Discover the must-visit cities in Italy that offer a blend of history, culture, and culinary delights.

Essential Italian Cities to Visit

Italy brims with stunning destinations, from majestic mountain ranges ideal for skiing to idyllic beach towns soaking in the Mediterranean sun. Yet, venturing to the country’s most captivating cities is a must for any traveler. Each city offers a distinct experience, showcasing a mix of historical wonder and contemporary vibrancy.

Having resided in Rome for over five years, I seize every opportunity to explore Italy’s lively urban landscapes. Each city presents a unique character, and often within a couple of hours’ journey, you can immerse yourself in entirely different cultures. Many cities will captivate you with their ancient landmarks, while others will enthrall you with their modern artistry and design. A common thread among them is the culinary excellence, where local specialties vary widely from region to region and city to city.

While you might be tempted to cram numerous locations into a short stay, I recommend dedicating at least two to three days in each of these essential Italian cities to genuinely appreciate their offerings. Whether it is your inaugural journey or you are a frequent visitor, the following 11 cities are indispensable to your Italian experience.

01. Rome

The Eternal City, Rome, is often the initial stop for travelers exploring Italy, and with good reason. With a rich history spanning over 2,000 years, this award-winning city offers countless attractions to revel in for weeks on end. First-time visitors may wish to prioritize iconic landmarks such as the Colosseum and Vatican City, however, numerous enjoyable activities abound, from picnicking amidst ancient aqueducts to exploring regal palaces, alongside savoring local delicacies like carbonara and cacio e pepe.

02. Florence

Florence, the cradle of the Renaissance, consistently ranks among the world’s top cities. The concentration of artistic and architectural masterpieces here is extraordinary. You can behold Michelangelo’s David at the Galleria dell’Accademia, visit the Uffizi Gallery for Botticelli’s renowned “Birth of Venus,” and admire the stunning Duomo—all in a single day. Do not miss crossing the historic Ponte Vecchio to discover the trendy Oltrarno district filled with studios, vintage shops, and delightful eateries. Culinary experiences not to be missed include tasting panzanella, pappa al pomodoro, and bistecca alla Fiorentina accompanied by a fine Chianti or Brunello di Montalcino.

03. Venice

Venice, often referred to as La Serenissima, is an enchanting city that deserves to be seen at least once in a lifetime. The mesmerizing sight of gondolas navigating through canals and the grandeur of Renaissance palaces create an unforgettable experience. While soaking in sites such as St. Mark’s Basilica, the Doge’s Palace, and Galleria dell’Accademia, you can also immerse yourself in vibrant seasonal events like the Venice Biennale and Carnevale. To minimize the overwhelming crowds, it is advisable to visit during the off-season from November through March.

04. Milan

Milan, regarded as Italy’s fashion and design capital, often gets overshadowed by other culturally rich cities, yet it warrants a visit. Known for its international appeal, Milan boasts an exemplary dining and nightlife scene—frequently touted as the finest in Italy. Key experiences include basking in the beauty of the Duomo and the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, sipping a Negroni sbagliato at its birthplace, and appreciating the artistic offerings at the Prada Foundation and Villa Necchi Campiglio. Don’t forget to indulge in local culinary delights such as risotto alla Milanese and cotoletta alla Milanese.

05. Naples

Often overlooked by those en route to the Amalfi Coast, Capri, or Ischia, Naples is in fact a stunning city steeped in history. An old Italian proverb states, ” Vedi Napoli e poi muori” (“See Naples and then die”), suggesting it serves as a life’s ultimate destination. Despite its gritty reputation, the city boasts a remarkable archaeological museum and works by renowned artists like Caravaggio, with its tailors being the finest throughout Italy. When in Naples, indulging in the local specialties, particularly pizza and sfogliatella, is a must.

06. Bologna

Bologna, known as La Dotta, La Grassa, and La Rossa (“The Learned, The Fat, and The Red”), captures the city’s multifaceted charm. Its university, founded in 1088, stands as the oldest in Europe, while the local gastronomy features hearty dishes like tagliatelle alla Bolognese and tortellini. Furthermore, whether the city’s red moniker references its distinctive brick buildings or its political history, Bologna remains one of Italy’s most cultured and acclaimed cities.

07. Palermo

The capital of Sicily, Palermo, showcases a mesmerizing mix of architectural styles influenced by Arabs, Normans, Byzantines, and Baroque elements. This diverse heritage is visible in sites like the city’s main cathedral and the historic Palatine Chapel, adorned with stunning golden mosaics. A visit to Palermo wouldn’t be complete without exploring lively markets like Ballarò and Vucciria, where you can experience local street food favorites such as arancini and cannoli amid the vibrant chaos, reflecting the warm hospitality of the Sicilian people.

08. Lecce

Culturally known as the “Florence of the South,” Lecce is increasingly recognized by discerning travelers. Nestled in Puglia, the city’s historical center is renowned for its Baroque architecture characterized by a warm, golden limestone hue. Guests are invited to stroll its narrow, charming streets where you’ll find enticing boutiques, vibrant bars, and delectable restaurants. Be sure to sample local specialties such as caffè Leccese (iced espresso sweetened with almond syrup) and pasticciotti (oval pastries filled with custard-like cream). Lecce also offers a perfect base for engaging with the stunning beaches of the Salento Peninsula.

09. Turin

The capital of Piedmont, Turin, is heralded as one of Italy’s most subtly sophisticated cities. Historically ruled by the French Savoy dynasty for nearly five centuries, Turin was the inaugural capital of the unified Kingdom of Italy in 1861. Travelers will appreciate the area’s French-inspired architecture and cuisine. For an authentic experience, sample esteemed local wines such as Barolo and Barbaresco, alongside unique specialities crafted from hazelnuts and truffles. Don’t miss Piazza Castello and the grandeur of the Royal Palace of Turin.

10. Perugia

Known as Italy’s green heart, Umbria lies between Rome and Tuscany, with Perugia serving as its charming capital. This captivating city retains much of its medieval essence, making it an ideal destination for history enthusiasts. Visitors can indulge in splendid frescoes inside the Palazzo dei Priori and enjoy hearty pasta dishes featuring wild boar ragu or fresh pasta adorned with shaved black truffles. Furthermore, Perugia is acclaimed for its delectable chocolate; visiting artisanal chocolate shops like Augusta Perusia is truly a delight.

11. Parma

Situated just an hour from Bologna, Parma holds significant cultural and culinary prestige. Known for producing world-famous Parmigiano Reggiano cheese and prosciutto di Parma, the city exemplifies culinary dedication. Historically, the Duchy of Parma possessed immense wealth and power before Italy’s unification, evident in the artistic and architectural treasures that abound. Explore these wonders starting from the Palazzo della Pilotta, which houses several important institutions, including the National Gallery, Farnese Theater, and Libraries.