Savvy Travel & Family Time

Plan the Perfect Italian Vacation: The 8 Top Destinations in Italy

Planning a vacation to Italy this summer? Here are a few of the top destinations in Italy that you simply can’t miss out on! 

Looking to go on a vacation this summer? Looking for a place that is not only beautiful but culturally and historically significant? If so, you should consider visiting Italy.  

Wondering what exactly Italy has to offer? Then read on. We’re going to review the top destinations in Italy below.  

1. Rome 

If it’s historical sites you want, there are few better places to go in the world than Rome. Over 2,500 years old, it’s like a trip back in time.  

The most intriguing sites in Rome are its ancient ruins. These include the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and the Pantheon, to name just a few. But in truth, there are over 40 of them for you to check out.  

Note, though, that while a good deal of Rome’s intrigue lies in its past, its present is worthwhile as well. Home to countless bars, nightclubs, and restaurants, it could keep you busy for a few lifetimes.  

Oh, and Vatican City is in Rome as well. So, if you’re interested in the Pope and the history of Catholicism, it’s definately a place that you want to check out.  

2. Sicily 

The peak of beauty, Sicily is the biggest island in the Meditteranean Sea. One of Italy’s 20 regions, it offers a variety of geography, including mountains, beaches, volcanoes, and, of course, the ocean.  

There is plenty to do in Sicily. You can lounge on the beach, swim in the sea, hike through Nebrodi or Madonie Park, or enjoy a round of golf on one of the island’s premier courses.  

There is also a bevy of historical and cultural sites to see. These include the Greek Temples of Selinunte, Agrigento, Imera, and Syracuse as well as the Taormina theatre.  

If you’re coming to Italy, you have to spend a day or two in Sicily. It’s one of the most intriguing destinations this world has to offer.  

3. Venice 

Located in the northeastern portion of Italy, Venice lies adjacent to the Adriatic Sea. Consisting of 118 mini islands, it’s connected by a series of canals and bridges.  

This is the place to go if you want to ride in a gondola. These traditional water taxis can get you anywhere you need to go within the city limits, all the while exposing you to beautiful architecture.  

Some of the attractions to see in Venice include Saint Mark’s Basilica, the Rialto Bridge, and Doge’s Palace. But in truth, just being in the city is enough to satisfy your senses. It’s as gorgeous a place as you’re ever going to find.   

4. Milan 

One of Italy’s most glamorous locations, Milan is highly characterized by its fashion scene. But Milan isn’t just about fashion. It has a great deal of history and culture to offer as well.  

Interested in seeing some of Da Vinci’s works? Milan has you covered. His Last Supper painting can be found on the Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie.  

Maybe you’d like to see the biggest gothic cathedral in the world? Again, Milan is the place to be.  

Whether you’re a history buff, an art enthusiast, an avid shopper, or just someone looking to spend some time in a great European city, Milan will serve you well.  

5. Tuscany  

Looking to see the rural side of Italy? If so, there’s no better place to go than the Tuscany Region. Characterized by rolling green hills, beautiful wine vineyards, and acres of olive groves, it’s an absolute sight for sore eyes.  

But Tuscany isn’t just rural. It’s home to some exciting cities as well, those cities being Florence and Siena, in particular.  

Florence is the renaissance capital of the world. It’s home not only to Michelangelo’s “Statue of David” but to Botticelli’s “The Birth of Venus” as well.  

Siena, on the other hand, is characterized by its medieval culture. Some of its greatest sites include the Palazzo Publico and the Torre del Mangia.  

6. Pompeii 

There are few places on this planet as intriguing as Pompeii. Situated at the bottom of Mount Vesuvius, it was covered in molten ash in 79 AD.  

This ash killed approximately 2,000 people, many of whom are preserved in their dying positions to this day. As such, Pompeii is equal parts historical landmark and horror show. So, while it’s undoubtedly interesting, it also has the potential to send shivers down your spine.  

In any case, if you’re going to Italy, you should consider touring Pompeii. There’s nothing else like it on this planet. 

7. Cinque Terre 

Another unique portion of Italy that you should consider checking out is Cinque Terre. This is a region consisting of five coastal towns. These towns are characterized by stylish and colorful homes, some of which seem to cascade down into the sea.  

Not only does Cinque Terre look awesome, but its towns offer a number of laid-back activities for visitors to partake in. If you have the time, consider a hike through the area. If you don’t, take the train instead.  

8. Verona 

If you’re into Shakespearean literature, you’re probably well aware of Verona. This is the city that Romeo and Juliet lived (and died) in.  

But Verona isn’t just a meaningless setting in an iconic play. It’s a beautiful city its own right.  

Some of the things to check out in Verona include Ponte Scaligero, Piazzale Castel San Pietro, and Basilica di San Zeno Maggiore. But in truth, it’s the type of place where it’s just nice to exist for a while.  

Time to Visit the Top Destinations in Italy 

And there they are, the top destinations in Italy. As you can see, whether you’re a foodie, a history buff, or just someone looking to have a good time, Italy has you covered in spades.  

Looking for other travel-related info? You can find it on our website. Check out our other articles now!  

One Comment

  • Debbie P

    Some of my relatives are from Italy and I would love to go. Thanks for the great and informative article.