Popular cities of italy for tourism. The most beautiful cities in central italy
Undoubtedly one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world - Italy presents a wonderful combination of history, art, architecture, natural beauty and culinary wonders
Undoubtedly one of the most popular travel destinations in the world, Italy is a wonderful combination of history, art, architecture, natural beauty and culinary wonders. There are not many places on the planet that have such a wide variety of different scenery, traditions and cultural richness, where each of the areas offers visitors something completely unique. I present to you the most beautiful cities Italy, which is definitely worth a visit during your trip.
Cinque Terre
Consisting of five coastal towns, the Cinque Terre is a fine example of natural beauty. A UNESCO World Heritage Site with narrow winding roads, the Cinque Terre offers visitors breathtaking scenery and unique world, along with excellent wine and numerous seafood. 
Verona
A center of culture and opera, Verona is as charming as its more famous neighbor, Venice. Lovers flock to the balcony of Shakespeare's hapless heroine Juliet, while history buffs can explore the ancient sights of Arena di Verona, Arco di Gavi, and the Roman Theatre. Verona is without a doubt one of the most beautiful cities in Italy. 
Cities of the Amalfi Coast
Stretching for 50 kilometers along the coast, Amalfi is very popular place for vacationers. The coast offers many holiday options, from the expensive but beautiful Positano, to the top of Ravello and the beautiful medieval city of Salerno. 
Sienna
Siena is not so often visited by tourists, but nevertheless, it is a really beautiful Tuscan city. With a beautiful cathedral and an intricate network of rustic lanes, Siena is the perfect Italian city for a relaxing getaway. 
Naples
A historic city located near the ancient ruins of Pompeii, Naples is the third largest and one of the most beautiful cities in Italy after Milan and Rome. As one of the oldest cities in the world, Naples has a rich culture and history to explore endlessly. 
Milan
Milan is the beating heart of Italian business and one of the richest and most expensive cities in Europe. Despite its industrial roots, Milan has a lot to offer in terms of culture, architecture and gastronomy. Here you will find a number of the most famous sights of Italy. 
Cities of Lake Garda
One of Italy's three most famous lakes, Lake Garda is home to many beautiful towns, each rich in history, natural scenery and gastronomy. Sirmione, Salo, Limone and Bardolino are especially popular with tourists.
Venice
A must-see for any visitor to the Italian peninsula, Venice is an architectural marvel that attracts millions of visitors from all over the world. It is best to enjoy the beauty of the city outside the high season, when there are not so many tourists here. Top attractions in Venice include Piazza San Marco, the Rialto Bridge and the world-famous canals with gondoliers. 
Florence
Set in the beautiful Tuscan countryside, Florence is another very popular destination for art lovers from all over the world. As a true center of culture, the city houses the most famous works of art, architecture and sculpture in the world. Among the most beautiful cities in Italy, Florence has always occupied a special position. 
The most beautiful city in Italy - Rome
One of the most famous cities in the world, Rome combines modernity with ancient history in your own unique style. Head straight to the center and immerse yourself in the atmosphere of Rome, experience the culture and stunning beauty Eternal City. Must-see places include the Colosseum, the Sistine Chapel and many beautiful squares and fountains.
Hi all! Summer has suddenly arrived in Italy, and, as always, out of nowhere, crowds of tourists appeared on the streets. Contemplating groups of French, Germans, Spaniards, already dressed in traditional shorts and straw hats, I came up with the idea to compose a kind of hit parade of the most interesting cities Italy from a tourist point of view.
This list includes the most visited cities in Italy by tourists, they are also, logically, the most expensive ... But do not despair! Today everyone has the opportunity to see the pearls of Italy: there are a couple of tips on how.
So, our list of the most worthy to visit Italian cities:
1. RomePerhaps it is difficult to give the first place to some other city. The Eternal City annually attracts millions of tourists from all over the world, and this is absolutely not in vain: there are no such number of architectural monuments, museums, churches, fountains anywhere else. In Rome, everything is imbued with the spirit of antiquity, only here you can literally touch history. |
According to the latest data, this year Venice overtook Paris in the hit parade. most romantic cities in the world. An amazing feeling covers you in Venice, the feeling that this fragile a beautiful city, all filled with bizarre ornaments, slowly goes under water. Tourists take away from Venice an inexplicable sadness and melancholy that inspires. |
The heart of Tuscany, Florence is the cradle of the Renaissance, and only here you can feel yourself in the center of the extraordinary cultural flourishing of the 13th century. Small, like a toy, Florence fits in the palm of your hand, with its tiny cobbled streets, red roofs, and golden benches. |
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famous leaning tower of pisa- one of business cards Italy, - has not yet fallen, which means it continues to attract tourists from all over the world! In addition to the famous bell tower, Pisa is also interesting for others. architectural masterpieces. The cathedral ensemble on the Square of Miracles has no equal in the world. |
Rightfully occupies an important place in the list most visited cities in the world. This is primarily due to the fame of the "world capital of shopping" and fashion, as well as the largest business center. There are a huge number of international exhibitions and conferences. |
From year to year, the tiny pearl of Positano pleases lovers of a bright and juicy holiday. Very characteristic, with many interesting features and magnificent panoramas, Positano will give you unforgettable vacation on the sea. In addition, it is easy to get to other cities of the coast from here - Amalfi, Minori, Maiori, and others. |
The capital of the Emilia-Romagna region can be described as the cradle of education, culture, and good food. It is here that the oldest University of Bologna, numerous churches and museums are located. |
Palermo not only crowns Sicily, but is also one of the largest cities Italy. A favorable combination of vibrant nature, magnificent sea and a huge number of diverse and original monuments of history and architecture, in fact, turn Palermo into an open-air museum. |
2. Venice
3. Florence
4. Naples
5. Verona
6. Pisa
7. Milan
8. Positano
9. Bologna
10. PalermoHere is our hit parade. However, we must not forget that the real Italy is not in big cities full of tourists. It is in small towns and villages, picturesquely scattered among the hills, mountains, plains, coasts ...
What cities would you put on your must-visit list? What are the most interesting places in Italy?
Italy is a unique country-museum, which contains more than 60% of European cultural heritage. On the territory of modern Italy there are also architectural monuments and religious buildings of the era of the Roman Empire, castles and fountains of the Renaissance, masterpieces of the Middle Ages. The most beautiful cities in Italy offer tourists luxurious sights with rich history. It is difficult for visitors to immediately choose the most beautiful city in Italy, so tourists are usually recommended to visit more different Italian cities.
Amalfi Coast
The Amalfi Coast stretches for many kilometers: there is a network of famous resorts where you can relax, depending on financial capabilities and preferences. This is not only European level beach holiday and many respectable hotels, but also excursions to the very old town of Salerno, climbing to the top of Ravello.
Cinque Terre
The Cinque Terre consists of several cities that are built in the spirit of medieval Italy. These are winding streets and old houses, beautiful mansions and villas, as well as magnificent landscapes and views. In taverns you can meet national dishes, taste excellent wine and any seafood.
Naples
Naples is also included in the rankings as the most picturesque and most beautiful city in Italy: it lies next to the ruins of ancient Pompeii and is famous for its rich cultural heritage and eventful history. It is a city of museums and university campuses, galleries and authentic restaurants.
Verona
Verona is also one of the most beautiful cities Italy: the city attracts everyone who comes here to listen to a real Italian opera. Shakespeare fans and lovers of romance try to visit this city, stand on the Stone Bridge and enter Old lock. Many tourists want to look at the tomb of Juliet in the monastery walls of San Francesco.
Sienna
Siena is less popular with tourists. But it confidently takes its place in the ranking of visited European cities. This is the territory of ancient Tuscany with picturesque streets and a beautiful cathedral, intricate lanes and descents. Siena is considered the most calm place and suitable for leisure travel.
The Basilica of San Domenico is built of rare red stone and is adorned with a low crenellated tower. From a distance, the basilica looks like an old castle from the time of the knights. The church was created in such a way as to harmoniously unite the panorama of the city around it.
Palazzo Piccolomini was built in the Renaissance style: this famous mansion of the city also attracts tourists due to the special atmosphere of the Middle Ages. Opposite is the former Jesuit College. After the restoration, the palace appeared before visitors as a modern art gallery. Today, exhibitions, lectures, courses, master classes in painting, events related to art and music are held here. There are exhibition rooms in the building, a beautiful second-hand bookstore operates on one of the floors.
Milan
Among the best places in Italy, tours to Milan are in high demand. This is a large city that combines the beauty of the Italian buildings and streets with quite a modern business center. People come here for impressions in the field of gastronomy, masterpieces of culture and architecture.
On Piazza Duomo, you can visit several palaces, see the Arc de Triomphe, famous for its design, take pictures near La Scala, get acquainted with entire neighborhoods built in the Gothic style. The equestrian statue of the ruler Emanuel II will also attract the attention of tourists. You can also see the Milan Cathedral, which is rare in beauty and decor. Many travelers want to get to Milan for another reason, in order to see with their own eyes the painting “The Last Supper” by Master Leonardo in one of the monasteries of the city - it adorns the refectory of an ancient monastery.
Lake Como
Lake Como is the most beautiful reservoir in the northern part of the country, which has long attracted the Roman aristocracy: noble nobles built luxurious villas on its shores. Villa d'Este is considered the most interesting and popular park complex. It was erected on the site of a Benedictine monastery by order of the cardinal five centuries ago.
The ancient park with many picturesque grottoes and slopes to the water, amazing work of fountains and graceful terraces is in harmony with the beautiful decoration of the villa itself. The fountain of Neptune, unusual in execution and architectural style, became the pearl of the complex. Tourists should definitely see the Romette fountains and the famous Water Organ, you should definitely look into Diana's Grotto and be sure to visit the Alley of 100 Fountains. Through the channels of this Alley, water flows from mascarons - mysterious fountains-masks protruding from the walls.
Venice
Venice also took pride of place among the rating and most beautiful cities in Italy. For the millions of tourists visiting the Apennine Peninsula, it is considered obligatory visit city on the water, an architectural miracle - Venice, standing on 122 islands connected by 400 bridges. Experienced travelers are advised to choose the time of the trip in the off-season, when there are not so many tourists.
Almost every building of this city is a historical and architectural monument. Among the main attractions of Venice, it is recommended to visit St. Mark's Square, walk along the legendary Rialto Bridge and, of course, take a boat trip along the world-famous canals in the company of picturesquely dressed gondoliers.
Florence
Florence is rightly on the list of the best places in Italy. The capital is considered a true center of culture, which holds the most famous works of art. For many centuries, it has been attracting lovers of beauty from all over the world with its treasures.
The Uffizi Gallery can rightfully be considered the most popular place in the city for travelers. Huge queues often gather at the entrance to join the world of beauty, but this is compensated by the true enjoyment of the masterpieces of interior decor and the unique architecture of the museum, which has collected unique paintings in its galleries.
Giotto's bell tower, built as an example of Florentine Gothic, attracts the eye with mosaic patterns sparkling in the sun: the structure is noticeable from any part of the city.
Connoisseurs of beauty consider the Palazzo Vecchio to be the most luxurious building in Florence. The palace is a real architectural gem filled with an exclusive collection of sculpture and painting.
Sicily
Sicily stands at the crossroads of sea routes, has long been considered a center of mixing unique cultures. There are traces of different cultures and peoples. Beautiful beaches washed warm sea, the legendary volcano Etna, unique antique and medieval monuments make your visit to Sicily unforgettable.
Of all the abundance tourist spots you can highlight the Palazzo Reale, you should definitely sign up for an excursion to the Palatine Chapel and see Cathedral in Palermo. The ruins in Syracuse and the Temple of Concordia in Agrigento easily carry tourists into the mists of time.
Sardinia
Sardinia - amazing in beauty picturesque shores island in the mediterranean sea. The best place in Italy for a beach holiday. Here, vacationers can enjoy the comfort of seaside resorts and original, southern flavor among the picturesque landscapes with wild beaches and untouched by civilization nature.
The purest Mediterranean waters are a paradise for divers who come here from all over the world. The mountains of Gennargentu and the rocks of Gallura are truly a godsend for lovers of rock climbing and mountain tourism. And fans of the mysteries of ancient civilizations will certainly not disregard the mystery of nuraghi - stone truncated cones, which in ancient times were built by the people of the same name.
Rome
In the ranking of the most beautiful cities in Italy, one cannot ignore Rome, which was able to combine modern style and ancient historical traditions, creating its own unique look. Here you can get acquainted with the stunning beauty of the Eternal City. You should definitely visit the Colosseum, enjoy architectural ensemble and the unique frescoes of the Sistine Chapel, as well as many beautiful squares and fountains.
The Trevi Fountain has been attracting the attention of tourists since the 18th century. There is a superstition according to which, throwing a coin into the fountain, will certainly return to Rome again.
To visit best places in Italy and take away unique impressions - just buy a tour of Italian cities in a travel company website. These are affordable trips and excursions to any cities and countries of the world, exotic places and attractions.
Italy is one of the most popular countries among tourists. The beauty, history and culture of this country will not leave anyone indifferent. But Italy is not only Rome, Venice, and Milan. There are thousands of picturesque small towns and villages that amaze with their diverse landscapes and architecture. There are no crowds of tourists here, there is only a real flavor that will help you feel the spirit of true Italy.
LifeGuide has selected 20 of the most vibrant, interesting and colorful towns in Italy, where you can feel the true taste of this country.
1. Burano. An island quarter in Venice, famous for its brightly colored houses.
2. Como. Located in the foothills of the Italian Alps and on the shores of the picturesque Lake Como.
3. San Quirico d'Orcia. Charming town in Tuscany with beautiful vineyards. 
4. Sorrento. Enough famous resort in Italy with beautiful beaches, architecture and nature.
5. Pitigliano. It is also called "little Jerusalem" due to the many monuments of Jewish culture.
6. Lipari. This volcanic island in the Tyrrhenian Sea, famous for its very clean and clear water around the islet.
7. Portofino. A fishing town of just 500 people, one of the most picturesque ports in the country.
8. Manarola. This very colorful city is located on the rocks near the Ligurian Sea.
9. Urbino. This small town houses the Palace of the Dukes of Urbino with a gallery containing one of the most important collections of Renaissance paintings in the world. 
10. Riomaggiore. The village was founded at the beginning of the 13th century and is known for its amazing wine. Car traffic is prohibited here. 
11. Burgos. This wonderful village great views and scenery is located in the Sardinia region.
12. Orta San Junio. small and cozy city lies on the shores of Lake Orto. And opposite the city on the island stands another San Junio.
13. Verona. This is probably the most famous place from this list. Verona is the main rival of Paris for the status of the most romantic city in the world. 
14. Positano. In this city, tourists can expect crystal clear seas, a calm atmosphere and beautiful sandy beaches.
15. Alborabello. The commune is famous for the unique trulli structures (see photo), included in the list world heritage UNESCO.
16. Misurina. A small village located at the lake of the same name and at the foot of three peaks. 
It would seem that there are almost no places left in Italy that seasoned travelers would not know about. And yet the most popular destinations Rome, Milan, Venice, as well as the Mediterranean resort of Rimini traditionally remain for trips. But there are other places that you can go to in Italy and not be disappointed.
Daniel Stockman/Flickr.comWhy go
The Cinque Terre National Park unites five small settlements, which together are considered one of the most picturesque hiking trails in western Italy. Monterosso, Manarola, Riomaggiore, Vernazza and Corniglia were once fishing villages and today are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
These cities are located on rocky sheer terraces and consist of colored houses and vineyards. They are an amazing monument, interconnected by the Road of Love.
You can explore the park both by land and by water - many sightseeing boats run along the coast. admiring architectural monuments, churches, towers, fortifications, do not forget to look at the small secluded beach in Monterosso. The water here is amazingly clear, the shore is gentle and sandy, and the beach itself is great for swimming.
How to get there
Getting to the Cinque Terre is not at all difficult - direct trains run regularly from Milan and Genoa. Travel time varies from 1 to 3.5 hours.
Or you can rent and ride along the picturesque highway No. A12 / E80, and in the summer you can also take a boat ride from Genoa.
2. Stresa and the Borromean Islands
Sharon Hahn Darlin/Flickr.com Why go
Stresa is considered one of the most beautiful small towns in Italy, largely due to its location. Sandwiched between mountains and Lake Maggiore, Stresa boasts amazing natural scenery. In addition, there are many things for tourists to do here. You can take the funicular to the top of Mount Mottarone, go to the local alpine Botanical Garden, take a boat ride to the Borromean Islands or visit one of the many villas in the area.
You should definitely visit the monastery of Santa Catarina, as well as the villas of Pallavicino and Taranto with their exotic landscaped gardens.
The Borromean Islands, located on Lake Maggiore off the coast of Stresa, deserve special mention. These islands are interconnected by water excursion route. Here you will see luxurious palaces, parks, peacocks walking peacefully on the lawn, hanging gardens, sculptures, statues and other art objects.
How to get there
Direct access to Stresa high speed trains from Milan. Travel time is about an hour.
If you wish, you can spend only one day on a trip to Stresa without spending the night. However, there are so many attractions here that you should definitely stay in the city for at least a couple of days.
Victoriano Javier Tornel Garcia/Flickr.com Why go
Turin is a luxurious baroque city with many architectural sights and unique museums. Here are Royal Palace, which is the seat of the Savoy dynasty and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Turin Cathedral and the Art Gallery, which houses the works of Italian and Dutch masters.
It is also worth visiting the Valentino Castle, Antonelliana Tower, Superga Basilica, Madama Palace. Turin also has numerous museums. Some of them are very original, such as the martini museum.
How to get there
There are direct flights to Turin from Moscow. If you flew to Milan, getting to Turin is not difficult - both cities are connected by direct rail links.
If you plan to travel by car, you should follow the A4 highway.
Francisco Anzola/Flickr.com Why go
Bergamo is a mix of man-made and natural attractions. Located in the foothills of the Alps, Bergamo is surrounded by picturesque landscapes. And the castle of La Rocca, the Cathedral of Bergamo, the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, medieval towers and richly decorated palazzos create a unique atmosphere inside the city.
Bergamo's location makes it a convenient starting point for further travels in northern Italy. From here you can go to Lake Como or Maggiore, as well as visit historical city Brescia and explore mountain routes Dolomites.
How to get there
Bergamo has direct flights from Russia and trains from Milan. You can also get there by car - Milan and Bergamo are connected by highway No. A4 / E64.
Approximate travel time is about 50 minutes by car and about an hour by train.
Son of Groucho/Flickr.com Why go
The picturesque town of Limone sul Garda is located on the northwestern shore of Lake Garda. Getting here is not easy, but it's worth it.
Overhanging huge rocks, the blue of the lake, houses decorated with the symbol of the city - lemons - all this distinguishes this small but atmospheric town from others.
In Limone, be sure to visit the Palazzo Casa della Finanza and the Palazzo Gepardi, the Church of San Rocco and the Cathedral of San Benedetto. It is worth taking a walk through the Limone greenhouse, where lemon and olive trees grow.
It is also convenient to take boat trips from the town. You can, for example, go to the small but extremely picturesque town of Malcesine, which is located on the opposite bank of the Garda, or get to the northernmost point of the lake - the town of Riva del Garda.
How to get there
direct railway communication with the major cities of Italy in Limone is not. You can get here only by bus from the south side of the lake. Bus stop located in Desenzano del Garda, with trains from Milan, Verona and Bergamo.
Be sure to check the schedule so you don't have to spend the night in an unfamiliar city!
The total travel time is about 3-3.5 hours one way.
Matteo Galli/Flickr.com Why go
Cervinia is a famous Italian ski resort located on the border with Switzerland in northern Italy. Despite the winter orientation, it is interesting to visit it at any time of the year due to the most beautiful alpine landscapes.
In Cervinia, you can not only ride. There is also a karting track, paragliding, dog sledding, flying on hot-air balloon, glacier riding, as well as numerous walking routes around the Aosta Valley.
All conditions are created for skiers here: 150 kilometers of slopes of varying complexity, snowboard park, freeride opportunities, glacier riding.
How to get there
You can get to Cervinia from Turin or Milan. It's coming big cities having international airports.
In winter, a bus transfer is organized between the cities and the resort, in summer it is better to travel by car. Orientation is on the highway number A4 / E64 from Milan and the highway number A5 from Turin.
Montecatini Alto/Flickr.com Why go
When beach season ends in Italy, Montecatini Terme continues to receive tourists, because swimming in the healing waters thermal springs possible all year round.
In Montecatini, you can not only relax in the local baths. It is also worth visiting the old part of the city, which has many historical monuments. In addition, from Montecatini you can easily go for a few days to neighboring Pisa, Lucca and Florence.
How to get there
The closest airports to Montecatini Terme are Pisa and Florence. Travel time by train from both cities will be no more than an hour. This is the most convenient way get to the thermal spa.
Taxi and car rentals are also available. The second option is especially relevant if you plan to travel all over Tuscany.
David van der Mark/Flickr.com Why go
About it beach resort few people have heard outside of Italy, but the Italians themselves simply adore Orbetello.
The town boasts several truly valuable historical monuments, but the main decoration of the resort is its nature. Here lies the Orbetello lagoon, from which three sandbars towards the peninsula of Monte Argentario. All this creates a unique natural composition.
The place is considered ideal for, and you can go on an excursion to the peninsula to see its fortresses and villages.
How to get there
The most convenient way to get there is from Pisa - there are direct flights from Russia. By train from Pisa to Orbetello can be reached in just 2 hours, by car along the route number E80 - a little faster. Or you can come to Orbetello from Rome. There are rail and road links between the cities.
Avinash Kunnath/Flickr.com Why go
Tivoli is located just 35 km from Rome and has a lot of interesting sights. The excursion program of Tivoli consists of visiting Villa d'Este, Villa Adrian and Villa Gregorian. Here you can also swim in the local thermal complex and wander through the picturesque mountainous surroundings.
How to get there
You can get there in just 40 minutes by a regional train that runs 2-3 times an hour. Or take a regular bus, but the time will be longer. If you are traveling by car, follow the A24 highway.
Greg Willis/Flickr.com Why go
Amalfi is the heart and soul of the Amalfi Coast, just south of Naples. Rocky shores here give way to secluded sandy beaches, and most of the houses are hidden on stone terraces where mountain vineyards grow.
Among the sights, the Cathedral of St. Andrew the First-Called and the Emerald Grotto off the coast of Amalfi make an impression.
Amalfi is one of the few towns on the coast where there is sandy beaches. Although they are quite small, it will still be possible to combine sightseeing vacation with beach. True, it is worth considering that at the height of the summer season it can be quite crowded here.
How to get there
Getting to Amalfi follows from Rome or Naples. Both cities have international arrival airports, where planes from Russia also arrive. You can get to Amalfi by regular bus. Travel time will be about an hour from Naples and about 3 hours from Rome.
It is most convenient to move around the country by train or by car. The current train schedule can always be checked on the official website of the Italian railways Trenitalia. And here bus service less developed.
In Italy, you can find many secluded corners that are known to a small circle of travelers and local residents. This country is able to impress both with its natural beauties and man-made monuments.
