10 Best Places to Visit in Italy for the First Time
Ever dreamed of eating fresh pasta in a sunlit piazza or sipping wine along a sparkling coastline, without taking a full week off work? Then this is the Italy guide for you.
If you’re juggling a 9 to 5 but still craving unforgettable European escapes, Italy is the perfect destination for long weekend getaways. The tricky part? With so many incredible cities and regions, choosing where to visit in Italy for the first time, especially for a short stay, can be overwhelming. Do you head to Rome for history, Venice for canals, or Tuscany for countryside charm?
Don’t worry – I’ve got you covered. After six trips to Italy over the past decade, I’ve curated this list of the 10 best places to visit in Italy for quick but spectacular trips. These spots are easy to reach, packed with iconic sights and perfect for fitting a rich travel experience into just a few days.
Whether you’re planning a quick Friday to Monday break or stretching your PTO into a five-day escape, these destinations will help you experience Italy’s magic – no career break required!
Travel and tourism in Italy is set to break records in 2025, with international visitor spending predicted to exceed €60 billion according to the World Travel & Tourism Council. So if you’re planning a visit, you’re in good company!
For the ‘Big 3’: Italy’s Top Destinations
If it’s your first Italian adventure, it’s almost impossible not to be tempted by the classics – Rome, Florence and Venice.
These three cities are icons for a reason, and each one brings something totally different to the table. For a first trip to Italy, these are the places to start.
Rome
Rome is like an open-air museum. You literally trip over history at every corner, which makes it perfect for a Italy weekend getaway.
I covered so much ground during my few days in Rome, and even walking along the same streets I discovered something new hidden amongst the ruins, fountains, and cobbled lanes each time.
If you’re travelling to Italy for the first time, Rome can feel overwhelming. It did for me too. But focusing on the top sights helps make it manageable (and way more enjoyable!).
Colosseum
The Colosseum is perhaps Rome’s most iconic monument and a must-see for first time visitors to Italy. Built nearly 2,000 years ago, this vast amphitheatre once hosted gladiator battles, wild animal hunts, and even staged naval battles when the arena was flooded.
Standing inside, you can almost hear the roar of 50,000 spectators cheering on the action if you close your eyes. When I took a tour, I was struck by how ingenious the underground tunnels were, with lifts to hoist animals and fighters straight into the arena!
I highly recommend booking a tour that includes access to the hypogeum (the underground area), as it brings the whole place to life.
Roman Forum
Close to the Colosseum, the Roman Forum was the political, religious, and commercial centre of ancient Rome.
Walking among the ruins of temples, basilicas, and arches feels like stepping back in time. It’s incredible to think this was where Julius Caesar walked and where huge crowds once gathered to hear speeches.
I visited late afternoon when the crowds had thinned and the setting sun cast a golden glow over the columns. It was honestly breathtaking. Bring water and comfy shoes though, as it’s a large site with uneven ground.
Trevi Fountain
The Trevi Fountain is one of the most famous fountains in the world, and for good reason. Completed in 1762, it’s a masterpiece of Baroque architecture with Neptune commanding the waters at its centre.
Legend has it that tossing one coin into the fountain ensures a return to Rome, two coins means you’ll find love, and three coins leads to marriage. I tossed one coin, because I definitely have no plans to get married again ever! But it’s easy to see how coins worth over €1 million a year are collected and given to charity.
The area does get packed, and is now subject to a queuing system during the day. So I’d suggest visiting either very early in the morning or late at night to enjoy it more freely. I visited at around 10pm and it was busy but manageable, with visitors being respectful of giving each other space and waiting their turn (a pleasant surprise!).
Pantheon
The Pantheon is one of the most astonishing buildings I’ve ever stepped inside. It houses the world’s largest unreinforced concrete dome, which is mind-blowing considering it was completed in 126 AD.
The oculus (the open hole at the top) is the only source of light. And if you’re lucky enough to be there during a rain shower, watching raindrops fall directly through the oculus to the marble floor is meant to be surreal.
Inside you’ll also find the tomb of the Renaissance artist Raphael. The Pantheon is free to enter, which makes it a must-visit.
Vatican City
Technically its own country (hello Europe tick list!), Vatican City is the smallest state in the world, but it packs in some of the most impressive sights in Italy.
St. Peter’s Basilica is jaw-dropping both inside and out. Climbing to the top of the dome gave me one of the best panoramic views over Rome, and the mosaic detail is just stunning.
The Vatican Museums also hold an unparalleled collection of art, including works by Raphael and Leonardo da Vinci, but the star is undoubtedly Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel ceiling.
My best advice is to pre-book timed tickets, ideally for first entry in the morning, to avoid feeling like a sardine packed in amongst the crowds. And remember, there’s a strict dress code – shoulders and knees must be covered for visiting religious sites here.
Florence
Florence is an art lover’s paradise. It’s packed with masterpieces, from Renaissance paintings to incredible architecture.
The Arno River flows through the city, and strolling along its banks at sunset on my birthday was one of my favourite Florence moments. The city feels more relaxed than Rome, but every corner reveals another wow-factor sight.
Uffizi Gallery & Accademia Gallery
The Uffizi Gallery is home to some of the world’s greatest works of art. Seeing Botticelli’s Birth of Venus in person will give you goosebumps, the colours are far more vivid than any photo can capture. The gallery is huge, so wear comfy shoes and allow at least a couple of hours.
Over at the Accademia Gallery, Michelangelo’s David steals the show. The first time I saw it, I actually gasped because the sheer scale and detail is unbelievable.
Tickets for both galleries sell out quickly, so I’d recommend booking online well in advance. I joined a small group tour and it was fantastic with the guide’s stories bringing the paintings and sculptures to life.
Duomo
Florence’s Duomo, officially called the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, dominates the city skyline with its terracotta-tiled dome designed by Brunelleschi. Climbing to the top is no small feat (there are over 450 steps!), but the reward is jaw-dropping views across Florence’s rooftops and surrounding Tuscan hills.
I climbed it in the morning, and the light spilling over the city made the climb worth every sweaty step. Inside the cathedral, the frescoed dome ceiling is equally breathtaking. Buy the combined ticket that includes access to the dome, bell tower, and baptistery and thank me later!
Ponte Vecchio
Ponte Vecchio is Florence’s oldest bridge, and one of the most unique I’ve seen. Instead of just walking across a span of stone, you find yourself wandering past tiny jewellery shops and boutiques that line both sides.
I loved browsing the windows, even if I couldn’t afford most of the glittering pieces. I also stopped here to watch the sunset over the Arno River, which was one of the best moments of the trip for me.
Venice
Venice is unlike any other city in the world. With its winding canals and narrow alleyways, it feels like a living fairytale. Instead of cars and buses, boats glide past, and getting around is half the adventure.
Gondola rides might be cliché, but honestly, there’s nothing like drifting along the canals with the sound of water lapping against the boat. It’s an absolute must in Italy for first-timers. I went for an afternoon gondola ride, and being serenaded by our captain is still one of my favourite Italian memories!
Rialto Bridge & Grand Canal
The Rialto Bridge is Venice’s most famous crossing, and it gives you the perfect vantage point over the bustling Grand Canal. Stand at the top and you’ll see vaporetti (water buses), gondolas, and delivery boats weaving past each other. It’s mesmerising!
I loved grabbing a cappuccino from a nearby café and just people-watching here. A gondola ride along the Grand Canal is pricey, but if you’re on a budget, hop on Vaporetto No.1. It follows the same route at a fraction of the cost.
St. Mark’s Square and Basilica
Piazza San Marco (St. Mark’s Square) is Venice’s beating heart. It’s lively, grand, and surrounded by some of the city’s most important buildings. The Basilica itself is a glittering masterpiece with golden mosaics shimmering in the sunlight.
I climbed the Campanile (bell tower) for sweeping views and it was worth every step. The square is famous for its pigeons too, though feeding them is no longer allowed. I’d recommend visiting early morning or late evening, when the crowds thin out a little.
Doge’s Palace and Bridge of Sighs
The Doge’s Palace is a Gothic masterpiece and was once the seat of Venetian power. Inside, its grand halls are filled with art and intricate details.
Seeing the Bridge of Sighs – which links the palace to the old prison – was surprisingly moving. Legend says prisoners would sigh as they caught their last glimpse of Venice through its tiny windows. Stand and you can feel the weight of that history.
Murano & Burano
A trip to Venice wouldn’t be complete without visiting its islands, and taking the boat out there felt like a refreshing escape from Venice’s busier centre.
Murano is world-famous for glassmaking and the perfect place to shop for authentic souvenirs like ornaments or jewellery.
Burano is pure colour therapy. Its rainbow-painted houses reflect in the canals and make for some of the most Instagrammable spots in Italy. It’s also known for its handmade lace, and I couldn’t resist taking home a small piece as a keepsake.
For Beautiful Italian Scenery
Italy is so much more than its major cities. Escape to its dramatic coastlines and peaceful lakes, and you’ll see for yourself that its natural beauty is jaw-dropping.
Here are my favourite beautiful locations will take your breath away.
Amalfi Coast
Think lemon groves, pastel-coloured towns clinging to cliffs and sparkling turquoise waters. The Amalfi Coast is pure magic.
Positano’s hillside houses look like a painting, Sorrento makes a great base and Amalfi itself is full of charm.
I stayed in Praiano for an Italy weekend break, as it’s quieter but still beautiful. I loved hopping on boats along the coast and driving the cliff roads – although be warned, they can be a bit hair-raising at times!
Lake Como
Lake Como is elegance in postcard form.
Its lakeside towns – Bellagio, Varenna and Como – are all ridiculously picturesque, with villas draped in wisteria and ferries connecting them.
It’s super easy to reach Lake Como from Milan, if you want to tie two locations into a 3-day Italy itinerary. I spent a day exploring Villa Monstero in Varenna, wandering the pretty streets of Bellagio and sipping Aperol Spritz on board a small boat on Lake Como. I honestly didn’t want to leave!
Portofino
Small but oh-so-chic, Portofino is all about the dolce vita!
With its pastel harbour, designer boutiques and stylish yachts bobbing in the marina, it’s one of Italy’s most photogenic coastal towns. I loved spending time on its hidden beach and admiring the views from above.
I found it pricey for food and drink, so I recommend popping over for a day trip – like I did from Milan – rather than staying overnight.
For Italian Authenticity
If you want to escape the tourist trail a little and get a taste of everyday Italy, these cities are bound to win you over.
Bologna
Known as Italy’s food capital (and that’s saying something), Bologna is heaven for foodies!
From rich ragù (don’t call it spaghetti bolognese here!) to fresh tortellini, you’ll eat well. I took a pasta-making class here and it was honestly the highlight of my trip.
The city has a young, buzzy vibe thanks to its university, which sits amongst gorgeous terracotta rooftops. From here, it’s an easy 90-minute drive to San Marino if you’re wanting to tick off another new country too!
Milan
Milan often gets overlooked, but it’s Italy’s fashion and design hub with plenty of culture thrown in.
The Duomo is jaw-dropping, especially if you head up to the rooftop terraces as I did – and even the rain didn’t dampen the experience.
Seeing Da Vinci’s The Last Supper in person was a pinch-me moment for me – but book tickets well in advance because they sell out fast! If you miss them, consider joining a guided tour for skip-the-line access.
Afterwards, don’t miss a wander through Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II for photos under its stunning glass dome followed by a coffee at the mesmerising Starbucks Roastery.
Milan has an excellent high-speed rail link with Venice, so these make ideal locations to pair together for a long weekend in Italy.
For Italian Nature & Relaxation
If your dream short Italy trip involves slowing down, enjoying nature and relaxing with good food and wine, then head here.
Sicily
Sicily is like a country within a country, with its own rich history, unique food, and stunning landscapes.
You’ve got ancient ruins in Agrigento, the lively streets of Palermo, and of course Mount Etna, Europe’s most active volcano. Join a small tour up Etna and ride the cable car for views that are otherworldly.
Don’t skip eating Sicilian cannoli. Honestly, this ruined me for all other desserts, they’re that good!
Tuscany
Rolling hills, cypress treesvand vineyards as far as the eye can see. Tuscany is the Italian countryside dream.
Spend a few days exploring smaller towns like Lucca and San Gimignano, and definitely book a wine-tasting tour to try classics like Chianti.
I stayed in an agriturismo (farm stay) called Agriturismo Settepassi, and waking up a breakfast of locally-farmed fresh fruit, bread and honey was heaven. We also just caught the end of sunflower season, and the golden fields were so pretty.
Italy Travel Planning Tips
Italy can feel overwhelming on a first visit, so here are some planning hacks I’ve learned the hard way:
- Travel off-peak if you can. May to June and September to October are ideal for fewer crowds and lovely weather. I much preferred visiting in September to visiting in July, it was much calmer (and cooler!).
- Don’t try to do it all in one trip. Pick a region (north or south) or focus on 2 or 3 cities. The same goes if visiting one location for just a day or two, prioritise the sights you most want to see and give yourself downtime too.
- Trains are your best friend. The high-speed network is fast, affordable and far less stressful than driving, especially in the cities. Book via Omio for digital tickets you can activate from your phone (vital to avoid being fined).
- Book major attractions in advance. Colosseum, Vatican, Uffizi, Last Supper – these popular attractions all sell out fast when tickets are released. And take care not to buy from fake sellers. I always use Get Your Guide for protection and flexibility – download the app and use discount code ‘TRAVELMOREWITH5’ for 5% off.
- Factor in downtime. Italian life moves slower, and you’ll want time to just wander piazzas and sip wine. Summer gets unbearably hot, so it’s really important to take time to rest and rehydrate.
Italy Travel FAQ
What are ‘the Big 3’ in Italy?
The ‘Big 3’ in Italy are Rome, Florence, and Venice. These iconic cities offer a perfect introduction to Italy’s history, art, and culture, making them top picks for first-time visitors.
What is the prettiest part of Italy to visit?
Many travelers consider the Amalfi Coast the prettiest part of Italy, with its cliffside villages, turquoise waters, and lemon groves. Lake Como and Tuscany’s rolling hills are also famously beautiful.
How do I decide where to visit in Italy?
Decide based on your interests and trip length. For art and culture, visit Florence or Rome. For coastal beauty, head to Amalfi or Portofino. Short on time? Choose one region and explore 2 or 3 nearby cities
How many days are enough for visiting Italy?
A 7 to 10-day trip allows you to see 2 or 3 regions comfortably. If you’re short on time, even a 2 to 3-day getaway can be magical, especially if you focus on one city or area like Rome or Florence.
Which city is a must-see in Italy?
Rome is a must-see for any first-time visitor. With landmarks like the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, and Vatican City, it offers a powerful mix of ancient history and modern Italian culture.
What is the best time of year to visit Italy?
The best times to visit Italy are May to June and September to October. These shoulder seasons offer pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and vibrant festivals – ideal for sightseeing and relaxing.
What is the best way to travel around Italy?
Italy’s high-speed train network is the best way to travel between cities. It’s fast, affordable, and stress-free. For smaller towns, regional trains or short drives work well. Avoid driving in big cities.
Quick Picks: Best Places in Italy for First-Time Visitors
Here’s a fast breakdown if you’re short on time or still wondering where to go in Italy for a short trip:
- 🏛️ Rome – Best for iconic landmarks and ancient history
- 🎨 Florence – Ideal for art lovers and rooftop views
- 🌊 Venice – Magical canals and fairy-tale vibes
- 🍋 Amalfi Coast – Stunning coastal drives and cliffside towns
- 💎 Portofino – Glamorous day trip from Milan
- 🍝 Bologna – A must for foodies and authentic local life
- 🖼️ Milan – Perfect for fashion, The Last Supper and quick culture
- 🍷 Tuscany – Rolling hills, wine tastings and countryside charm
- 🏞️ Lake Como – Relaxed lakeside villages and elegant vibes
- 🌋 Sicily – Bold flavours, volcanic landscapes and rich history
Made a choice? Find your perfect place to stay in Italy using the interactive map below.
So there you have it – the 10 best places to visit in Italy for the first time, from the big hitters like Rome and Florence to authentic gems like Bologna or Siciliy’s beautiful coastline.
Wherever you choose, you’ll soon see that even during a short trip Italy has a way of stealing your heart (and expanding your waistline – but hey, it’s worth it!).
Whichever place you jet off to, I promise your first trip to Italy won’t be your last!
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