Best Things to Do in Italy: Complete Travel Guide

Italy is almost unfairly rich in things to do, see, and eat. It has more UNESCO World Heritage Sites than any other country, the world's most famous art collections, and a food culture that operates on the principle that every meal matters. This guide covers the essential experiences across the country.

Rome: the Eternal City

• The Colosseum and Roman Forum: Two thousand years of history within walking distance of each other
• Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel: Book in advance; Michelangelo's ceiling is genuinely jaw-dropping
• Pantheon: One of the best-preserved Roman buildings in the world
• Trastevere: The most atmospheric neighbourhood for evening dining
• The Spanish Steps and Trevi Fountain: More beautiful in person than any photograph

Florence and Tuscany

Florence is an open-air art museum. The Uffizi Gallery holds Botticelli's Birth of Venus and Primavera, Brunelleschi's dome over the cathedral is an engineering marvel, and Michelangelo's David in the Accademia is simply the finest sculpture in existence. Beyond the city, the Chianti wine region, San Gimignano, and Siena reward half-day trips.

Venice

Venice is unlike anywhere else on earth -- a city of 118 islands connected by canals and pedestrian bridges. The crowds and prices are real, but the experience is also genuinely unlike anything else. Visit in winter or early spring for a more atmospheric and affordable experience. Avoid the worst overcrowding by staying overnight.

Cinque Terre and the Ligurian Coast

• Five fishing villages clinging to coastal cliffs, connected by hiking trails
• The most famous trail is between Vernazza and Corniglia -- panoramic views of the villages and sea
• Eat focaccia and pesto in Liguria -- the region's signature dishes
• Base yourself in La Spezia and day-trip to avoid the most expensive accommodation

Amalfi Coast and Pompeii

The Amalfi Coast road is one of the world's most dramatic drives -- narrow cliffside roads, turquoise sea, and white villages hanging above the water. Combine with a visit to Pompeii (30 minutes from Naples) -- the preserved Roman city buried by Vesuvius in 79 AD is one of the most extraordinary archaeological sites on earth.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best way to get around Italy? Italy has an excellent rail network. Book Freccia high-speed trains in advance for the best prices on the Rome-Florence-Venice-Milan axis. Regional trains connect smaller towns and coastal areas.