25 Best Things To Do In Italy: Ultimate Italy Bucket List

Are you looking for the absolute best things to do in Italy?

You’re in the right place!

Italy has a rich history, stunning landscapes, and a vibrant culture.

The country of pizza, pasta, gelato, and coffee is a traveler’s dream destination.

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or planning your first international adventure, Italy offers plenty of experiences that should be on everyone’s bucket list.

In this comprehensive bucket list, we’ll explore the 25 best things to do in Italy, from exploring the romantic canals of Venice to savoring the flavors of Italian cuisine in Naples.

So, why should you read this article? Well, if you’re looking for the ultimate Italy bucket list, full of must-visit places and unique experiences, you’re in the right place!

Now, let’s dive into each of these incredible experiences in Italy.

Table of Contents

The Best Things To Do In Italy

Beyond the famous cities in Italy (best cities to visit in Italy for first-timers), the country offers breathtaking coastal areas.

The Amalfi Coast has picturesque villages on steep hills.

The Cinque Terre is known for its colorful houses against a spectacular seascape.

Away from the coast, Tuscany’s rolling hills await with vineyards and stunning, medieval small towns in Tuscany.

You can explore lesser-known regions like Puglia with its unique trulli houses.

Sicily offers dramatic landscapes and the volcano Mt. Etna.

Each place presents a unique blend of history, culture, and food.

These are some of the reasons to visit Italy.

📝 Need help planning a trip to Italy? Check out our Italy travel planning checklist.

1. See The Art At The Uffizi Gallery in Florence

One of the rooms inside the Uffizi Gallery in Florence with a floor with mosaics, marble statues of men and women and framed paintings.

Florence is a dream for every art and culture lover.

The legacy of the Medici family dominates the city at River Arno.

The Uffizi Gallery, home to famous artworks by Da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Botticelli, invites you to immerse in the world of Renaissance art, offering insights into the era that shaped these masterpieces.

2. View Milan From The Milan Cathedral Rooftop

The Milan Duomo rooftop terraces with its spires, intricate stone carvings and statues on a rainy day.

The landmark of the fashion city Milan is the Milan Cathedral.

It offers a unique perspective of the city from its rooftop and is one of our highlights in Milan.

The walkable Duomo Milan rooftop terrace provides panoramic views.

It blends the historical with the contemporary, a testament to Milan’s rich architectural heritage.

3. Toss A Coin Into The Fontana Di Trevi In Rome

25 Best Things To Do In Italy: Ultimate Italy Bucket List 4

The Trevi Fountain is a baroque masterpiece and one of the most visited fountains worldwide.

Located in the capital of Italy, it encapsulates the legend of returning to Rome if you toss a coin into its waters.

No matter if you visit Rome in one day or more, the Fontana di Trevi is a must.

This tradition, combining history with hope, makes the fountain a must-visit if you’re dreaming of coming back to Rome.

While in Rome, make sure to add visiting the Colosseum, the ancient amphitheater, to your bucket list.

4. Take A Gondola Ride In Venice

Sunset at the canals in Venice with a boat in the foreground and typical historical buildings with a white facade.

Experiencing Venice’s canals through a gondola ride offers a unique glimpse into the city’s beauty. No wonder Venice is one of the best cities of North Italy.

A boat tour allows you to see Venice’s historic architecture, embodying the essence of Venetian romance.

5. Go hiking in Cinque Terre

The coastal village Vernazza at the Cinque Terre is surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea. The best view is from the hiking trail leading down to the center.

The Cinque Terre region, known for its colorful houses and stunning coastal landscapes, offers breathtaking hiking trails.

Trekking the Blue Trail provides views of the Ligurian Sea, blending physical activity with picturesque scenery.

6. View Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper in Milan

person holding a ticket for The Last Supper in Milan

Milan’s Santa Maria delle Grazie church is home to Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper.

This painting is one of the most iconic murals and one of the best things to do in Milan.

It captures a pivotal biblical moment.

“Il Cenacolo” is a testament to Leonardo’s mastery of showcasing complex emotions and narrative depth.

Visiting The Last Supper In Milan should definitely be on your bucket list and included in your Milan trip itinerary.

7. Get Up To Mount Etna In Sicily And Mount Vesuvius Near Naples

A group of tourists wearing jackets gather on the dark volcanic soil near the peak of Mount Etna in Sicily, shrouded in a light mist in the background. In the foreground, a white tour bus with red accents is parked on the edge of the barren landscape.

Mount Etna is the highest active volcano in Europe.

The volcano is located in Catania, Sicily, close to the Mediterranean Sea.

It offers adventurous ascents to its craters.

The breathtaking views from Mount Etna over the Mediterranean Sea highlight the dramatic landscape shaped by volcanic activity.

It was one of our highlights during our Sicily road trip.

You feel like you are on the moon.

The ground is black, and beneath us, the area was covered in clouds, making it feel like you had left Earth.

Another famous volcano is Mount Vesuvius. After its eruption, it destroyed Pompeii and Herculaneum. Today you can hike Mount Vesuvius and enjoy breathtaking views.

Learn more about it in our ultimate guide on how to visit Mount Vesuvius. Also, don’t miss our guide on how to see Pompeii and Herculaneum in one day, the ancient cities destroyed by the volcano.

8. Visit The Valley Of The Temples In Sicily

The Valley of the Temples in Sicily is one of the most significant archaeological sites globally.

It is a testament to ancient Greek civilization.

The UNESCO World Heritage Site captivates you with well-preserved ancient temples and sculptures.

9. Go Swimming In Lake Garda

A serene view of Malcesine on Lake Garda, Italy, featuring colorful lakeside buildings with a backdrop of lush mountains. Olive branches frame the top left corner, while boats are moored along the tranquil blue water.

Lake Garda is Italy’s largest lake and is located in Northern Italy.

Close to the City of Love, Verona, it is popular for various water sports and activities.

The Mediterranean flair and scenic towns like Sirmione and Lazise draw visitors to its clear waters.

Surrounded by mountains, Lake Garda is also popular for hiking and biking.

When visiting Lake Garda you can visit the famous Lake Como, which is also in Northern Italy. Lake Como is known for luxurious villas and picturesque lakeside towns and offers a more glamorous alternative.

10. Stand On Juliet’s Balcony In Verona

The Casa die Giulietta, Juliet's house from Romeo and Juliet with the famous balcony in the historic city center of Verona.

Verona’s Casa di Giulietta is home to the iconic balcony associated with Shakespeare’s Juliet and one of the best things to see in Verona.

It’s a symbol of love and romance. Don’t be surprised if someone makes a marriage proposal in front of Juliet’s statue.

Though the story is fictional, the Casa di Giulietta attracts lovers from around the world.

As Verona is a small city in North Italy, you can spend one day in Verona and see the main attractions.

11. Explore Pompeii in Southern Italy

woman with long brown hair and red dress in the ruins of Pompeii in front of mount Vesuvius in Italy

Pompeii is located near Naples in South Italy.

Exploring the ruins of Pompeii provides insights into Roman daily life before the eruption of Vesuvius.

From the ruins of Pompeii, you can see the volcano Vesuvius in the background.

If you have more time, make sure to take a tour up to the volcano.

Naples is the perfect gateway for these attractions. Learn more about the city in our one-day Naples itinerary.

12. Take A Road Trip Along The Amalfi Coast

The Amalfi Coast in the Campania region is known for its stunning beauty and cliffside towns like Positano.

It is an ideal setting for a scenic road trip if you’re comfortable driving along narrow roads.

Alternatively, you can take a bus trip along Amalfi Coast, making the trip way more enjoyable.

The coastal drive offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean, showing Italy’s picturesque landscapes.

13. Visit The Sistine Chapel in The Vatican

25 Best Things To Do In Italy: Ultimate Italy Bucket List 13 — Christina at the Vatican Museums in Vatican City.

The Sistine Chapel in Vatican City is famous for Michelangelo’s ceiling frescoes.

It represents a high point in Renaissance art.

The biblical scenes painted on the chapel’s ceiling showcase Michelangelo’s genius as an artist.

Learn more about it in our detailed 2 days in Rome itinerary and Rome in 3 days itinerary including visiting the Vatican City.

Also, check out our guide for visiting the St. Peter’s Basilica and Dome.

14. Eat Pizza In Naples

A freshly baked Italian pizza on a white plate, topped with vibrant red tomato sauce, scattered black olives, dollops of creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil leaves. The pizza is in sharp focus with a background of a restaurant setting, featuring a blurred image of a diner, a glass of red wine, and a pint of beer.

Eating pizza in Naples, where the Pizza Napoli originated, gives you an authentic taste of Italian culinary tradition.

Naples is celebrated for the simple, yet perfect pizza.

The Pizza Napoli combines fresh ingredients and traditional techniques to create a delicious masterpiece.

If Italian food is your main interest you should consider visiting Bologna in the Emilia-Romana region. It’s known for the Bolognese sauce, Mortadella, and tortellini.

15. Take A Selfie With The Leaning Tower Of Pisa

The Leaning Tower of Pisa and the adjacent Pisa Cathedral under a soft, cloudy sky at. The white and gray marbled exteriors of both the tower and the cathedral exhibit intricate architectural details and Romanesque styling.

The Leaning Tower of Pisa is known for its distinctive tilt, which presents a unique photo opportunity.

Its architectural anomaly and historical significance make it a memorable landmark in Italy’s rich cultural landscape.

The Leaning Tower of Pisa is a must-see when you’re in Tuscany.

16. Explore The Sassi di Matera In Southern Italy

The historic city center with the Sassi di Matera during sunset.

Matera’s Sassi are ancient cave dwellings. The stone-built houses and cave churches are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

They provide a unique look into early human settlements and offer a fascinating journey through history and architecture. This is one the reasons why Matera is one of the best cities in Southern Italy.

Settled next to a canyon, Matera offers spectacular views.

17. Drink Wine In Tuscany

Christina drinking a glass of red Montepulciano wine in the historic streets of Montepulciano.

Tuscany is known for its rolling hills and beautiful medieval towns settled on hilltops.

But Tuscany is also renowned for its vineyards and wine production.

Tasting wine in this picturesque region connects you with the land’s history and the art of winemaking.

The best way to enjoy wine is in the middle of a vineyard or one of the cities near Florence like Montepulciano, or the Greve region.

18. Marvel At The Trulli Houses In Alberobello

A traditional Apulian trullo house in Puglia, Italy, with its distinctive conical roof and white-washed walls standing against a clear blue sky. Red flowers adorn small window ledges, and a sign on the wall indicates a museum.

Alberobello’s trulli houses, with their distinctive white facades and conical roofs, showcase Puglia’s unique architectural heritage.

These UNESCO-protected structures are a must-see.

You can stroll around and enjoy the special architecture and even stay overnight in one of the trulli houses.

19. Go Hiking In The Dolomites

The Tre Cime di Lavaredo are three huge rocks in the shape of three fingers. These mountains are part of the Dolomites which are part of the UNESCO World Heritage.

The Dolomites are among the most beautiful mountain ranges in the Alps.

They offer a spectacular setting for hiking and climbing.

The Dolomites are known for their dramatic peaks and lush valleys.

Exploring the trails in this UNESCO World Heritage Site allows you to immerse yourself in the beauty and diversity of the Italian Alps.

20. Visit The Medieval City of San Gimignano

The historic skyline of San Gimignano, Italy, known for its well-preserved medieval towers and surrounding countryside. The towers rise above the town, against a backdrop of rolling hills and a dramatic sky.

San Gimignano is known as the “Manhattan of the Middle Ages”.

The hilltop town in Tuscany with its medieval skyscrapers, offers a remarkable example of stunning architecture.

The town is not only one of the most interesting ones in Tuscany but also among our top cities in Italy.

21. Enjoy A Coffee At The Piazza Del Campo in Siena

Piazza del Campo in Siena, Italy, viewed from a narrow side street. The medieval square is dominated by the Torre del Mangia and the Palazzo Pubblico with its Gothic architecture. The space is open and dotted with visitors.

Siena’s Piazza del Campo is famous for its historical horse races in the city center.

Enjoying a coffee (read how to order a coffee in Italy) in this iconic square allows you to soak in the city’s vibrant atmosphere and architectural beauty.

Visiting Siena is one of the highlights of Italy, especially of a trip to Tuscany.

22. Go Skiing Or Snowshoeing In The Alps

Two snowshoers trek through pristine snow in Livigno, Italy, with a backdrop of majestic snow-capped mountains under a clear blue sky. The adventurers, equipped with poles and backpacks, follow a trail showcasing the beauty of the alpine winter landscape.

The Italian Alps offer excellent opportunities for skiing and snowshoeing.

Enjoying winter sports in the region close to Austria combines adventure with the breathtaking beauty of the snow-covered mountains.

23. Visit The Sunken Bell Tower In Northern Italy

The serene Lake Reschen in South Tyrol, Italy, with the famous submerged church steeple rising from the lake's turquoise waters. Snow-capped mountains and green form the backdrop, while a couple sits by the shore, enjoying the setting.

Lake Reschen’s sunken bell tower, emerging from the lake, tells the story of a submerged village.

This haunting yet beautiful sight has become a popular attraction.

It also reminds visitors of the area’s history and the transformative power of human projects.

24. Chill At The Beaches In Italy

Beach at Positano on the Amalfi Coast, with rows of brightly colored orange and blue beach umbrellas and sun loungers. The picturesque hillside town rises steeply in the background, with multicolored houses nestled into the lush greenery and cliffs.

Italy’s diverse coastline offers a variety of beach experiences.

You can choose between the sandy shores of the south and the Ligurian Sea’s rocky coves.

Italy’s beaches cater to every preference, whether you’re seeking luxury or natural beauty.

Beyond the mainland, Sardinia offers some of the most beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters, especially at the Costa Smeralda.

25. Visit Taormina’s Ancient Theatre

Taormina’s Greek theatre offers stunning views of Mount Etna and the Ionian Sea. It’s a highlight of Sicily’s cultural heritage.

The ancient site, still used for performances to this day, combines historical significance with natural beauty.

Conclusion About The Best Sights In Italy

Italy is a land of wonders, from ancient history to stunning landscapes and delicious food.

Our list of 25 top things to do gives you a taste of its rich offerings.

Whether it’s art in Florence, drool-worthy pizza in Naples, or the stunning Dolomites, Italy has something for everyone.

Want more tips for your first or next Italian adventure?

Check out our travel guides on ItalyThingsToDo. We’re here to help you plan your perfect trip to Bella Italia.