Italy is known for its rich history, beautiful architecture, ancient historical monuments, uniquely delicious cuisine and superb climate.
Not surprisingly, in 2019, it is among the five most visited countries in the world.
The only problem is that a short vacation is not enough to see all the beauties of the Apennine country.
To make you better prepared for your adventure, we have selected 100 of the most exciting places to visit:
1. Tropea (Calabria)
If you travel to Calabria, Tropea (6,462 residents) is a must visit place.
It was founded in antiquity, approximately 2000 years ago. In addition to its fantastic traditional cuisine, it is famous for its beautiful golden sandy beaches and azure sea.
The Old Town is a scenic place, built on the steep coastal cliffs.
One of the most important landmarks in the town is Cattedrale di Maria Santissima di Romania, built in the 12th century.
While here, you can join a boat trip to the Aeolian Islands, included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.
2. Gallipoli (Apulia)
Gallipoli (20,604 residents) is a charming town in the southeastern part of Italy.
It lies on the quiet west coast of the “heel” of Italy’s “boot”.
Gallipoli is known for its beautiful golden beaches and clear turquoise waters.
They are among the most attractive not only in Puglia (Apulia in English) but in Italy as a whole.
The beaches attract visitors from late April till late October.
The biggest attraction is the Old Town, located on a small island just off the coast. It is connected to the mainland coast by a convenient bridge.
The Old Town is known for its narrow and shady cobbled streets as well as for its low white two- and three-story buildings.
3. Porto Cesareo (Apulia)
Because of its fantastic white soft beaches and azure shallow waters, Porto Cesareo (5,448 residents) is one of the top destinations to spend your holidays in the South of Italy.
Together with Sicily, the region of Apulia experiences the longest and warmest summers in the country as well as the most enjoyable and mild winters.
Porto Cesareo is known for its almost tropical lifestyle. After a long day on the beach, you can enjoy your vacation, relaxing with a glass of outstanding Italian wine and fantastic Mediterranean food in some of the cozy restaurants in the town.
4. Termoli (Molise)
Molise is one of the lesser known regions of Italy but it is deeply recommended to visit.
The most attractive place in the region is the beautiful coastal town of Termoli, which is known for its 12th century Romanesque cathedral as well as for its pristine Blue Flag golden beaches.
Since the region of Molise is quite small, you will be able to easily explore some of the other lovely small towns in the vicinity.
The most recommended are Campobasso (known for the majestic medieval Monforte Castle) and Isernia (known for its astonishing cathedral).
5. Gran Sasso e Monti della Laga National Park (Abruzzo)
Located on the Adriatic coast of Central Italy, the region of Abruzzo is well-known for its outstanding natural beauty.
Most of the region’s territory is protected within wildlife sanctuaries and national parks.
Gran Sasso e Monti della Laga National Park is one of the most beautiful.
Established in 1991, it covers approximately 2,014 km2 (778 mi2) and is considered one of the largest in Europe.
It is known for its alpine landscape, snow capped mountain ridges and deep glacial valleys.
Here you can find a number of species of wild animals, including wild boars, foxes, wolves, brown bears and many others.
6. Eremo di San Domenico (Abruzzo)
Exploring the beautiful and unspoiled region of Abruzzo, don’t miss to stop by Eremo di San Domenico.
The hermitage is situated at the foot of a cliff, not far from the village of Villalago.
The small building was completed during the 10th century. Since then, the stone structure has remained practically unchanged.
7. Giulianova (Abruzzo)
The small coastal community of Giulianova (approximately 24,000 people) is located in the northern part of the region of Abruzzo.
Being a popular holiday destination, it is known for its beautiful architecture, tempting coastal promenade, busy yacht marina, lovely golden beaches and fantastic restaurants.
The modern Giulianova was established during the 15th century, while the first settlement in the area dates from the 3rd century BC.
8. Perugia (Umbria)
Known for its incredible culinary heritage (the chocolate, for example), Perugia is a city that should definitely be on top of your bucket list.
Founded in the 4th century BC, the city acquired its current appearance in the 13th century.
Today you can enjoy some of the most preserved medieval stone-paved streets in Europe, at least if you visit the old part of the city.
Among the major tourist attractions are the beautiful Perugia Cathedral (Cattedrale Metropolitana di San Lorenzo, completed in the late 16th century) and the medieval church of San Pietro.
9. Gubbio (Umbria)
Gubbio (34,000 residents) is located in the northern parts of Umbria.
It is dominated by 14th and 15th century buildings. Most of its medieval stone-paved streets have remained practically unchanged since the medieval period.
The town is known for the seven bronze Eugubine Tables, which were discovered here in 1444.
10. San Marino
Although at first glance San Marino looks like a not very big city, it is actually an independent state, which is also the third smallest in Europe after Monaco and the Vatican City State.
It consists of a few small towns, the biggest of which is the capital city San Marino.
It is situated at the foot of a mountain, and according to travelers, it is one of the most beautiful and well-preserved cities in Europe.
Established on September 3, 301 AD, the microstate is considered the oldest republic in the world.
It has a population of 33,785 residents (as of 2018), about 4,071 of which live in the capital.
San Marino is known for its incredible castles, the most impressive of which is Fortress of Guaita, situated on top of a mountain. The fortress was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008.
11. Polignano a Mare (Apulia)
Polignano a Mare (18,024 residents) is a very beautiful small town in the region of Apulia.
It lies on the southeast coast of Italy, in the metropolitan area of the city of Bari.
It is known for its fantastic bars and restaurants, souvenir shops and historical buildings, but mostly for the cozy Cala Paura Beach.
Nestled between the coastal cliffs of a narrow cove, it is known for its turquoise waters.
It is covered with a mixture of large grain golden sand and small pebbles.
The beach is one of the most beautiful in the area but is often too crowded in summer.
12. San Giulio Island (Piedmont)
One of the most recommended spots in the North of Italy is Isola San Giulio (or San Giulio Island).
You will find it within Lake Orta, only about 400 meters off the east coast of the lake.
Despite its small territory (it is only 275 meters or 902 feet long), the island offers a number of places to visit and see.
Here you can see dozens of beautiful historical stone buildings, the most popular of which is the basilica San Giulio. Built during the 12th century, it is well-known for its lavish interior decoration.
13. Arena di Verona (Veneto)
Completed in 30 AD, Arena di Verona is one of the world’s best examples of an ancient amphitheater.
Situated in the very heart of the city, the majestic Roman structure is very well preserved and still welcomes visitors (up to 15,000 people).
Every summer numerous opera performances and concerts are held here.
14. Noto Cathedral (Sicily)
Completed in 1776, the Minor Basilica of St. Nicholas of Myra (better known simply as the Noto Cathedral) is among the most beautiful religious temples in Italy.
It is known for its wonderful Sicilian Baroque architecture and pale elegant limestone facade.
One of the most dramatic events in the history of the cathedral was its sudden and unexpected collapse on March 3, 1996. 11 years later, the beautiful structure was completely restored. It was officially reopened on June 15, 2007.
15. Porta Sempione (Lombardy)
The Arch of Milan, officially known as Porta Sempione, is one of the symbols of the leading economic center in Italy.
Completed in 1838, the neoclassical triumphal arch is impressive. It is approximately 25 meters high (more than 82 feet) and nearly 24 meters wide (almost 79 feet).
It is located not far from the largest and most beautiful city park of Milan – Parco Sempione and the wonderful Sforza Castle.
16. Villa Aldobrandini (Lazio)
Villa Aldobrandini is located on the outskirts of the small and beautiful town of Frascati in the region of Lazio, not far from the bustling and lively Italian capital.
The villa, which is actually a not very large but extremely elegant palace, was completed in the second half of the 16th century and is well known for its lush gardens.
17. Villa Torrigiani (Tuscany)
Villa Torrigiani is located in the picturesque countryside of Toscany, on the outskirts of the small town of Lucca.
The small palace in the late Renaissance style is among the most beautiful and recommended places to visit in the region.
Completed in the second half of the 16th century, the building is distinguished by its multicolored facade, which is a result of the variety of building materials used in the process of construction.
18. Villa Cimbrone (Campania)
Villa Cimbrone is one of the major sights of the beautiful Amalfi Coast in the Campania region.
Built in the 11th century, the building is a complex mix of influences and architectural styles from around the world, making it even more special.
Complemented by elegant gardens that are open to the public, the building today serves as an elegant hotel.
It is located high above the topaz-blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea, on the outskirts of the small town of Ravello.
19. Villa San Michele, Capri
Villa San Michele is the major attraction on the small and beautiful Italian island of Capri.
Built in the traditional Caprese architecture in the late 19th century, it is famous for its elegant beauty and lush gardens.
As it is situated 327 meters above sea level, the villa reveals breathtaking views of the entire island. It was built by the Swedish physician Axel Munthe.
20. Villa Rufolo
Known for the exceptional beauty of its gardens, Villa Rufolo was built in the 13th century and later completely renovated in the 19th century.
It is popular for its Moorish architectural style, and nowadays, it is considered one of the most unique and beautiful in Italy.
It is located in one of the highest parts of the town of Ravello, so it reveals a stunning view of the Amalfi Coast.
21. Villa d’Este
In the countryside of Lazio, not far from the cosmopolitan capital of Italy, you will find a lovely small town which enjoys the reputation of being one of the most beautiful in the region.
Its name is Tivoli, and it is known for one of the most sophisticated Italian villas.
Villa d”Este was completed in the late 16th century. As a real architectural masterpiece, this wonderful little palace was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2001.
Villa d”Este is known not only for its late Renaissance mannerist architecture but also for its wonderful gardens, which are considered among the most beautiful in Europe.
22. Cappello di Venere (Campania)
Cappello di Venere is a beautiful waterfall in southern Italy.
It is located in the south-eastern parts of the region of Campania, on the outskirts of the small town of Casaletto Spartano.
As it is nestled amidst lush vegetation, the area of the waterfall offers a very good opportunity to escape the summer heat in the South.
Cappello di Venere (the Hair of Venus in English) is one of the most relaxing spots in Campania, and in addition, it is easily accessible from the town within a few minutes walking.
23. The Bridge of Angels (Lazio)
The Bridge of Angels (or as it is better known in Rome as Ponte Sant’Angelo) is one of most beautiful bridges across Europe.
Approximately 135 metres (443 ft) long and 7 metres (23 ft) high, it was completed in 123 AD by Emperor Hadrian.
The pedestrian bridge is decorated by 10 wonderful sculptures of angels, all of them unique and different from each other.
24. Genoa Cathedral (Liguria)
Cattedrale di San Lorenzo is one of the most recommended architectural monuments to visit in Italy.
Located in the old part of Genoa, not far from the harbour, it was built in the early 12th century and consecrated in 1118.
Its majestic bell tower was built in the 16th century.
The medieval structure combines elements of Mannerist, Gothic and Romanesque architecture styles. It is famous for its rich interior, elegantly decorated ceiling and unique frescoes.
25. Camogli (Liguria)
Blessed with a wonderful Mediterranean climate, Camogli is a small tourist town with an ancient history.
It is located on the Golfo Paradiso on the Italian Riviera, not far from the cosmopolitan center of Genoa.
Today Camogli has a population of about 5,332 residents and is a real magnet for tourists during the summer season.
It is famous for its lively marina, colorful houses, silver pebble beach, azure sea and emerald mountain slopes.
26. Palatine Hill (Lazio)
Located in the very heart of one of the most ancient cities in the world, Palatine Hill is the birthplace of the Roman Empire.
Today it is one of the most visited parts not only in Rome, but in Europe and in the world.
The Palatine Hill is extremely rich in ruins of ancient buildings and is a real open-air archeological museum.
Most of the ruins are of buildings completed at various stages in the 1st millennium BC.
Right next to the Palatine Hill is the Arch of Constantine. It was built by order of Constantine I. Completed in 315 AD, its construction took 3 years.
Being one of the most visited triumphal arches in the world, it attracts approximately 7 million visitors per year.
27. Levanto (Liguria)
Levanto is a small community with a population of about 5,597 residents.
Nestled among the emerald green coastal hills of Liguria, the town is a very attractive place during the summer months.
Numerous music festivals are held here every year from June to September.
One of the main attractions for tourists is the church of Sant’Andrea, which dates from the 13th century. Part of the municipality falls within the Cinque Terre National Park.
28. Portovenere (Liguria)
With a population of only 3,763 people, Portovenere is among the most ancient towns in Liguria.
It was founded in the 1st century BC and is a great example of the beauty of the famous Italian Riviera.
In 1997, Portovenere (along with several small neighboring towns) was included in the UNESCO’s World Heritage List.
It is easily recognizable by its colorful buildings, painted in yellow, orange, peach and other warm shades.
29. Pantheon of Rome (Lazio)
The Pantheon of Rome is an ancient temple completed in 125 AD.
Today, this majestic structure serves as a Catholic church under the name Basilica of St. Mary.
The construction of the Pantheon of Rome began during the reign of Emperor Trajan and was successfully completed during the rule of Emperor Hadrian.
An interesting feature is the oval opening in the ceiling, which has never been covered. Since the structure has no windows, this is the only source of daylight.
30. Doge’s Palace (Veneto)
Doge’s Palace is an elegant Venetian palace that has significantly contributed to Venice’s reputation as an elegant, refined and romantic place.
Completed in 1340, it is located on the legendary Piazza San Marco, in the lagoon of Venice.
The building is famous for its Gothic architecture and is among the most significant landmarks of the city.
31. Piazza Navona (Lazio)
Built in the 1st century AD, Piazza Navona is one of the most famous and visited squares in Rome.
Its popularity as a city center grew in the 15th century, when the city market moved here.
Today the square is famous for its two elegant fountains, created in the 16th century – Fontana del Moro and Fontana del Nettuno (the fountain of Neptune).
32. Trieste Lighthouse
Constructed in 1927, Trieste Lighthouse is one of the most visited landmarks in the Adriatic city.
Vittoria Light (its official name) is a 67.85 meters (222.6 ft) tall stone tower, which ranks among the top ten tallest in the world.
A former stone fortification serves as a foundation of the lighthouse.
On top of the structure you can see a beautiful bronze sculpture, which symbolizes the victory of Italy in World War I.
33. Santa Margherita Ligure (Liguria)
Santa Margherita Ligure is a small coastal town that enjoys a great popularity with tourists.
It has a population of only 9,639 people, but during the summer season it seems much more busy and lively.
The place is known for its traditional appearance and old buildings, its beautiful port and irresistible Mediterranean atmosphere.
34. Portofino
Nestled on the emerald coast of Liguria, Portofino is a very small town (only 439 residents) which enjoys tremendous popularity with tourists.
Known for its lovely weather and beautiful historical building, it is a magnet for visitors during the summer season.
The best time to visit Portofino is between early June and early September.
The town is a good choice for yacht-sailors as it offers a very cozy and comfortable yacht marina.
35. Madonna della Corona
If you aren’t afraid of some additional walking and climbing, Madonna della Corona (a beautiful monastery, completed in 1664) is absolutely a must for your trip.
The sanctuary is located in the region of Veneto, approximately 28.6 miles (46 km) north of the city of Verona.
The catholic monastery is nestled amidst the steep rocks, 774 meters (2539.37 ft) above sea level.
The route to the monastery passes through a very beautiful forested area. It usually takes about 2 hours and includes more than 1,500 steps to get there, although there is also a bus available, which makes the trip to the monastery much easier.
36. Assisi (Umbria)
Located in the heart of Umbria, the city of Assisi (28,299 people as of 2016) has been permanently inhabited for the past 3,000 years.
Due to its countless unique architectural monuments, Assisi was designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 2000.
The most important local landmark is the Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi, which was consecrated in 1253.
37. San Felice Arch
San Felice Arch (or Arco di San Felice in Italian) is a natural rock formation on the Adriatic coast of Italy.
You will find it not far to the south from the city of Vieste, at the bay of San Felice.
The area is known for its wonderful golden beaches and smooth sea waters so you can take advantage of the walk to the arch and to take a dip in the sea at some of the neighbouring beaches.
38. Sassi di Matera (Basilicata)
We often associate Italy with old and even medieval buildings, but what the charming ancient city of Matera has to offer is beyond our expectations.
Sassi di Matera are two very interesting historical districts that are well-known for their Paleolithic cave dwellings.
Approximately 9,000 years old, some of the dwellings were inhabited until the mid 20th century.
However, the lack of electricity and running water forced the last residents of the ancient settlement to leave their homes.
39. The Ancient Amphitheater of Taormina (Sicily)
The Ancient Amphitheater of Taormina is one of the most emblematic and recognizable places in the South of Italy.
Mostly built of red bricks, it was completed during the 3rd century BC.
As it is situated on the top of a hill, the amphitheater reveals an incredible panorama of the entire city and the coast of Sicily.
40. Santa Caterina del Sasso Monastery (Lombardy)
Santa Caterina del Sasso is a beautiful Roman Catholic Monastery.
It is located in the region of Lombardy, on the east coast of Lago Maggiore, south of the small village of Reno.
The construction started as early as the 12th century but it was completed in the 19th century.
Built on the steep coastal cliffs of the lake, the monastery is easily recognizable for its beautiful Romanesque architecture.
41. Scaligero Castle (Lombardy)
Located on the south coast of Lago di Garda, Scaligero Castle is one of the most important tourist attractions in the area.
It lies on the shore of a narrow peninsula, in the old historical village of Sirmione.
Completed in the 13th century, the classic fortress is made of bricks and stones. It is very well-preserved and is considered the most visited in Italy.
42. Montepulciano (Toscana)
Because of its old historical buildings and car-free narrow cobbled streets, Montepulciano enjoys a great reputation of being a real traveler’s paradise.
Located in Toscana, it is home to only 13,984 residents. Montepulciano is a quiet traditional town, very pleasant to walk around and a wonderful place to spend a few days in summer.
It was established in the 6th century but the area has been permanently inhabited since the 4th century BC.
43. Cala Gonone (Sardinia)
Cala Gonone is a small tourist town on the east shore of Sadinia.
It is famous for its gorgeous white sandy beaches and for the top quality of its sea waters.
The biggest attractions, however, are its numerous coastal caves. While some of them are more easily accessible than others, they all deserve your attention.
One of the most beautiful of them is Bue Marino, which is accessible only by boat. Because of the small distance (it is approximately 3.5 km south of the city) it attracts many tourists during the summer season.
44. Spiaggia di Li Cossi
Nestled in a small and sheltered cove south of Costa Paradiso, Spiaggia di Li Cossi is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Sardinia.
As it is situated on the north coast of the island, most visitors expect to find a quiet and secluded beach.
Most of the time, however, Spiaggia di Li Cossi is quite busy because of its soft sands and pristine waters.
Even so, it is deeply recommended to visit this wonderful place, to take a dip in its clear waters and to take a few pictures of the scenic surrounding landscape.
45. Ponte di Rialto
Ponte di Rialto is the most famous bridge spanning Canale Grande in Venice and is one of the most important tourist attractions in the city.
Constructed between 1588 and 1591, it is one of the longest and oldest bridges in Venice.
Approximately 31.80 metres (104.3 ft) long, its construction was a real challenge in the 16th century.
Despite the difficulties, today it is still one of the most important connections between San Marco and San Polo.
46. Giglio Island (Tuscany)
Giglio Island (1,426 residents) is a lesser known tourist destination.
Quiet and secluded even in summer, it is a great choice if you want to feel the real taste of Italy.
The island is easily accessible by boat as it lies only 10 km off the coast of Tuscany.
The main tourist attraction is the small harbour village of Portoferraio, which is known for its old buildings in bright and warm colours, such as yellow, pink, papaya, peach and many others.
47. Val d’Orcia
Val d’Orcia covers 61,188 ha (151,200 acres) in the countryside of Siena.
It is known for its traditional Tuscan landscape, dominated by green vineyards, rolling hills and tall cypress trees.
In 2004 the area was included in UNESCO’s World Heritage List because of its centuries-old villages and cultural importance for Italy.
The area is known for some of the best wines in Europe and is one of the most important gastronomical centers in the world.
48. Saturnia (Tuscany)
The small village of Saturnia (only 280 residents) is located in the countryside of Tuscany, not far from the town of Manciano.
The area is well-known for its hot sulphurous mineral springs, which have attracted visitors since ancient times.
The springs are considered to have a number of special therapeutic properties.
The moderate temperature of the water (around 37.5°C / 99.5°F) supports the nervous system and promotes relaxation.
49. Victor Emmanuel Monument, Rome (Lazio)
Constructed between 1885 and 1935, Victor Emmanuel Monument was built in honour of the first monarch of united Italy.
It is approximately 81 m (266 ft) high and is situated on Piazza Venezia, in the very heart of Rome. The monument is a mixture of Neoclassicism and Eclectic style.
50. Scala dei Turchi (Sicily)
Scala dei Turchi is situated on the sunny coast of southern Sicily, not far from Porto Empedocle.
The area is quiet and secluded, dominated by white and extraordinary looking white coastal cliffs. They strongly remind of a staircase, which explains the name of the phenomenon.
Scala dei Turchi is a candidate for UNESCO’s World Heritage List.
51. Amalfi (Campania)
On the steep scenic shore of Campania, not far from the city of Naples, lies the main town on the Amalfi Coast.
Amalfi Town has a population of approximately 5,100 residents but the number of tourists in summer is much bigger.
The settlement is known for its old buildings, small pebble beaches and limpid emerald waters.
In 1997 it was included in UNESCO’s World Heritage List.
The main tourist attractions here are Villa Rufolo and the incredible 9th century Cathedral, which is a complex mixture of architectural styles.
52. Cinque Terre (Liguria)
Cinque Terre covers approximately 4,511.54 ha (17.4192 sq mi) in south-east Liguria (the eastern-most part of the Italian Riviera.
It is considered one of the most popular upscale tourist destinations in Italy and is well-known for its five wonderful small coastal towns – Riomaggiore, Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia and Manarola.
The area is popular for its scenic coastline, lovely small silver beaches and emerald waters.
The biggest attraction, however, is the mixture of multicolored buildings in beautiful warm shades, situated directly on the rugged rocky coast.
The area is permanently inhabited at least since the 11th century.
It was included in UNESCO’s World Heritage List in 1997.
Because of its location, not surprising, Cinque Terre is a well-known gastronomic destination.
53. La Scala (Lombardi)
Opened in 1778, La Scala Opera House and Theater in Milan is one of the most famous opera houses in the world.
It is known for its fine Neoclassical architecture. The building was designed by the talented architect Giuseppe Piermarini (born on July 18, 1734 in Foligno, in the province of Perugia).
The opera house is situated on a square with the same name in the very heart of Milan.
54. Miramare Castle (Friuli-Venezia Giulia)
Trieste is a very beautiful city, and the most important tourist attraction here is the Miramare Castle.
It is an impressive 19th century building that was constructed by order of Ferdinand Maximilian of Habsburg.
The castle is situated amidst a wonderful coastal park (22 hectares / 54 acres).
Here you can see a great variety of exotic tropical plants from around the world.
55. Victor Emmanuel Gallery (Lombardi)
Milan enjoys the reputation of being one of the world’s fashion capitals.
One of the most prestigious shopping destinations and the oldest shopping center in the world is Victor Emmanuel Gallery.
Situated in the central part of Milan, it was completed in 1878.
Here you will find numerous upscale boutiques, cafes and restaurants.
The gallery is known for its entirely covered glass-and-iron ceiling, unique frescoes and for its sophisticated mosaics.
56. Milan Cathedral (Lombardi)
The Cathedral of Milan (Duomo di Milano) is one of the most remarkable buildings in Italy.
Situated in the very heart of Milan, it is 108 meters (354 ft) high and is a mixture between Gothic and Renaissance architecture.
Its construction started as early as 1386 but the building was completed in 1965. Bricks and marble are the main materials used in the construction of the Roman Catholic church.
The cathedral is the seat of the Archbishop of Milan.
57. Maremma (Toscany)
The beauty of Toscany is remarkable and the area of Maremma is a very good example.
Situated in the coastal part of the region, it covers approximately 5,000 km2 (2,000 mi2).
It is a mixture between forested lands, romantic countryside and coastal sceneries.
In the past the area of Maremma was mostly covered by marshlands which, however, were drained by order of Fernando I de Medici.
58. Sorano (Toscany)
If you travel around Tuscany, don’t miss to stop by the small town of Sorano (3,464 residents).
This is a lovely historical settlement in the southern part of the region, in the province of Grosseto.
Established around the 3rd century BC, the town is famous for its beautiful Orsini Castle.
Officially called Rocca degli Orsini, it was completed during the 14th century.
59. San Gimignano (Toscana)
San Gimignano (7,780 residents) is a small medieval town, situated not far from Siena, in the region of Toscany.
It is known for its impressive stone towers, protective medieval stone wall and for its centuries old buildings and narrow cobbled streets.
Dominated by Gothic and Romanesque architecture, the old part of the town was included in UNESCO’s World Heritage List in 1990.
60. Elba Island (Toscana)
Elba Island is one of the most beautiful places in Tuscany, and at the same time, it is one of the lesser-known tourist destinations in Italy.
Being the biggest one of all 7 islands in the Tuscan Archipelago, Elba is a mixture of old historical towns, sapphire-blue waters, and lovely beaches.
Founded in 1548, the most famous of all towns is the capital Portoferraio. The most popular tourist attraction is the lighthouse, which was built in 1548 too.
61. Santa Maria del Fiore (Toscany)
Santa Maria del Fiore, also known as the Florence Cathedral, is one of the most recognizable churches in the world.
It was completed in 1436 and is a mixture between Gothic and Renaissance architecture.
It is 114.5 metres (376 ft) high and is one of the largest cathedrals ever built.
It is known for its huge red-orange colored dome as well as for its 84.7 metres (277.9 ft) tall bell tower.
In 1982, Santa Maria del Fiore was included in UNESCO’s World Heritage List.
62. Spiaggia la Cinta (Sardinia)
Spiaggia la Cinta is a 3.5 km (2.18 mi) long stretch of superb white sand (one of the longest on the island).
Located in north-eastern Sardinia, it is one of the most popular beaches in Italy.
You will find it right next to the north of the coastal town of San Teodoro.
Because of its turquoise shallow waters, Spiaggia la Cinta is a magnet for visitors.
Despite its huge popularity, the central part of the beach is usually very quiet and secluded. It welcomes fewer visitors due to its more distant location and more difficult accessibility.
63. La Maddalena Archipelago (Sardinia)
La Maddalena Archipelago is located right off the northern coast of Sardinia.
It is known for its wonderful small coves, turquoise waters and cozy white-sand beaches.
It is a popular place for yachting, swimming, snorkeling and kayaking.
The islands offer some very cozy little towns and villages to visit.
The archipelago and the surrounding waters fall within the limits of Arcipelago di La Maddalena National Park, which was included in UNESCO’s World Heritage List in 2006.
64. Saint Mark’s Basilica (Veneto)
Saint Mark’s Basilica, officially called Patriarchal Cathedral Basilica of Saint Mark, is located at Piazza San Marco in Venice.
Completed in the 11th century, it is known for its unique appearance, which is the result of the mixture of Italian and Venetian Gothic architecture with strong Byzantine influence.
The belltower (Saint Mark’s Campanile) is very impressive too. It rises 98.6 metres (323 ft) above Piazza San Marco and was rebuilt in 1903.
65. Porto Pino (Sardinia)
Known for its white sandy dunes and crystal clear sapphire waters, Porto Pino is the best place to visit if you need a truly secluded and quiet beach.
The stretch of sand is enormous and in the eastern part you will easily find some place just for you and your family or friends.
As long as Italy is a very popular tourist destination, Porto Pino is a great example of how many wonderful unspoiled places are still waiting to be found.
66. Cala Mariolu (Sardinia)
Cala Mariolu is a fantastic secluded beach which is known for its crystal clear turquoise waters.
It is covered with a mixture of small white pebbles and white coarse sand.
It is quite difficult to reach as it lies at the foot of steep coastal cliffs on the east shore of Sardinia.
The easiest way to get there is to rent a boat in Cala Gonone, which lies 18 km north from Cala Mariolu.
67. Ponte Vecchio (Toscana)
Constructed in 1345, Ponte Vecchio is considered one of the most recognisable bridges in Europe.
Spanning the Arno River, it is one of the must-visit sights in the central part of Florence.
It is known for its extraordinary design that resembles an old traditional residential building.
From inside, the bridge is a popular shopping street. Here you can find galeries, work craft shops, jewelry and many others.
68. Spiaggia di Cala Pira (Sardinia)
Spiaggia di Cala Pira is one of the must-visit beaches in Sardinia.
It is located on the south-east coast of the island and is known for its white soft sands and sapphire-blue crystal clear sea.
As the coastal waters are quite shallow, the beach is very popular with people who travel with their kids.
The surrounding area is very quiet and sparsely populated so Cala Pira is rarely overcrowded, even if you travel in the height of summer.
69. Cala Goloritze (Sardinia)
Cala Goloritze is considered the most beautiful pebble beach in the world.
It is located on the east coast of Sardinia, not far from the mountain historical town of Baunei and to the north of Santa Maria Navarrese.
It is quite popular for its incredibly clear waters and underwater visibility of almost 50 meters in quiet and sunny weather.
Cala Goloritze lies at the foot of steep coastal cliffs which cast dense shade during the late afternoon hours.
70. Chia Beach (Sardinia)
Being one of the most preferred beaches in Sardinia, Chia Beach is known for its irresistible tropical appearance.
It is located on the southern tip of the island and is a mixture of shallow turquoise waters and snow white sands.
Although the entire area is known for its fantastic beaches and sapphire blue waters, Chia Beach is considered one of the best.
You will find it in the vicinity of the villages of Chia and Setti Ballas.
In addition to the beautiful view and soft sands, here you can also enjoy a lovely coastal lake, which attracts a number of waterfowl species.
71. Spiaggia di Porto Giunco (Sardinia)
Spiaggia di Porto Giunco is considered by many one of the most fantastic beaches in Italy.
It is situated on the southeastern coast of the island of Sardinia and is known for its irresistible soft white sands.
The water in the sea is crystal clear and really tempting because of its turquoise shades.
The beach attracts visitors between May and October, with the peak of the season between June and August.
72. Lake Church (South Tyrol)
If you are traveling around the region of South Tyrol, don’t miss to stop by the extraordinary Lake Reschen (or Reschensee).
The artificial lake was completed in the summer of 1950 and is 28 meters deep (almost 92 feet).
The lake is famous for the submerged church from the 14th century, whose belltower can still be seen above the lake surface.
73. Braies Lake and the Dolomites (Trentino and South Tyrol)
If you are planning to travel across the northern parts of Italy, the Dolomites should be one of the first places to visit.
Reaching 3,343 meters above sea level (10968 ft), parts of the mountains are former coral reefs (yes, surprisingly!).
Don’t miss to stop by Braies Lake which is one of the most beautiful lakes in the Dolomites in South Tyrol.
Being surrounded by wonderful pine forests and rugged mountains, it is a good choice if you want to escape the heat in July and August.
Although the water in the lake is too cold for swimming and bathing, it is a great choice if you are looking for a quiet place to enjoy some boating and finishing.
The view of the mirrored emerald water is almost therapeutic and walking around is a very good way to beat stress.
74. Lake Como (Lombardi)
Located in the Italian Alps, not far from Switzerland, Lake Como is the 3rd largest lake in Italy.
Because of its topaz blue waters, lovely historical villages and green mountain slopes, Lake Como is a wonderful place to spend your summer vacation.
Here you will find some of the most beautiful villas in the world, most of which are known for their outstanding Renaissance architecture and gorgeous tropical gardens.
75. The Roman Forum (Lazio)
In antiquity, the Roman Forum (an important public square) was the most significant place in the Roman Empire.
In modern times, you can still see the ruins of various government buildings scattered around the ancient public venue.
Most of the structures were built over a wide period of time between 8 century BC and 4 century AD.
As part of the Historic Center of Rome, the Roman Forum was included in UNESCO’s World Heritage List in 1990.
76. Capri Island (Campania)
Situated only 5.5 km (3.42 miles) off the coast of Campania in Tyrrhenian Sea, Capri is a popular tourist destination.
It attracts thousands of day trippers from Naples and other destinations in Campania every day but is also a prestigious place to spend your summer vacation.
Capri is a very green island that is known for its dramatic coastline, cozy pebble beaches and clear emerald waters.
The biggest attractions, however, are the Blue Grotto, the Gardens of Augustus and Villa San Michele.
77. Trevi Fountain / Rome (Lazio)
There is a saying that if you throw a coin into the Trevi Fountain in Rome, you will come back again one day.
The fountain was designed by the talented artist and architect Nicola Salvi and is considered one of the most remarkable landmarks in Italy.
Completed in 1762, it is known for its wonderful marble sculpture of Neptune.
78. The Colosseum / Rome (Lazio)
The Colosseum is probably one of the most popular monuments of the ancient world.
Its construction started between 70 and 75 AD during the rule of Emperor Vespasian and completed in 80 AD during the rule of Emperor Titus.
The giant structure, which could hold up to 80,000 spectators, was built as a gift for the Roman people and served as the most important entertainment venue in Rome.
This is where gladiator contests and other important public events were held.
79. Mount Etna (Sicily)
Located in the central part of Sicily, Mount Etna is 3,329 m (10,922 ft) high.
This is the highest active volcano in Europe (not counting the Teide volcano on the Spanish Canary Islands).
According to historical data, the volcano has destroyed dozens of towns and villages over the centuries.
In modern times, Etna is a popular year-round tourist attraction, with the peak of the visits in July and August.
80. The Spanish Steps / Rome (Lazio)
The famous Spanish Steps in Rome were constructed between 1723 and 1725.
The stairway consists of 135 steps and is situated between Piazza di Spagna (a beautiful small square) and Triniti dei Monti Church.
The project was funded by the famous French diplomat Étienne Gueffier.
It is important to know that tourists and locals are banned from eating and drinking at the steps for hygienic and aesthetic reasons.
The stairway was renovated between October 2015 and September 2016.
81. Lago Maggiore (Piedmont, Lombardy)
With a depth of 372 meters (1220.5 feet) Lago Maggiore is the second deepest in Italy.
It is located in the Italian Alps but part of the lake lies on the territory of Switzerland.
The coast of the lake is dotted with a number of wonderful historical towns and villages.
According to many, it is the most popular summer destination in the Alps.
Its cozy little beaches attract swimmers and sunbathers, especially in July and August.
Along the coast of Lago Maggiore you will find a number of fabulous Renaissance villas with fantastic gardens.
One of the most important attractions, however, is Isola Bella (in the region of Piedmont), which is known for the outstanding Palazzo Borromeo.
This is a wonderful palace situated amidst one of the most fascinating gardens in the country. It was built in the 13th century and was the home of one of the most influential aristocratic families in the region.
82. Piazza San Marco / Venezia (Veneto)
Constructed in the early 9th century, Piazza San Marco is the most visited and popular square in Venice.
Between 1172 and 1178 the square was reconstructed, and then it acquired its present appearance.
Because of its insignificant altitude (less than 1 meter above sea level), Piazza San Marco experiences frequent floods and often remains under 30 or 40 cm (around 1 – 1.3 ft) of water.
83. Lago di Garda (Lombardy, Veneto, Trentino Alto-Adige)
Lago di Garda is the largest Italian lake. It covers 370km² (142.8m²) and its maximum depth reaches 346 m (1,135 ft).
It is located at the southern foot of the Italian Alps, in the northern parts of Italy.
It lies on the territory of three Italian regions – Veneto, Lombardi and Trentino Alto-Adige.
Lago di Garda is an attractive tourist destination and is one of the top spots for practicing outdoor activities and water sports in the country.
There are some really nice beaches, and although the water can be a bit cold, it is always clear.
84. The Vatican
The Vatican is definitely one of the major tourist attractions in Europe.
Start your tour with St. Peter’s Square (Piazza San Pietro). Designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini, it is situated in the heart of the Vatican and is one of the most visited and famous squares in the world. Completed in 1667, it welcomes approximately 50,000 people per day, although it has a capacity of 300,000 people! It is decorated with a 40-meter-tall Egyptian obelisk, brought by Emperor Caligula.
Another beauty in the Vatican is the Sistine Chapel, which serves as the Pope’s official residence. It was constructed by order of Pope Sixtus IV, between 1473 and 1481. Very beautiful from outside, the building is a real masterpiece from inside. The ceiling was painted personally by the great Michelangelo. The building complex is part of the Apostolic Palace and welcomes up to 20,000 visitors per day.
Don’t miss also the St. Peter’s Basilica. Built in an elegant Renaissance style, it was completed in 1626, after 120 years of construction. With its impressive height of 136.6 meters (448 ft), it is the largest church in the world today. In 1984, it was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
85. Vesuvius and Pompeii (Campania)
Being the only active volcano in mainland Europe, Vesuvius is an important tourist attraction.
It is located in the vicinity of Naples, and its last eruption was in 1944.
In modern times, Vesuvius is often associated with one of the most catastrophic volcanic eruptions in history. It happened on August 24, 79 AD and completely buried and destroyed the city of Pompeii.
Being an important archaeological site, Pompeii was included in UNESCO’s World Heritage List in 1997.
86. Cala Brandinchi (Sardinia)
Cala Brandinchi is one of the most irresistible Italian beaches.
It is covered with soft white sands and the water in the sea reminds of the Bahamas.
Its beauty is hard to explain in words and in addition, it is family friendly because of its shallow pristine waters.
Despite being a bit isolated, Cala Brandinchi is a vibrant place in summer. It is located half an hour drive south-east from Olbia, and the area has some very good villas and hotels to stay in.
87. Lampedusa (Sicily)
Lampedusa is one of the lesser known Mediterranean islands.
It lies south of Sicily and attracts lovers of yachting, snorkeling and diving from across Europe.
The island is known for its rich variety of marine species as well as for some of the most clear waters in Europe.
If you visit Lampedusa, don’t miss the area of the Rabbit Island (Isola dei Conigli), popular for its underwater visibility of 40+ meters.
88. Palazzo Ducale di Urbino (Marche)
Urbino (14,786 residents) is a walled medieval city in the Italian region of Marche.
It is known for its 15th century castle, built by order of Duke Federico III da Montefeltro.
The castle is situated on the top of a hill in the southern part of Urbino.
It is surrounded by old historical buildings and narrow cobbled streets.
The Renaissance castle was included in UNESCO’s World Heritage List in 1998.
In modern days the palace houses the National Gallery of the Marche (Galleria Nazionale delle Marche).
89. The Old Town and the Two Towers of Bologna (Emilia Romagna)
Founded in the 6th century BC, Bologna is a well-known gastronomic destination.
It is popular for some of the most delicious pizza, pasta, lasagna, ice cream and other treats in the country.
The Old Town of Bologna offers a good choice of restaurants to enjoy the culinary heritage of the city.
After dinner, you can take a walk around the Old Town. It is dominated by beautiful Renaissance buildings, but the main tourist attractions are the Two Towers that were constructed between 1109 and 1119.
90. The Devil’s Bridge in Cividale del Friuli (Friuli Venezia Giulia)
Il Ponte del Diavolo or the Devil’s Bridge is one of the most popular old bridges in Italy.
You will find it in the town of Cividale del Friuli (11,547 residents as of 2007), in the region of Friuli-Venezia Giulia.
The small town near the Slovenian border is a charming place, but the main attraction is the 50-meter-long stone bridge from the 15th century, which spans the Natisone River.
91. Lago Blu (Aosta Valley)
Lago Blu is a small glacial lake in the Italian Alps, not far from the Swizz border.
You will find it nestled in a deep glacial valley, close to the mountain ski center Breuil-Cervinia.
The lake lies almost 2,000 meters (6,562 ft) above sea level and is known for the outstanding view of the Matterhorn.
Although most people visit Breuil-Cervinia in winter because of the ski slopes and winter sports, you should come during the summer season if you want to enjoy the turquoise waters of the like.
In the area you will find some really wonderful walking trails to explore, which is the best way to enjoy the outdoors in Aosta Valley.
92. Positano (Campania)
Positano is one of the most extraordinary looking towns in Italy.
It consists of colorful (yellow, orange, pink, red etc.) two and three-storey buildings, situated directly on the steep slopes of Amalfi Coast.
It is quite a small settlement (only 3,800 residents) but is a busy and diverse tourist destination.
It is a popular shopping and party hub and attracts visitors for its irresistible lifestyle.
93. Leaning Tower of Pisa (Tuscany)
The Leaning Tower of Pisa is one of the symbols of Italy.
The construction of the 56-meter-tall tower started in 1173 and finished in 1372.
The campanile was one of the tallest structures in the world for its time.
Since the tower is very heavy and the ground in the area is quite soft, its tilt reached 5.5 degrees in 1990. In 1993 started stabilising work which reduced the tilt to 3.97 degrees.
The Leaning Tower of Pisa was included in UNESCO’s World Heritage List in 1987.
94. Castel Sant’ Angelo
You will find one of Rome’s most emblematic buildings on the river bank of Tiber, at the very heart of the Italian capital.
Constructed between 123 and 139 AD by order of the Roman Emperor Hadrian, the castle was initially created to serve as a mausoleum for the emperor and his family.
Later, it served as a pope’s residence.
In modern days, Castel Sant’ Angelo is a museum, and it is considered one of the most recommended to visit in the city.
95. Rimini (Emilia-Romagna)
Founded in 268 BC, Rimini (151,200 residents) is a thriving tourist center on the Adriatic coast.
Known for its fantastic golden beaches, it attracts tens of thousands of visitors during the summer season.
Here you can enjoy hundreds of great restaurants and nightclubs.
If you just need to walk around, the narrow streets of the Old Town or Rimini are an exciting place. The old historic center is a mixture of different architectural styles.
Some of the oldest existing buildings in the city were constructed during the early 13th century and are known for their beautiful Roman-Gothic architecture.
96. The Canals of Venice (Veneto)
The islands of Venice were settled in the 5th century, and the rapid population growth led to the need for more space very soon after.
With digging of the canals (most of them up to 5 meters deep), the islands were drained which naturally increased their usable land.
Another decision of the residents of Venice, to construct their buildings on solid wooden pillars, allowed the city to grow additionally even beyond its natural limits.
Nowadays, the Canals of Venice are one of the most popular tourist attractions in the world, with the Grand Canal being the most visited and largest of them.
Walking around, it is hard to imagine that some of the buildings were constructed between the 10th and 13th century and are still completely functional.
97. Cefalù (Sicily)
Cefalù (13,777 residents as of 2007) is a lovely historical town which lies on the north coast of Sicily, not far from Palermo.
Nestled between the beach and a giant rock, it was founded in 1131.
It is known for its scenic location and is a great background if you want to take some unique and extraordinary pictures.
Here you will find some wonderful churches, the most beautiful of which is the Cathedral of Cefalù.
98. Sant’Andrea della Valle (Lazio)
If you want to visit a church whose interior will leave you speechless, you should definitely stop by Sant’Andrea della Valle.
Consecrated in 1650, the construction of the Renaissance basilica took 60 years.
It is known for its rich interior decorations and paintings as well as for its huge dome, which is still one of the largest ever built.
You will find the Roman Catholic church in the Italian capital Rome.
99. Sori (Liguria)
Founded in the 7th century BC, Sori is part of the metropolitan area of Genoa and is one of the favourite places of the residents of Genua on summer weekends.
Sori is a mix of colorful old buildings, cozy silver beaches and clear emerald waters.
It is a wonderful place to enjoy the delicious Italian cuisine, including fantastic wines and local cheese.
It is also known as the hometown of Picasso and the place to see one of the beautiful Ligurian churches Santa Margherita.
100. Subterranean Naples
Naples is a wonderful city but one of the most recommended places to visit is actually invisible for your eyes while walking around.
It comes to the Underground Naples – a huge labyrinth of tunnels located underneath the Old Town.
You will run out of words facing the tunnels, some of which were built in 5th – 4th century BC.
