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8 Best Places to Go in Italy You Must Explore

8 Best Places to Go in Italy You Must Explore

May 30, 2024

Last Updated on: Oct 25, 2024

Are you dreaming about spending a beautiful European holiday like me? Is Italy on your bucket list? Have you already planned your trip to Italy, or are you confused by so many options? Let me share the best places to go in Italy with you!

Apart from various popular places and streets, I have also shared several places of food that you must try. Italy’s culture and traditions are integrated deep inside its roads, buildings, and food culture. You can also learn about the weather in Italy in October to decide when to plan your trip!

Let me share with you the eight best places to go in Italy because it will be the trip of a lifetime.

8 Best Places to Go in Italy

Apart from the beautiful and historic places in Italy, there is so much more to know about them. You will learn about their history and how people have expressed themselves.

I will share with you some of the best places in Italy, not just from a traveler’s perspective. I want to share with you how to be someone who enjoys a place through its places, people, and food.

Naples, Campania

The home of Neapolitan pizza, coastal Naples has an electric atmosphere around its urban streets. I can easily highlight Naples as one of the best places to go in Italy. Did you know that during the 18th century, they used to eat plates of pasta with bare hands in the streets?

Known as mangiamaccheroni, the Neapolitans were quite enchanted with pasta’s deliciousness. However, recently, it has become more popular for its pizza. The place is like a network of pizza places, the air filled with the aroma of dough, wood-fired ovens, and cheese.

It would be best to stop at Gino Sorbillo, where you can get the Neapolitan pizza topped with buffalo mozzarella, which smells earthly. The restaurant is by the seaside and gives you the perfect view of Naples. The place is popular for coffee, so remember an espresso and an Americano!

Bologna, Emilia-Romagna

You might overlook Bologna with the likes of Naples and Rome, but if you are a true foodie, you will keep it in your itinerary. The place is the home of Prosciutto di Parma, balsamic vinegar, and Parmigiano Reggiano, which you will enjoy when you visit.

The Eataly FICO, the first food theme park in the world, is a place for you to enjoy if you are a foodie by heart! The colonies across the place are medieval, surrounded by street food stalls and several small restaurants catering to students, tourists, and locals alike.

The place is popular for hand-made pasta, so when you sit down at a trattoria, you must order Fat Bologna or Bologna Grossa. There are several regional dishes that you must try, such as tortellini in brodo or lasagna Verdi, along with the famous breadbasket of Italy.

Genoa, Liguria

Do you remember Genoa, a seaport in northwestern Italy, from Merchant of Venice? Well, the capital of Liguria is also known as the Italian Riviera. You might miss it if you are only focused on Rome or Venice, but I would say you should not miss this place.

It is one of the best places to go in Italy, especially because it is one of the best food cities in Italy. But did you know that it was the Genoese who created Pesto, the popular green sauce now found almost in every Western supermarket?

But even then, a local bowl of pesto pasta with basic leaves will leave you more flavorful than ever. Another delicious dish you cannot miss is pesto lasagna, available at Cambi Caffe.

If you are a dessert fan like me, you must try the rich Genoise sponge-based Sacripantina! The bakery Antico Forno Patrone is quite popular for dessert, a sponge with caramelized onions and an olive-laced square of focaccia. You will find several artisan confectionary boutiques, butcher shops, and fishmongers!

Rome, Lazio

You visit Rome and you do not go to the Pantheon—is that even a question? Apart from the Pantheon, the Colosseum is another must-visit place. So, if you are wondering about things to do in Rome, keep reading!

Local pasta dishes are popular in Rome, and Lazio is established with some of the classics. Dishes such as cacio e pepe, carbonara, gricia, and amatriciana attract tourists to this place. When you visit a romantic city, you must experience the nightlife.

The trattorias of Trastevere offer some of the famed pasta dishes, so you must walk across the city’s cobbled lanes and experience the vibe. To taste the deliciousness of the rich carbonara dish, you can check out Ta Deo’s rigatoni alla gricia.

Rome is known for its history, so you cannot miss the Jewish ghetto, rich in atmosphere and culture. If you love old buildings and feel a pull toward the city’s history, you can walk along the streets and experience elegance and decay.

The specialties that you must try are deep-fried artichokes and carcinoma alla guide. Another dish born from history is Trippa alla Romana, which the poorest inhabitants of Rome used to eat. You can try this to experience the real food culture!

Florence, Tuscany

Italian food culture is most pronounced in Tuscany, where most dishes offer the earthly flavor of peasant cooking (cucina povera)! There are various food items such as acquacotta, a soup of beans and cabbage, ribollita vegetable stew, baked beans with herbs, and the deliciousness of fagioli all’uccelletto.

If you do not like beans, we have other dishes for you, which you can get in restaurants that offer international cuisine. Many of these restaurants are Michelin-starred, such as the Gucci Osteria da Massimo Bottura, which offers several-course meals with wine.

Let me share one of the original food items of the place: the Florentine Steak. Cooked with herbs and olive oil, the T-bone is succulent beef from the Chianina cow. To taste the best version of this dish, you must stop in Trattoria dall’Oste Chianineria.

Cagliari, Sardinia

If you are a wine lover, you do not even have to make a choice when it comes to the most delicious white wine variety on the island, Vermentino. You will taste the salinity and acidity of this wine, and it is also the only DOCG (Controlled and Guaranteed Denomination of Origin).

You will also get to try some of the highest-quality Sardinian cuisine in the II Castello old quarter of Cagliari. Furthermore, you should also try semolina fregula, pasta that is an African take on the saffron-laced seafood soups of Sardinia.

I suggest you try sausage and fennel ragu or malloreddus! Both these items are compulsory on most menus, including Sardinian gnocchi. If you are a foodie, try the full-flavored cured fish roe in pasta. This is why people fall in love with Italy!

The shores of Cagliari, like Sicily, are the home of delicious island food culture. The sun-swelled environment and grape-growing conditions make it ideal for fresh produce. You will experience a fusion of African and Mediterranean flavors in this place.

Sorrento, Bay of Naples

Sorrento is situated on a cliff where you can overlook the beautiful and glittering Bay of Naples! When you visit the sun-kissed city, you must enjoy the delicious food. It is one of the best food cities in Italy, with its multilayered culture and flavoursome dishes.

You will be getting the gastronomic experience of your life. One popular product, lemons, is associated with several dishes in this city. The Italian coastal town will create an escape for you to experience culture, tradition, and finger-licking food.

When you start tasting food there, you will see lemons in everything, from seafood dinner to a chilled glass of limoncello or infused in a pastry. Local ingredients such as mozzarella or olive oil are available for deliciousness in the dishes, so you can visit a local farm to experience the native taste!

Local dishes like gnocchi alla Sorrentina are magical meals that you can have while sitting in a lemon-fragranced garden. The food scene even includes seafood, which is quite popular.

Parma, Emilia-Romangna

Popular places like Bologna and Naples often overshadow the charming small city, Parma. With its rich culinary heritage, Parma is quite a historic place with its baptistry lineage and ancient buildings.

Even the food culture of Parma is something to be excited about! So, what do you want to know about this place? The first and most important thing to understand is that it is one of the few cities known for producing versatile and delectable hard cheese.

Umami parcels of meat, tortellini in brood, and Parmigiano Reggiano in a delicious and fragrant chicken broth are some of the regional specialties. You can easily sit in a tiny piazza, looking at the baroque facade of a church, and enjoy these delicacies.

Finishing Off…

In short, I have shared with you some of the best places to visit in Italy to experience the best culture. Furthermore, you will also learn about some of the popular restaurants, and which dishes you can try when you visit.

I have selected the best food cities, along with the beautiful locations of churches and colonies, creating an otherworldly experience for you. In addition to the places, you also experience the traditions, the culture, and the ways of life.

Comment on which place has attracted you the most and why.

Additional Reading:

Sandip

Sandip Sah is a content writer and a content editor for TechNetDeals.com & TechTrendsPro.com, who has set sail to venture all the writing industry secrets. His passion for technology and ambition to express his thoughts through words has been the driving force in his journey. He is also a valuable guest blogger for sites like TheLegalGuide, SmartBusinessDaily, TopPrefference, and EmblemWealth. Sandip specializes in writing warm, humorous, engaging, and SEO-friendly content.

How Much Time To Spend In Italy

BY Abdul Aziz Jul 4, 2023

Well, the question itself is a determinant of Italy being a splendid destination. But first-time travelers might think about how many days they should actually stay there. Are you one of them? Then, you have landed at the right place because this informative guide gives you detailed insight. Italy is a captivating country known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes. The 20 regions existing here have their own identity. No matter how long you stay in the country, you might feel that you are running out of time. Today, I will give you a comprehensive idea of how to explore the country if you have limited days on your hand. Factors That Let You Decide Your Stay Duration In Italy Planning the duration of your visit is crucial to ensure you make the most of your time and experience all that Italy has to offer. Here are some helpful tips to consider when deciding how much time to spend in Italy. Consider Your Priorities: Start by identifying your main interests and priorities for the trip. Are you more drawn to historical landmarks, art and architecture, culinary experiences, or scenic beauty? Understanding your preferences will help determine the regions and cities in Italy that align with your interests. It is technically not possible to explore the 4,600 coastline, no matter how long your vacation is. Amidst gorgeous beaches, soul-calming villages, and tourist attractions, Italy is certainly a place worth discovering. So, ensure you know your priorities well. Get to know a map of abruzzi italy or whichever region it is you're travelling to and plan a route with key points of interest that you want to visit. It makes no sense to spend a thousand dollars just to figure out what you want from the vacation. Leave Room For Spontaneity: While it's essential to have a general plan, leave some flexibility in your itinerary. Serendipitous discoveries often make for the most memorable experiences. Allow yourself the freedom to wander off the beaten path, stumble upon hidden gems, and embrace the unexpected. Italy is a place where magic happens. The only thing you should be concerned about is the pickpockets. Don’t fall for any scam, and you are good to go. Leave some room to discover the place strategically. Explore The Highlights: To get a comprehensive taste of Italy, it is recommended to spend at least two weeks in the country. This timeframe allows you to explore the iconic cities of Rome, Florence, and Venice, as well as the breathtaking Amalfi Coast, Tuscany's picturesque countryside, and the charming villages of Cinque Terre. The island culture of the nation is no less mesmerizing. There are more than 450 beaches which certainly attract tourists. Don’t forget to head over to Sicily, which is a small country on its own. Tremiti Islands and the Aeolian give you an unparalleled experience. Focus On Specific Regions: If you have limited time, consider narrowing your focus to specific regions. For example, spending a week in Tuscany allows you to delve into its art, history, and world-renowned wines. Alternatively, dedicating a few days to the Amalfi Coast lets you indulge in the beauty of the Mediterranean Sea and visit the historic town of Pompeii. If you prioritize luxury over everything else, you might want to head over to Sardinia’s Costa Smeralda. It is a hotspot that makes everything look alluring on Instagram posts. A trip to Italy will be worth it when you explore some of its off-beat destinations. Factor In Travel Time: When planning your itinerary, account for travel time between destinations. Italy's efficient train system makes it easy to get around, but some journeys can be lengthy. Consider the time it takes to travel between cities and ensure you have enough time to explore and relax at each location without feeling rushed. While personal transport can be a bit hefty on your part, local transportation has always got your back. Make sure you rely on them as you have various other places to spend extravagantly. Why waste your precious dollars on a commute that is possible with local options? Embrace The Slower Pace: Italy is a country that encourages leisurely exploration and savoring the moment. Allow yourself time to enjoy a leisurely stroll through the streets, sip coffee at a local café, or people-watch in a piazza. Don't try to cram too many activities into a day; instead, focus on quality experiences and immerse yourself in the Italian way of life. In case you have limited time on your hands, make a list of a few places. But make sure to explore them at their best. The only thing you should carry back on your way home is the memories, not the regrets. Explore each destination at a slow pace, and make the most of your time. Consider Seasonal Factors: The time of year you visit Italy can greatly impact your experience. Summer months can be crowded with tourists, especially in popular destinations, while spring and autumn offer milder weather and fewer crowds. Winter is ideal for those interested in skiing in the Italian Alps or exploring the cultural delights of cities like Rome and Florence without the usual tourist crowds. In general, the country experiences an overall wonderful weather. Don’t forget to consider the season when making plans to explore the country. If you are willing to visit the beaches, summer is the best time to visit the country. Seek Local Insights: To truly immerse yourself in the Italian culture, seek recommendations from locals. Not everything is found in journals, maps, and Google. There are certain things that are best when discovered physically. Italy is a wonderful destination with people from all walks of life. Thus, engage in conversations with residents, ask for their favorite restaurants or hidden spots, and be open to their suggestions. Their insights will provide you with unique experiences that may not be found in guidebooks. The Bottom Line… Pack Your Bags To Italy In conclusion, the amount of time you spend in Italy depends on your interests, priorities, and the experiences you wish to have. Whether you have a few days or a few weeks, careful planning and a willingness to embrace the Italian lifestyle will ensure you have a memorable and fulfilling trip. Read Also: Top 10 Famous Wonders Of India Where Can You Fully Immerse Yourself In Ancient Culture On Holiday? The Top 5 Reasons To Visit Edinburgh: From Castles To Culture, This City Has It All!

An Unforgettable Journey From Milan To Lake Como: How To Travel The Distance?

BY Sibashree Jun 26, 2025

This time, our journey takes us to Lake Como, situated in the foothills of the Swiss Alps. The beautiful lake has been in the news recently for being the “Muse” for Chanel’s cruise 25/26 show. Nevertheless, the pristine waters of the lake, quaint towns, and stunning villas here teach us the art of slow traveling. You can just sit by the water, relax, and soak in the moment by doing nothing. Furthermore, the journey from Milan to Lake Como is an experience in itself. You will love the scenic views, cultural exploration, and more during the trip. Which Month Is Best In Milan? Learn The Best Time From A Milan To Lake Como Journey April to May and September to October are the best months for a Milan to Lake Como trip. June to August is very hot and humid in Milan, with temperatures peaking at over 30 degrees Celsius in July. Furthermore, the winter months in Milan are damp and chilly. However, the opera season at La Scala runs from November to December, and Christmas and New Year celebrations continue through December and January. So, you can plan a visit in these months to soak in the festive fervor of Northern Italy. Do you want to know more about the weather conditions in Milan? Have a look at the table below. Months Highest Temperature (°C) Lowest Temperature (°C) Days of Rainfall January 8 2 6 February 11 4 4 March 16 8 5 April 18 10 8 May 25 15 8 June 28 17 7 July 31 20 5 August 30 21 6 September 25 17 6 October 17 13 7 November 12 7 6 December 8 2 6 What Is The Milan To Lake Como Distance? How Do I Get To Lake Di Como From Milan? The distance between Milan and Lake Como is approximately 50 kilometers (31 miles). You can complete the journey within an hour. Also, the journey offers you a seamless transition from the bustling city of Milan to the tranquil beauty of Lake Como. 1. Milan To Lake Como Train A train ride from Milan to Lake Como is convenient, and the journey offers stunning scenic views as the train passes through small villages and lush greenery. You can take the regional train running from Milano Centrale or Milano Porta Garibaldi to Como San Giovanni, the primary station in the city of Como. The train ride takes approximately 40 minutes. However, you can also take a EuroCity Milan to Lake Como high-speed train from Milano Centrale to Como San Giovanni Station. These trains take close to 36 minutes (some trains may take longer). What Is The Milan To Lake Como Train Time? Have a look at the table below to learn about the train timings. Slow Trains Faster Trains Departure from Milano Centrale Arrival at Como San Giovanni Departure from Milano Centrale Arrival at Como San Giovanni 06:43 AM 07:22 AM 7:10 AM 7:52 AM 06:55 AM 07:44 AM 8:10 AM 8:47 AM 07:43 AM 08:22 AM 9:10 AM 9:47 AM 08:43 AM 09:22 AM 10:10 AM 10:56 AM 09:43 AM 10:22 AM 11:10 AM 11:47 AM 10:43 AM 11:22 AM 1:10 PM 1:47 PM 11:43 AM 12:22 PM 3:10 AM 3:47 PM 11:55 AM 01:18 PM 4:10 PM 4:47 PM 12:43 AM 1:22 PM 5:10 PM 5:47 PM 12:55 PM 2:18 PM 6:10 PM 6:47 PM 1:43 PM 2:22 PM 7:10 PM 7:47 PM 1:55 PM 3:18 PM 2:43 PM 3:22 PM 2:55 PM 4:18 PM 3:43 PM 4:22 PM 3:55 PM 5:18 PM 4:43 PM 5:22 PM 4:55 PM 6:18 PM 5:43 PM 6:22 PM 5:55 PM 7:18 PM 6:43 PM 7:22 PM 6:55 PM 8:18 PM 7:43 PM 8:22 PM 8:43 PM 9:22 PM 9:43 PM 10:22 PM 10:43 PM 11:22 PM How Much Is A Train Ticket From Milan To Lake Como? The Milan to Lake train ticket price starts from $7 (2nd Class/Standard), and for the first class tickets, you will need to pay $10. After reaching the Como San Giovanni station, you can take public transport or explore the city on foot. You will love the towns by the shore of Lake Como, including Bellagio, Varenna, and Tremezzo. 2. Milan To Lake Como Day Trip By Car A Milan to Lake Como drive is the best option if you want to enjoy the journey at your own pace. Traffic conditions keep differing. However, the journey by road typically takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes on average. Furthermore, as you advance following the A9 motorway, you will find the mesmerizing views of the Alps on one side and the appeal of Lake Como on the other side. However, the roads around the lake can be winding and narrow sometimes. So, be careful with the navigation. Also, don’t forget a stopover at Manza and Pavia. Manza has Autodromo Nazionale Monza, a popular Formula 1 race track. Pavia, on the other hand, is home to the Certosa di Pavia. It is a noted Carthusian monastery, popular for its artistic and historic heritage. 3. Milan To Lake Como By Bus You can take a bus from Milan to Lake Como. It is the cheapest way to reach Lake Como from Milan. However, the journey takes around 2 hours, and the buses depart from the Lampugnano station, running to Como and various lakeside towns. 4. Milan To Lake Como By Boat If you want to make your journey from Milan to Lake Como more meaningful, you can take a train to Varenna and take a ferry from there to Como. You can also take a ferry ride to Bellagio. The boat ride is beautiful, and you will love gliding through the turquoise waters. Is Lake Como Worth Visiting? Know What To Do In Lake Como Once you reach Lake Como, you can also visit the following places and enjoy several water activities. 1. Visit The Como City The largest city on the lake, Como, has a stunning lakeside promenade, historic architecture, and vibrant atmosphere. Furthermore, it is home to the Como Cathedral. The cathedral stands out thanks to its Renaissance and Gothic architecture. Also, you will love the cafes, restaurants, and shops throughout the historic center. Moreover, don’t miss a funicular railway ride to the hilltop town of Brunate. You will love the panoramic views of Lake Como and the surrounding mountains from there. Additionally, for a taste of local culture, visit the Tempio Voltiano, a museum dedicated to the life and work of Alessandro Volta, the inventor of the electric battery, who was born in Como. 2. Explore Bellagio Historic villas Cobblestone streets Scenic beauty All these make Bellagio the “Pearl of Lake Como.” Also, it is located at the juncture of the two arms of Lake Como. So, you will enjoy a stroll along the narrow and winding alleys of Bellagio, piazzas, and lush gardens. Moreover, for an idyllic experience, you must visit the surrounding gardens of Villa Melzi. Also, you can explore the gelato stands, cafes, and boutique shops. You can even cycle the surrounding hills, go hiking, and take part in water sports. 3. A Trip To Varenna Varenna is one of the best towns to visit in Lake Como. This town on the eastern shore of Lake Como exudes the quintessential romantic charm and a laid-back vibe. Also, it is an ideal destination for Instagrammable tours in Italy. It has a beautiful waterfront and colorful buildings. Moreover, Villa Monastero, with its beautiful gardens, and Castello di Vezio, a medieval fortress overlooking the town, are some iconic landmarks here. 4. Water Activities Do you want some serious adventure at Lake Como? Try the following activities. Sailing Kayaking Paddleboarding 5. Dining On Lake Como It’s a sin not to try fresh lake fish, such as perch and trout, when you are at Lake Como. You will love these delicacies after a Milan to Lake Como journey, and these dishes served with polenta do the real magic. You will also love risottos here and look for the best Italian wines. Do you want a more luxurious experience? You can try fine dining at any of the Michelin-starred restaurants in the nearby towns. Enjoy the delicacy while enjoying the amazing views of the lake. Milan To Lake Como: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Here are the frequently asked questions and answers about the Milan to Lake Como journey. 1. Is 1 Day Enough For Lake Como? Yes, one day is enough if you want to explore the nearby towns and try out the water activities. However, if you want to know about the local culture, you can stay longer. 2. What Is The Best Way To Travel From Lake Como To Milan? Taking a superfast train from Milan to Lake Como is the best way to travel. The travel time is less than 40 minutes, and the ticket prices start from $7. 3. Is Lake Como Expensive To Visit? Yes, Lake Como is considered one of the best places for high-end tourism in Italy. However, you can plan a stay in areas such as Lecco and visit the lake during the shoulder seasons to avoid the extra cost. 4. How Many Days Do You Need In Lake Como? You can go for a day trip from Milan to Lake Como. However, if you have hiking plans and if you want to visit even the smaller villages, you will need at least three to five days. 5. What To Visit In Milan In 2 Days? The places to visit in Milan in 2 days are Duomo, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, the Navigli district, and Sforza Castle. 6. How Many Days In Milan Is Enough? You need at least two to three days to visit the major attractions in Milan. 7. What Is Special In Milan? Milan stands proud as the global epicenter of luxury fashion. Names such as Versace, Prada, Valentino, and Armani call Milan their home. 8. Is It Worth Going To Lake Como From Milan? Yes, the Milan to Lake Como journey is easy, and it offers a welcome relief from the hustle and bustle of Milan. Also, you will love the scenic views along the journey.

Vacationing in Florence: A Brief Guide

BY Abdul Aziz May 15, 2021

While thinking about vacationing, one place stands out from any other place - Florence, Italy. Why? Since the fifteenth century, the culture and heritage that it holds can still be found in its hotels and monuments. The eye-catching architecture, the gothic castles, cathedrals, and even the corner streets are full of Renaissance art. Holding on to its root and flourishing, as they say, Florence is the perfect example. The Best Time to Visit: Florence is open all year. But if you don’t want to get all sweaty and feel humid, and if dates aren’t trouble, then visiting Florence from November to March would be best. You might need a warm jacket or a scarf, maybe an umbrella from time to time depending on the ever-changing weather. But you will surely enjoy all the amazing art and sights. There is less crowd this time of the year and you get cheaper options everywhere you go. You don’t have to rush to your museum visit appointment or rush to the cathedrals before it gets crowded to get a better shot of photos. Must-See Attractions: Pre-planning is the key to visiting any place. Otherwise, there is so much to see that you might miss a breathtaking view in such a short time. This is why you should know where to go before you arrive in Florence. Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore or Duomo di Firenze as everyone knows it, is a must visit. It can be called the centerpiece of Florence as it can be seen from over a mile all around. The Uffizi Palace and Gallery is a place for art and history. You can gaze upon Botticelli’s finest pieces: The Birth of Venus here and all of the fifteenth-century famous arts. Galleria dell’Accademia is the home of Michelangelo's famous masterpieces. Though his works are scattered around, it is for David that you have to visit the aforementioned gallery. And if you envy nature, Giardino Bardini is a must for you which can be seen from the Arno river. While in Florence, you should visit the leather shops and market. Don’t forget the food scene either! Vivoli Gelato and Officina Profumo Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella is the place for its famous gelato, architecture and great food. The Advantages of Firenze Card: There is a long line for the museum and monuments to visit, and so, you have to pre-book your ticket online. Even then, you have to stand in a long queue to get into one. It is time-consuming and costly most of the time. You can also take buses to make up for the time taken up at the last place but that will also cost you every time. A Firenze Card (here you can see all the advantages of the Firenze Card) can help to minimize your efforts and costs. You get to jump normal ques in the major museums and get free bus rides to the attractions with your family. Want to know more? Read Also: Top Places To Visit In Italy On Your Next Travel Escapade 7 Things To Do In Salem – Latest Travel Guide Australian Travel Ideas For 2021

8 Best Places to Go in Italy You Must Explore