Italy, a country synonymous with art, history, delectable cuisine, and breathtaking landscapes, consistently ranks high on every traveler’s bucket list. But with so much to offer, deciding where to begin your Italian journey can feel overwhelming. From the iconic canals of Venice to the sun-drenched coasts of Sicily, Italy boasts a treasure trove of destinations, each promising a unique and unforgettable experience. This guide will navigate you through the very best travel destinations Italy has to offer, ensuring you make the most of your time in this captivating country. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, discover the must-see cities, stunning regions, and hidden gems that make Italy one of the world’s most beloved destinations.
1. Rome: Stepping Back in Time in the Eternal City
No trip to Italy is truly complete without experiencing the grandeur of Rome. Known as the Eternal City, Rome is a living museum where ancient history seamlessly blends with vibrant modern life. Every corner you turn reveals centuries of art, architecture, and culture, making it feel like you’re walking through the pages of a history book. From world-renowned landmarks to charming cobblestone streets, Rome offers an unparalleled immersion into Italy’s rich heritage.
Must-See Attractions: The Colosseum, Roman Forum, Palatine Hill, Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps, Piazza Navona, Vatican City (St. Peter’s Basilica and Sistine Chapel), Castel Sant’Angelo, and Capitoline Hill are essential stops on any Roman itinerary.
Hidden Gems & Local Experiences: Explore the Campo de’ Fiori market for local flavors, wander through the charming Trastevere district, discover the ruins of Circus Maximus and Baths of Caracalla, and enjoy panoramic views from the Aventine Hill or Belvedere del Gianicolo. For unique perspectives, seek out some of Rome’s nicest viewpoints, often tucked away near popular sites.
Time to Spend: A whirlwind one-day trip can offer a glimpse of Rome’s highlights, but to truly appreciate the city, allow at least 2-3 days. For a deeper dive and exploration of off-the-beaten-path experiences, consider 5-7 days. A 4-day Rome itinerary can provide a balanced experience, combining iconic landmarks with lesser-known treasures.
Best Time to Visit: Rome is a year-round destination, but spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) offer the most pleasant weather for sightseeing. July and August can be very hot, while shoulder months like March and November offer fewer crowds and cooler temperatures. Consider experiencing Rome in November for a unique and less crowded visit.
Further Reading: Plan your Roman adventure with our comprehensive guide to the Best Things to Do in Rome and find the perfect accommodation in the best neighborhood to stay in Rome. Also, check out Tips for Planning a Trip to Rome for essential advice.
Spanish Steps in Rome, a popular tourist destination in Italy
2. Venice: Navigating the Enchanting Canals
Venice, a city unlike any other, captivates the imagination with its unique charm and romantic ambiance. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, comprising 118 islands, is an architectural marvel where canals serve as streets and gondolas glide through waterways. Exploring Venice is an immersive experience in art, history, and unparalleled beauty.
Must-Experience Activities: A quintessential Venetian gondola ride through the canals is a must. Explore St. Mark’s Square, marvel at St. Mark’s Basilica, and discover the Doge’s Palace. Wander along the Grand Canal and cross the iconic Rialto Bridge. Don’t miss the Bridge of Sighs, steeped in history and legend. Stroll along the Riva degli Schiavoni waterfront promenade for picturesque views.
Beyond the Main Square: Visit the Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute, explore the vibrant islands of Burano and Murano known for their crafts, and discover the unique Libreria Acqua Alta bookstore. Explore Campo San Polo, wander through the historic Jewish Ghetto, and take a boat trip to San Giorgio Maggiore Island for stunning panoramic views. Consider attending a performance at the renowned La Fenice opera house.
Ideal Trip Length: A single day offers enough time to see Venice’s main landmarks. With a long day, you can even include a quick excursion to Murano and Burano. For a more relaxed pace and deeper exploration, 2 days is ideal, allowing time for the islands. For an in-depth Venetian experience, plan 3-4 days, as suggested in our 3 days in Venice itinerary, featuring local insights.
Dive Deeper: Discover more about this magical city with our guide to the Best Things to Do in Venice.
Grand Canal in Venice, Italy, a top European destination
3. Florence: Birthplace of the Renaissance
Florence (Firenze), the capital of Tuscany, is an essential stop for any art and culture enthusiast visiting Italy. Considered the cradle of the Renaissance, Florence is where masterpieces by Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and countless other artists were created. Despite its compact city center, Florence is overflowing with unparalleled Renaissance art and architectural wonders.
Key Attractions: Marvel at the Duomo (Florence Cathedral) and climb Brunelleschi’s Dome for breathtaking views. Visit the Baptistery of St. John, explore the Uffizi Gallery’s unparalleled art collection, and walk across the iconic Ponte Vecchio. Admire Palazzo Vecchio and Piazza della Signoria and soak in the panoramic vista from Piazzale Michelangelo. Don’t miss Michelangelo’s David at the Galleria dell’Accademia.
Further Exploration: Visit Palazzo Pitti and wander through the Boboli Gardens, explore the Basilica di San Lorenzo and the bustling San Lorenzo Market, and experience the local atmosphere of Piazza Santo Spirito. Visit the Basilica of Santa Croce and enjoy aperitivo with stunning views from one of Florence’s best rooftops.
Recommended Duration: A quick one-day visit allows you to see Florence’s main highlights, as outlined in our 1 day Florence itinerary. However, to explore museums and delve deeper, 2 days are recommended. Consider adding an extra day for a tour to the Tuscan countryside to fully appreciate the region.
Learn More: Uncover the best experiences in Florence with our guide to the Best Things to Do in Florence.
Florence, Italy, a beautiful city and popular destination in Tuscany
4. Tuscany: Rolling Hills and Renaissance Charm
While Italy’s cities are captivating, venturing into its regions reveals even more of its diverse beauty. Tuscany, strategically located between Rome, Venice, and Milan, stands out as a must-visit region, especially for first-time visitors. Beyond its accessibility, Tuscany offers a rich tapestry of experiences.
Charming Towns and Landscapes: Tuscany is home to some of Italy’s most enchanting towns, including Florence, Siena, Pisa, Lucca, San Gimignano, Volterra, Prato, and Arezzo, each with its own unique character and charm. The region is also famous for its idyllic landscapes – rolling hills dotted with vineyards, olive groves, and cypress-lined roads.
Food and Wine Paradise: Tuscany is a haven for foodies and wine enthusiasts. Renowned for producing some of Italy’s finest wines, like Brunello di Montalcino and Chianti, Tuscany offers countless culinary delights to savor at local restaurants and wineries.
Unmissable Tuscan Experiences: Explore Florence (as detailed above), discover the medieval beauty of Siena and its impressive Siena Cathedral, and marvel at the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes of Val d’Orcia. Explore our guide to the best towns in Tuscany for more ideas.
Time to Explore Tuscany: Allocate at least 2 days for Tuscany – one for Florence and another (packed) day for Siena, San Gimignano, Pisa, and the Chianti region. Consider a one-day tour to efficiently see these highlights if short on time. Ideally, 3-4 days allows for a more relaxed experience, while a week in Tuscany offers a deeper immersion into its diverse offerings.
Plan Your Trip: For detailed planning, see our guides to the Best Towns in Tuscany and a comprehensive Tuscany Itinerary.
Picturesque Tuscan landscape, a popular destination in Italy
5. Cinque Terre: Coastal Villages of Unmatched Beauty
No list of Italy Best Travel Destinations would be complete without Cinque Terre. This breathtaking coastal region is so picturesque it almost feels surreal. Cinque Terre, meaning “Five Lands,” refers to five charming villages nestled along the Ligurian coastline: Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza, and Monterosso al Mare.
Unique Coastal Charm: These colorful towns cling to steep hillsides between the azure sea and terraced vineyards, creating a stunning visual tapestry. Accessibility is part of Cinque Terre’s charm; cars are restricted, making boat, train, or hiking the Cinque Terre trail the best ways to navigate between villages. Consult our travel tips for visiting Cinque Terre for practical advice.
Must-See Villages: Manarola, Vernazza, and Riomaggiore are considered the jewels of Cinque Terre, each offering unique perspectives and photo opportunities.
Further Afield: Explore Corniglia and Monterosso al Mare for different vibes. The nearby Portovenere and the Gulf of Poets are also highly recommended for their beauty and tranquility.
Time to Experience Cinque Terre: A single day can provide a taste of Cinque Terre, even as a day tour from Florence. To explore more deeply and enjoy the coastal surroundings, plan 2-3 days.
Plan Your Visit: Maximize your time with our One Day in Cinque Terre guide and find the perfect accommodation with our Where to Stay in Cinque Terre recommendations.
Manarola in Cinque Terre, a colorful and scenic Italian travel destination
6. Amalfi Coast: Dramatic Beauty and Coastal Splendor
The Amalfi Coast in the Campania region is another iconic Italian destination, renowned for its dramatic coastal scenery and picturesque towns. Stretching between Sorrento and Salerno, this region boasts some of Italy’s most breathtaking coastal landscapes, with rugged cliffs, colorful villages, and inviting beaches. The Amalfi Coast is a dream destination for a luxurious and scenic Italian getaway.
Coastal Gems and Attractions: The main highlights are the charming coastal towns of Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello. Don’t miss Sorrento and Naples, gateway cities to the coast, and the imposing Mount Vesuvius volcano.
Island Escape and Ancient History: Take a boat trip to the nearby Capri Island and explore the famous Blue Grotto and the charming town of Anacapri. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Path of the Gods coastal hike offers incredible views. History buffs should explore the ruins of Pompeii, the ancient Roman city preserved by volcanic ash.
Must-Do Amalfi Coast Experiences: Enjoy a scenic drive along the Amalfi Coast, stopping at Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello (consider a day tour to see the highlights). Explore Pompeii and visit Capri Island and the Blue Grotto.
Further Exploration: Discover Sorrento, the ancient ruins of Herculaneum, hike Mount Vesuvius, and experience the Path of the Gods trail.
How Much Time is Needed: A day trip provides a glimpse of the Amalfi Coast. Two days allows for a visit to Capri. For a relaxed exploration of the main highlights, 3-5 days are ideal. A week or two could easily be spent enjoying the region’s beauty. Find the perfect base with our guide on where to stay on the Amalfi Coast and best areas to stay in Naples.
Plan Your Amalfi Coast Adventure: Use our Amalfi Coast Itinerary and Amalfi Coast Travel Tips to plan your perfect trip.
Tip for Rome Visitors: Consider a day trip from Rome to Pompeii and the Amalfi Coast for a rushed but rewarding experience.
Compare and Choose: Deciding between coasts? Read our comparison: Amalfi Coast vs. Cinque Terre: which is nicer?.
Ravello on the Amalfi Coast, a stunning Italian destination
7. Lake Garda: Northern Italy’s Lakeside Gem
Lake Garda, nestled in Northern Italy between Venice and Milan, is a personal favorite and a truly scenic destination. This stunning lake is easily incorporated into any Italy itinerary and offers a blend of natural beauty and charming towns.
Exploring the Lake: Lake Garda is vast; driving around its perimeter is a 150km journey taking 3-4 hours without stops. Ferries are the best way to hop between towns, but driving the scenic lakeside roads is also a memorable experience.
Lakeside Towns and Villages: Lake Garda’s shores are dotted with picturesque towns and villages. Sirmione, at the southern tip, is famous. Malcesine, Limone Sul Garda, and Riva del Garda on the northern side are also highly recommended.
Unmissable Lake Garda Experiences: Visit Sirmione (explore Castello di Sirmione, Grotte di Catullo, and take a boat tour around the peninsula), explore Malcesine, and enjoy a boat ride on the northern part of the lake.
Further Exploration: Discover Limone Sul Garda, Riva del Garda, Desenzano del Garda, Garda, Peschiera del Garda, Salo, Bardolino, Torbole, and Isola del Garda.
Time to Enjoy Lake Garda: You can see Lake Garda’s main highlights in a day by car and/or boat, or with a tour. However, 2-3 days are needed to explore the area more thoroughly. See our Lake Garda itinerary suggestions for 1 to 3 days for detailed planning.
Dive Deeper: Learn more about what to see and do at Lake Garda with our guide: What to See at Lake Garda.
Malcesine on Lake Garda, a beautiful lake destination in Italy
8. Lake Como: Luxury and Lakeside Beauty
Lake Como, just north of Milan, is another breathtaking Italian lake that deserves a place on any italy best travel destinations list. Favored by celebrities and the wealthy, Lake Como is known for its grand villas and stunning scenery at the foot of the Alps, near the Swiss border.
Hollywood Setting: Lake Como’s beauty has made it a popular filming location for numerous movies. Once you see its scenery, you’ll understand why.
Exploring Lake Como: While smaller than Lake Garda, Lake Como is long and uniquely Y-shaped. Driving around the lake is time-consuming due to narrow roads. Boats are an excellent way to explore, and car ferries connect mid-lake towns for convenient exploration. Parking can be challenging.
Towns, Villas, and Gardens: Como town, at the lake’s southern end, is the main hub. Take the funicular to Brunate for panoramic views. Bellagio, Varenna, and Cernobbio are other charming towns to visit. The highlight of Lake Como is its gardens and villas, particularly Villa Carlotta and Villa Balbianello.
Must-See Lake Como Highlights: Explore Como town, take a boat ride, visit Bellagio and Varenna, and tour Villa Carlotta and Villa Balbianello. Consult our guide to the best things to do in Lake Como for more ideas.
Further Afield: Discover Brunate, Menaggio, Villa Olmo, Cernobbio, Lecco, Pescallo, and the scenic Ghisallo Pass. See our guide to the best towns of Lake Como for more details.
Time to Experience Lake Como: A day trip can cover Lake Como’s highlights, including day tours from Milan. Two full days are needed to visit the most beautiful villas. 3-4 days allows for a more in-depth experience.
Plan Your Lake Como Trip: Get essential information and tips with our guide: Info & Tips for Visiting Lake Como.
Varenna, Lake Como, a luxurious and beautiful Italian destination
9. Italian Dolomites: Mountain Majesty and Alpine Scenery
With Italy’s wealth of towns and cities, its stunning natural attractions are sometimes overlooked. Don’t miss the Italian Dolomite Mountains. The scenery here is truly exceptional and rivals some of the world’s most famous mountain ranges.
Unparalleled Mountain Landscapes: Having explored mountain scenery in Switzerland, Canada, New Zealand, and Norway, the Dolomites hold their own in terms of breathtaking beauty.
Dolomites Highlights: Every mountain pass, gondola ride, and hike reveals remarkable landscapes. Popular areas for first-timers include Val Gardena and Cortina d’Ampezzo, home to the iconic Tre Cime di Lavaredo peaks. The lakes Pragser Wildsee (Lake Braies) and Lake Sorapis are stunning. Marmolada, the Dolomites’ highest peak, is also a must-see.
Explore Further: Discover the Cinque Torri area for mountain views and Great War history. The mountains of the nearby Trentino region are equally beautiful, including Val di Fumo, a hidden gem.
Discover Dolomites Lakes: Explore our guide to the Most Beautiful Lakes in the Italian Dolomites.
Time in the Dolomites: A day tour with a local guide offers a glimpse of the Dolomites, with day tours from Bolzano, Venice, or Lake Garda. For summer hiking enthusiasts, plan at least 5-6 days. Stay in Val Gardena and spend several days in the Cortina d’Ampezzo area. See our guide to the best places to stay in the Dolomites.
Plan Your Dolomites Adventure: Use our comprehensive Dolomites Itinerary to plan your trip.
Good to Know: The Dolomites are a winter ski paradise and a summer haven for hiking and outdoor activities. Explore the Best Hikes in the Dolomites.
Geisler Alm in the Italian Dolomites, a stunning mountain destination in Italy
10. Verona: Romance and Ancient History
Verona, famous as the setting for Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, is known as Italy’s most romantic city. But Verona offers much more than just Juliet’s balcony; it’s a city rich in history and beautiful architecture.
Verona’s Highlights: Verona is an ancient city with a 1st-century Roman amphitheater, the Verona Arena, as its centerpiece. Visit the arena during the day or attend a concert or performance in the evening.
Exploring Verona: Verona’s compact city center is easily explored. Wander through the old town, venture off the tourist path, and discover the authentic Italian atmosphere.
Must-See Verona Attractions: Verona Arena, Piazza delle Erbe, Torre dei Lamberti, and Juliet’s House & Balcony are essential stops.
Further Exploration: Visit Castelvecchio, Ponte Scaligero, Piazza dei Signori, Arche Scaligere, and enjoy views from Castel San Pietro.
Time to Visit Verona: Half a day is enough for Verona’s main highlights. A full day allows you to see most attractions. Two days enables deeper exploration and a tour of nearby vineyards.
Day Trip Options: Verona and Lake Garda can be visited as a day trip from Milan or with tours from Venice.
Learn More: Discover the best experiences in Verona with our guide: Best Things to Do in Verona.
Verona, Italy, a romantic and historic Italian city
11. Milan: Fashion, Art, and Modernity
Milan, often underestimated, is a fascinating city where history and modern life converge. Unique among Italian cities, Milan offers a distinct vibe, blending its historical heritage with a modern, cosmopolitan atmosphere.
Milan’s Appeal: Milan is a city that rewards deeper exploration. Even a day trip focusing on main attractions is worthwhile.
Must-See Milan Attractions: The Duomo and Duomo Terraces, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, and Leonardo da Vinci’s “The Last Supper” are essential. Book “The Last Supper” well in advance or take a tour.
Further Exploration: Visit Sforzesco Castle, La Scala opera house, Milan’s canals, the Brera district & Braidense National Library, and the modern Porta Nuova district.
Time to Discover Milan: One day is sufficient for Milan’s main landmarks. See our one day in Milan guide. With more time, consider a day tour to Lake Como.
Learn More: Explore the best experiences in Milan with our guide: Best Things to Do in Milan.
Milan Duomo, a majestic landmark in a top Italian city
12. Italian Riviera: Coastal Beauty Beyond Cinque Terre
The Italian Riviera, the Ligurian coastline of western Italy, is known for Cinque Terre and Portofino, a luxury resort. However, the Riviera offers much more to discover beyond these famous spots.
Riviera’s Charm: The Italian Riviera is as beautiful as the Amalfi Coast but less crowded. It’s a great destination for repeat visitors to Italy seeking less-touristed gems.
Riviera Highlights: Portofino, Cinque Terre, and Camogli are must-sees.
Further Exploration: Discover Genoa, Santa Margherita Ligure, and Portovenere.
Time to Explore the Riviera: Allow at least one day for Cinque Terre and another day for Portofino, Santa Margherita Ligure, and Camogli. To include Portovenere and Genoa, plan at least 4 rushed days.
Explore Riviera Towns: Learn about the most beautiful towns on the Italian Riviera with our guide: Most Beautiful Towns of the Italian Riviera.
Portofino, Italian Riviera, a picturesque coastal town in Italy
13. Naples: Authentic Italy and Culinary Delights
Naples, a unique and vibrant city, stands apart from other Italian destinations. Noisy and bustling, Naples is home to fascinating historical sites and is the birthplace of pizza. A visit to Naples is a chance to experience authentic Italian life and savor original Neapolitan pizza.
Naples’s Unique Character: Despite any preconceptions, Naples is absolutely worth visiting. Combine a trip to Naples with the Amalfi Coast for a rich Southern Italy experience.
Must-See Naples Attractions: Explore the historic city center (Spaccanapoli and Via dei Tribunali), admire the Veiled Christ at Sansevero Chapel, visit the National Archaeological Museum, Santa Chiara Monastery, Gesu Nuovo Church, and enjoy views from Castel Sant’Elmo.
Further Exploration: Discover Naples Underground, Naples Catacombs, Piazza del Plebiscito, Royal Palace of Naples, Cathedral, Castel Nuovo, Ovo Castle, Via San Gregorio Armeno, and the Spanish Quarter.
Time to Experience Naples: At least one day in Naples is needed for the must-sees. Ideally, plan 2-3 days, plus days for surroundings like Pompeii, Herculaneum, Mt Vesuvius, or the Royal Palace of Caserta. See our guide to best day trips from Naples for more.
Plan Your Naples Trip: Explore the best experiences in Naples with our guide: Best Things to Do in Naples and our Naples – Amalfi Coast Itinerary for 10 Days.
Bay of Naples, a beautiful coastal area to visit in Italy
14. Pisa: More Than Just a Leaning Tower
Pisa, Florence’s historic rival, is a must-see in Italy, primarily for the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa. However, Pisa offers much more than just its famous tower.
Pisa’s Piazza dei Miracoli: Piazza dei Miracoli (Square of Miracles) is stunning, featuring 11th-12th century architecture. Don’t miss the Duomo, Leaning Tower, Baptistery, and graveyard.
Pisa City Center: After Piazza dei Miracoli, explore Pisa’s pleasant city center, with local vibes, cafes, restaurants, and shops.
Must-See Pisa: Piazza dei Miracoli and the Leaning Tower of Pisa are essential.
Further Exploration: Discover Pisa town center.
Time to Visit Pisa: Half a day is enough for the main highlights and city center. A guided tour covers main places in about 2 hours.
Day Trip Options: Pisa is often visited as a half-day trip from Florence or combined with nearby places. Consider a day tour from Florence combining Pisa, Siena, and San Gimignano or Pisa and Cinque Terre. Day tours from Rome are also available.
Piazza dei Miracoli in Pisa, Italy, home to the famous Leaning Tower
15. Emilia Romagna: Italy’s Underrated Gem
Emilia Romagna, in northern Italy, is an underrated region waiting to be discovered. Often overlooked by first-time visitors due to its famous neighbors, Emilia Romagna offers an authentic Italian experience with fewer crowds.
Emilia Romagna’s Appeal: Emilia Romagna combines the best of Italy: history, architecture, art, beaches, towns, landscapes, and exceptional cuisine.
Must-See Emilia Romagna: Ravenna and Bologna are essential.
Further Exploration: Discover Rimini, Parma, Ferrara, and Modena.
Time to Explore Emilia Romagna: Allow at least a day for Bologna (easily visited from Florence) and half a day for Ravenna. 4-5 days can be easily filled in this region.
Plan Your Emilia Romagna Trip: Use our Emilia Romagna Itinerary and Best Things to Do in Bologna guides.
Colorful Borgo San Giuliano district in Rimini, Emilia Romagna, Italy
Bonus Tip: Visit San Marino, an independent republic surrounded by Emilia Romagna. A fairytale destination worth visiting, consider staying overnight in San Marino hotels to avoid day-tripper crowds. Learn more about San Marino.
San Marino Castle, a fairytale destination near Emilia Romagna, Italy
16. Apulia (Puglia): Southern Italy’s Authentic Charm
Apulia (Puglia), in southern Italy’s “heel,” is known for its unique trulli houses, found mainly in Alberobello and the Itria Valley. If you seek authentic Italian experiences, consider this less-touristed region.
Apulia’s Appeal: Apulia offers beautiful areas with fewer tourists, vibrant colors, strong flavors, and a slower pace of life, ideal for immersive travel.
Must-See Apulia: Trulli houses in Alberobello and the scenic coastal drive along Promontorio del Gargano are essential.
Further Exploration: Visit the Castel del Monte, Lecce (“Florence of the South”), Bari, Cathedral of Trani, Cathedral of Otranto, Taranto, and Grotte di Castellana.
Time to Explore Apulia: Allow a day for Terra dei Trulli and half a day for the Gargano NP scenic drive. The rest depends on your itinerary.
Trulli houses in Alberobello, Puglia, Italy, a unique architectural destination
17. Sicily: Island of History and Volcanoes
Sicily, the largest Mediterranean island, offers beaches, scenery, and rich history, including ancient temples dating back to the 5th-6th centuries BC (Agrigento’s Valley of the Temples is a must-see).
Sicily’s Highlights: Mount Etna, Europe’s largest active volcano, is a major attraction with various tours.
Sicilian Cuisine: Sicily is a foodie paradise with unique cuisine influenced by French, Greek, Arabic, and North African flavors. Consider a local food tour to experience Sicilian food.
Must-See Sicily Attractions: Mount Etna, Valley of the Temples, Taormina (and Godfather filming locations), Syracuse (Siracusa), and Palermo are essential.
Further Exploration: Visit Villa Romana del Casale, Catania, Monreale, Erice, and Segesta.
Time to Discover Sicily: 3-5 days covers Sicily’s highlights, but a week or two allows for deeper exploration.
Taormina and Mount Etna in Sicily, Italy, a beautiful island destination
18. Sardinia: Beaches and Island Life
Sardinia, Italy’s second-largest island, is a vacation destination with beaches, coastlines, and a relaxed atmosphere. It’s a place to experience dolce far niente – the sweetness of doing nothing.
Sardinia’s Appeal: Sardinia offers both relaxation and activity, with mountains, hiking trails, towns, archeological sites, and smaller islands. Sardinia has a unique culture and cuisine, different from mainland Italy.
Must-See Sardinia: Costa Smeralda and La Maddalena Archipelago, and Nuraghi (ancient beehive-shaped stone towers like Su Nuraxi in Barumini).
Further Exploration: Discover Cagliari, Alghero, and Sardinia’s countless beaches.
Time to Enjoy Sardinia: 2-3 days offers a glimpse of Sardinia’s highlights, but for a beach vacation and relaxed exploration, a few weeks are ideal.
Sardinia Travel Tips: For more Sardinia travel advice, visit Strictly Sardinia, by local expert Claudia.
Essential Europe Travel Tips: See our Tips & Essential Info for Traveling to Europe.
Sardinia, Italy, a beautiful island destination with stunning beaches
This list highlights the best travel destinations Italy has to offer, each worthy of a dedicated trip. Whether you have a few days or several weeks, Italy promises an unforgettable travel experience that will leave you wanting to return again and again.
For more detailed guides and practical tips, explore our other articles on the blog: Italy itinerary for 2 weeks. This itinerary efficiently covers many of Italy’s best places.
READ ALSO: Top Europe Attractions to Book in Advance
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Jurga Rubinovaite, author at Full Suitcase travel website
Jurga Rubinovaite
Jurga is the founder of Full Suitcase, one of the world’s leading family travel blogs with millions of readers. Her travel advice has been featured on CNN, BBC, and Lonely Planet. Since 2015, she has shared experience-based tips, destination guides, and trip advice to help travelers plan unforgettable trips with family and friends. Have questions? Leave a comment under a related article!](https://fullsuitcase.com/about/)
