So, you’re planning a trip to Italy? There are so many beautiful cities in Italy to visit, that it can be really difficult to narrow down exactly where to go. Which is why we decided to make a list of all the prettiest towns and cities in Italy that we’ve visited and loved (including some we haven’t yet visited to but want to go sometime)!
These are the most beautiful Italian cities from the North to the South.
Whether you’re planning a romantic Italian trip with your significant other (yes, Italy has some of the most romantic cities in world), or you’re looking to take a quick weekend getaway with your friends or family. We’re sure you will find the perfect Italian city to visit on this list!
Experience La Dolce Vita with these top 12 most beautiful cities of Italy!
Planning a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Italy? Check out our Ultimate Italian Bucket List!
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In This Post:
The Most Beautiful Cities of Italy – At a Glance
- Venice
- Rome
- Florence
- Bari
- Milan
- Trento
- Positano
- Bologna
- Turin
- Palermo
- Matera
- Siena
Map of Beautiful Italian Cities
Most Beautiful Cities in Northern Italy
#1 | Venice
It would be hard to find a city more romantic than Venice, also known as the “city of canals”. Thanks to its glorious architecture, winding canals and rich cultural life, it has become a favourite for lovebirds and artists alike.
Did you know that Venice has more than 400 bridges? Make sure to see the iconic Bridge of Sighs which links Doge’s Palace with a former prison. Just imagine – their last sight was of beautiful Venice. Not bad, huh? Of course, riding a gondola is an experience one must have.
There is no denying Venice is one of the most gorgeous and unique places in Italy. But ask any tourist and they’ll tell you Venice is the most beautiful city in the world!
Best Time to Visit: The best times to visit Venice is April, May, September, or October when there are fewer tourists, and temperatures are warm and dry, but not too hot.
Where to Stay:
#2 | Milan
One of the most beautiful Italian cities is known to be a fashion (and design) mecca and will be loved by all guilty shopaholics. If you wish to head on a shopping spree, Milan’s most renowned high-end streets are Via Della Spiga and Via Montenapoleone.
But fashion is not the only thing the city is known for. A must-see monument in Milan is definitely Duomo di Milano (the Milan Cathedral), which is the third-largest in the world. Also, make sure to stop by La Scala de Milan – the place where Milan Opera house is located.
Best Time to Visit: The best times to visit Milan is April, May, September, or October which is outside of the peak tourism season, but the city is still a buzz and temperatures are warm and mild.
Where to Stay:
#3 | Turin
One of the most beautiful cities of Italy that is often overlooked by tourists is Turin, the capital of Piedmont in Northern Italy.
Turin is an excellent example of Renaissance, Baroque, Rococo, Art Nouveau and Neo-classical architecture. As you wander around the streets of Turin, you will notice beautiful gardens, exquisite castles and public squares.
But what makes the city so special is its skyline that features the chain of the Alps. Just an hour away, you will find the glorious mountains and excellent ski resorts. While in Turin, enjoy truffles. We promise you won’t ever look at food the same way.
Best Time to Visit: Summertime (June to August) is a great time for hot-weather activities, but Turin is also known as a fantastic winter destination!
Where to Stay:
#4 | Trento
All sports’ enthusiasts will surely enjoy a trip to Trento – perhaps the most beautiful city in Italy that is also completely underrated. With its diverse territory, beautiful nature, and incredible food, it is a destination unlike any other.
During the winter season, Trento gets packed with ski and snowboard lovers because the city is known for its outstanding quality of snow. In fact, you will find plenty of ski hubs, and some of the most known are Madonna di Campiglio, San Martino di Castrozza and Canazei.
Best Time to Visit: May to September offers warm temperatures and little rainfall and is a great time for hiking in the region. The winter season is also very popular for winter sports.
Where to Stay:
#5 | Bologna
Although you will find excellent food in all of Italy, Bologna is considered to be the ultimate foodie paradise. This is also one of the reasons that it is one of the most beautiful places to live in Italy.
Mouth-watering pasta, incredible pizza, all kinds of meats, cheeses (hello parmesan!) and wines – there is something delicious for everyone. Make sure to taste pasta bolognese since the city is its birthplace.
Food in Bologna is terrific, but what makes it even better is the fact it won’t break your bank. When you have satisfied your hunger, continue your trip by walking Bologna’s endless porticoes, which have been included in the UNESCO world heritage list.
Best Time to Visit: In Spring or Autumn, when the weather is not too cold or too hot.
Where to Stay:
Most Beautiful Cities in Central Italy
#6 | Rome
A visit to Italy can’t be imagined without seeing Rome – one of the most famous Italian cities! After all – all roads lead to Rome, right?
The Colosseum, the Roman Forum, the Trevi Fountain, the Spanish steps and the impressive Classical architecture – discovering the beauty of Rome is nearly impossible in just a few days. Remember to stop by St. Peter’s Basilica, which might just be the most recognisable religious building in Europe.
To get an authentic feeling of Rome, make sure to spend an evening in Trastevere. There you will find ancient houses lined up in the charming streets. Trastevere is also a good place for foodies since you can find plenty of delicious restaurants there offering mouthwatering pasta.
Best Time to Visit: It can be hard to avoid the crowds in Rome, but the best time is October to April. If you don’t like the cold weather, then visit in Spring or Autumn.
Where to Stay:
#7 | Florence
Famed for its Renaissance art and architecture and fascinating culture, Florence is definitely one of the most beautiful cities in Tuscany. Located in the central region of the country, it has been the home for many genius minds like Dante, Michelangelo, Machiavelli, Galileo and Raphael. With its numerous art galleries and museums, it will be a great destination for anyone looking to get a dose of art.
The best way of experiencing Florence is just to wander around its street. Have a look at the Duomo, Giotto’s Campanile, Palazzo Vecchio and other examples of incredible architecture.
Best Time to Visit: May-September is when the warm weather brings art festivals, open-air dining and beautiful sunshine to town.
Where to Stay:
#8 | Siena
Those who have been to Tuscany will agree – Siena is a place worth visiting. Furthermore, it might just be one of the most beautiful cities in Italy. Thanks to its romantic, small Medieval buildings and charming streets, it will quickly capture your heart.
Admire the Siena Cathedral – one of the premier pieces of Gothic architecture in the country and grab an ice cream at an authentic gelateria (for example, La Vecchia Latteria). You’re bound to have a great time!
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Siena is from mid-to-late spring (April to May) and early autumn (September to October).
Where to Stay:
Most Beautiful Cities in Southern Italy
#9 | Bari
Thanks to its thriving local food scene, Bari will quickly capture your heart. But great food is not the only thing you will find in the Italian port city. Expect some of the most beautiful beaches in the country with dazzling blue waters.
Bari is one of the most scenic places in Italy, where you can drive along stunning coastlines James Bond-style. And – after seeing it in person – it will be hard to disagree. To have a fun-filled beach day, stop by Cala Paura – a local favourite.
Those who are travelling with the whole family will enjoy a day at San Giovanni, which includes all kinds of amenities. While you are in Bari, taste orecchiette – pasta made without eggs.
Best Time to Visit: If you’re a sun and sea-lover, visit Bari when the days are longest (July). Avoid April as it’s the wettest month of the year.
Where to Stay:
#10 | Positano
The Amalfi Coast is one of the most picturesque places in Italy, and Positano is definitely its crowning jewel.
Known for its vibrant nightlife, fantastic good and wine and scenic views, it is the place to learn more about “la dolce vita”. Skirt the coastline on a Vespa – that way, you can move at your own pace and stop wherever you want to take that perfect Instagram selfie.
The Amalfi Coast is, after all, one of the most romantic road trips in the world for couples!
There is no doubt that Positano should be on every traveller’s bucket list. Try some Limoncello, stay in a gorgeous clifftop hotel, and discover the city with your loved one – after all, Positano one of the most romantic cities in Italy!
Best Time to Visit: Head to Positano during springtime (May to June) to avoid the peak season crowds and hotel prices, but still enjoy the warm Mediterranean weather.
Where to Stay:
#11 | Matera
Set in the southern part of Italy, the city of the Sassi (“the stones”) is famous for its cave dwellings and spectacular scenery that make it one of the prettiest cities in Italy.
After you have visited the biggest cities in Italy and would like to know the country on a deeper level, Matera is the place to be. Compared to other parts of Italy, the city is still relatively tourist-free. Therefore, it is the perfect destination for those looking to avoid crowds.
Best Time to Visit: May to October are the warmest times of the year to visit Matera, when there is little rainfall.
Where to Stay:
Most Beautiful Cities in Sicily
#12 | Palermo
To get the ultimate Italian experience, pay a visit to Palermo, one of the most beautiful cities in Sicily. Palermo is Sicily’s cultural and economic capital and has everything one might need for a perfect holiday – fascinating history, mouth-watering good and rich cultural life.
When exploring Palermo, make sure to include its colourful markets in your itinerary. Vucciria and Capo are some of the most popular ones, where you will find fresh vegetables, fruit, fish, and great souvenirs to take back home.
Best Time to Visit: Visit Palermo from April-June while the temperature is warm but still comfortable.
Where to Stay:
Have we missed a spot? Can you recommend any other beautiful cities in Italy to visit? Let us know in the comments below!
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Italy is one of the world’s top Bucket List Destinations and a country we love going back to again and again!
There are so many beautiful cities in Italy to visit that it can be difficult to narrow it down to just a few. We hope this guide has help you pick out which cities you plan to visit on your next trip.
To make the most of your trip, be sure to visit the Official Tourism Italia website. And don’t forget to take a look at our other Italy travel blog articles for handy tips and tricks to help you on your journey.
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About the Author:
Amanda Twine is the founder and creator of Bucket List Seekers – a luxury travel blog sharing informative travel guides, food guides, hotel reviews, itineraries, and tips about how to make luxury travel more affordable.
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