Italy is one of the most popular destinations in the world with so many world famous places to visit.
From ancient cities, beautiful lakes, picturesque beaches and some of the most important holy sites, you could spend a lifetime exploring Italy and sill not see all the highlights.
But to help give you an idea for the best to go, we have put together a guide to the best tourist attractions you really need to see.
Don’y leave Italy without visiting these locations.
1. Leaning Tower of Pisa
The architects of this famous tower never planned for it to be so crooked. During the construction of the 3rd floor, it started sinking into the ground because of the poorly laid foundations. With the advancement in technology, 90 years later the tower could be completed and is now known as the Leaning Tower of Pisa. It is said that it sinks about 1mm every year!
2. Colosseum, Rome
The Colosseum in Rome is one of the most famous sites in the world and every year it is visited by 5 million people. It is a symbol of both the grandeur and the cruelty of the ancient Roman Empire. It is an engineering masterpiece and the greatest amphitheater ever built by man. Designed to house 50,000 spectators, it is located in the heart Rome, and an unmissable destination for any Italian itinerary.
3. Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, Florence
This is a symbol of the great city of Florence and a beautiful example of Renaissance architecture. Characterized by a large dome and expressive colors it is a structural masterpiece and a work of art. The best view of the cathedral is definitely from afar, so don’t hesitate to make that trip. Checkout vacation apartments in Florence for some great accommodation offers!
4. Lake Garda
Lake Garda is the largest and most beautiful lake in Italy. It is located in the northern part of the country, half-way between Venice and Milan and is a very popular destination for those wanting to relax. The ancient, fortified town of Sirmione offers plenty of restaurants, bars and shops as well as great views of the lake.
5. Mount Vesuvius
Although no longer active, this is a symbol of the destructive force of nature. Looming over the Bay of Naples, where large-scale evacuation plans are on immediate standby should the volcano erupt. A short, undemanding hike takes you to the crater where the view if truly magnificent.
6. Trevi Fountain, Rome
It is probably the most famous fountain in the world. It is located in Rome and is considered to be one of the finest examples of Baroque art. It is made entirely out of marble and plays with light and shade in a masterful fashion.
7. Grand Canal, Venice
Taking the water bus through the Venetian Grand Canal is like going back in time through centuries of history. The journey is about 3.5 km long and takes you past all the most important masterpieces of architecture. Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute and Rialto Bridge are just some of the famous sites along the way. Venice isn’t the cheapest city in Europe, but it is one of the most unique and impressive!
8. Cinque Terre
Cinque Terre, which means “5 lands” is one of the most stunning parts of the country. It includes 5 villages situated at the cliffs of the Italian Riviera – Monterosso, Vernazza, Manarola, Corniglia, Riomaggiore. The place is filled with typical Italian vineyards, olive groves and hiking trails.
9. Ancient Pompeii
Poppeii is an ancient Roman town destroyed by the volcanic eruption of Mount Vesuvius. The dramatic event claimed as many as 2,000 lives and went down in history as the most devastating eruption in the history of the world. The town offers a glimpse into the life in the 1st century buried under layers of ash.
10. Vatican
The Vatican is a separate state located in Rome. It is the spiritual home of the Catholic world and an architectural masterpiece. The most famous sites here include St Peter’s Basilica and Piazza San Pietro.
There are hundreds more amazing places to go in Italy, but our list really does include some of the most popular attractions you really need to see. Plan a gap year to Italy and discover these incredible locations for yourself. If you enjoyed this article you might also like to view these underrated places to see in Milan.