Italy is surely the most popular tourist destination in the Old World, as only France and Great Britain can try to compete with it. Of course! Rich nature, culture, cuisine, as well as world-famous cities, art, and fashion. No doubt: there is a lot to see here!

Read more about health insurance for expats in Italy here.

Find the 7 best places to live in Italy for a high quality of life here.

Where to go in Italy

Even if the list of important places of the Italian Republic not mentioning the famous Rome, Venice, Pisa, etc., one article will definitely not be enough. After all, Italy is a real treasure, and every corner of it is quite special.

Therefore, instead of listing natural, cultural, or other attractions, we will focus on the regions of the country and their main sightseings:

Campania

Do not be surprised if you’ve just thought about pizza. The capital of this region, Naples, is home to one of the world's most popular dishes. The very one, with a thin, plastic cake, and included in the UNESCO heritage list. Near Naples sleeps the solemn Vesuvius and the ancient city of Pompeii. Also while being in Campania you should visit the towns of Benevento, Caserta, and Paestum.

Liguria

Another culinary allusion is supplemented by the name of one of the region’s most charming cities — Spezia (Spice). However, the culinary thing here is not pizza, but trenette al pesto. As for tourism, people come here to see the ancient proud city of Genoa and the incredible beauty of local nature.

Tuscany

Probably the most famous region of the Republic. Tuscany is considered to be the heart of the Renaissance and the cradle of Old World’s elite cultural traditions. It is the birthplace of Leonardo da Vinci, Galileo, Dante Alighieri, Tommaso Machiavelli, Guccio Gucci, and other outstanding personalities. The historic centers of its main city, Florence, and the cities of Siena, Pienza, and San Gimignano are UNESCO heritage sites. The same applies to the cathedral in the town of Pisa, the natural and cultural region of Val d'Orcia, and the estates of the Medici dynasty. Here, every corner breathes history and beauty. At the same time, the local kitchen is quite simple. Check it out by tasting the ribollita soup or panforte dessert.

Abruzzo

Known for its wild mountains, forests and severe climate, a region is a great place for those who want to visit atypical Italy. And also — to understand why the main dish of the region is malterrata chocolate cakes.

Lazio

Not only an outstanding football club but also the region where the main city of Italy, Rome, lies. In addition to the countless riches of the Romanesque capital, it is worth seeing the National Parks of Abruzzo, Lazio and Molise and Gran Sasso e Monti della Laga, the cities of Civitavecchia, Frascati, Velletri e Tivoli. If you are interested in local cuisine, try bucatini all'Amatriciana.

Marche

The geographical heart of the Apennine Peninsula boasts fertile lands where the most delicious olives grow. Guests of the region should definitely visit one of the most beautiful cities of old Europe — Urbino. Its reddish buildings and the treasures of the Raphael Museum as well as picturesque landscapes are definitely worth it.

Veneto

Venice. The legendary city, homaged by artists and romantics, and therefore shrouded in a melancholy and romantic haze, is a desirable destination for travelers from all over the world. Due to the influx of tourists and flooding of the historic center, access to it is planned to be restricted. Yet don't be sad: outside the regional center, it is necessary to see the famous city of Verona, the largest Italian lake — Garda, the Dolomite Alps, the basilicas and buildings of the towns of Vicenza, Treviso, as well as incredible architecture and the ancient university in Padua. A culinary curiosity here is the soup rizi ez bizi.

Trentino-Alto Adige

A part of this region is known as South Tyrol. Thus it can rightly be a visiting card of the whole place, because Italian, Austrian and Swiss traditions are intertwined here, and the climate and landscapes will appeal to those who like to rest in the mountains. A typical dish for the region is canederli.

Friuli-Venezia Giulia

A quiet place in the north of Italy, where people come to see ancient ruins, medieval castles and enjoy a quiet vacation on the Adriatic Sea. In addition, here you can see the infamous Wyont dam, where one of the biggest man-made disasters of Old World had happen.

While you're here, pay tribute to the sweet balls of fritole.

Basilicata

The region with a deliciously spicy name is known for its cave cities and rock monasteries. Here you can visit the legendary cities of Matera, Castelmezzano, and Krakow, the spurs of the Dolomite Alps, and the path of the Seven Stones. The landmark of local cuisine is frittelle alla Lucana.

Piedmont

The name of this region comes from the Latin ad pedem montium — at the foot of the mountain. And the places lying between the massifs of Monte Rosa, Gran Paradiso, and Monviso will make you fall in love at first sight. You can pay homage to them by visiting one of the many natural parks and the glacial lake Lago Maggiore. The main attraction of cultural tourism is the city of Turin, and the signature dish is banya cauda.

Molise

Ancient stone-gray cities surrounded by green-blue mountains and lakes. While here, explore the town of Venafro and Campobasso. And also —  try honey zeppole donuts. You can't find them anywhere else!

Lombardy

First of all, this corner of Italy is famous for its numerous natural parks. The nature here is really amazing. In its exquisite embrace lies the city of Milan (numerous churches, one of which is decorated with the Last Supper fresco, La Scala theater, the Duomo cathedral, palaces, pinacoteques), Bergamo, Pavia, Brescia. The main dish of the region is risotto.

Emilia-Romagna

Another picturesque region unites two historical regions — Emilia and Romania. In addition to the breathtaking natural scenery, you should visit the cities of Bologna, Parma, Reggio Emilia, Modena, Rimini, Ferrara, and Piacenza. The crown dish of the region is, of course, Bolognese.

Apulia

The easternmost region of Italy beckons with rich historical heritage. The baroque city of Lecce, the Greek Otranto, the ports of Brindisi and Taranto, and the small town of Bar, which looks at its twin — Old Bar city in Montenegro. The unique nature of this arid region is protected by the national parks of Alta Murgia and Gargano. Unique Italian dunes  "live" in Torre Canne Park. A culinary gem is orecchiette alle chime di rapa.

Umbria

Monica Bellucci's homeland is famous for its small picturesque towns lost among green hills and forests. The castle and arched bridge of Spoleto, the basilicas of Gubbio, the wild beauty of Orvieto —  you definitely have to see it. And don't forget to taste the stuffed artichokes alla Perugina.

Valle d'Aosta

The only region of Italy that does not have an internal administrative division, it is a mecca for mountaineers. Here, above the beautiful city of Aosta, beam the snow caps of the highest point in Western Europe, Mont Blanc. Its competitors are Dufour, Matterhorn, and Gran Paradiso spires. To gain strength after active recreation here  try a traditional cheese fondue.

Calabria

The peninsula, cut by mountain ranges, numerous bays, and artificial lakes, is a paradise for lovers of outdoor activities. In addition, fans of archeology should visit the "toe" of the Italian "boot". Beach vacation is also an option here. They won't call this place a "Maldive of Italy» just for noth. While here, taste the melange alla Finitese.

Sicily

The autonomous region of Italy gained worldwide fame not only because of the mafia. Its incredible historical and architectural heritage (e.g. the colorful houses against the black body of Etna, majestic cathedrals and castles), fantastic volcanic landscapes and unique local spirit make a significant contribution to the popularity. Island's special charm is cuisine: thanks to the rule of the Greeks, Normans, Byzantines, and Arabs, it is unique and very diverse.

Sardinia

The mountainous island neighboring Corsica has an amazingly rich cultural heritage and developed tourist infrastructure. Trips to the ancient Tombs of giants, the Domus de Giana and the grottoes of Dorgali or Alghero, food tours that allow you to sense the variety of local cuisine and rest on golden beaches —  everything a tourist needs can be found here.

Thus, the Republic of Italy opens access to all types of tourism, including such popular themes as cultural, eco, and gastro tours. In addition, the developed fashion industry creates conditions for shopping tours, and natural wealth offers great medical tourism and recreation in the mountains, by the sea, and at thermal springs.

Climate

Italy lies in the temperate and subtropical climate zones. But local relief makes a shout-out: the Alps protect the country from the cold from the north, mountainous areas often have weather nuances which are typical for the highlands, while hot African winds blow from the south.

Therefore, when planning to travel to Italy, choose the time and type of vacation according to the region or your preferences.

Nuances of tourism in Italy

Republic's terrain leaves an imprint on the method of dressing. In particular, tourists should take care of comfortable shoes, because without them, the hilliness, cobblestones, and the number of interesting places will prevent them from enjoying the trip.

Visits to temples, basilicas and the Vatican should be made in accordance with the stated dress code. 

The currency here is the euro. Cards are accepted almost everywhere. However, it is customary to pay in cash in museums, trattorias, and small local establishments.

Tips aren't required: it is included in the bill by default.

Most local businesses have short schedules on Saturdays and are closed on Sundays. Monday can also be declared a day off, as a necessity to rest from Sunday's  leisure.

Also, small local establishments usually close for siesta.

In addition to Italian, most locals speak English. But in small towns, English-based communication can be a bit problematic.

Italy is quite safe. However, the legendary Vespa scooters can spoil your mood: Italians’ favorite vehicle is often used by thieves who snatch bags and shoulder bags from the hands of unwary tourists.

Most cities are divided into traffic zones, large ones also suffer from traffic jams. Locals drive quite aggressively and may not follow the traffic rules, so it is necessary to be careful. Especially if you are a pedestrian.

Massages are not allowed on the beaches of Italy. The exception is the work of a professional massage therapist who can prove his competence.

Pasta is eaten with a fork and pizza with one's hands.

It is strictly forbidden to feed pigeons because their droppings spoil architectural monuments.

Visa

The Italian Republic is a member of the European Union and the Schengen Area. Therefore, for the members of these associations, entry to the country takes place on a visa-free basis, while citizens of other countries will have to issue a tourist visa according to standard rules for obtaining "Schengen".