Italy, with its rich history, magnificent architecture, vibrant culture, and distinctive cuisine, has always been a dream destination for travel enthusiasts. Are you planning a trip to this Mediterranean country and eager to discover its most beautiful cities? Join “Du lịch khắp thế gian” as we explore a list of cities that are not only captivating but also budget-friendly!
Rome – The Eternal City
Rome, the capital of Italy, is one of the most beautiful cities and a top destination for many travelers. It is renowned for its ancient history, stunning medieval fountains, palaces, museums, and historical landmarks such as the Colosseum and the Pantheon. You could easily spend a day or even three exploring the beauty of this city.
While in Rome, don’t miss the chance to indulge in famous Italian cuisine. Savor pizza, pasta, and fine wine, or join a walking tour to discover the city’s most iconic historical attractions.
Florence – The Cradle of the Renaissance
Florence, a city for art lovers, nature enthusiasts, and museum aficionados, is one of Italy’s most beautiful cities. Many travelers adore Florence even more than Rome, as it boasts a quaint, ancient charm and is remarkably well-preserved.
A unique aspect of Florence is the ease of finding peaceful spots, away from the bustling crowds of tourists.
Many people prefer Florence to Rome. A scenic view of Florence cityscape with the Duomo.
Unmissable experiences in Florence: admire the iconic architectural beauty of the Duomo (Florence Cathedral) and Palazzo Vecchio (Old Town Hall), which displays a replica of Michelangelo’s David; visit the Uffizi Gallery if you are an art enthusiast; and explore the serene beauty of Tuscany.
Venice – The Floating City
Venice (Venezia in Italian) is one of Italy’s most beautiful cities, located on a lagoon with unique Byzantine architectural structures.
Venice is celebrated as one of the most romantic destinations in the world. Whether you are traveling solo or with a loved one, you can relish the city’s beauty with its gondolas and dreamy canals.
Whether you have just one or three days in Venice, you’ll lose track of time as you wander through cobblestone streets, weaving through narrow canals adorned with charming bridges.
Memorable experiences in Venice: marvel at the magnificent marble palaces, travel on water buses or traditional gondolas, visit the ancient Saint Mark’s Basilica, explore museums, or take a trip to nearby islands like Murano and Burano.
Naples – City of History and Culture
Naples, with the majestic Mount Vesuvius and surrounding hills providing a stunning backdrop in the Campania region, is one of Italy’s most beautiful cities.
Naples with Mount Vesuvius in the background. A panoramic view of Naples coastline and cityscape.
Nestled on the azure Mediterranean coast, Naples offers visitors diverse experiences. If you enjoy hiking, outdoor activities, exploring archaeological sites, and delving into medieval history and culture, Naples is the perfect destination. The historic center of Naples is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Exciting experiences in Naples: hiking, engaging in outdoor activities, exploring archaeological sites, and learning about medieval culture in the old town. Don’t miss the National Archaeological Museum, Castel Nuovo, and Via San Gregorio Armeno.
If you visit Naples in the summer or spring, embark on one of the hiking trails around Mount Vesuvius. If you have more time, visit the ancient city of Pompeii or explore Capri Island and the small towns along the coast.
Milan – Fashion Capital
Milan, the fashion capital of Europe and one of the wealthiest cities in the world, is among the most visited destinations in Italy. Unlike typical Italian cities, Milan offers an international atmosphere, exquisite cuisine, and vibrant nightlife.
Milan is not just a fashion and industrial hub but also one of Italy’s most beautiful cities. Alongside modern skyscrapers, you can find medieval architecture, museums, art galleries, and delicious food.
Even if you only have two days in Milan, don’t miss the opportunity to explore this lovely city.
Memorable experiences in Milan: visit the Duomo, the Scala Opera House, Sforza Castle, Pinacoteca di Brera (a museum famous for Leonardo Da Vinci’s The Last Supper at the Santa Maria Delle Grazie convent). If you are a shopping enthusiast, visit the Quadrilatero D’Oro district with renowned designer brands.
Bologna – The Food Capital
Bologna, located near Florence in the Emilia-Romagna region, is a gem of Tuscany. With rolling green hills, vineyards and olive groves, pastel-colored buildings, cobblestone alleys with red-tiled roofs, palaces, basilicas, and ancient history, Bologna is one of Italy’s most beautiful cities.
Bologna is home to one of the oldest universities in Europe, so you’ll find many students congregating in bars. Bologna is also known as the unofficial food capital of Italy, where you can find foodies in large groups.
If you want to experience a fresh breeze in Italy, with a blend of cuisine, art, architecture, history, and culture, Bologna is the perfect choice.
Unmissable experiences in Bologna: explore the streets in the old town with beautiful arcades and terraces, leading to the medieval square Piazza Maggiore, one of the largest squares in Europe; visit prominent medieval landmarks like Fontana di Nettuno, Basilica di San Petronio, two palaces, and numerous basilicas; climb to the top of the Asinelli Tower for panoramic views of the city and valleys.
Bologna, the unofficial food capital of Italy. A charming street scene in Bologna with arched walkways.
Verona – The City of Love
Verona, the third-largest city in Italy, is the setting for the timeless love story of Romeo and Juliet. It also boasts ancient historical sites, some dating back to medieval times. Verona also hosts one of the largest annual Opera festivals.
Exciting experiences in Verona: explore ancient Roman ruins, from the magnificent 1st-century amphitheater to historic squares with medieval relics; watch concerts and operas at the amphitheater at night; visit the beautiful 12th-century Basilica di San Zeno Maggiore; learn to make gelato with locals; admire stunning castles; and of course, visit Juliet’s 13th-century house with the famous balcony.
Verona – the setting for the timeless Romeo and Juliet story.
Ravenna – City of Mosaics
Ravenna is a small yet incredibly charming city, and one of Italy’s most beautiful. Ravenna was once a major city during Roman times and served as a capital for a period in the 5th century.
The top reasons to visit Ravenna are its colorful mosaics and stunning 5th and 6th-century buildings, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Dante’s Tomb, the final resting place of the renowned poet Dante Alighieri, is also a compelling historical landmark.
Unmissable experiences in Ravenna: explore the Basilica di San Vitale, Basilica di Sant’Apollinare Nuovo, and Port of Adriano; visit the National Museum and Dante’s Tomb.
Ravenna, a charming small city in Italy. A view of Ravenna's historic architecture and mosaic art.
Lucca – Ancient City
Lucca, located near Florence in Tuscany, is one of Italy’s most beautiful cities.
Surrounded by hills, vineyards, and olive groves, Lucca is the perfect getaway. This city is a blend of modern and ancient beauty, remarkably well-preserved. Some of Lucca’s remnants date back to the 1st century.
Memorable experiences in Lucca: walk or bike along the streets in the old town, visit charming squares and beautiful gardens; explore medieval churches like Lucca Cathedral, San Frediano Basilica, and San Michele in Foro; visit the medieval palace Palazzo Pfanner; climb to the top of Guinigi Tower for panoramic city views.
Surrounded by hills, vineyards, and olive groves, Lucca is the perfect getaway.
Siena – Gem of Tuscany
Siena, the famed city in Tuscany after Florence, is one of Italy’s most beautiful cities. The medieval town of Siena is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Siena played a significant role in the region’s history. With its compact size, you can easily explore Siena in a day.
Unmissable experiences in Siena: visit the famous Piazza del Campo, the heart of the old town, home to Siena Cathedral, Torre del Mangia tower, and Piazza del Mercato.
Siena, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Tuscany. Piazza del Campo, the main public space of Siena.
Pisa – City of the Leaning Tower
Pisa is famous for its leaning tower, one of the most visited landmarks in Italy. However, many tourists overlook the city itself.
Pisa is one of the best cities in Italy for tourists, with medieval squares, unique buildings, excellent cuisine, and wine scenes. Pisa is also close to Florence, Lucca, and Cinque Terre.
Exciting experiences in Pisa: explore the Leaning Tower of Pisa in Piazza Dei Miracoli, visit the Cathedral and Pisa Baptistery, go to Piazza Dei Cavalieri and Arno Promenade.
Trento – City by the Dolomites
Trento, located in the Trentino –Alto Adige region of northern Italy, is a stunning city surrounded by the Dolomites mountains.
Despite being near Venice, Trento is not well-known to many tourists. However, this city boasts rich cuisine, magnificent medieval landmarks, and excellent museums.
Trento is one of the most beautiful cities in Italy for tourists, especially first-timers.
Unmissable experiences in Trento: explore the old town, visit Piazza Duomo, Trento Cathedral, Neptune Fountain, and Casa Cazuffi-Rella; tour Buonconsiglio Castle; visit MUSE (modern natural history and science museum) and Museo Diocesano (art museum); take a funicular to Sardegna for panoramic city and Alps views.
If you visit Trento in the summer or late spring, it’s an ideal base for hiking in the Dolomites. If you visit in the winter, enjoy skiing.
Trento, a city in the Dolomites. Panoramic view of Trento surrounded by mountains.
Perugia – University City
Perugia, located in the central Umbria region, is one of Italy’s famous cities with universities attracting students from around the world.
Perugia is known for its modern charm, well-preserved old town, and lively atmosphere. The city is nestled among hills, about a 2-hour drive from Rome.
Exciting experiences in Perugia: explore the hilltop old town, wander through cobbled alleys, visit Galleria Nazionale Dell’Umbria, admire city views from above, stroll in public gardens, and enjoy a delicious dinner in Borgo Bello.
A famous city in Italy with universities attracting students from around the world.
Genoa – Port City
Genoa, located on the northwest coast in Liguria, is one of the most beautiful cities in Italy. This port city is the capital of the Italian Riveria.
Genoa is famous for its largest well-preserved medieval town, recognized by UNESCO. The city was once home to the wealthiest and most influential people in the region.
Unmissable experiences in Genoa: tour D’Albertis Castle, Palazzo Reale, Palazzo Bianco, and San Lorenzo Cathedral; visit Europe’s largest aquarium near the port; and savor the local pesto.
Genoa, known for its well-preserved medieval old town, a UNESCO site. A street view in Genoa's historic center.
Turin – City of Cars and Coffee
Turin (Torino in Italian), located in the northwestern Piedmont region, is a beautiful city with the snow-capped peaks of the Alps as a backdrop.
Turin boasts stunning Baroque-style buildings, museums, cuisine, art galleries, and palaces. Surprisingly, the city is not among the popular tourist spots in Italy, making it an underrated gem.
Turin is the city of cars and coffee. It is home to Fiat and the birthplace of Lavazza, Martini, and Rossi Vermouth.
Memorable experiences in Turin: tour stunning palaces, wander through the old town with charming cafes and restaurants; visit the Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist; climb to the dome of Mole Antonelliana for panoramic city and mountain views; visit the cinema museum and Egyptian art museum; take a chocolate-making tour to sample Turin’s famous chocolate; and join a food tour to taste the city’s best dishes.
Turin is the city of cars and coffee.
Lecce – Florence of the South
Lecce, one of the largest cities in the Puglia region, is a blend of all the best things Italy has to offer.
Whether you want to enjoy excellent cuisine, admire stunning architecture, or explore museums and palaces, Lecce is one of the most beautiful cities in Italy you should visit.
Exciting experiences in Lecce: visit the Roman amphitheater, the 16th-century castle, Santa Croce Basilica, and other medieval buildings decorating the old town, especially Piazza del Duomo.
Lecce, often called the Florence of the South. Baroque architecture in Lecce's historic center.
Bari – Adriatic Port City
Bari, located in southern Italy in the Puglia region, is a stunning city with a mix of coastline, coves, a medieval town, delicious seafood, vibrant promenades, and breathtaking scenery.
Bari is becoming increasingly popular and is quickly becoming one of the must-see destinations in Italy.
Unmissable experiences in Bari: wander through the narrow streets of the old town Bari Vecchia, explore Basilica di San Nicola, Bari Cathedral, Piazza del Ferrarese, Castello Normanno-Svevo, Lungomare Araldo Di Crollalanza, Palazzo Mincuzzi, and Teatro Petruzzelli opera house; walk along the promenade to enjoy delicious food and wine; and visit Pane e Pomodoro beach.
Bergamo – Hidden Gem Near Milan
Bergamo, located near Milan in Lombardy, is one of the most underrated destinations in Italy.
Bergamo features a UNESCO World Heritage old town, a modern area of the city, and stunning views of the Dolomite Alps.
Memorable experiences in Bergamo: wander the cobblestone streets of the old town Piazza Vecchia, visit Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore, Palazzo del Podestà, and Torre del Campanone; take the funicular back to the modern city to explore more museums; enjoy panoramic city and Alps views; and sample local wine and food.
Bergamo, a hidden gem near Milan. Città Alta, the upper old town of Bergamo.
Italy has so much more to offer that awaits your discovery. Plan your trip today and experience the most beautiful cities in the world!
(Further reference information)
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