Italy is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places on the planet, so it’s no wonder it’s the fifth most visited country in the world. With towering snow-capped mountains and sparkling tranquil lakes, idyllic vineyards and breathtaking coastlines, this country is rich in natural beauty. However, Italy’s beauty comes in many forms, and you’ll find equally stunning views throughout the cityscape; Renaissance facades, ancient palaces and Baroque cathedrals sit alongside modern skyscrapers and boutique bistros. If you’re looking for a scenic city break, we’ve compiled a list of the ten most beautiful cities in Italy to add to your travel bucket list.
Florence
The birthplace of the Renaissance, Florence is filled with artistic and architectural masterpieces, so it’s no surprise that the entire city center is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A repository of culture and history, some of the outstanding works include the legendary Uffizi Gallery, the striking Old Palace and the majestic Duomo, the latter dominating the city’s skyline. While the world-class galleries house an undeniably stunning collection of art, just as much beauty can be found in the frescoed churches and intricate porticoes hidden in the cobblestone side streets. Florence’s culinary tradition is equally artful, blending timeless Tuscan cuisine with modern flavors.
Bologna
Bologna’s three nicknames sum up its heritage; La Grassa (the fat one) enjoys a reputation as the gastronomic capital of Italy, La Dotta (the erudite one) is a tribute to the university founded in 1088 – the oldest in Europe – and La Rossa refers to the city’s history. -and La Rossa refers to the numerous terracotta tiles that adorn the roofs of the buildings. A bastion of culinary creativity, Bologna is truly a place to indulge in authentic Italian cuisine, and the masterpiece of Italy’s most delicious city is undoubtedly spaghetti bolognese. For those with a sweet tooth, the first commercial ice cream machine was born here in 1927 and the city is often referred to as the capital of ice cream. In addition to its gastronomy, Bologna is also home to impressive Renaissance architecture, including Piazza Maggiore, the Basilica of San Petronio and the Asinelli Tower (the tallest medieval leaning tower in the world).
Lucca
Lucca is one of the most popular cities in Tuscany and an irrefutable addition to our list of the most beautiful cities in Italy. Lucca has charming cobblestone streets and picturesque squares for walking tours. The Renaissance walls and 16th century fortifications have survived intact, and cycling or walking along the tree-lined paths at the top of the walls offers panoramic views of the vast city at your feet. lucchesi cuisine is another attraction. Indulge in tordelli (stuffed pasta), then befanini (shortbread cookies) and buccellato (a traditional sweet bread) – as the saying goes, “chi viene a Lucca e non mangia il buccellato è come non ci fosse mai stato” (whoever comes to Lucca without eating buccellato probably hasn’t been here yet).
Lecce
Lecce is another walled city, located in the southern region of Puglia (the “heel” of the Italian “boot”). The lavish 17th century baroque architecture is so unique that it has become a style all its own, known as barocco leccese, the best example of which is the intricate exterior of the Basilica of the Holy Cross. Other attractions include the Piazza del Duomo, the Roman amphitheater and the Colonna di Sant’Oronzo. the city is also known for its pulp tradition, which dates back to the seventh and eighth centuries, when artisans had no access to precious materials and had to use paper and glue.
Rome
As Italy’s most iconic city and capital, Rome is not to be missed. Thanks to its rich cultural heritage and more than 3,000 years of urban expansion, the city boasts a whole range of archaeological treasures and sites of historical importance. The list of major landmarks reads like an index to a history book; the Colosseum, the Pantheon, the Sistine Chapel, the Vatican, the ancient Roman Forum, the Trevi Fountain (and that’s just the tip of the iceberg of iconic sites). Add to this an incredible artistic heritage and a part of the sweet life (found in the outstanding food markets and quaint restaurants) and the “Eternal City” becomes one of the most fascinating capitals in the world.
Verona
Famous for its Shakespearean roots, Verona’s romantic Romanesque architecture and winding sidewalks place this northern city firmly among the most beautiful cities in Italy. For other wordsmiths, add a visit to the Casa di Giulietta (thought to be the home of Romeo and Juliet’s Juliet) near Via Cappello to the itinerary. In addition to its literary heritage, Verona’s well-preserved first-century amphitheater hosts an annual summer opera festival, and if you want to combine a city break with natural beauty, head to nearby Lake Garda for its crystal-clear waters and lush green gardens.
Venice
Another classic Italian city, Venice – the capital of the Veneto region in the north – has traded its roads for canals and its cars for gondolas. Spanning more than 100 islands, this floating metropolis was a major medieval maritime and financial powerhouse and remains one of Italy’s most popular destinations. While parts of the city have become a tourist hotspot, there are still many hidden gems to be discovered and hidden corners to explore. Venetian architecture is showcased in the palaces and churches that line its waterways; Basilica di San Marco and Palazzo Ducale are particularly spectacular. Sample exquisite seafood and cicheti (Venetian tapas) at one of the many canalside taverns.
Syracuse
Located on the Ionian coast of Sicily, Syracuse was once the largest city in the ancient world, founded by Corinthian colonists in 734 B.C. The island of Ortygia, connected to the mainland by three bridges less than a mile long, was the original Corinthian settlement. The historic center of the city remains one of the main attractions of Syracuse and is an atmospheric area worth visiting. The city walls that surround the island offer breathtaking views across the Ionian Sea, while the Piazza del Duomo and Syracuse Cathedral are beacons of timeless Sicilian beauty.
Siena
The Tuscan city of Siena is a mecca of Gothic architecture, with its tranquil medieval town square – Piazza della Fields – presided over by the impressive Mangia Tower. The city is made up of 17 trading districts (zones), which have their origins in the Middle Ages, each with its own flag, mascot and traditions. Within each contrada, you will find winding, bustling streets dotted with charming boutiques and authentic pasticcerie (pastry stores). Traditions remain strong throughout the city. The historic horse race Il Palio di Siena is held here every summer and dates back to the 16th century.
Ravenna
Charming Ravenna in the Emilia-Romagna region is at the bottom of our list, with no less than eight UNESCO World Heritage sites. Strolling through the elegant and unpretentious city center, filled with fine restaurants and abundant markets, it is hard to believe that Ravenna was once the capital of the Western Roman Empire. While wandering through one of the several churches, chapels or baptisteries, you will soon understand why this small city deserves all the accolades it receives. The achingly beautiful Byzantine mosaics that adorn the interiors are glorious examples of early Christian artwork and a veritable feast for the eyes. Among the most dazzling are the Church of St. Vitale, the Galaprasidia Mausoleum and the new Church of St. Apollinare.
