: Apartment Dolomiti Sweet Lodge or Hotel Villa Gaia.
- Luxury romantic accommodation: HOTEL de LEN.
Rome
Rome captivates me with every visit. Besides the magnificent monuments and amazing gastronomy, you’ll definitely notice the extremely relaxed atmosphere. You can fly to Rome very easily, and getting from the airport to the city center is a breeze.
Rome is ideal for a long weekend and is a great place for all history lovers. Be sure to visit the Colosseum, Pantheon, Forum, and Vatican. All our tips on how to enjoy Rome to the fullest and avoid queues, where to stay to easily get there from the airport and be close to the center, you’ll find in our article.
Where to Stay in Rome
We were thrilled with Residenza Cavallini, which is five minutes from the airport express bus stop, a short walk from the Vatican and the Trevi Fountain.
Venice
There’s a reason why Venice has a problem with a large number of tourists, and currently you have to pay an entrance fee to the city if you’re not staying there. Venice is a magical, romantic city full of history, admired by visitors for centuries.
During your visit, you definitely must take a gondola ride, visit the Doge’s Palace or the Gallerie dell’Accademia, enjoy the sunset at Ponte di Rialto, and spend at least one evening in Piazza San Marco. 40 tips on what to see in Venice, but most importantly, where to stay and how to skip ticket queues, you’ll find in our article about Venice. Venice is not ideal for parents with small children who need to use a stroller to get around the city.
If you’re already in Venice, you can take a trip to the second largest city in Veneto, the romantic Verona. If you’re interested in more, read our 32 tips on what to see and do in Verona. You can get from Venice to Verona by train in an hour and a half.
Where to Stay in Venice
- Affordable nice accommodation: Residenza Ca’ San Marco or Casa Fenice.
- Mid-range option: Hotel Sant’“Antonin” or Ca’ Dei Dogi.
- Luxury accommodation directly in the city center: Londra Palace Venezia.
Tuscany
Anyone who knows me knows I love Tuscany. Beautiful nature, Etruscans, and romantic cities that gave us so many world-renowned Renaissance painters that I can’t even list them all off the top of my head; among the most famous natives are Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo Buonarroti, Sandro Botticelli, Piero della Francesca, Masaccio, and Filippo Lippi.
Tuscany is also known for its picturesque hilly landscapes, vineyards, and olive groves. I recommend, like us, going by bike as well; it’s wonderful to cycle here. If you’re not passionate cyclists, in the article about Tuscany you’ll also find our tip for a road trip by car. You definitely must visit Pisa, Siena, Florence, the Chianti wine region, and the Saturnia thermal baths.
TIP: If you decide to visit Pisa and its Leaning Tower, then read our article for more details.
Where to Stay in Tuscany:
- Florence: A luxurious option is Hotel Ungherese Small Luxury Hotel, but if you’re looking for something cheaper, check out Firenze Camping in Town.
- Volterra: Outside the center: Affordable but great accommodation Fontesettimena. In the center, you’ll find Albergo Etruria. For us fans of typical Tuscan houses, there’s also the slightly more expensive Appartamenti Villa Mascagni.
To the Sea on the Amalfi Coast: Vacation in Campania
The Amalfi Coast is known for its breathtaking beaches and turquoise sea. Among the most famous resorts are Positano, Amalfi, Praiano, or Ravello. All villages and towns are located on steep hillsides; the town centers are mostly by the sea, and houses continue to climb high into the mountains. Enjoy the sun on Spiaggia di Fornillo beach in Positano or Arienzo beach.
The Amalfi Coast, like the rest of Italy, has a rich history. Visit the ancient city of Paestum, an impressive archaeological site, or explore the charming town of Ravello with its historic villas and gardens.
This area in Italy is also great for people who prefer nature walks over lounging by the sea. Embark on the famous Sentiero degli Dei (Path of the Gods) trail, which offers breathtaking coastal views.
You might be interested in: 12 tips on what to see in Positano.
Accommodation in Positano
Accommodation in Positano is quite expensive, so be prepared for prices starting at hundreds of euros per night.
- Best value for money: Hotel Royal Prisco
- Luxury accommodation: Il San Pietro di Positano
Sicily
Sicily, the pearl of the Mediterranean Sea, is an island full of contrasts. This island offers not only beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters but also a fascinating history and rich culture, reflected in its many monuments, cities, and traditions.
Don’t miss a visit to Agrigento, where an amazing complex of ancient Greek temples known as the Valley of the Temples awaits you. These sites are proof of Sicily’s rich history and its connection to ancient Greece.
Taormina, one of the most beautiful and picturesque towns in Sicily, is also worth a visit. A stroll through its narrow streets full of flowers and colorful facades is like a journey into a fairy tale. Visit the ancient Greek theater with breathtaking views of the sea and Etna, and don’t forget to taste local specialties like cannoli.
For nature and adventure lovers, climbing Mount Etna is an unforgettable experience. This active volcano is the highest and most active volcano in Europe. Explore lava fields, craters, and breathtaking views from the summit of this impressive mountain.
Where to Stay in Sicily
- Affordable accommodation: Villa Agrumeto
- Luxury accommodation: Therasia Resort Sea and SPA
- Mid-range option: Hotel Villa Cute
Milan
If you love design and fashion, head to Milan for your vacation. This Italian metropolis is ideal for a long weekend, and besides being the heart of fashion and design, it also offers countless cultural treasures, fascinating history, and a very energetic atmosphere.
Milan’s dominant feature is the magnificent Gothic Duomo cathedral, which literally captivates with its impressiveness and beauty. The city is also home to the world-renowned La Scala opera house; if you love culture, you should definitely go to an opera or ballet.
An unmissable stop in Milan is the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie, home to one of the most significant works of world art – Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper mural.
Milan is world-renowned as a center of fashion and design, so if you love shopping, you shouldn’t miss the luxurious shopping street Via Montenapoleone.
For nature and history lovers, a visit to Sempione Park and Sforza Castle is ideal. A stroll along the park’s green avenues offers a pleasant respite from the city’s hustle and bustle.
If you know us, you know we’re not big on sports, but if you are, you might want to visit the San Siro football stadium.
Where to Stay in Milan
- Accommodation in the center: INTOMILAN Galleria Duomo
TIP: For more tips on accommodation in Milan, read our article.
Lake Como
From Milan, it’s a stone’s throw to Lake Como and its beautiful towns. I would recommend at least a day trip to picturesque Varenna to everyone. However, if you have more time, there’s definitely a lot to explore around the lake. Read our article with 34 tips on what to see and do at Lake Como.
Pompeii
Pompeii, a city frozen in time, represents a fascinating place that takes us back to ancient Rome. The destruction caused by the volcanic eruption in 79 AD buried this city under a layer of ash and lava, and it is precisely because of this that we can now look into the past and glimpse the lives of its inhabitants.
Most people go to Pompeii from Naples for a day trip. All information about Pompeii, including admission fees, can be found HERE.
Capri Island
Capri, the pearl of the Tyrrhenian Sea, is a small Italian island that has attracted visitors for centuries with its beauty, romantic atmosphere, and rich history. This gem among islands is an ideal place for relaxation, but also for discovering the secrets it hides. You can get to Capri Island from Naples by ferry.
One of the most famous and beautiful places on Capri is the Blue Grotto (Grotta Azzurra), which you can only reach by boat with a ferryman.
On the island, you can also visit the picturesque town of Anacapri and its main attraction – Villa San Michele, which was built by the Swedish physician and writer Axel Munthe. A stroll through the villa’s gardens will reward you with magnificent views of the sea and the surrounding landscape.
Don’t forget to taste the famous limoncello on the island, a typical liqueur from Capri.
TIP: What to see and do on Capri Island
Naples
If you’re looking for a vacation spot with rich history and culture, interesting monuments, and delicious food, Naples is the right place for you. Naples is the largest city in Southern Italy and is located on the Tyrrhenian Sea coast. The city is full of historic buildings, ancient churches, and museums, making it an ideal destination for history lovers.
You should definitely head to Piazza del Plebiscito, the largest square in Naples, where several important landmarks are located, including the Royal Palace, the Basilica of San Francesco di Paola, and the Church of San Carlo all’Arena. The square is also surrounded by several cafes and restaurants, where you can enjoy delicious Italian coffee and traditional Neapolitan pizza.
The Archaeological Museum in Naples is one of the main tourist destinations, as you’ll find a number of archaeological artifacts from ancient Rome and Greece there. Also, be sure to take a trip to Mount Vesuvius and Sant’Elmo Castle, which is located on a hill above Naples and offers magnificent views of the city and its surroundings.
Read more: 32 tips on what to do and see in Naples
What to Taste in Naples – Traditional Italian Delicacies
Don’t forget to taste Neapolitan pizza, which is thin like traditional Italian pizza but has high edges. Neapolitan pizza is on the UNESCO World Heritage list. If you love sweets, be sure to try “sfogliatella” in Naples – a crumbly puff pastry with a filling of ricotta, vanilla, and candied fruit. Another sweet specialty is “baba” – a leavened cake with rum glaze.
Where to Stay
- Affordable accommodation: San Gaetano bed
- Mid-range option: Di Palma Suite
- Luxury: Residenza Matilde
Sardinia
Another great place to go for a vacation in Italy is Sardinia, an Italian island in the Tyrrhenian Sea, known for its diversity and contrasts. On one hand, it offers a coastline with crystal-clear turquoise waters and white beaches reminiscent of the Caribbean; on the other, there’s a rugged interior with grazing sheep herds and a traditional way of life.
The island is unique for the culture of the Nuragic people, who began building the first truncated cone-shaped stone structures called nuraghes on the island. These structures are almost 4,000 years old, and thousands of them are found on the island.
In addition to the sights, Sardinia also offers excellent local specialties, which are influenced by shepherds and their way of life. These include local cheeses, such as Pecorino Romano and Pecorino Sardo, as well as wines, among which Cannonau and Monica are the most famous.
Sardinian festivals are a magnificent display of local costumes, masks, music, and dance, as well as local gastronomy. Religious holidays are a great attraction for tourists, who can thus get to know the local culture and traditions.
The island also boasts corals, which is reflected in the name of the coastal stretch between Alghero and Bosa, called the Coral Riviera. Coral fishing has a long tradition in Sardinia, dating back to the 14th century.
Where to Stay in Sardinia:
- Accommodation by the sea with a pool: Hotel Cala di Volpe, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Costa Smeralda
Cinque Terre
Cinque Terre is an area on the Ligurian Riviera, widely visited by both Italian and foreign tourists, and is listed as a UNESCO natural world heritage site. This area consists of five charming villages, precisely nestled between steep cliffs. The area is an ideal place for tourists and trekking enthusiasts.
The original inhabitants were fishermen and cultivators of grape varieties, who adapted to the natural conditions and built their homes on the slopes. The area was declared a national park, which means a constant influx of visitors who transformed the original peaceful rhythm of life into a prosperous locality full of shops and restaurants.
Each of the five Cinque Terre villages has its own charm. Manarola is the oldest and has pastel-colored houses, Monterosso al Mare is the largest and has a vast beach, Corniglia is situated high above the sea and is surrounded by vineyards, Riomaggiore is the easternmost and has colorful houses nestled into steep slopes, and Vernazza has the only natural harbor in the entire area and a medieval fortified castle. Tourists can take the Path of Lovers, which connects all the villages, or they can have guides show them hidden spots.
Where to Stay in Cinque Terre
The most romantic village is certainly Manarola, which is also the most photogenic:
- Accommodation in Manarola: Affittacamere San Giorgio
Southern Italian Puglia: Bari, the Capital
Head to Southern Italian Puglia, which offers several beautiful cities, a lot of history, and UNESCO World Heritage sites. Its capital is Bari, which will welcome you with the intricate streets of its old town combined with a modern metropolis.
Bari has an international airport and an ideal location for excursions in the surrounding area. Also worth visiting are the cliffside town of Polignano a Mare, Monopoli, charming Alberobello, or the cave city of Matera.
Where to Stay in Bari
Accommodation in the center: B&B Palazzo San Michele
Genoa
If you like port cities, then definitely visit the birthplace of Christopher Columbus — Genoa. It is the capital of the Liguria region and the province of Genoa. Here you can enjoy its rich history, swim in the sea, or go on excursions in the surrounding area. From Genoa, for example, you can visit the industrial metropolis of Turin, which you can reach by train in 2 hours.
For a more detailed itinerary, read our article.
Orvieto
If you’ve never heard of Orvieto, you’re not alone. But that’s a mistake. This Italian city in Umbria has the most beautiful cathedral in all of Italy. Be smart and instead of Tuscany, head to Umbria and visit its picturesque towns, beautiful landscape, and taste local wines. Umbria is a hidden gem of central Italy that not everyone knows about yet.
FAQs
What is the best time to visit Italy?
If you want to swim, the best time to go is sometime between June and September; for exploring cities, late spring or early autumn is ideal.
What currency is used in Italy?
Italy uses the euro.
What is the official language in Italy?
The official language in Italy is Italian.
Do I need a visa to visit Italy?
No, you don’t. EU citizens can move freely within Italy.
Is tap water safe to drink in Italy?
Yes, it is safe, although in some locations, bottled water is recommended.
Do you tip in Italy?
Yes, it’s not mandatory, but it’s common. However, the amount is not fixed; most Italians round up the amount.
What types of power outlets are used in Italy?
In Italy, type F and L sockets are used, and the standard voltage is 230 V, 50 Hz.
What is the best way to get around Italy?
If you don’t have a car, you can use buses, taxis, or trains, which are extremely popular among Italians for travel between larger cities.
🚗 Car rental on the roadVerified rental cars in ItalySearch with the DiscoverCars comparison engine — it compares prices from dozens of local and international rental companies, and most bookings come with free cancellation.
Compare car prices in Italy →Do I need travel insurance for a holiday in Italy?
Yes, whenever you travel abroad, you should have travel insurance. We find AXA insurance to be the cheapest. You can easily arrange it online even a few minutes before departure.
Can I pay everywhere with a credit card?
Most hotels, restaurants, and shops in Italy accept credit cards, but just like at home, it’s good to have some cash, as you might encounter establishments that don’t accept cards.
Map of points of interest for your phone
Tips and Tricks for Your Vacation
Don’t Overpay for Flights
Search for flights on Kayak. It’s our favorite search engine because it scans the websites of all airlines and always finds the cheapest connection.
Book Your Accommodation Smartly
The best experiences we’ve had when looking for accommodation (from Alaska to Morocco) are with Booking.com, where hotels, apartments, and entire houses are usually the cheapest and most widely available.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Good travel insurance will protect you against illness, accidents, theft, or flight cancellations. We’ve had a few hospital visits abroad, so we know how important it is to have proper insurance arranged.
Where we insure ourselves: SafetyWing (simple monthly subscription) and TrueTraveller (for extra-long trips).
Find the Best Experiences
Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace where you can book guided walks, trips, skip-the-line tickets, tours, and much more. We always find some extra fun there!
