Italy is a land of immense beauty, rich history, and delicious cuisine. From the bustling streets of Rome to the serene waters of the Amalfi Coast, there is no shortage of incredible experiences in this stunning country. Whether one is an art lover, a foodie, a history buff, or simply someone looking for an unforgettable adventure, Italy has something to offer.

This article lists some of the most amazing things to do in Italy at least once in a lifetime. From touring ancient Roman ruins to savoring authentic Italian cuisine, read on to discover some of the best experiences Italy has to offer.

10 Visit Rome & Discover The Most Famous Roman Ruins In The World

The Colosseum in Rome at dusk
Photo by Federico Di Dio photography on Unsplash
The Colosseum in Rome at dusk

Rome offers so many things to do and see; it is a world-famous tourist destination, offering an incredible experience with a unique blend of ancient history, culture, and modern Italian charm. The city is filled with stunning architecture, amazing food, and a vibrant atmosphere that is sure to captivate any visitor.

Rome is home to many of the best Roman ruins in the world, along with various famous landmarks, all including the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, the Pantheon (which has a long history of survival), and the Vatican City, providing a glimpse into the city's rich history and cultural heritage. Additionally, the city hosts many cultural events throughout the year, including music festivals, art exhibitions, and religious celebrations.

  • The best time to visit Rome: April to early November for peak season and good weather (but crowds are denser and prices are higher).

One of the top attractions in Rome is the Colosseum. But most people don't know that it's possible to visit the restricted upper levels of the Roman Colosseum via a special tour. Plus, visitors can also tour the Colosseum's underground network.

9 Take A Gondola Ride In Venice Along The City's Iconic Canals

Gondola Ride in Venice, Italy
Photo by Kim Pin Tan on Dreamstime
 
Gondola Ride Showing an Aesthetic Bridge in Venice, Italy

Gondolas have been a mode of transportation in Venice for over 1,000 years. Originally used by wealthy families, they are now primarily used for tourism. Taking a gondola ride in Venice is a classic and romantic way to experience the city's unique waterways and stunning architecture, including historic palaces and bridges.

However, it can be a bit expensive, with prices ranging from 80 to 150 Euros for a 30-40 minute ride. Some gondoliers also offer longer rides that take people outside the city center, providing commentary on the sights and history of the city.

  • The best time to visit Venice: April to October for warm, sunny weather (but expect more crowds and higher prices).

Those who wish to venture off Venice's beaten path can take a half or full-day trip to the island of Burano — home to the famous colored houses in Venice.

8 Visit The Historic Buildings In Florence & Shop At The City's Local Markets

Florence Duomo
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Florence Duomo. Basilica di Santa Maria del Fiore in Florence, Italy.

Florence, the capital of Tuscany, offers a wealth of things to do and see and is mostly known for its rich history and cultural heritage. It is a relatively small city, with most of its top attractions within walking distance of each other, making it easy to explore the city on foot while taking in its beautiful sights and sounds at a leisurely pace.

The city is home to many stunning historic buildings, including the Duomo, the Palazzo Vecchio, and the Ponte Vecchio, a medieval bridge lined with shops. Additionally, Florence is a great place to shop for high-quality leather goods allowing visitors to buy jackets, handbags, and shoes, with a thriving market scene.

  • The best time to visit Florence: May to September for pleasant weather and festivals.

What Are The Best Markets In Florence, Italy?

Mercato Centrale in the Florence Historic Center is superb for buying fresh fruits, fish, and local delights. There are also excellent leather vendors here, too. Another fantastic market is Mercato del Porcellino (literally translating to "Market of the Little Pig"), which is situated in the ancient loggia in Piazza del Mercato Nuovo and is one of Florence's best markets for souvenirs and leather items.

One of the most unique yet unusual things to do in Florence is to go on a truffle-hunting tour.

Related: Beyond Rome: Top 10 Must-See Natural Wonders In Italy

7 Explore The Amalfi Coast — Home To Some Of The Best Beaches In Italy

A picture of Amalfi Coast, Italy
Picture by Andreas Precht from Pixabay 
 
A picture of Amalfi Coast, Italy

The Amalfi Coast is one of the best places in Italy to visit; this spot is a stretch of coastline in Southern Italy, known for its rugged beauty, colorful villages, and clear blue waters. Some of the most popular villages on the Amalfi coast include Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello, offering a unique small-town charm.

The Amalfi Coast has many beautiful beaches. Some of the most beautiful beaches on the Amalfi Coast include Fornillo Beach, Duoglio Beach, and Arienzo Beach. Visitors can also enjoy various activities, including hiking along the cliffside paths, swimming in the clear waters, and boating around the coastline, making it a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

  • The best time to visit the Amalfi Coast: September and October, and April to May. Crowds in these months are fewer, and prices aren't as expensive as in June, July, and August. Plus, the weather is still pleasant.

6 Tour The Tuscany Wine Region & Sample The Best Wine In Italy

Grapes in a vineyard
Photo by Flo P on Unsplash
A Vineyard in Tuscany, Italy 

Touring the Tuscany wine region is a must-do for any wine lover visiting Italy. Tuscany is known for its picturesque landscapes, charming medieval towns, and world-renowned wineries. The region has many beautiful wineries, each with its unique style and charm. Some of the most famous wineries include Antinori, Castello di Ama, and Tenuta dell'Ornellaia.

Additionally, Tuscany is home to many beautiful medieval towns, such as Siena, San Gimignano, and Montalcino offering stunning views of the rolling hills and beautiful vineyards.

  • The best time to visit the Tuscany wine region: Spring or fall, when the weather is mild and the crowds are thinner.

5 Savor Authentic Italian Cuisine & Explore The Best Food In Italy In Each Region

Italian dishes in an italian restaurant full of diners

Experiencing authentic Italian food is one of the most popular things to do in Italy. In Italy, dining is a leisurely affair with multiple courses. Each region of the country has unique cuisine and specialties, with olive oil as a key ingredient used in many dishes. Some of the most popular dishes in Italy include risotto, polenta, seafood, gelato, and pasta.

Desserts are also an important part of Italian cuisine, featuring ingredients like fruit, chocolate, and nuts. Some classic Italian desserts include tiramisu, cannoli, and panna cotta. Besides the local dishes, Italian wine is some of the best in the world and should not be missed on one's Italy adventure.

  • The best time to visit Italy for food and drink: Fall or spring. The weather is warm during these seasons, crowders are sparser, and prices are lower. Plus, spring offers more seasonal Italian dishes, while fall is the time for harvest and wine tasting in Italy.

Related: Eat Your Way Through Italy: 10 Culinary Tours To Explore The Country & Its Food

4 See The Roman Ruins Of Pompeii — The Ancient City Destroyed By Mount Vesuvius

Vesuvius and Pompeii Roman City
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Vesuvius and Pompeii Roman City

Pompeii was an ancient Roman city near modern-day Naples and is a must-do experience for history buffs and anyone interested in ancient civilizations. The city features a vast archeological site, home to some of Italy's most popular ancient attractions, including the amphitheater in Pompeii (which is the oldest known stone Roman amphitheater), a forum, the Temple of Jupiter, and the House of the Faun.

Additionally, visitors can also explore the streets and alleys of the city, lined with shops, houses, and other buildings. Many of the buildings have well-preserved frescoes, mosaics, and other decorations, providing an insight into the daily life of the ancient Romans in this area before Pompeii met its demise after the eruption of the volcano Mount Vesuvius.

  • The best time to visit Pompeii: Visit during morning hours to avoid the crowds. Month-wise, November to March is the best time to visit Pompeii because summer sees a lot of crowds.

3 Attend An Event Or Festival In Italy

 Venice Carnival in Italy 
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Performers in Costumes during Venice Carnival in Italy 

Italy is known for its vibrant festivals and events held throughout the year. From historical reenactments to colorful celebrations of local culture, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Attending a festival or event in Italy is a great way to experience the country's rich culture and history.

Some of the most popular Italian festivals are Carnevale, Palio di Siena, Festa della Madonna Bruna, Calcio Storico, Festival of Sanremo, and La Notte Rosa. However, check the dates and locations of festivals and events before going, as they can vary from year to year.

2 Explore The Cinque Terre — One Of The Most Beautiful Places In Italy For Coastal Scenery

Cinque Terre, Italy 
Photo by Sean Sweeney on Unsplash
 Colorful buildings on shore in Cinque Terre, Italy 

Cinque Terre is a stunning coastal area in the Liguria region of Italy, known for its colorful villages perched on rocky cliffs overlooking the sea. Each of the five villages in the Cinque Terre has its own unique character. Visitors can explore the narrow streets, colorful houses, and restaurants.

  • The best time to visit Cinque Terre: The area boasts a long peak season from May to October, thanks to the mildness of the Liguria region's Mediterranean climate.Mid to late April or mid to late October is the ideal time to visit to avoid the crowds and enjoy the pleasant weather (summer can be too hot for some tourists).

One of the best ways to experience the Cinque Terre is to hike the trails connecting the five villages, offering stunning coastline views. Visitors can also take a boat tour along the coast to see the villages from a different perspective.

Related: Uncover The Mysteries: A Guide To The 10 Best Archeological Sites In Italy

1 See Ancient Greek Ruins & Enjoy Guided Volcano Tours In Sicily

Tonnara di Scopello, Sicily, Italy
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Tonnara di Scopello, Sicily, Italy

The island of Sicily was once a Greek colony. As such, today, it's home to many ancient Greek ruins, including the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento, a UNESCO World Heritage Site (many people even compare Sicily's Valley of the Temples with the Acropolis of Athens in Greece).

Another of the top attractions in Sicily is Mount Etna, an active volcano that dominates the landscape of eastern Sicily. Visitors can take a guided tour of the volcano and its surrounding park, including the lava fields and craters, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside

  • The best time to visit Sicily: April to October are ideal for mild temperatures and lower rainfall. But for fewer crowds and a pleasant experience visiting Sicily's cities, towns, museums, and archeological sites, November to March is great.
  • Cost of guided tours of Mount Etna: Mount Etna tours range from around $46 to $100 (see Viator's options for more information)

Sicily also has many beautiful beaches, including the popular Mondello Beach near Palermo and the stunning San Vito lo Capo Beach in the northwest, offering various recreational activities for tourists.