15 Best Cities To Visit In Italy

Are you looking for the best cities to visit in Italy? Discover them with an Italy expert. I am Italian, I live in Italy and I travel around my home country wide and far.

As an Italian and an avid traveler, I know Italy very well. Because of that, I’m often asked, “What are the best cities in Italy?” Despite the regularity of the question, I still struggle to come up with a concrete answer.

The truth is that Italy is scattered with incredible cities, towns, villages, and regions. And I think there’s something special about each of them. So, you can imagine it’s quite challenging to narrow it down to an exhaustive list of cities in Italy.

That said, a handful of cities in Italy stand out. In this travel guide, I’ll review some of the best Italian cities. They include classic destinations like Rome and Florence and more remote destinations in Italy that few international travelers have even heard of.

Are you ready to explore the best cities in Italy, the top attractions, and the best neighborhoods in each? Let’s get started!

Not sure when you should visit Italy? Hopefully, my post When To Visit Italy will help you decide!

Visiting Italy for the first time? Then my Guide To Tipping In Italy will help you keep your costs down.

Best Cities In Italy: From Most Well-Known To Least

Rome

Rome is the most well-known city in Italy, and for good reasons. Many of the most famous sites in Italy are in Rome, so it’s no surprise that it should also be first on the list of best cities to visit in Italy.

Rome is known as a cultural hub due to its iconic tourist attractions and historical ties. But it’s also full of charm, Renaissance architecture, great shopping, delicious food, and more.

If you only visit one place in Italy, it has to be Rome.

I recommend spending at least three days in Rome. This will give you time to visit the top tourist attractions and enjoy the beautiful city.

How To Get There

Rome is in the Lazio region in the central area of the Italian Peninsula. Rome Fiumicino Airport (FCO) is also the largest airport in Italy, so it’s likely where most people will begin their Italy adventure anyway.

Roma Termini is Rome’s biggest train station, connecting Rome to all major destinations in Italy and other places around Europe.

Top Attractions In Rome

Rome is one of the best cities in Italy because of its immense variety of attractions, places to visit, and things to do. Here are just a few of the many Rome highlights:

• The Colosseum
• The Pantheon
• The Catacombs
• The Roman Forum
• St. Peter’s Basilica
• Vatican City/Vatican Museums
• Palatine Hill
• Borghese Gallery
• Spanish Steps
• Trevi Fountain

Rome is Rome, and there’s honestly no shortage of incredible places and things to do. If you’re only doing 3-5 days in Rome, you likely won’t have time for all of them. So, just try to choose the most interesting for you and your travels.

HIDDEN GEMS IN ROME: If you have enough time in Rome to explore some lesser-known sites, I recommend Ostiense, which can easily be reached from Rome’s historical center. Tor Marancia is a great place to admire the region’s best street art.

My post The Best Things To Do In Rome shares more information on the many tourist attractions in the city.

Best Neighborhoods In Rome

There’s no question about where to stay in Rome; it has to be the historical center. Your days will likely be packed full of activities and places to go, and the city center is the most conveniently located. It’s also very charming, with excellent accommodation and hotel options.

Biancaluna is one of the best guesthouses in the city center. It’s within walking distance of the Colosseum, in a very safe and comfortable neighborhood, and near Rome Termini Metro Station, so it’s the perfect starting point for exploring the rest of Rome.

Milan

Milan isn’t Italy’s most popular tourist destination, but it’s undoubtedly one of the most well-known cities in Italy for several reasons. After all, it’s the fashion capital of Italy and one of the world’s fashion capitals.

One of the best things about Milan is its proximity to some incredible hidden gems and day trips from the city.

I recommend a minimum of three days in Milan. You can have a full day to explore the city, another day to find the true hidden gems, and a third day for a day trip to Lake Como or another natural location.

How To Get There

Milan is the capital of the Lombardy region in northern Italy. As the second largest city in Italy, it’s connected to the rest of the country, Europe and the world. Milan Malpensa Airport is one of the largest international airports in Europe, so it’s easy to fly here from inside Italy or elsewhere.

Milano Centrale is the central train station in Milan, and trains depart and arrive from all over Italy. A high-speed train from Rome to Milan only takes about three hours.

Top Attractions In Milan

Despite being slightly less famous than Rome, Milan still has many great things to do, especially if you’re interested in architecture and history. Here are some of the top attractions in Milan:

• Piazza del Duomo
• Galleria Vittorio Emanuele
• The Last Supper at Santa Maria delle Grazie
• Sforza Castle

There are many attractions in Milan, but I also recommend taking some time to explore the various neighborhoods because there’s simply so much personality. Porta Venezia and Ortica are two underrated gems in the city that are definitely worth visiting.

One of the best things to do in Milan is to take a day trip or two. Lake Como and Lake Maggiore are two beautiful places not too far from Milan.

My post How To Make The Most Of Milan In A Day will provide a nice itinerary to explore the city.

Best Neighborhoods In Milan

There are several great neighborhoods in which to stay in Milan. Centro Storico (historical center) is the best choice for first-time travelers in Italy. It’s close to all the main sites and very beautiful.

Hotel Regina is a higher-end hotel right in the city center. The location really can’t be beat, and the hotel itself is very comfortable, with friendly staff and luxury amenities.

Brera is another trendy location near the city center. This one’s popular for artsy travelers looking for something more cultural. Quadrilatero d’Oro is the fashion district, so it is perfect for fashion-inspired travelers.

Como

Como is not one of Italy’s most internationally recognized destinations, but it’s so close to Milan that it’s worth discussing next.

Como is one of the best places in Italy for lake views, and the ambiance is so luxurious you’ll feel like royalty. In fact, tons of celebrities own houses in Como (including George Clooney and Madonna).

It’s a great place to escape. Despite being a city, it has a much calmer atmosphere than the other best cities to visit in Italy. It’s also a great starting point for other smaller villages along the lake or even the Alps.

I recommend spending three to five days in Como. This gives you enough time to explore the city and nearby villages. It’s such a relaxing place, and you’ll want days to unwind and explore.

How To Get There

Como is on the southwestern tip of Lake Como. It’s in the Lombardy region of Italy, about 45 minutes from Milan.

There’s no airport in Como, but trains and buses arrive all day from Milan. The main train station in Como is Como San Giovanni Station.

Top Attractions In Como

There are also a lot of things to do in Como, from exploring Lake Como by boat to simply strolling alongside the relaxing walkway that borders the lakes. Here are some of the best attractions in Como:

• In the summer, enjoy the beautiful beaches
• Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta
• Go sailing, kayaking, or paddleboarding around the lake
• Forte di Fuentes
• Explore other towns on the lake such as Bellagio
• Ride the funicular up to the village of Brunate

Although Como isn’t known to have the best museums and historical sites in Italy, there’s still plenty to do, especially if you’re more interested in natural beauty.

HIDDEN GEMS IN COMO: Lido Villa Olmo is a beach club on Lake Como, the best place to enjoy a day of swimming and sunbathing. It has swimming pools, a beach bar, and private cabanas for rent.

Best Neighborhoods In Como

Como is the central hub of Lake Como. Most people opt for other little villages, but I think Como is the best place to stay because of its culture, good nightlife, and great restaurants. Anywhere in Como is good, honestly. It’s not a large city; it’s safe and easy to get around.

Ostello Bello Lake Como is a great hotel in a good location in Como. It’s only about 800 meters (0.5 miles) from the Como-Brunate cable car. The hotel also has an onsite barbecue area, a kids’ playground, and a bar.

If you want to stay elsewhere on Lake Como, Bellagio is one of the most romantic and picturesque villages. It’s perfect for exploring, as it’s centrally located in many other great places along the lake.

Hotel Centrale Bellagio is one of the best hotels around Lake Como. It has beautiful, well-kept gardens that just add to the overall calming atmosphere of Lake Como. It also has a great breakfast every morning for guests.

Florence

Florence is another of the best and most popular cities in Italy. It’s probably my home country’s second most talked-about city, behind Rome, and for good reason.

It’s a fantastic place for cultural education, sightseeing, shopping, and more. Tourists are kept busy for days between the cathedrals, museums, eateries, coffee shops, and other fun activities.

I strongly recommend spending at least three days in Florence. There’s so much to do and see; more time is better than less. However, as a last resort, visiting on a day trip from Rome is possible.

How To Get There

One of the best things about Florence is how well it is connected to other cities in Italy. It’s located in central Italy and is the capital of the Tuscany Region. Florence is about 275 km (170 miles) from Rome and 102 km (63 miles) from Pisa.

You can fly into the Florence International Airport (Amerigo Vespucci) or Pisa International Airport. But Florence is also a central high-speed railway hub in Italy, so you can easily get here by train if you’re already traveling around the country.

Firenze Santa Maria Novella is the major train station in Florence. A high-speed train from Rome only takes about 1.5 hours, and a train from Pisa takes under an hour.

Top Attractions In Florence

There’s no shortage of great things to do in Florence, from viewing Michelangelo’s David to wandering the quintessential streets. Here are some of the top Florence attractions:

• Uffizi Gallery
• Palazzo Vecchio
• Piazza della Signoria
• Florence Cathedral
• Galleria dell’Accademia (where Michelangelo’s David is)
• Piazzale Michelangelo for sunset

Between all the sightseeing and museum visits, you can also spend some afternoons at a lovely rooftop bar for more great views (and plenty of these).

HIDDEN GEM IN FLORENCE: You should also try to visit the Officina Farmaceutica Santa Maria Novella near the Firenze Santa Maria Novella (the main train station). It’s one of the oldest working pharmacies in the world. It may seem random, but it’s fascinating.

My post The Best Things To Do In Florence highlights all the unmissable activities in the city.

Best Neighborhoods In Florence

I strongly recommend staying near Firenze Santa Maria Novella, the major train station. Not only is it convenient for entering and exiting the city, but it’s also the best neighborhood in Florence.

It’s centrally located and safe, with many restaurants and shops.

For location, Hostel Archi Rossi is one of the best hostels in Florence. It’s only about a five-minute walk from the train station and is tastefully decorated with nice common areas and gardens. You can choose between a private room and a dorm room.

Pisa

Most people know of Pisa only because of the Leaning Tower. However, there’s so much more to do and see here, so it’s well worth a visit. The Leaning Tower is busy at all times, but the rest of the city is very quiet and not as touristic as other cities in Italy.

You can easily visit Pisa on a day trip from Florence or even Rome, but I recommend spending one or two nights here to see a little more of the city that often gets overlooked.

How To Get There

Galileo Galilei Airport is an international airport in Pisa, but it’s also very easy to get to by train from other major cities. Most people come to Pisa after visiting Florence or Rome. The high-speed train from Florence takes under an hour, and the train from Rome takes just over two hours.

Top Attractions In Pisa

Here are some of the best places to visit in Pisa:

• Leaning Tower of Pisa
• Pisa Cathedral
• Campo dei Miracoli
• Palazzo Cavalieri
• Chiesa di Santa Marina della Spina
• Stroll along the Arno River

Furthermore, if you’re staying a few nights, you’ll have to swing by the Borgo Stretto side of Pisa. That’s where the best nightlife is.

HIDDEN GEM IN PISA: The Keith Harring House is a really cool mural painted by a famous New York artist. It’s worth visiting, and very few people even know about it!

Best Neighborhoods In Pisa

Santa Maria neighborhood is by far the best place to stay in Pisa. This is one of the closest neighborhoods to the Leaning Tower of Pisa, and it’s super close to all the best attractions and things to do.

Because Santa Maria, Pisa, is a very walkable location, you don’t need to worry about navigating public transportation or taking taxis. You can get almost anywhere from here.

Bed & Tower is a great bed and breakfast in the center of Pisa on Via Santa Maria, a pedestrian street that leads right to the Leaning Tower of Pisa. The hotel itself is simple but has nice rooms, air conditioning, and friendly staff.

Venice

Venice is another of the most famous cities in Europe and one of the best cities to visit in Italy. It’s known as the “floating city” as everything is built around a lagoon with canals and gondolas galore.

It’s a city of charm and romanticism, and there are very few places like it in the world. So, adding it to your Italy itinerary is a no-brainer.

Most people spend just one day in Venice, but I don’t think that’s enough time. I recommend two to three days so you can take your time and discover the floating city’s secrets.

How To Get There

Venice is in the Veneto region, in the northeastern part of Italy. It’s a collection of 117 little islands linked by bridges and natural canals. It’s approximately 250 km (155 miles) from Milan but closer to smaller cities like Bologna, Trieste, and Verona.

Venice Marco Polo Airport is one of the largest international airports in Italy, so it’s very easy to fly in and out of there. The Santa Lucia Train Station is the main train station in the town of Venice, and it’s well-connected with the rest of Italy and major European cities.

Top Attractions In Venice

When you think of Venice, you probably think of romantic gondola rides along the canals with calm waters and peaceful music in the background. So, it should be no surprise that riding around on a private gondola or simply on the Vaporetto (like a bus on the water) is amongst the top things to do in Venice. But here are a few other of my recommendations:

• St. Mark’s Basilica in Piazza San Marco
• Doge’s Palace and the Bridge of Sights
• Riva degli Schiavoni
• Gondola ride on the Grand Canal
• The Jewish Ghetto

If you have a lot of time in Venice, you can also opt for a day trip. Verona, Italy, is another of the best cities to visit, and it’s less than two hours by train. Padua is a little hidden gem about 30 minutes by train from Venice. And of course there are the closer Murano and Burano islands, among Italy’s most famous islands.

HIDDEN GEM IN VENICE: St. George’s Church is one of my favorite hidden gems in Venice and arguably one of the most beautiful churches in Italy (depending on who you ask). It’s a multi-layered church with amazing paintings from Tintoretto and Sebastiano Ricci. It’s also one of the best free things to do in Venice.

My post The Best Things To Do In Venice highlights all the best places to visit in the city.

Best Neighborhoods In Venice

The San Marco neighborhood in Venice is hands-down the best place to stay, especially if it’s your first time visiting. This neighborhood is closest to St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace. It’s a beautiful, safe neighborhood conveniently close to all the best attractions and things to do.

Hotel Casa Petrarca is the best hotel in the San Marco area. It’s a very elegant hotel, with nice furniture, and a classy atmosphere. It’s also in an excellent location, so it’s really easy to get around.

Verona

If you think Venice is romantic, just wait until you visit Verona. This is where Romeo and Juliet takes place. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is one of the best cities to visit in Italy for many reasons.

First, it has some of the most gorgeous architecture and buildings anywhere in the country. It’s a unique blend of ancient architecture and modern charm. It’s so fascinating. You could easily spend days just walking the streets and admiring the beauty.

You can easily visit Verona on a day trip from Milan or Venice, but I recommend spending at least three days in this picturesque city to get a feel for what it’s all about.

How To Get There

Verona is in the Veneto region in northern Italy. It’s at the base of the Lessini Mountains. The nearest major cities are Venice and Milan.

The city has an airport, Valerio Catullo Airport, which is easy to fly into and out of. However, you can also get to Verona via Milan or Rome on the high-speed train. The train station in Verona is called Verona Porta Nuova, which is only a few kilometers from the city center.

Top Attractions In Verona

One of the main reasons I recommend visiting Verona on more than just a day trip is that there’s so much to see and do there. Here are my top recommendations:

• Arena di Verona
• Casa di Giulietta
• Piazza delle Erbe
• Basilica di San Zeno Maggiore
• Torre dei Lamberti
• Visit the wineries in the Valpolicella region

Also, make sure you find a great spot to enjoy a sunset in Verona. I recommend Castel San Pietro for a good sunset and a great view of the city’s skyline. There’s a cafe at the top, so you can grab a glass of wine for the beautiful show.

HIDDEN GEM IN VERONA: If you want to experience more local life, I recommend exploring the San Zeno district. It’s completely safe but very different from your average tourist experience in Italy.

Best Neighborhoods In Verona

If this is your first time visiting Verona or you’re short on time, you should stay in the historic center. The city center is where most of the best hotels are; as you’d imagine, it’s ideally located around the main tourist attractions.

For example, the Romeo and Juliet balcony and the Roman amphitheater are within walking distance of the historic center.

B&B Teatro Ristori Verona is a modest yet charming guesthouse in the city center. The rooms and property are a bit simple, but you can’t beat the convenience and overall value. It’s the perfect location, and the staff is incredibly friendly.

If you want something different, I recommend staying in San Zeno, the more local neighborhood. It’s just outside the historic center, but it gives you more of a glimpse into real Italy.

Da Virginia B&B is a really charming guesthouse in the San Zeno neighborhood. It’s decorated with some great contemporary art paintings, simple rooms, and lovely balconies.

Bologna

Bologna, Italy, has many nicknames, but one of the most popular ones is “La Grassa,” which means “the fat” in English. It’s earned this nickname because of its rich culinary options, delicious world-renowned food, and an endless array of authentic, mouth-watering eateries on every corner.

One of its most famous recipes is the traditional ragù alla bolognese sauce, which comes from, you guessed it, Bologna. You can find tagliatelle al ragù alla bolognese in almost every city in the world, but I promise you, it’s nothing like the real thing.

So, Bologna is a must-see city in Italy for food and pasta lovers alike. It also offers many great cultural connections and fun activities. Fortunately, it’s easily accessible from several popular Italian cities.

Many travelers visit Bologna on a day trip from Milan or Venice. You can see most of Bologna and get a good feel for the culture in one day, but you can always stay a night or two to get a better idea and experience. However, I recommend at least three days for foodies and those with more time on their hands.

My post The Best Food To Try In Italy explains the intricacies of Italian regional food and what to try in each region.

How To Get There

Bologna is the capital of the Emilia-Romagna region in northern Italy. It’s only one hour from Milan and 1.5 hours from Venice, so it’s also very easy to visit on a day trip.

Bologna Guglielmo Marconi International Airport is the major airport in Bologna, but you can also take a train from any major city in Italy. The train station is Bologna Centrale, on the northern end of the town and only about a 30-minute walk from the city center.

Top Attractions In Bologna

Outside of trying all the amazing local cuisine that has given this city the title of “Fat City,” there are tons of other great activities, too. Here are some of my top recommendations for things to do in Bologna:

• Climb Torre degli Asinelli (though it is currently closed for restoration)
• Basilica di San Petronio in Piazza Maggiore
• The Seven Churches of Piazza Santo Stefano
• Clock Tower
• Santuario della Madonna di San Luca
• Walk along the Quadrilatero

You can also spend days walking around the quintessential streets and soaking in the endless charm. I recommend it if you have the time!

HIDDEN GEMS IN BOLOGNA: If you’d like a tower to climb (this one with a view of Asinelli Tower), I highly recommend Torre Prendiparte. The anatomical Theater of Archiginnasio is another fascinating place (it was once used for the dissection of bodies to study anatomy). And the Finestrella (a hidden window in the center of Bologna overlooking a canal) is one of the most photographed spots nowadays.

Best Neighborhoods In Bologna

The historical center is the best neighborhood and area to stay in while in Bologna. Every little building, crack, and corner is overflowing with charm. There’s so much to see, many wonderful restaurants, and overall great vibes.

Dopa Hostel is a great value in the city center. It’s only a 10-minute walk from the Cathedral and near Palazzo Poggi Museum. The hostel offers both private rooms and dormitory rooms.

If you want something different, check out the University District. It’s very close to the city center, and it’s where the University of Bologna, one of the oldest universities in the world, is located. This University of Bologna district has all the best museums; honestly, the university is a site to itself.

Naples

Famous German writer Johann Wolfgang von Goethe said it best: “Vedi Napoli e poi muori,” which translates to “see Napoles and then die.” He’s basically saying that you can’t die until you see Naples, and anyone who’s been there would agree with this sentiment.

Naples is one of the best cities to visit in Italy and arguably one of the most beautiful cities in the world. It’s set on the coast, with picturesque views and ancient architecture.

It’s also very authentic, chaotic, and sometimes dirty. This gives it a very different vibe than most places around the world. It’s noisy, smelly in some areas, loud, and has lots of traffic. But weirdly enough, all of this only adds to the charm.

It’s a blend of contrasts, elegant and raw, all at once. This is why I think everyone should visit Naples: it’s truly unique.

Some people think one day is plenty for Naples, but I beg to differ. There’s so much to see and so many amazing day trips. For example, you need one full day to visit the Pompeii Ruins near Naples. Because of this, I recommend three days in Naples at a minimum.

How To Get There

Naples is the capital of the Campania Region and Naples Province in southern Italy. It’s on the western coast of the Italian Peninsula and is the best gateway to other famous places in Italy, like the Amalfi Coast and Sorrento.

Naples is the third largest city in Italy, so transportation to and from (and around) the city is also very easy. Napoli Capodichino International Airport is the name of the city airport, and it is the easiest place to fly into to explore the south of Italy.

Napoli Centrale is the central train station in Naples, and it’s also very easy to get there.

The Amalfi Coast and Sorrento are about an hour by train from Naples, while Pompeii Archeological Park is only 30 minutes away.

Top Attractions In Naples

Aside from admiring the buzzing atmosphere and lively neighborhoods, Naples has tons of other great activities. Here are the best things to do:

• Cristo Velato (Veiled Christ) in Cappella San Severo
• National Archeological Museum of Naples
• Walk the famous Spaccanapoli street
• Piazza del Plebiscito
• Catholic Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta
• Certosa di San Martino
• Maschio Angiono Castle (Castel Nuovo)

When exploring the city, also find some good spots to admire views of Mount Vesuvius. Castel Nuovo is a marvelous spot for that, but there are many more good points around the city.

HIDDEN GEM IN NAPLES: It’s not so secret anymore, but visiting Napoli Sotterranea (Underground Naples) is one of the best things to do in Naples. You have to go on a tour, but it’s one of the best ways to learn about Naples’ complex history and culture.

My post The Best Things To Do In Naples highlights all the unmissable activities in the city.

Best Neighborhoods In Naples

The Historical Center of Naples is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the best place to stay in Naples. This part of the city is ancient, very cultural, and beautiful. It’s buzzing with life, with so many different museums, shops, restaurants, and tons of personality.

There are other good neighborhoods. Like the Spanish Quarter for more culture or Chiaia if you want something closer to the waterfront, but Centro Storico can’t be beaten.

If you like staying at hostels, Tric Tac Hostel has the best location for a very good price. It’s within walking distance from basically everything, including the Naples National Archeological Museum, San Carlo Theatre, and Maschio Angioino. The only downside is they don’t have many options for private rooms.

If you want something a little more private, B&B Sleep & Zupp is a great little bed and breakfast right in the historical center. The rooms are simple but very clean and tasteful.

Viterbo

Now we’re getting into the lesser-known cities in Italy. Coming from a local, these might be the absolute best cities to visit in Italy, especially if you’ve visited Italy before and want something different.

Viterbo has never been talked about, and most people outside of Italy have never heard of it. And that’s a real shame because this is one of my favorite places – my dad was born there, part of his family still lives there so we visit all the time. It’s a small city with a communal vibe, great architecture and museums, and few tourists.

You can technically visit Viterbo on a day trip from Rome, but I recommend spending 2-4 days here. You want some time to explore both the city and its beautiful surroundings. You might want to rent a car, though, as you’ll see much more that way.

How To Get There

Viterbo is the capital of the Tuscia region and is only a 1.5-hour drive north of Rome. There’s no airport, but two small train stations are in town (Porta Fiorentina and Porta Romana). You can take a train from Rome Ostiense train station to either of these train stations.

As you can see, renting a car and driving yourself might be easier. This also gives you more freedom to explore Viterbo and discover hidden gems.

Top Attractions In Viterbo

If you want some inspiration for things to do and places to go, here are my top picks for Viterbo:

• Palazzo dei Papi (Papal Palace)
• Viterbo Cathedral (Duomo di Viterbo)
• San Pellegrino, a Medieval district
• Villa Lante in Bagnaia
• Bomarzo Monster Park

The entire city of Viterbo is a hidden gem, so almost everything will feel untouched and charming.

HIDDEN GEM IN VITERBO: If things work out with your travel itinerary, try to visit Viterbo on the evening of September 3rd. That’s when the Santa Rosa (the city’s Saint Patron) festivities occur. It’s a UNESCO intangible heritage and really local experience.

My post The Best Things To Do In Viterbo highlights more places to visit in the city and nearby.

Best Neighborhoods In Viterbo

The historical center in Viterbo is the most beautiful area of the city. That said, most of the center is closed off to traffic. That means, if you’re driving yourself, it’s not very inconvenient and you’ll have to park your car outside of the city walls.

For convenience and unique charm, I recommend B&B Medieval House. The interior of the bed and breakfast is designed according to medieval architecture. It’s also in an unbeatable location in the city center near Viterbo Cathedral and Viterbo Porta Romana Station.

If you’re driving, I recommend staying outside the city center. That way, you can get in and out without any hassles and still be within walking distance of all the best things in the city.

Genoa

There’s no question that Genoa is one of the most underrated cities in Italy. It’s rich in history and culture, with many museums to show. That said, it’s not a touristic place. So, it feels much more authentic than other cities in Italy (and it’s also significantly cheaper for the same reason).

Genoa is a port city with a lovely beach (albeit crowded with locals on the weekends), narrow streets, and colorful neighborhoods. The city’s charm and uniqueness will have you falling in love on day one.

Some people cram in Genoa on a day trip from Milan, but at least 2-3 days is better. You want time to explore the city and possibly take a day trip. Portofino is a great, easy day trip from Genoa.

How To Get There

Genoa is the capital of the Genoa province and Liguria region in northwestern Italy. It is a Mediterranean seaport and the center hub of the Italian Riviera.

Genoa City Airport is just outside the city and well-connected to other major cities via high-speed train. Genova Piazza Principe is Genoa’s main railway station. The train from Milan to Genoa takes less than two hours and has regular departures.

Top Attractions In Genoa

Genoa is famous for its port, so one of the best things to do in Genoa is to walk around the marina and admire all the boats. But there are lots of other great attractions, including:

• The Genoa Aquarium
• Piazza de Ferrari
• Cattedrale di San Lorenzo
• Galata Museo del Mare
• Musei di Strada Nuova
• Mercato Orientale

Make sure to leave time to explore the city, though. There are many museums and places to go, but it’s also nice to just have an excellent coffee and soak in the city’s beauty.

HIDDEN GEM IN GENOA: Spianata Castello has the best view in the city. Definitely go there with some time to spare to enjoy the views.

Best Neighborhoods In Genoa

Molo district in the city center is the best option for first-time visitors. This neighborhood overlooks the main port and is central to all the main attractions and the railway station.

Ostello Bello Genova is a popular hotel near the city center. It offers a fitness center, a terrace, a bar, and barbecue facilities. They have a variety of different dormitories options, but they also have private rooms.

Siena

Siena is another underrated city in Italy that’s worth your time. It’s connected to the country’s central banking and commercial era and is home to some of its most famous Renaissance artists.

In addition to the great artworks around the city, there’s also some delicious local cuisine. So, it’s especially recommended for art lovers and foodies alike.

I usually don’t encourage day trips to the best cities in Italy; they typically require at least a few days to explore. However, Siena is a superb day trip from Florence. So, you can easily visit on a day trip. You can always stay one or two nights here if you want more time.

How To Get There

Siena is in central Italy’s Tuscany region. It’s only about 48 km (30 miles) south of Florence, so it’s best to visit Siena after Florence.

Siena does not have an airport, so if you’re flying, you’d have to fly into Florence or Pisa. The main train station in Siena is Stazione di Siena (Siena Railway Station), only about a 20-minute from the historic center.

Top Attractions In Siena

One of the best things about touring around Siena is there are nowhere as many tourists as in other places. So, you can go to all the main Siena attractions and won’t have to share with many other people. Here are some of the top recommendations:

• Piazza del Campo
• Palazzo Pubblico
• Torre del Mangia
• Siena Cathedral
• Fonte Gaia (Fountain of Joy)
• Basilica of San Domenico

From a good viewpoint (like at Torre del Mangia), you can see Tuscany’s vineyards, which is an incredible show!

HIDDEN GEM IN SIENA: The University of Siena is also an excellent place to explore. It’s one of the oldest universities in the world, with beautiful architecture and relaxing promenades.

Best Neighborhoods In Siena

There are fewer hotel options in Siena as not many tourists come throughout the year. Because of this, you should book accommodation well in advance. This is one of my biggest Italy travel tips anyway, but it’s especially so for a small city like Siena.

You’ll want to stay near Piazza del Campo, the city’s central square. There are very few chains and large operators, so you’ll likely wind up at a small, locally-run boutique hotel.

Albergo Bernini is one of the best guesthouses in the city center for its rooftop views alone. It has a small terrace with panoramic views overlooking the city. The rooms are small and simple but have everything you need. The staff and owners are very friendly and helpful.

Lucca

Lucca is one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Italy and, for this reason, one of the most charming places to visit.

The small, walled city has narrow alleyways, cobblestone streets, picturesque architecture, lovely cafes and bars, and great shopping. It also has some excellent cuisine, with Spelt and Garmugia being some of the best local dishes.

Overall, it has all the charm and beauty of a place like Florence, with fewer tourists and better prices.

Most people visit Lucca on a day trip from Florence. You can do that, but if you can spare the time, I recommend spending 2-3 days here. It’s such a lovely, super walkable, and tourist-friendly place that you’ll be happier with more time.

How To Get There

Lucca is in central Italy in the Tuscany region on the Serchio River. It’s about 20 km (12.5 miles) from Pisa and 80 km (50 miles) from Florence. You can take a train from either destination to Lucca. A train from Pisa takes about 30 minutes, while a train from Florence takes about two hours.

There’s no airport in Lucca, so if you’re flying, you can fly into Pisa and then take a train or shuttle from Pisa to Lucca.

Top Attractions In Lucca

Lucca is nicknamed “the city of 100 churches” because of the many beautiful churches sprawling around the city. You should spend a whole day exploring some of the best churches, inside and out. Here are some other great places to go in Lucca:

• Piazza dell’Anfitheatro
• Cathedral of Lucca
• Guinigi Tower
• Mura di Lucca
• Palazzo Pfanner
• San Frediano Basilica
• Puccini Museum

Additionally, Lucca is a very bikeable city. So, if the weather’s nice, I recommend renting a bike and exploring the perimeter for a different side of the city away from the city center.

HIDDEN GEM IN LUCCA: Opera is also top-rated in the walled city, with a performance every night in the historical center. I recommend catching one for a more cultural evening.

Best Neighborhoods In Lucca

Like many popular cities in Italy, the historical center is the best neighborhood to stay in. Not only is the Lucca city center beyond charming, but it’s also very convenient. From the center, you can walk or bike anywhere in the city.

Il Vicolo is a quintessential, small hotel in the city center with the city and inner courtyard views. It’s near all the best restaurants and attractions in Lucca and is highly praised for its incredible staff and overall atmosphere.

Pistoia

Pistoia is yet another picturesque Italian city that is often overlooked. It’s nicknamed the “city of greenhouses” due to the plethora of greenhouses and nurseries throughout the city.

Additionally, there are tons of fascinating and underrated cultural sites and museums. It’s a great way to explore lesser-known places in Italy without venturing too far away from the main tourist routes.

You can easily visit Pistoia on a day trip from Florence, but I highly recommend setting aside two days for this city gem. There are dozens of museums and small hidden corners you won’t want to miss once here.

How To Get There

Pistoia is in the Tuscany region of Italy, about 42 km (26 miles) from Florence and 67 km (42 miles) from Pisa.

There’s no airport in Pistoia, so the easiest way to get there is from Florence. The central train station in Pistoia is Pistoia Railway Station, which connects with all major train stations and cities in the country.

Top Attractions In Pistoia

Although the small city isn’t internationally recognized, it can get pretty busy during peak season and summer months, with locals traveling in. As with all your Italy plans, make sure to book activities and hotels well in advance.

That said, most of the best activities in Pistoia are simple, as the town itself is just so fun to explore. Here are the top recommendations:

• Piazza Del Duomo
• Pistoia Cathedral of Saint Zeno
• Pistoia Bell Tower
• Palazzo del Podestà

Make sure to take a second while exploring to admire the magnificent architecture around the city. No matter where you are, you’re in for a treat regarding ancient cultural buildings and plant nurseries.

HIDDEN GEMS IN PISTOIA: If you’re interested in immersing yourself in the greenery of the city, I highly recommend the Villone Puccini Garden, as it’s one of the most beautiful Italian gardens in the country. You can also explore the ancient underground walkways known as Pistoia Sotteranea, a great way to learn more about the city’s history.

Best Neighborhoods In Pistoia

Pistoia is more a large town than a bustling city, so you can’t go wrong with the location. I recommend staying close to the main plaza (Piazza Del Duomo) because you’ll be within reach of everything. But every corner of the town is just as charming as the next, and it’s very walkable.

Dimora Storica Palazzo Puccini is one of the most charming hotels in the whole region and one of the favorites in Pistoia. It is decorated from floor to ceiling with old-world charm, with a lot of thought of love clearly going into the decor and architecture. It’s also very conveniently located and well-run by a group of friendly Italians.

Cagliari, one of the most underrated cities in Italy

Maybe I’m biased because Cagliari is my hometown, but I think it deserves a spot on every list of the best cities in Italy. Cagliari has a lot that other cities are missing, like year-round sun, beautiful hilltops with incredible views overlooking the Mediterranean, and rich history.

Cagliari is also a great starting point for exploring more of Sardinia (and believe me, there is so much to explore).

You should set aside a minimum of two or three days for Cagliari and even more if you want to take a few day trips to other places in Sardinia.

How To Get There

Cagliari is the capital of Sardinia, the Mediterranean’s second-largest island on the west coast of the Italian peninsula.

The capital city is on the southern tip of the island, making it a great access point to the south side and some of the best beaches in Italy.

Cagliari Elmas Airport is the main airport terminal on the island, and you will find direct flights from Milan and Rome with regular airlines, and from many other cities in Europe with regular and budget airlines. You can also get to Sardinia by ferry from mainland Italy and Sicily, which is a lovely boat ride if you have the time and patience.

Top Attractions In Cagliari

Honestly, there’s such a variety of great activities in Cagliari that it’s hard to narrow it down. You’ll find many excellent museums, beautiful beaches, relaxing plazas, parks, and viewpoints. But here are some of my top picks:

• Historical Quarters of La Marina, Stampace, Castello, and Villanova
• San Benedetto Market
• Cagliari Cathedral of Santa Maria
• Parco di Monte Urpinu
• Museo Archeologico Nazionale
• Poetto Beach and the nearby Molentargius Nature Park

Cagliari is one of the best cities to visit in Italy for a reason. You’ll definitely be busy from start to finish here, but you can also set aside some extra time to unwind at the beach.

HIDDEN GEMS IN CAGLIARI: The sculptures at the Historic Cemetery of Bonaria (just outside the city center) are worth visiting. Additionally, if you’re interested in hiking, you can hike to Fortino Sant’lgnazio, a 17th-century fortress.

Best Neighborhoods In Cagliari

There are several great neighborhoods and districts in Cagliari for tourists. The city center is divided into several small districts, each with unique characteristics.

Marina District is one of the city’s lowest points, just below the Castello District. This is a great location for convenience. On the flip side, the Castello District is on the highest side of the city, with beautiful terraces. Stampace is the oldest part of the city, and Poetto is the city’s beach area.

All of the city center districts are great bases for exploring Cagliari, so the rest will depend on what you plan to do more of while in the city.

If you want to stay in the city center, I recommend B&B St. Remy. It’s a quintessential guesthouse, only a five-minute walk from Cagliari Cathedral and plenty of restaurants and bars.

If you want to be closer to the beach, Villa Maria Luisa is a good option. It’s right on Poetto Beach and about 7km (4.5 miles) from Cagliari’s city center. It has a nice balcony with sea views, comfortable rooms, and friendly staff.

Summary Of The Best Cities To Visit In Italy

As a proud Italian, it’s almost impossible to narrow down a list of Italy’s best cities (there’s not enough space here to mention Turin, one of my favorite cities in Italy). After all, all the cities and cultures are the biggest reasons to visit Italy in the first place.

So, I’ve chosen the best cities in Italy based on popularity, culture, cuisine, and scenery and my very own personal taste. You’ve probably heard of many cities, like Rome, Florence, Milan, and Venice. Others might be entirely new to you, like Lucca and Pistoia.

But all of them are worth visiting if you can squeeze them into your Italy itinerary! Undoubtedly, Italian cities are some of the best in the world, so you won’t be disappointed.

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