20 Best Places to Visit in Italy in 2025: A Local Traveler Picks

Dreaming of pasta, piazzas, and picture-perfect coastlines? Then you’re in for a treat — because the best places to visit in Italy are more stunning than ever in 2025. From the rolling hills of Tuscany to the dramatic cliffs of the Amalfi Coast, Italy is packed with timeless charm and fresh surprises.

Whether you’re planning your first trip or your fifth, exploring the best places to visit in Italy feels like flipping through a living postcard. But here’s the secret: the real magic often lies beyond the usual tourist trail.

In this guide, we’ll walk through not only the iconic hotspots but also a few under-the-radar towns that deserve a spot on your itinerary. So if you’re wondering where to go next (or what to rediscover), these best places to visit in Italy might just spark your next unforgettable adventure.

---

How This List Was Curated (Selection Methodology)

Let’s be honest… picking just 20 places in a country like Italy is a little unfair. You could throw a dart at the map and still end up somewhere unforgettable. But for this list, I tried to go beyond the usual suspects. I wanted places that offer something meaningful — not just Insta-worthy shots (though, sure, there’s plenty of those too).

I started with personal experience. I’ve been to each of these places myself, some multiple times, and talked with locals — guides, artists, restaurant owners, friends I’ve made along the way. Their input shaped this as much as mine did.

To narrow things down, I looked at:

• Cultural richness — places where history or heritage genuinely shape the experience
• 2025 travel updates — new train routes, festival revivals, renovations, and access improvements
• Ease for international travelers — whether you’re flying in or hopping a train from Rome
• Sustainability + crowd flow — how well they balance authenticity with tourism demand

Also… I’ve got a soft spot for slow travel. So if you’re looking for a checklist of “Top 10 Places to Visit in Italy” where you can snap a pic and leave — this isn’t that. I lean toward places that invite you to stay a bit longer, eat a little slower, maybe get lost once or twice.

Whether you’re wondering where to go in Italy for your first visit or planning a return with fresh eyes, this guide blends the familiar and the offbeat. It’s not exhaustive, but it’s personal… and I hope it helps shape your own Italy travel guide for 2025.

Northern Italy Gems

1. Lake Como

It’s hard to beat the feeling of drifting across Lake Como just as the sky starts to shift pink — the water calm, villas standing still like they’ve seen centuries go by. I once stayed in a tiny B&B outside Bellagio… nothing fancy, but waking up to church bells echoing across the lake felt like magic.

Why it’s great in 2025? There’s been a quiet shift toward sustainability here — more electric ferries, fewer big tour groups, and some newly opened trails around Varenna for hikers who want views without the crowds. Spring’s the sweet spot… cooler air, blooming gardens, and fewer tourists competing for lakeside tables.

• Best for: Couples, slow travelers, photography lovers
• Avoid: Mid-summer weekends (it’s packed)
• Pro Tip: Book a boat ride during golden hour — the panoramic views are unreal

---

2. Cinque Terre

Hiking from Monterosso to Vernazza might sound like a travel cliché… but honestly? It’s still one of my favorite memories. You start thinking you’ll do it for the views, and halfway through, it’s just you, the sea, and some wildly good focaccia from a corner bakery.

In 2025, new trail management means fewer closures (finally), and timed hiking passes are helping ease overcrowding. You’ll still see the color-popped cliff towns and vines curling along stone terraces… but with just a little more breathing room.

• Best for: Hikers, sea lovers, first time visitors
• Skip: If you have mobility issues — lots of stairs and steep climbs
• Eat: Anchovy pasta and local Sciacchetrà wine

---

3. Turin

People often overlook Turin — maybe because it’s not loud about how cool it is. But stay a day or two and you’ll feel the rhythm. It’s where I learned how real chocolate is supposed to taste… not sweet, but earthy, smooth, and kind of mysterious.

It’s also Italy’s unsung food capital. 2025 brings back the Slow Food Fair, bigger than ever, plus an expanded tram network that connects historic neighborhoods with less-touristy cafes and art spaces.

• Best for: Foodies, culture nerds, couples looking for something different
• Watch out: Winters are icy, and some spots close mid-afternoon
• Must try: Bicerin (hot drink with coffee, chocolate, and cream)

---

4. Bolzano & the Dolomites

The first time I saw the Dolomites at sunrise, I actually stopped mid-hike and just stared. It didn’t even look real — like someone photoshopped pink across the sky and forgot to turn the filter off. Bolzano is the ideal base for exploring this rugged stretch of northern Italy… with wine bars, thermal spas, and hiking shops tucked between Austrian-style buildings.

In 2025, park services in the Dolomites are offering guided “low-impact” treks with local naturalists — a great way to explore without overstepping. There’s even a new cable car route near Ortisei that cuts down travel time without ruining the views.

• Best for: Active travelers, nature lovers, spa seekers
• Downsides: Prices spike during ski season
• Local gem: Visit the Ötzi museum — it’s oddly moving

---

5. Milan

I used to think of Milan as just fashion and finance. And, yeah, those parts are still there… but spend a little time walking the Navigli canals or ducking into indie art galleries and you’ll see a different side. In 2025, the city’s buzzing with design energy — especially with the Salone del Mobile fair returning with expanded outdoor exhibits and free walking tours.

It’s also a surprisingly great launchpad for exploring Lombardy’s countryside. Quick trains take you to places like Bergamo, Lake Garda, or even the vineyards around Franciacorta.

• Best for: Art and design fans, day-trippers, solo travelers
• Heads up: It’s pricey, especially near the Duomo
• Hidden gem: The Monumental Cemetery — weirdly beautiful

Central Italy Highlights

6. Florence

I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve wandered Florence’s streets… but somehow, it always feels like the first. Maybe it’s the way the light hits the Ponte Vecchio around 6 pm, or how a bowl of ribollita tastes even better after a long museum day.

2025 is shaping up to be a big year for art lovers here. There’s buzz around a rare exhibit opening at the Uffizi, plus smaller galleries like Palazzo Strozzi are leaning into contemporary installations. The crowds haven’t disappeared — not even close — but with early morning entry passes and new ticket bundles, it’s easier to manage than it used to be.

• Best for: First time visitors, solo travelers, art lovers
• Watch for: Tourist traps near the Duomo (overpriced and bland)
• Quick tip: Stay across the Arno for quieter nights and better local food

---

7. Siena

One summer, I accidentally timed my trip with the Palio horse race. I had no idea what was going on — just thousands of people packed into the Piazza del Campo, cheering like their lives depended on it. I ended up wedged between two grandmothers yelling for rival contrade (neighborhoods). Best travel mistake I’ve ever made.

Siena keeps its medieval spirit alive in a way few cities do. In 2025, local culinary tours are finally expanding beyond the usual wine-and-cheese — expect hands-on cooking lessons in countryside kitchens and even truffle hunts in nearby woods.

• Best for: History buffs, culture seekers, romantic getaways
• Avoid: Driving into the old town — park outside
• Try: Pici pasta with wild boar sauce

---

8. Bologna

If you’re hungry in Italy, go to Bologna. That’s it. That’s the advice. No city has fed me better — and I’ve eaten my way through most of them. Tortellini in brodo, tagliatelle al ragù, crescentine with prosciutto… I still dream about that tiny osteria near the university that didn’t even have a sign outside.

Beyond food, Bologna offers a laid-back charm — arcaded streets, bookshops, hidden towers you can still climb. In 2025, the city is pushing harder on student-led walking tours and nighttime food markets. It’s not showy. Just deeply satisfying.

What to Love in Bologna (2025)	Why It Stands Out
Best pasta in Italy? Maybe	Home of ragù, tortellini, lasagna
Walkable city center	Easy to explore without a car
Upgraded train connections	Perfect for weekend hopping
Young, fun vibe	Thanks to its massive student base

• Best for: Food lovers, younger travelers, weekend trips
• Avoid: Visiting in August — it’s hot and half the city’s closed
• Don’t miss: Climb Asinelli Tower for panoramic views (and leg cramps)

LSI/semantic keywords: slow food, contemporary art, panoramic views, hot tub (many hotels now offer this amenity), historic buildings

---

9. Assisi

Even if you’re not spiritual, there’s something grounding about Assisi. Maybe it’s the silence between the bells, or the smell of rosemary in the hills. I went on a whim during a stressful time and ended up staying two extra days just to walk the Franciscan trails and breathe a little slower.

In 2025, wellness retreats in and around Assisi are drawing more attention — yoga in olive groves, guided meditation in ancient convents, even digital detox packages for burned-out travelers. It’s not flashy. But maybe that’s the point.

• Best for: Spiritual travelers, solo wanderers, wellness-focused trips
• Avoid: Driving through the narrow alleys — walk or shuttle in
• Good to know: Many spots close early, especially on Sundays

---

10. Orvieto

I mentioned Orvieto earlier — it’s where one of my most peaceful mornings happened. Perched on volcanic rock, the town looks dramatic from afar, but feels surprisingly cozy once you’re inside. I once got caught in a rainstorm there and ended up spending an hour inside a tiny bookstore, chatting with the owner about Umbrian poetry. That kind of day sticks.

For 2025, Orvieto is easier to reach with expanded train services from Rome and Florence, making it a great detour without the usual rental car headache. Wine cellars carved into cliffs, underground tours, and a growing slow food scene make it more than just a quick stop.

• Best for: Curious travelers, couples, weekend escapes
• Avoid: Over-packing — streets are steep and uneven
• Must-do: Tour the underground city tunnels

Southern Italy Wonders

11. Naples

Naples is… chaos, in the best possible way. It’s loud and a little gritty, sure — but also wildly alive. I once had the best pizza of my life there, standing on the street, no plate, just molten mozzarella threatening to burn my fingertips. Zero regrets.

And it’s not just about pizza. Naples in 2025 is finally getting more recognition for its layered history and offbeat charm. The Roman Forum beneath San Lorenzo Maggiore, the street art in the Spanish Quarter, the late-night energy of Spaccanapoli… it’s a different kind of beautiful.

Quick Picks in Naples (2025)	Why They Matter
Street food at Pignasecca Market	Fast, local, unforgettable
Day trip to Pompeii	Ancient ruins meet raw emotion
Underground Naples tour	Cool break from high heat weather

• Best for: Adventurous eaters, history buffs, city lovers
• Caution: It’s not polished — don’t expect Florence calm
• Pro tip: Stay near Piazza Bellini for great nightlife and safer vibes

---

12. Amalfi Coast

The drive along the Amalfi Coast feels like it shouldn’t be allowed — narrow roads, cliff drops, sea views so stunning they could distract even the most focused driver (ask me how I know). But when you catch that first glimpse of Positano stacked like colorful Lego on a mountain… yeah, worth it.

2025 is pushing for smarter tourism here. There’s a push toward staggered bus arrivals, eco-conscious boat tours, and spring/fall travel incentives to reduce summer strain. April and October are gold — warm enough to swim, quiet enough to breathe.

• Best for: Couples, honeymooners, romantic escapes
• Avoid: Peak July-August weekends — it’s just too much
• Must-see: Ravello’s gardens at sunset (bring a camera)

---

13. Matera

Matera doesn’t look real at first. Its ancient cave dwellings, known as the Sassi, spill across the hillside like something out of a dream. I stayed in one of those cave hotels — no Wi-Fi, barely any light — and slept better than I had in months. Something about stone walls and silence just… works.

Now that its 2019 stint as a European Capital of Culture is behind it, Matera is back to being a little quieter — which is perfect. In 2025, design-forward hotels and artists-in-residence programs are making this an ideal escape for creatives and introverts alike.

• Best for: Couples, writers, offbeat travelers
• Downsides: Not great for folks with mobility issues
• Tip: Pack layers — caves stay cool even in summer heat

---

14. Palermo (Sicily)

Palermo is a contradiction. One minute you’re wandering a lavish opera house, the next you’re elbow-deep in a paper cone of fried octopus at a noisy street stall. I once watched a street performance in front of the Cathedral while kids kicked a soccer ball nearby — it felt like the city refused to take itself too seriously, and I kind of loved that.

In 2025, the city’s undergoing a creative revival — open-air galleries, contemporary art pop-ups, and a calendar full of local festivals. But the soul of Palermo is still in its markets — Ballarò, Vucciria, Capo — and the strange, wonderful chaos they bring.

• Best for: Foodies, artists, cultural explorers
• Avoid: Driving here — trust me
• Must-try: Panelle sandwiches and lemon granita

---

15. Aeolian Islands

The Aeolian Islands feel like Italy took a deep breath and let it out slowly. I spent a week on Salina once — no plans, no schedule. Just beach walks, fresh capers, and hikes up the volcano. One evening, I watched the sun sink behind Stromboli’s smoky silhouette… and it honestly didn’t feel real.

2025 is making it easier to get there thanks to updated ferry lines from Sicily and Naples. Plus, local councils are limiting cruise ships to protect the fragile coastline. The vibe is slow, deliberate, and disconnected — in the best way.

• Best for: Nature lovers, couples, remote retreats
• Watch for: Ferry delays, especially in windy seasons
• Favorites: Black sand beaches on Vulcano, night hikes on Stromboli

Lesser-Known Hidden Gems

16. Lecce (Puglia)

I always tell people Lecce feels like Florence and Marrakech had a sun-drenched child. The Baroque architecture here is ornate but warm, with golden facades that seem to glow at sunset. I stayed in a countryside agriturismo just outside the city — olive trees, slow food dinners, no rush… it was everything I didn’t know I needed.

In 2025, Lecce is attracting more attention for its sustainable tourism model. Farm stays, eco-friendly tours, and local craft markets are being promoted over big resorts. And it’s a solid choice for couples wanting a quieter, more authentic southern Italian vibe.

• Best for: Couples, culture fans, off-season wanderers
• Avoid: High summer if you’re sensitive to heat — it’s intense
• Highlight: Olive oil tastings in rural masserie (farmhouses)

---

17. Civita di Bagnoregio

The first time I saw Civita di Bagnoregio, I thought it was a painting. This tiny hilltop village clings to the edge of a crumbling cliff, connected to the outside world by a narrow pedestrian bridge that looks like something out of a fantasy film. It’s also called la città che muore — the dying city — which makes visiting feel a little bittersweet.

In 2025, visitor access is more regulated to help preserve the town. But that only adds to the experience — fewer people, more time to wander the cobbled lanes in peace. The art galleries here are small and local, and the sunsets? Unforgettable.

Reasons to Visit Civita in 2025	What You’ll Love Most
Sunset views over the valley	Absolutely surreal
Art walks & pop-up galleries	Local artists share personal work
Quiet, car-free town	Pure serenity — not a tourist trap

• Best for: Day-trippers, photographers, curious wanderers
• Not ideal for: Anyone who struggles with uphill walking
• Bring: A camera and good walking shoes

---

18. Trieste

Trieste doesn’t feel like the rest of Italy… and that’s kind of the point. Sitting at the crossroads of Italy, Slovenia, and Austria, it’s layered with influence — Slavic, Viennese, Roman, you name it. I stopped here once just for a night, and ended up staying three. Mostly because of the coffee culture — seriously, it’s another level.

In 2025, Trieste is leaning into its identity as a cultural bridge. Expect international art festivals, expanded ferry routes along the Adriatic, and renovated seaside promenades perfect for long, thoughtful strolls.

• Best for: Intellectual types, café hoppers, cross-border explorers
• Downsides: It’s far from Italy’s usual tourist routes
• Must-see: Miramare Castle (and maybe pack a picnic)

---

19. Ravenna

I wasn’t expecting much from Ravenna. But then I walked into the Basilica di San Vitale and… I just stood there. The mosaics glittered in the half-light like they were made yesterday. And I suddenly realized I was the only person in the room. No crowds. No noise. Just silence and gold.

For 2025, Ravenna’s receiving more love from UNESCO and is investing in restoring its famous mosaics and coastal parks. It’s also a quiet beach alternative if you want a sea breeze without the chaos of Rimini.

• Best for: Art lovers, peace-seekers, beach + history combo
• Caution: Public transport can be limited in off-season
• Underrated gem: Dante Alighieri’s tomb — a surprisingly moving stop

---

20. Alberobello (Puglia)

You know those round, white-tipped houses that look like they belong in a fairy tale? Those are trulli, and Alberobello is packed with them. I spent a few nights here in one of the traditional ones (with a tiny hot tub out back) — and while it was cozy, it felt like stepping into another world. Slightly surreal… and very Instagrammable.

Alberobello gets its fair share of tourists, but in 2025, new regional routes and off-peak travel packages are spreading the crowds better. If you go early morning or evening, it’s mostly just locals watering plants or chatting on stoops.

• Best for: Families, architecture lovers, whimsical travel vibes
• Watch out: It can feel overly curated mid-day
• Tip: Visit the nearby countryside towns — way less crowded

IV. Planning Tips for Visiting Italy in 2025

If you’re thinking about traveling to Italy in 2025, timing and planning matter more than ever. With some exciting changes coming this year—like new high-speed train routes and expanded digital nomad resources—it’s a great time to revisit or explore Italy for the first time. But let’s break it down so it doesn’t feel overwhelming.

When to Visit Which Region

Italy is basically a country of microclimates and mood shifts, and it rewards travelers who pay attention to the seasons. Here’s a quick guideline that might help:

• Spring (April–June): Head south. Think Sicily, the Amalfi Coast, Puglia. It’s warm, flowers are blooming, and it’s not yet peak tourist season.
• Fall (September–October): The north comes alive. Cities like Milan, Turin, and even the lakes—Como and Garda—are cooler, quieter, and beautifully golden.
• Summer is best reserved for alpine escapes or island breezes. Think Dolomites or Sardinia… because Florence in August? Honestly, it’s a sweaty furnace.

Booking Advice for Italy in 2025

The choices can feel endless—hotels, Airbnbs, agriturismos (those charming countryside stays). But here’s what’s working lately:

Option	Best For	Insider Tip
Hotels	City travelers, short stays	Book early for Venice or Rome; use Booking.com or Expedia
Agriturismos	Rural escapes, food-focused trips	Great in Tuscany and Umbria—check out Agriturismo.it
Airbnbs	Long stays, digital nomads	Often cheaper than hotels, but read reviews carefully

Also, for museum visits (Uffizi, Vatican, Colosseum), pre-book online—even a week ahead can save you hours in line. For trains, check the new ItaliaRail 2025 passes, especially if you’re city-hopping. Trenitalia and Italo have updated some routes—Rome to Palermo is now faster than ever.

What’s New in 2025?

• Expanded Train Routes: Milan–Matera and Venice–Lecce now have direct fast trains. Major win for slow travelers.
• Cultural Calendar: The Venice Biennale is back and buzzier than ever. Festa della Repubblica (June 2) will feature extra parades and public art across Rome and Florence.
• Remote Work Boost: Cities like Bologna and Palermo now offer digital nomad coworking passes, with discounts on local transport and even food.

For more real-time updates, check Italia.it (official tourism board) or peek at the screenshots I’ve shared from my Rome + Umbria bookings this year—it’s all becoming easier to manage with better infrastructure and smarter tools.

V. Honorable Mentions: Close Contenders Worth Considering

While the big names like Rome, Venice, and Florence often steal the spotlight, there are so many underrated Italian cities that quietly deliver unforgettable experiences. If you’re building your 2025 itinerary and still have room for a wild card or two, here are a few hidden gems and lesser-known favorites worth your attention:

• Verona
  Often overshadowed by Venice, Verona is pure romantic magic. Think Juliet’s balcony, pink-hued buildings, and an open-air Roman arena that still hosts operas under the stars. It’s compact, elegant, and ideal for a 2–3 day couples’ escape.
• Bergamo
  Named Italy’s Capital of Culture in 2023, Bergamo still glows with newfound energy. The dual-level city (Città Alta and Città Bassa) combines Renaissance charm with modern flair. Bonus: it’s a budget-friendly alternative near Milan, and less touristy too.
• Padua (Padova)
  Only 30 minutes from Venice by train, Padua is a lively university town with a rich intellectual legacy. Visit the Scrovegni Chapel for its Giotto frescoes, then mingle with students in vibrant piazzas buzzing with aperitivo culture.
• Cagliari, Sardinia
  For those craving coastal beauty and ancient ruins, Cagliari delivers both. You’ll get sun-kissed beaches, centuries-old fortresses, and the kind of calm you won’t find in mainland cities.
• Trani, Puglia
  A sophisticated seaport town with Baroque churches, seafood dining by the harbor, and a quieter pace of life. Trani’s refined but low-key vibe makes it a standout in the often overlooked northern Puglia coastline.

Each of these places brings its own texture to the Italian travel experience—romantic, historical, cultural, or just plain beautiful. They’re not just backups… they’re worthy contenders in their own right.

VI. Final Thoughts: How to Choose Your Italy in 2025 (250–300 words)

So, how do you choose the best cities to visit in Italy when each one is brimming with history, culture, and charm? Honestly… it depends on what kind of traveler you are and the kind of memories you want to make.

If it’s your first trip, cities like Rome, Florence, and Venice form the holy trinity. They offer that postcard-perfect Italy with ancient ruins, Renaissance art, and canals that feel like something out of a movie. They’re touristy, yes — but iconic for a reason.

Craving something more local or authentic? Look toward regions like Puglia, Emilia-Romagna, or Umbria. Places like Lecce, Bologna, or Perugia offer fewer crowds and deeper cultural experiences, from slow food tours to lesser-known festivals.

For beach lovers, southern gems like Amalfi, Taormina, and Cagliari offer sunshine, seafood, and stunning coastal views. And if you’re a fan of road trips or food pilgrimages, northern Italy has an embarrassment of riches — Turin’s chocolate, Parma’s prosciutto, and Modena’s balsamic are just the beginning.

Here’s a quick decision guide:

Traveler Type	Best City Picks
First-timers	Rome, Florence, Venice
Foodies	Bologna, Naples, Modena
Art & Architecture Fans	Florence, Milan, Ravenna
Romance Seekers	Verona, Venice, Taormina
Off-the-Beaten-Path	Lecce, Bergamo, Trani
Nature & Beaches	Amalfi Coast, Sardinia, Cinque Terre

Whether you want the classics or the lesser-known marvels, Italy has a city (or five) for you. The hardest part isn’t finding something worth seeing… it’s narrowing it all down.

Frequently Asked Questions