Things to Do in Italy : Explore The Best Cities And Highlights
Italy captures the spirit of la dolce vita, a place where life is savoured in every moment. From Rome’s Colosseum to Venice’s canals and Tuscan vineyards, the country blends history, art, and culture with effortless charm.
No matter your travel style, Italy offers an unforgettable experience. Art lovers can revel in masterpieces in Florence, foodies can indulge in Naples’ legendary pizza, and adventurers can trek mountain paths or coastal cliffs. Every region offers a unique flavour and experience.
To make your journey seamless and enriching, consider one of Exoticca’s crafted tours. With thoughtfully planned itineraries and local insight, Exoticca helps you enjoy the best of Italy, stress-free. Allow our team to handle the details, so you can focus on savouring the beauty, flavour, and spirit of Italy.
Tour Italy’s iconic cities
Italy is a mosaic of unforgettable destinations, each offering a distinct flavour of the country’s rich culture, art, and cuisine. From Rome’s eternal charm to Naples’ coastal beauty, Italy has the most iconic cities and experiences for tourists.
Rome: The Eternal City
Rome is where the past and present seamlessly coexist. Experiencing the city’s legendary ruins is an unforgettable highlight in the list of the top things to do in Rome. Take a step back when visiting the Colosseum, stroll through the Roman Forum, or gaze across the city from Palatine Hill.
No visit to Rome is complete without a trip to Vatican City, home to the Sistine Chapel, St. Peter’s Basilica, and the vast collections of the Vatican Museums.
Foodies find joy in Rome’s culinary scene. Wander through the streets of Trastevere for classic Roman dishes like carbonara and cacio e pepe, or take a food tour to discover the city’s local flavours and artisan gelato shops.
Florence: Renaissance reverie
Top cityscape view on the dome of Santa Maria del Fiore church and old town in Florence
The birthplace of the Renaissance, Florence, is a treasure chest of artistic wonders. Topping the list of the top things to do in Florence is the Uffizi Gallery. Inside, you’ll find Botticelli’s The Birth of Venus, da Vinci’s Annunciation, and countless other masterpieces.
Towering over the city is the Duomo, also known as the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, famous for Brunelleschi’s dome. Climb to the top for a sweeping view of the city’s terracotta rooftops and surrounding Tuscan hills.
Stroll through Piazza della Signoria, where Florence’s artistic legacy continues in its open-air sculpture museum.
Venice: The Floating City
Venice is a city unlike any other, where water replaces roads and every corner reveals a new wonder. One of the most iconic things to do in Venice is a classic gondola ride along the Grand Canal. Historic palaces and charming bridges glide by as you float serenely through the city.
Marvel at St. Mark’s Basilica, an architectural gem of Byzantine splendour, and don’t miss the panoramic views from its terrace overlooking Piazza San Marco. Don’t miss getting lost in Venice’s maze of narrow lanes and quiet canals.
Milan: The fashion capital
Milan pulses with modern energy while honouring its deep-rooted history. Begin your visit at the striking Duomo di Milano, a Gothic masterpiece. Climb to the rooftop to take in the awe-inspiring cityscape.
Art lovers shouldn’t miss Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper, displayed at Santa Maria delle Grazie. Viewing this iconic mural is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
For fashion enthusiasts, Milan is paradise. Explore high-end boutiques and flagship stores in the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, or shop till you drop in the city’s famous fashion district.
Naples: Where history meets flavor
Naples is chaotic, colourful, and captivating. It’s the birthplace of pizza, so grab an authentic Neapolitan slice—fresh, wood-fired, and full of flavour. One of the most memorable things to do in Naples is to explore the historic center, with its Baroque churches, underground catacombs, and vibrant street life.
Naples is also your gateway to Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius. A short journey from the city takes you to these world-famous archaeological sites where ancient Roman life has been preserved in ash and stone.
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Italy’s cities offer a captivating journey through history, art, fashion, and flavour. Every corner of Italy feels like a storybook, from the ancient ruins of Rome to the romantic canals of Venice.
Enjoy its iconic cities with ease and comfort on the Escorted Eternal Cities tour with Exoticca. Every stop on the adventure is designed to bring Italy’s history and charm to lif
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Small towns, big heart: Experience Italy off the beaten path
While Italy’s famous cities often steal the spotlight, its lesser-known towns offer a quieter, more intimate look at the country’s rich heritage and charm. From ancient cave dwellings to elegant cafés and vibrant markets, these hidden gems bring Italy’s cultural tapestry to life in unforgettable ways.
Matera: Cave dwellings and cinematic scenery
Tucked away in the southern region of Basilicata, Matera is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Its distinctive Sassi—ancient cave dwellings carved into limestone cliffs—offer an almost surreal glimpse into the past.
Wandering through these stone pathways feels like stepping onto a movie set. Matera has been featured in films like The Passion of the Christ and No Time to Die.
Lecce: Baroque beauty in Puglia
Often called the “Florence of the South”, Lecce dazzles visitors with its golden limestone architecture and ornate Baroque facades. The Basilica of Santa Croce is a masterclass in architectural intricacy, while Piazza del Duomo combines Romanesque and Baroque styles in a breathtaking display. Mean
Bologna: Culinary capital with vibrant markets
Aerial view of Bologna Cathedral and towers towering above of the roofs of Old Town in medieval city Bologna in the sunny day, Emilia-Romagna, Italy
Known affectionately as “La Grassa” (“The Fat”), Bologna is the epicentre of Italy’s culinary scene. Food lovers feel at home in its bustling markets like Mercato delle Erbe and Mercato di Brodo.
Turin: Elegant cafés and chocolate heritage
In the northern region of Piedmont, Turin blends refined elegance with rich traditions. The city is world-renowned for Gianduia, a hazelnut-infused chocolate. Historic chocolate shops like Guido Gobino and Cioccolataria Peyrano are perfect stops for indulgence. Don’t miss a visit to one of Turin’s classic cafés, like Caffé Mulassano or Caffé Fiorio.
Civita di Bagnoregio: A hilltop village in the clouds
Nicknamed “The dying city”, Civita di Bagnoregio balances dramatically atop eroding cliffs in central Italy. Accessible only by a pedestrian bridge, this tiny town, home to just a handful of residents, feels like a world apart.
With sweeping views of the Badlands and narrow cobbled lanes frozen in time, Civita offers a hauntingly beautiful escape from the modern world.
There’s something special about the rhythm of life in Italy’s smaller towns—unhurried, full of character, and grounded in tradition. Experiencing these off-the-beaten-path places brings a new perspective to the Italy you thought you knew. You’ll find them woven into many of our thoughtfully designed Italy vacation packages.
Indulge in Italy’s food and wine culture
In Italy, food isn’t just a meal, it’s a celebration of place, tradition, and time spent together. From the first swirl of handmade pasta in Bologna, you’re hooked. A crisp glass of Prosecco in the Veneto hills deepens your connection to the heart of the country.
In Emilia-Romagna, the birthplace of tagliatelle al ragù and tortellini, meals are layered with centuries of technique and regional pride. Down south in Sicily, the sea brings its unique rhythm—plates of swordfish involtini, fragrant pasta alla Norma, and fresh seafood caught just hours earlier.
The flavours are only part of the journey. Follow a truffle dog through the woods in Piedmont, then enjoy your earthy finds over a long lunch paired with local wine. In olive-growing regions like Umbria and Liguria, tastings at family farms offer a crash course in what makes Italian olive oil so prized. Cooking classes, whether in a Tuscan farmhouse or a Roman kitchen, bring a deeper connection to the dishes you love.
Markets across the country brim with seasonal produce, cheeses, and local specialties, ideal for picnics or glimpsing daily life.
Get lost in Italian culture and history
Italy is a living museum of culture, history, and beauty. With every step, you’re surrounded by centuries of artistry and tradition. The country offers endless inspiration for an immersive experience of Italy’s cultural roots.
World Heritage Wonders
The country boasts more UNESCO World Heritage Sites than any other nation. The Colosseum in Rome, the ruins of Pompeii, and Pisa’s Leaning Tower are among the top sites to see.
Museums and galleries
Italy’s art legacy lives in its galleries. The Vatican Museums feature Michelangelo’s iconic Sistine Chapel ceiling. Florence’s Uffizi Gallery showcases works by Botticelli and da Vinci, while the nearby Accademia is home to Michelangelo’s David.
Villages and castles
Tuscany’s hilltop towns, like San Gimignano, and Umbria’s storybook villages offer a slower pace, steeped in history. In Apulia, Castel del Monte blends medieval architecture with mysterious symbolism.
Spiritual landmarks
St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City inspires awe with its vast dome. Assisi offers quiet reflection in the hometown of St. Francis, while Siena’s striped cathedral stuns with Gothic beauty.
There’s no better way to connect with the country’s history and charm than through our curated Italy cultural tour packages that bring each moment to life.
Unwind in nature, one trail and tide at a time
Cinque terre in Italy, road trip, springtime travel destination, tourists having fun, exploring the city, visiting famous places and sightseeing
Italy’s natural beauty is just as unforgettable as its art and architecture. If you’re craving fresh air, sweeping views, and a sense of adventure, an Italian nature vacation has it all.
Amalfi Coast & Cinque Terre
These cliffside gems offer stunning views and vibrant charm. Hike Cinque Terre’s Azure Trail through colourful villages and terraced vineyards. On the Amalfi Coast, stroll through Positano or Ravello, or follow trails revealing panoramic sea views at every turn.
Dolomites & Alps
In the north, the Dolomites and Italian Alps promise dramatic hikes in summer and world-class skiing in winter. Scenic drives wind through postcard villages and jaw-dropping landscapes—perfect for mountain lovers year-round.
Lakes of the North
Lake Como dazzles with its elegant villas and steep hillsides. Lake Garda is ideal for watersports and mountain trails, while Lake Maggiore invites peaceful retreats with island boat tours and lush gardens.
Dreamy beaches
Sardinia’s Costa Smeralda offers Caribbean-blue waters and white sands. Sicily blends beach days with volcanic views, while Puglia’s Salento coast stuns with turquoise seas and quiet stretches of shoreline.
Practical tips for travelling in Italy
The best time to visit Italy is between spring (April–May) and early fall (September–October), providing mild weather, fewer crowds, and beautiful scenery. Summer is busy and hot, while winter brings chillier temperatures and festive charm.
To get around in Italy:
- Trains: Frecciarossa connects major cities efficiently
- Car rental: Ideal for countryside trips, beware of ZTL zones
- Public transit: Convenient for city exploration
Cultural tips:
- Learn basic Italian phrases to connect with locals
- Tipping: Not expected, but 5–10% is appreciated in restaurants
- Dress modestly when visiting churches, and bring a scarf or light cover-up
Practical matters:
- Currency: Euro (carry some cash for small establishments)
- Safety: Stay alert in tourist areas to avoid pickpockets
- Connectivity: Consider a prepaid SIM card or pocket WiFi
U.S. passport holders may visit Italy for up to 90 days without a visa. Check entry requirements for your nationality before travelling.
Plan your dream Italian vacation with Exoticca
Italy is a destination that speaks to every traveller’s heart. From the timeless ruins of Rome to the quiet beauty of Civita di Bagnoregio, every corner reveals a new story, flavour, and memory. Whichever your preferred activity, Italy promises moments that linger long after you return home.
With Exoticca’s expertly curated tours, you can experience the magic of Italy without the stress of planning. Allow us to handle the logistics while you get lost in la dolce vita, one unforgettable moment at a time.
