Europe · country guide
Italy travel guide
9 cities, suggested multi-city routes, transport tips — plus a full planner for every destination.
Italy's diverse geography, from the Alps to Mediterranean coastlines, offers a rich tapestry of history, art, and culinary traditions. Travelers are drawn to its ancient ruins, Renaissance masterpieces, and vibrant regional cultures.
Each city below links to a full planner: a day-by-day itinerary you can tailor to your dates and pace, a realistic budget breakdown, a packing list, day-trip ideas, a local food guide, and the best months to visit. If you're combining several Italy cities into one trip, the suggested routes group them by region and travel time so you spend less of the trip in transit — and each destination page carries its own accessibility, transport, and neighbourhood detail rather than recycled boilerplate.
Cities in Italy
9 destinations covered. Tap any to get a full itinerary, packing list, budget, and more.
Key regions
This region encompasses the industrial heartland and the Italian Lakes, known for fashion, design, and elegant cities like Milan and Turin. Verona and Venice offer unique historical and cultural experiences.
Home to the capital, Rome, and the artistic treasures of Florence, this area is rich in historical sites and iconic landscapes like Tuscany. Bologna serves as a culinary hub.
Characterized by its dramatic coastlines and ancient history, Southern Italy includes Naples, the gateway to Pompeii and the Amalfi Coast, offering a distinct cultural and gastronomic flavor.
Suggested Italy routes
Classic Italy: Rome to Venice
This route covers Italy's most iconic destinations, starting in the ancient capital of Rome, moving through the Renaissance art of Florence, experiencing Bologna's culinary scene, and ending in the unique canal city of Venice.
Northern Italian Highlights
Explore the sophisticated cities of Northern Italy, from Milan's fashion scene and Turin's royal past to Verona's Roman heritage and the enchanting waterways of Venice.
Taste of Italy: Culture and Cuisine
A journey focusing on Italy's diverse food and cultural landscapes, beginning with the historical depth of Rome and Naples, savoring Bologna's gastronomy, admiring Florence's art, and hiking the scenic Cinque Terre.
Getting around
Italy's high-speed rail network, operated by Trenitalia and Italo, connects major cities efficiently and affordably. Domestic flights are available but often less practical than trains for intercity travel. Renting a car is best for exploring rural areas, but driving and parking in historic city centers can be challenging.
Insider tips
- •Book high-speed train tickets in advance for the best prices, especially on popular routes like Rome to Florence.
- •Many smaller towns and attractions outside major cities are best explored with a rental car, but be aware of ZTL (Limited Traffic Zones) in historic centers.
- •While credit cards are widely accepted, carry some cash for smaller purchases, local markets, and some trattorias.
- •Reservations are often essential for popular museums like the Uffizi Gallery in Florence or the Vatican Museums in Rome, and for dinner at highly-rated restaurants.
- •Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) for pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and potentially lower accommodation prices.
- •Learn a few basic Italian phrases; while English is spoken in tourist areas, locals appreciate the effort.