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Whether you’re a history junkie, a foodie or anything in between, your travel preferences will have an impact on which Italian destination makes the most sense for your debut trip. From historic Rome to the enchanting Lake Como, we’re breaking down the seven of the best places to visit in Italy for first-timers (or anyone).
For one-on-one support and personalized recommendations, reach out to a Fora Advisor. Your Fora travel advisor can also answer all your travel questions and help you build a great itinerary (complete with hidden gems and tried-and-true favorites). Plus, when you book with a Fora Advisor, they can hook you up with complimentary VIP perks at the best hotels across Italy.
7 of the best places to visit in Italy for the first time, from Rome to Lake Como
If food and architecture are your vibe, virtually all the best places to stay in Italy for first-timers deliver (although, there’s plenty of variety across Italy). But if you’re visiting for another reason — perhaps to explore the best of Italy’s countryside in addition to its historic cities — some destinations may make more sense than others.
Below you’ll find seven ideas for where to go in Italy, each with its own offering of sites to explore. Keep in mind that these are only a fraction of what Italy has to offer, and if you want to truly maximize your itinerary, you can reach out to a Fora Advisor for more expert recommendations.
1. Rome: Italy’s best place to visit for variety & history
Image courtesy of Chapter Roma
Thousands of years after Rome’s mythical founding by the brothers Romulus and Remus, it’s nearly impossible to navigate the city’s venerable streets without reminders of the city’s deep history. Rome isn’t just one of the best places to visit in Italy for the first time — but Europe as well, considering how long the city was the center of Western civilization.
Beyond Rome’s history, there’s a cosmopolitan vibe and plenty to do and see. Our 3-day Rome itinerary, for example, highlights intriguing art museums, cooking classes and more. And if you’re looking for somewhere to stay in Rome (including some of the best boutique hotels in Italy), check out our guide. One of our go-to's, however, is Chapter Roma, a stylish boutique and our most-booked hotel in Rome.
Fora Perks at Chapter Roma:
Welcome amenity & room upgrade whenever available.
Places to visit in Rome, Italy: the Colosseum, MAXXI and the Sistine Chapel in Vatican City
The Colosseum is a can’t-miss stop in Rome. The arena once hosted some of the most daring and elaborate performances in the ancient world: gladiatorial combat, comedies and more. That it’s still standing after thousands of years is a testament to Roman engineering and ingenuity. Meanwhile, the Sistine Chapel in Vatican City — technically not Rome, but it’s easily within reach — hosts stunning examples of Renaissance architecture and art.
MAXXI — or the National Museum of 21 Century Art — celebrates much more recent artistic accomplishments. This eye-catching museum displays a diverse collection of contemporary art from around the world.
2. Florence & Tuscany: among the top places to visit in Italy who love art, food & culture
Image courtesy of Gallery Hotel Art
Like Rome, Florence’s influence on history can’t be overstated. The city is widely believed to be the birthplace of the Renaissance. Florence has continued to serve as one of Italy’s most important cultural hubs since great figures like Leonardo de Vinci and Niccolò Machiavelli called the city home hundreds of years ago.
While Florence is best known for its art scene — with museums like the Galleria dell'Accademia — the city is also home to a thriving gastronomic scene that features native Tuscan cuisine and international fare (see our insider’s guide to Florence). Overall, Florence is one of Italy’s best cities to visit for first-timers who love to immerse themselves in culture.
Beyond its capital city, Tuscany offers a rich and scenic countryside to explore. The renowned region is filled with vineyards, olive groves and rural retreats. If this is your first time in Italy, pairing an urban excursion through Florence before making your way around Tuscany is a great way to experience contrasting Italian lifestyles.
Our guides to where to stay in Florence and Tuscany offer a rundown of the best places to stay in each, including one of our favorite retreats, Gallery Hotel Art, another one of our top-booked properties in Italy.
Fora Perks at Gallery Hotel Art:
Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever available.
Places to visit in Florence, Italy: Florence’s Duomo, plus the Uffizi & Accademia galleries
We’ve already mentioned the Accademia Gallery of Florence, but it’s not the only worthwhile option. Uffizi Gallery hosts an impressive collection of art from the 13th through the 20th centuries, and the gallery itself is beautiful. The Cathedral Santa Maria del Fiore (a.k.a. the Florence Duomo) in the city’s main square is also stunning, and the surrounding shops, cafés and restaurants are fun to explore.
3. Milan: where to go in Italy for fashion
Image courtesy of Rosa Grand Milano – Starhotels Collezione
Few cities in Italy blend historical significance with contemporary Italian culture quite like Milan. Milan is one of the world’s foremost fashion capitals. The city is home to dozens of world-class luxury brands and fashion shows, making it an ideal destination for shoppers and designers alike. The city is also regarded as Italy’s financial hub.
These aspects make Milan Italy’s most cosmopolitan city and an excellent destination for first-time travelers seeking high-end experiences, from elite dining to an incredible nightlife (just see all the great things to do in Milan). And since this is still Italy, virtually every street is lined with brilliant architecture and friendly locals eager to share their pride in their home city.
Reach out to a Fora Advisor for tailored help deciding where to stay in Milan (Rosa Grand Milano is a top choice). They’ll also hook you up with a wealth of travel insider knowledge.
Fora Perks at Rosa Grand Milano – Starhotels Collezione:
$100 hotel / resort credit, breakfast daily, welcome amenity, upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Places to visit in Milan, Italy: Navigli & Tortona, the Cathedral of Milan, Sforza Castle, Vittorio Emanuele II Gallery…
Milan’s Navigli and Tortona neighborhoods are especially exciting to visit if you’re into fashion and contemporary art. Both areas display a different side of Milanese culture while offering interesting art galleries, boutiques and eateries, not to mention some of Milan’s best nightlife venues.
Alternatively, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is home to a dazzling selection of upscale eateries, luxury fashion brands (Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Prada, to name just a few) and neoclassical architecture reminiscent of the nearby Cathedral of Milan. A few blocks away, Sforza Castle and the surrounding park offer a lovely escape from Milan’s urban bustle.
4. Venice: one of Italy’s most culturally rich places to visit
Image courtesy of Splendid Venice - Starhotels Collezione
One of the most unique places to visit in Italy (or Europe) for the first time, Venice — a.k.a. “the Floating City” or “City of Canals” — is well known for its singing gondoliers, vibrant waterways and architecture. Venice, which is technically just off the coast of mainland Italy, is in fact disconnected from the rest of the country. This lends the city an air of exclusivity and escapism.
Classic Venetian architecture, narrow stone streets and scenic canals provide an intimate backdrop for couples’ trips, with hidden gems around every corner.
Splendid Venice is one of our top-booked choices if you’re looking for a classy stay (made even more so when you book with a Fora Advisor; we can upgrade your stay with Fora’s Preferred Platinum perks). The hotel is set within Venice’s San Marco district, a favorite among travelers and locals alike. For additional options, read our guide on where to stay in Venice.
Fora Perks at Splendid Venice - Starhotels Collezione:
$100 hotel / resort credit, breakfast daily, welcome amenity, upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Places to visit in Venice, Italy: St. Mark’s Basilica and Square & the Grand Canal
Venice is one of the best places to visit in Italy for historical architecture. St. Mark’s Basilica and Square are among the top sites, but gorgeous Venetian architecture — characterized by the use of white Istrian marble, pointed arches, tracery stonework and the iconic winged lion motif — abounds. And whether architecture speaks to you or not, a boat ride along Venice’s scenic Grand Canal is highly recommended.
Our 3-day Venice itinerary has more ideas for things to do and see.
5: Amalfi: a romantic retreat away from urban Italy
Image courtesy of Borgo Santandrea
Amalfi and its namesake coastline are additional examples of the best places to visit in Italy — and the best places to visit in Europe. This gorgeous, rugged stretch of Italian coastline promises relaxation and an idyllic array of charming villages amid fragrant lemon groves . The coast is also a wonderful place to charter a boat tour and sample exceptionally fresh seafood.
The town of Amalfi was once a Byzantine stronghold, and remnants of that past can still be found throughout the area, which is made up of charming, cliffside homes and luxury resorts. Speaking of, Borgo Santandrea is one of our top-booked hotels in the Amalfi, and a great option for those who want a 5-star luxury travel experience. But there are plenty of other choices (including more affordable hotels) as you venture further from the town.
“Borgo Santandrea is the place to be on Amalfi,” said Fora Advisor Claire Herzog. “From the rooms — done in gorgeous whites and blues, all with different ceramic tile patterns — to the insane views of the sea and coast, the property is a jawdropper.”
Claire noted, “the staff is absolutely incredible, anticipating your every need, but also making you feel like you're part of the family.” She continued, “one of my favorite parts was the daily breakfast — an absolutely stunning spread — overseen by their ‘breakfast ambassador,’ the friendliest man who was always sure you were well fed and laughing through breakfast.”
Fora Perks at Borgo Santandrea:
$100 food / beverage credit, breakfast daily, extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Places to visit on Italy’s Amalfi Coast: the Path of the Gods, Positano and Ravello
As we mentioned, charming towns are spread throughout the Amalfi Coast. Beyond Amalfi itself, Positano and Ravello are among the most popular to visit. The former is known for fun boutiques and excellent seafood eateries that line steep, vibrant streets. The latter is famous for its cliffside gardens. Both offer a relaxed atmosphere and medieval architecture.
Hikers will also love the Path of the Gods, and those who accept the challenge of the trail’s rigorous slopes will be rewarded with gorgeous views of the ocean and hillside.
The Amalfi Coast is widely considered among the best honeymoon destinations if you’re planning the ultimate couple’s trip.
6. Sicily: where to go in Italy for a culturally unique experience
Image courtesy of Villa Sant ’Andrea, A Belmond Hotel, Taormina Mare
The Mediterranean’s largest and arguably most diverse island, Sicily has a unique history cultivated by centuries of occupations by various European civilizations. The Greeks, Romans and even Norman Vikings all claimed portions of Sicily at one point or another, and echoes of the past can still be observed in the temples, amphitheaters and castles that dot the island’s fields, hills and mountains.
The cultural landscape of Sicily is distinct as well. Many locals identify as Sicilian first, and Italian second — though often in good fun. This manifests in a gastronomy that’s every bit as worthy of exploring as that of the mainland. Moreover, there are a ton of exciting things to do in Sicily, from exploring the Valley of the Temples to strolling through the intriguing streets of Taormina.
As for places to stay, Villa Sant ’Andrea is a stunning choice set on Sicily’s idyllic coast. But there’s no shortage of excellent options across the island.
“1960s glamor abounds at this retro seaside retreat,” said Fora Advisor Nadine Fedorenko. “Watch kids tumble into the sea from the surrounding rocks, take out a pedalo boat for a jaunt and the best part of all is the granita on tap — for breakfast, lunch and dinner.” Nadine continued, “the suites are spacious and most rooms have stunning seaside views. Take up the funicular in the evenings to Taormina central town to enjoy an evening stroll and drinks.”
Fora’s Belmond Belini Club Perks at Villa Sant ’Andrea, A Belmond Hotel, Taormina Mare:
$90 hotel / resort credit, welcome amenity, breakfast daily, upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever available.
Places to visit in Sicily, Italy: Palermo, Taormina & Mount Etna
Palermo and Taormina headline the best places to visit in Sicily. Palermo is Siciliy’s capital, and there’s arguably no better place to experience the island’s unique culture. Eenjoy open-air markets, Byzantine architecture and more. To the east, you’ll find Taormina, which sits near the base of Mount Etna, an active volcano with (perhaps surprisingly) pleasant hiking trails. The town is best known for its ancient Greek theater, which still hosts productions today.
See our one-week Sicily itinerary for more things to do on the island.
7. Lake Como: a picturesque retreat for first-time visitors to Italy
Image courtesy of Mandarin Oriental, Lago Di Como
Spending a relaxing three days in Lake Como is a great way to start (or end) your first trip to Italy. Lake Como is easily one of the most beautiful destinations in Europe, and a favorite among luxury travel enthusiasts.
The lake is about an hour from Milan, so it’s common for travelers to split their time between the two destinations for a mix of urban excitement and lakeside rejuvenation (check out things to do in Lake Como).
Mandarin Oriental, Lago Di Como is our top-booked property in Lake Como, and it’s a worthy addition to any Italy vacation. The property boasts elegant accommodations, including suites with breathtaking lake views, standalone villas and a holistic spa.
Fora Perks at Mandarin Oriental, Lago Di Como:
$100 food / beverage credit, welcome amenities, breakfast daily, extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Places to visit near Lake Como, Italy: Como, Bellagio & historic villas
Lavish villas — like the majestic Villa d'Este (one of our favorite places to stay in Italy; the architecture alone is stunning) and Villa Carlotta — grace the shores of the lake. Meanwhile, towns such as Bellagio and Como welcome travelers to wander cobblestone streets, peruse boutiques and dine in waterfront cafés.
(Sidenote: if Bellagio sounds familiar, you may be thinking of the famous hotel on the Las Vegas Strip, which, in its current iteration, was inspired by the Lake Como town.)
Book your visit to Italy with a Fora Advisor for VIP perks & personalized travel planning
The above choices are only a fraction of the best places to visit in Italy for first-timers or otherwise. You might be interested in checking out the best places to stay in Sorrento or Naples, for instance.
If you want to explore all of your options, connect with a Fora travel advisor to plan and book your trip. They’ll share tailored recommendations and insider intel — not to mention VIP travel perks like complimentary room upgrades, property credits and more at the best properties across Italy.
The best places to visit in Italy: FAQs & tips
Here are a few things to keep in mind for your first (or next) visit to Italy. Alternatively, you can always ask a Fora Advisor for personalized travel tips and expert itinerary suggestions.
Your desired Italy itinerary will determine your best months to visit
Generally, spring and fall are the best times to visit Italy, as the weather’s mild and there are fewer crowds than in the high season during the summer. However, if you’re visiting to enjoy Italy’s beaches or lakes, you may prefer to visit in summer when thethe water is more comfortable. The downside: this is the most popular time to visit Italy, so you should expect crowds and higher rates.
Winter can be a great time to visit, too. Ski resorts in the northern regions of Italy tend to open around late November or early December. And while there aren’t as many attractions and sites open during this period, bigger cities like Rome and Florence typically see fewer travelers (outside of the enchanting holiday markets, of course).
(Read through our 14-day Italy itinerary for travel inspiration for an extended trip.)
It’s easy to get around Italy (taking the train at least once is a must)
Image courtesy of Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, A Belmond Train, Europe
Italy’s transportation system is excellent. With only a handful of exceptions, all of Italy’s major cities are well connected to the country’s rail network. High-speed options are great for packing as much into your trip as possible. Plus, some of the routes — like that from Milan to Venice or Florence to Rome — are quite scenic.
Buses cover many of the routes not offered by train. Or you can rent a car and travel at your own pace (but be aware that some of Italy’s cities can be difficult to navigate by car).
Flying can also make sense in the right circumstances (perhaps when traveling from Sicily to Northern Italy, for instance).
Figuring out how to navigate Italy efficiently is an area where a Fora Advisor can be very helpful. They can help you plan as much or as little of your itinerary as you like, and help you iron out the more logistical aspects of your trip .
Is there a “right” order to visit Italy’s best cities?
Not really. Obviously, you’ll want to plan your tour carefully if you want to maximize your time in-country. Otherwise, it’s your trip; you get to decide the “right” order.
Again, a Fora Advisor can help you plan accordingly so you get the most out of your trip.
More travel inspiration
Italy is just one of many amazing destinations to explore for the first time. Check out the guides below for more ideas:
