Must-See Destinations for Your First Visit to Italy

15 October 2025

So, you're finally planning that dream trip to Italy? First off — congrats! You're about to dive into a country filled with jaw-dropping history, irresistible food, and picture-perfect landscapes. Whether you're a culture junkie, foodie, or someone who just wants to live out their romantic European fantasies, Italy has you covered.

But here's the thing: Italy is packed — and I mean packed — with amazing spots. So, where should you actually go on your first visit? Don't worry, I've got your back. Let’s break it down city by city, region by region, with all the juicy details you need to create an unforgettable first-time itinerary.

🇮🇹 Rome – The Eternal City

Let’s start with the big one: Rome. Honestly, if you skip Rome, did you even go to Italy?

What Makes Rome A Must-See?

Rome is like a living museum. You’ll walk down cobbled streets and suddenly bump into a 2,000-year-old ruin like it's totally normal. You’re side by side with history here — and it’s kind of magical.

- Colosseum – This ancient amphitheater is mind-blowing. Picture gladiators, roaring crowds, and insane architecture.
- Roman Forum & Palatine Hill – Ancient Roman life, politics, and drama played out right here.
- Pantheon – Still standing since 125 AD. Yep, that’s real.
- Trevi Fountain – Toss a coin, make a wish, and hope you come back to Rome (spoiler: you will).
- Vatican City – Technically its own country, it’s home to the awe-inspiring Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica.

Pro Tip

Stay central. Rome’s traffic is... a lot. Walking is your best option for discovering those hidden piazzas, gelato shops, and espresso bars.

🍝 Florence – The Cradle of the Renaissance

If Rome is bold and loud, Florence is its artsy and elegant cousin.

Why Florence is Worth Your Time

Florence is small but mighty. It's the birthplace of the Renaissance and home to some of the greatest art and architecture in the world.

- The Duomo (Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore) – The iconic dome by Brunelleschi will leave you speechless.
- Uffizi Gallery – Botticelli’s Birth of Venus, Michelangelo, Da Vinci — all under one roof.
- Ponte Vecchio – A medieval stone bridge that’s somehow both a shopping street and a romantic photo op.
- Accademia Gallery – Say hello to Michelangelo’s David.

Don’t Miss This

Climb Piazzale Michelangelo around sunset. The view of Florence is hands-down one of the best in all of Italy.

✨ Venice – A City That Floats

Venice is unlike anywhere else. Period.

What’s So Special About Venice?

It's a city built on water. Instead of cars, you've got gondolas and vaporettos (water buses). Every corner is cinematic — think James Bond meets Shakespeare meets your Instagram feed.

- St. Mark’s Basilica & Square – Byzantine beauty at its finest.
- Rialto Bridge – One of the oldest bridges crossing the Grand Canal.
- Doge’s Palace – Once the center of Venetian power and mystery.
- Gondola Ride – Yeah, it’s touristy. But it’s also unforgettable.

Local Tip

Stay overnight. Most tourists only pop in for the day. When the crowds leave, the city becomes magical. Think quiet canals, echoing footsteps, and soft lights reflected in the water.

🍷 Tuscany – Rolling Hills and Vineyard Dreams

Need a breather from the museums and monuments? Then Tuscany is your spot.

What Makes Tuscany So Special?

Tuscany is the Italy you see in postcards: sunflower fields, stone farmhouses, and rows and rows of vineyards. It’s all about relaxation, wine, and small-town charm.

- Chianti Wine Region – Sip on world-class wines straight from the source.
- San Gimignano – Known as the "medieval Manhattan" for its skyline of towers.
- Siena – Gorgeous Gothic architecture and home to the Palio horse race.
- Val d’Orcia – UNESCO World Heritage Site with landscapes so perfect, they almost look fake.

Wine Lover?

Book a wine tasting tour at a local vineyard. Even if you’re not a wine connoisseur, the experience is 100% worth it.

💙 Amalfi Coast – Coastal Italy at Its Finest

Imagine colorful cliffside homes, turquoise waters, and lemon-scented air. That’s Amalfi.

Why You’ll Fall in Love with the Amalfi Coast

It’s romantic, dramatic, and photogenic as heck.

- Positano – Picture-perfect and probably the most famous town on the coast.
- Amalfi Town – A mix of natural beauty and medieval history.
- Ravello – Perched high above the sea with incredible gardens and views.
- Capri – A short boat ride away, this luxury island has charm for days.

Insider Insight

Travel by boat when you can. The views from the sea are next level. And if you're driving — oof — prepare for hairpin turns and breathtaking roadscapes.

🍕 Naples & Pompeii – Pizza, Passion, and the Past

Naples often gets overlooked, but that’s a mistake — especially if you love pizza and history.

What to Know About Naples

Naples is raw, real, and full of energy. It’s also the birthplace of pizza margherita. Need we say more?

- Historic Center – A UNESCO-listed maze of narrow streets and historic churches.
- Pizza – Seriously... eat as much as you can.
- Pompeii – A short train ride away, this ancient Roman city was frozen in time by a volcano.

Word of Advice

Naples can feel chaotic, but that’s part of its charm. Embrace it. Just keep your wits about you like you would in any big city.

🧊 The Dolomites – Italy’s Alpine Playground

Most people think Tuscany or Rome when planning their Italy trip, but if you’re into nature and jaw-dropping mountains, the Dolomites belong on your list.

Why the Dolomites Are Worth the Detour

If you’re visiting in the summer, expect epic hikes, scenic cable cars, and charming alpine towns. In the winter? Ski heaven.

- Lago di Braies & Lago di Carezza – Two of the most beautiful lakes you’ll ever see.
- Tre Cime di Lavaredo – Iconic peaks with trails that are perfect for both beginners and seasoned hikers.
- Cortina d’Ampezzo – Think of it as Italy’s answer to Aspen.

Good to Know

Even if you're not the outdoorsy type, the scenery alone will blow your mind. And the food? A perfect mix of Italian and Austrian influences.

🏛 Milan – Fashion, Food, and Futuristic Feels

Last but not least, we’ve got Milan — sleek, stylish, and always on trend.

What’s Unique About Milan?

It’s the financial and fashion capital of Italy, but it’s got way more than designer shops.

- Duomo di Milano – A gothic cathedral that’s beyond impressive.
- The Last Supper – Yes, THE Leonardo da Vinci painting.
- Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II – The oldest shopping mall in the world, and it’s stunning.
- Navigli District – Milan’s canal side area, ideal for aperitivo and nightlife.

Don’t Miss

Head to the rooftop of the Duomo for panoramic views over the city — and maybe even the Alps on a clear day.

Final Travel Tips for First-Timers in Italy

Italy’s amazing, no doubt — but let’s keep it real with a few practical tips:

- Learn a few Italian phrases. Even a simple “grazie” or “buongiorno” goes a long way.
- Don’t try to do it all. Seriously, less is more. Soak it in, don’t rush.
- Eat like a local. Lunch is long, dinner is later, and pizza isn’t eaten with pineapple. Ever.
- Trains are your friend. Italy’s rail system is efficient and a great way to get around without stress.

The Bottom Line

Italy isn’t just a place — it’s a vibe, a feeling, a sensory overload in the best way possible. Whether you're walking the ruins of Rome, sipping wine under the Tuscan sun, or cruising past pastel villages on the Amalfi Coast, your first time in Italy is going to be something special.

Just remember: Italy isn’t meant to be checked off a list — it’s meant to be savored, like a perfect spoonful of tiramisu.

So where will you go first?