Italy is one of the most visited countries in Europe.
No matter where you go, you can explore historical landmarks, stunning landscapes, and delicious food.
The list of reasons to visit the country in central Europe is long.
Some of my favorite reasons for visiting Italy are the delicious food, the coffee culture, and my favorite places in Italy like Tuscany, the Amalfi Coast, and Mount Etna in Sicily.
But let’s move on to the top reasons to visit Italy:
Top 10 Reasons Why To Visit Italy This Year
Want to convince someone or yourself to travel to Italy?
Want to know why the country is on top of many bucket lists?
Here you go.
These are the top reasons to pack your bags, book a flight, and see Italy:
⭐ Read more: The Best Things To Do In Italy
⭐ Overwhelmed by planning a trip? Check out our Italy travel checklist including a free download
1. Cities in Italy
Italy is home to big cities, stunning medieval towns, and charming villages. Wherever you go, you will feel the Dolce Vita.
Rome, the capital of Italy, is the most visited city in central Italy, and perfect for first-time visitors, because you can enjoy the city during a self-guided walking tour through Rome.
The Eternal City is famous for the Colosseum, the Fontana di Trevi, and for visiting Vatican City with its Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica.
Don’t overlook Florence, the open-air museum of Italy, where Renaissance art from famous artists like Da Vinci and Michelangelo will leave you speechless.
Next on your bucket list should be Venice. The city on the water is a labyrinth of canals and culture that captivates every traveler. It’s also among the most visited cities of North Italy.
Heading west, Milan is the center of high fashion and the famous Last Supper by Leonardo da Vinci. Among the top things to see in Milan are the Milan Cathedral and the famous shopping arcade Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II.
And last but certainly not least, Naples, one of the best cities in Southern Italy is a culinary haven that birthed the world’s best pizza. You can already visit the best of Naples in a day.
Besides the big cities, there are countless small, medieval cities worth exploring. You can read more about them here: The Top Cities To Visit In Italy
2. Historical Landmarks
The history of Italy goes way back.
It’s called the “Cradle of Civilizations” for a great reason.
You find ancient ruins from the Roman Empire, like the Roman Forum.
And then there is the Colosseum, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, a must-see when you visit Rome in one day, 2 days in Rome, 3 days in Rome, or more.
Strolling through these ancient ruins feels like walking through a history book.
Pompeii and Herculaneum are other great examples of historical landmarks that are important not only for Italy but also worldwide. You can even visit Mount Vesuvius, which destroyed Pompeii and Herculaneum.
3. Italian Food
If you think Italian cuisine begins and ends with pizza and spaghetti, then you’re terribly wrong. Sorry!
Italia is the top country in the world when it comes to tasty food.
Picture Italy as the United States of Deliciousness, where each region has its culinary delicacies.
Just as you wouldn’t go to New Orleans for a Philly cheesesteak, you wouldn’t step into a Sicilian restaurant demanding Bolognese.
For example, if you find yourself in Emilia-Romagna, you can enjoy Prosciutto di Parma and Parmigiano-Reggiano.
Naples is the birthplace of pizza topped with the freshest tomatos, basil, and mozzarella.
If you’re in Liguria you don’t want to miss out on Trofie al Pesto. I love it! Please enjoy one for me.
Among the best food in Florence are Ribollita, pork ham sandwiches, and Bistecca alla Fiorentina.
Tip: Whenever I travel to a new place, I look for Trattorias, a small kind of restaurant, and Osterias for an aperitivo.
They have amazing local food.
4. Stunning Landscapes
The regions of Italy offer different landscapes.
There are the rolling hills and stunning small towns in Tuscany, the long coastlines, and the breathtaking Dolomites mountains in Northern Italy.
Imagine driving along the Amalfi Coast, where the cliffs meet the azure sea.
This stretch of coastline is one of the most beautiful coasts on the globe.
The serpentine roads may require cautious driving, but every twist and turn along the Coast reveals another picture-perfect view.
The Dolomites offer a different but equally compelling experience.
Ideal for both hikers and trekkers, the mountain trails present a variety of challenges but reward you with amazing views.
If beach vacations are your jam, Italy offers beautiful places to jump into the crystal clear water.
Consider the colorful villages of Cinque Terre, or the exclusive beaches of Sardinia.
If you prefer the serenity of mountain landscapes, the Alps and the Apennines offer not just winter sports but also summer hikes.
And if you’re captivated by lakes, you’ll find Lake Como or Lake Garda in the northern part of Italy quite enchanting.
5. Romantic Spots
Venice, often referred to as the “City of Love,” offers a great romantic atmosphere.
With its charming canals, historic architecture, and romantic gondola rides, love feels embedded in the city’s very foundation.
If you’re planning a romantic moment, a gondola ride is often the choice for an unforgettable experience.
Verona, known worldwide as the setting for Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet,” is also rich in romantic history.
Visiting Juliet’s balcony at the Casa di Giulietta is a must-see in the small city.
⭐ Recommended Read: What To See In Verona In One Day | Best Things To Do In Verona
I can personally attest to Verona’s romantic atmosphere—I witnessed a heartfelt proposal right in front of Juliet’s home.
But not only do the cities have a romantic atmosphere; Italy’s countryside provides a tranquil yet equally romantic backdrop.
Imagine a private dinner in a Tuscany vineyard or overlooking the sea at night.
6. Diverse Activities
Italy is a dream destination for outdoor adventures or cultural experiences.
If you are into winter sports like I am, the Dolomites and the Alpine regions are a snowy paradise.
If you enjoy sun, sea, and beaches, the Amalfi Coast, Sardinia, Southern Italy and the Adriatic Sea are perfect places for you.
I absolutely love guided day trips or road trips in Italy that help you explore hidden gems.
Aside from nature’s playground, cities like Rome and Florence are art-filled treasures.
As an art or food lover, you can get hands-on, too, with a pasta-making workshop in Rome or an art class in Florence.
If you love wine, the vineyards of Tuscany are a must-visit.
You can sip Chianti as the sun sets over the rolling hills.
For active travelers, opportunities abound with hiking in the Cinque Terre or cycling in Piedmont.
Let’s not forget Italy’s coastlines, perfect for kayaking or snorkeling.
7. Art
Italy’s art scene is an exquisite tapestry of timeless masterpieces and cutting-edge innovation.
Imagine standing in Florence‘s Uffizi Gallery, captivated by Botticelli’s ‘The Birth of Venus.’
Or immersing yourself in the details of Michelangelos’ David.
Besides Florence, Rome and Milan are the go-to places for art lovers.
I was highly impressed by Leonardo da Vinci’s “The Last Supper” in Milan.
We visited this famous painting and here is the best way to see the Last Supper in Milan.
In the Vatican Museum in Rome, technically it is in a different country (Vatican State), you will find Michelangelo’s famous painting inside the Sistine Chapel.
8. Shopping in Italy
Italy is a shopping paradise! The country is known for its craftsmanship, design, and gastronomy.
Milan is the capital of high-end fashion, housing celebrated brands like Prada, Gucci, Versace, and Armani.
Italy is also renowned for its leather goods.
You can find quality handbags and shoes at reasonable prices.
Italy is also a heaven for car enthusiasts, being the home to legendary car brands like Maserati, Ferrari, Fiat, and Alfa Romeo.
Picture yourself cruising in a Maserati Levante down an Italian coastline during an Italy road trip.
This is the epitome of luxury for me.
Beyond fashion and automobiles, Italy is a country where you can buy the best food.
From cheeses to olive oils, the country has a variety of high-quality produce.
9. Wine, Vineyards, and Coffee
In Italy, wine and coffee are much more than just beverages; they’re important parts of the culture.
Tuscany and Piedmont are the go-to regions for wine enthusiasts.
Tuscany is known for its Chianti and Montepulciano, while Piedmont is famous for Barolo.
If you want to visit this beautiful region but are short on time, you can take day trips from Florence to Tuscany, and visit impressive cities near Florence.
The Tuscan capital is a great base to explore what the region has to offer.
Switching to coffee, Italians take it very seriously.
Unlike the large, sugary versions found elsewhere, Italian coffee is straightforward and consumed usually standing at a bar.
For me, there’s nothing like a good cappuccino, and you can find quality coffee even at gas stations in Italy.
But beware of when you drink cappuccino! There are certain no-go’s in Italy. Learn more about how to order coffee in Italy.
10. Unesco World Heritage Sites
Italy is home to over 50 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, making it a must-visit if you’re interested in history, culture, and nature.
For history lovers, Rome, the capital city of Italy, is a highlight with impressive landmarks like the Colosseum and Roman Forum.
If you’re an art enthusiast, you will love Florence.
The entire city is a UNESCO site, not just the famous Uffizi Gallery.
If you’re more into natural wonders, the Dolomites are a perfect place for you.
These jagged peaks are also on UNESCO’s list and offer excellent skiing and hiking opportunities.
For coastal beauty, check out the Aeolian Islands, the Amalfi Coast, and the Cinque Terre.
They are UNESCO sites known for their impressive landscapes.
The Aeolian Islands offer volcanic vistas, while the Amalfi Coast and Cinque Terre are famous for their jaw-dropping cliffs.
Here you have it. The best reasons why you should visit the country.
This should already convince you to pack your bags and book a trip to Italy.
Pronto!
If you need help planning a trip to Italy you found the perfect place.
Here at italythingstodo we can help you with trip planning, the best things to do and see, itineraries, and everything you need to know to have the best trip to Italy.
No matter if it is your first trip or not.
