A first-time journey to Italy is bound to be exciting and unforgettable. However, with so many of the top sites in Italy to visit on a first vacation, the planning part can be very intimidating.
From the beautiful towns of Southern Italy (yes, Matera), to cities like Florence and Naples, the Amalfi Coast, and Cinque Terre, you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to locations to visit in Italy.
Italy is a country rich in history, culture, and mountains of wonderful pasta, as well as the best gelato places on every street (believe me on this). You’re not doing Italy right if you’re not rolling back to your hotel in a pasta-induced haze!
Best Places to Visit in Italy for First-Timers
When planning a trip to Italy, there are a few things you should keep in mind to ensure a safe and happy visit. Take attention, first-time visitors: Here are some of the things to consider for your Italian experience.
1. The City of Venice
Venice is without a doubt one of the nicest places in Italy to visit for the first time. Even though it is a little more expensive than other sites in Italy, it is a must-see.
Venice offers it all: beautiful canals, the Doge’s Palace, and a plethora of historical sites and galleries. Now, just be prepared to get lost when twisting through the small streets and canals; they can be perplexing! This happens all the time, but if you accept it, you’ll discover some incredible new sites.
Oh, and try (if possible) to avoid the main thoroughfares for dinner; prices here are notoriously high. You can simply walk a few minutes from the big plazas and streets and locate the best (and most affordable) restaurants. The same is true with gelato!
2. Pompei, Italy
Pompeii, a once-thriving Roman city, was utterly devastated by a devastating eruption of Mt. Vesuvius, which completely demolished the city.
This huge archaeological and UNESCO World Heritage site is now a must-see destination for anybody traveling between the Amalfi Coast and Naples. It’s a really simple place to visit.
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If you plan to go to Pompeii, make sure to read our top advice for visiting this ancient city. Just make sure you give yourself enough time to explore the entire site. Oh, and if you want to avoid crowds, go early in the morning; this spot may fill up quickly.
3. Pisa, Italy
Pisa is a small Italian city that is well-known for its distinctive leaning tower. It actually dates back about 700 years and is one of the most iconic landmarks in all of Italy.
Not only that, but you can combine a visit to Pisa with a vacation to Florence or Cinque Terre. It’s a short rail ride (or vehicle ride) from Florence and is completely straightforward.
Interestingly, rumor has it that the Leaning Tower began to lean before it was even finished—those pesky constructors!
4. Tuscany, Italy
If you want to take a break from the city’s bustling sightseeing, head to a rustic slice of Italian charm in the Tuscan countryside.
We just stayed on an organic blueberry farm and slept in the most gorgeous Tuscan farmhouse you can imagine. It was a wonderful way to experience Tuscany’s natural beauty away from the noise and bustle of the cities. Bliss!
You may also simply organize a road trip around Tuscany and the adjacent regions by visiting places such as Siena.
5. Milan, Italy
Milan is the fashion capital and one of the nicest destinations in Italy to visit for the first time (especially in the north).
Don’t be misled, Milan isn’t simply about fashion; far from it! The Milan Cathedral, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, Pinacoteca di Brera, and the majestic and slightly sinister Sforza Castle are all must-sees for a first-time visitor to Milan.
6. Palermo
Palermo, one of Italy’s southernmost cities, is a fantastic site to explore. No trip to Sicily is complete without spending a few days seeing Palermo’s beautiful architecture, art galleries, markets, and cafes.
Head to the Catacombe dei Cappuccini for a unique and slightly horrific experience, where hundreds of mummified inhabitants and aristocrats are stored. In equal parts interesting and macabre!
7. Matera, Italy
Matera is a city in southern Italy that dates back thousands of years! In fact, it is one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities.
This lovely city is one that everyone should see at least once in their lives. Not only that, but it’s completely iconic and one of the best spots in Italy to visit on your first visit.
Make a reservation at one of the cave hotels built into the mountain and explore the city’s Sassi district. It’s breathtaking.
8. Orvieto
Orvieto is perhaps one of Umbria’s most beautiful communes. This makes it a must-see and undoubtedly one of the best spots in Italy to visit while driving.
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This magnificent village is built directly on top of a jutting volcanic tuff out of the Italian countryside. Explore its cobblestone streets, enjoy handcrafted gelato, and watch the sunset over the Umbrian countryside!
9. San Miniato
This charming town has always struck me as the ultimate image of Italy; magnificent architecture, lush countryside, and welcoming folks.
San Miniato is an ideal stop for an Italian road trip and may be explored in a few hours. A great stopover between larger locations or for a more leisurely day of touring.
10. Cinque Terre
Cinque Terre is one of the most beautiful ‘lands’ in Italy. Cinque Terre, which consists of five main villages, is a lovely place to spend a few days exploring.
Stay in one of the five towns (or just outside of one of the larger ones) and take the rail or walk the seaside path between them all. The towns are very stunning.
Conclusion
This gorgeous country is not just one of the top gastronomic destinations in the world, but it also has some seriously iconic tourist attractions. You’ll never be bored with over 55 UNESCO World Heritage sites, three active volcanoes, and over 1,500 lakes. If you’re not, there’s always pizza!
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