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Home/Destinations/Europe/Italy/Travel Guide/5 Essential Places to Visit on a Trip to Italy

5 Essential Places to Visit on a Trip to Italy

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There's a famous quote from Leonard da Vinci: "la semplicità è l’ultima sofisticazione" or "keep it simple.". Keep the words of the great Italian artist in mind when planning a classic trip to Italy. Revel in the country's essential destinations, which are world-famous for a reason.

Rome

The starting point for many classic Italian vacations, Rome is filled with world-renowned attractions, including the Colosseum, the largest Roman amphitheatre in the world, the Pantheon, one of the best-preserved examples of Roman architecture, the Vatican and its splendid museums, the Sistine Chapel, the Basilica of St. Peter, Trevi Fountain, and the Spanish Steps. The best sights of Rome can be explored on foot and on a hop-on, hop-off bus, with the latter allowing you the opportunity to visit other attractions like Marcello's Theatre and Circo Massimo. When in Rome, learn the secrets and skills of Italian cooking and sample wines from the nearby Lazio region.

Florence

A classic itinerary of Italy cannot miss the birthplace of the Renaissance. Immerse in the city's stunning Renaissance sights, including Piazza Duomo, the Baptistery of San Giovanni, and the Giotto Bell Tower. Visit the famous Uffizi Gallery, home to masterpieces by Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, and Michelangelo. Step into the bustling atmosphere of the Mercato della Paglia, where you can buy inexpensive leather goods and textiles, and cheap souvenirs. Roam the Piazza Signoria, which is home to important buildings and statues like the Palazzo Vecchio, a massive fortress-palace, Loggia dei Lanzi, an open-air sculpture gallery hosting antique and Renaissance art, and the Statue of Duke Cosimo I.

Venice

Romantic Venice is best explored on a guided walking tour that takes you to unmissable attractions like Rialto Bridge and Marco Polo's house, as well as back alleys and cultural icons such as La Fenice Opera House and the Bovolo spiral staircase. A gondola ride is a must-do! Admire the city's best views on a ride through the canals.

Milan

When you think of Milan, you think of high fashion and the Last Supper. While booking during fashion week can be tricky, a visit to the Santa Maria dell Grazie to see da Vinci's "The Last Supper" is convenient if you go through Goway. We can arrange tickets that let you skip the line and leisurely explore other major attractions, such as the Sforza Castle, the Duomo, and the famous shopping arcade of Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. On a classic Italian vacation with Goway, you will also get out of the city and explore Lake Como.

Capri

The enchanting coastal destination is all about beautiful views. After walking tours of Rome, Milan, and Florence, you will appreciate the relaxation and tranquillity afforded by this picturesque island.

Check out Goway's Classic Italy trips, which are customizable to your travel needs. You can include add-ons like shopping in Milan or a boat tour in Capri to maximize your enjoyment at each destination along the way.

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What do the experts say?

Jacqueline Fagioli

Jacqueline Fagioli

Destination Specialist
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Italy is full of hidden culinary gems, but one place that really stands out is Trattoria di Via Serra in Bologna. It’s beloved by locals for its authentic Emilian dishes like handmade tortellini in brodo and rich tagliatelle al ragù
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Jacqueline Fagioli

Jacqueline Fagioli

Destination Specialist
Learn More About This Expert
One unforgettable tradition travelers should try to experience is a sagra—a local food festival that celebrates a specific dish, ingredient, or harvest. These are often held in small towns, especially in the summer and fall, and they offer an amazing window into real Italian life
Alisa Grigoryeva

Alisa Grigoryeva

Destinations Specialist
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Italy is not just Rome, Venice, Florence and Amalfi Coast... Every region or small town has its own history, art, traditions, culture, peculiarity
Jacqueline Fagioli

Jacqueline Fagioli

Destination Specialist
Learn More About This Expert
Most tourists don’t realize just how deeply regional Italy is. Not just in terms of food, but also in language, traditions, and identity. Italian culture is really a patchwork of local cultures

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