Top 13 Reasons to Visit Italy

Incredible destinations might be a dime a dozen these days, but there’s something to be said for a great classic, and it doesn’t get much more classic than riveting Italy. Like a vintage wine, Italy is a country that only gets better with time: time to explore every nook and cranny and bask in every stunning bit of art and history. From mouthwatering flavors to lovely lakeside villas, we’ve curated the best reasons to visit Italy for an unforgettable trip that’ll doubtless have you coming back for more.

This post may contain affiliate links. Making a purchase through our site may earn us a commission at no additional cost to you. This does not affect the independence or quality of our content.

What Makes Italy So Special?
Discover the Best Reasons to Go to Italy with Next Vacay

What Makes Italy So Special?

Thousands of years of history, astonishing landscapes, and incredible architecture are a few reasons Italy is high on many travel wish lists. From its mountainous peaks to its glittering coasts, Italy brims with beauty. But if you’re still on the fence about whether or not you should visit Italy, here are 13 compelling reasons to make this land of the past your future destination.

1. History Around Every Corner

From temples and cathedrals to historic cities and ancient inventions, Italy touts a rich history spanning millennia and empires. Bustling cities from Rome to Venice brim with ancient art and architecture around every corner while dramatic landscapes hide ancient ruins and cultivated lands that boast ancient winemaking traditions, which predate Caesar by about a good millennium or two. Suffice it to say, you don’t have to go very far to stumble upon some storied city, artifact, or even tradition. Its treasure-filled history is precisely the reason why a visit to Italy in modern times is so intriguing.

Tour the stunning architecture, vibrant frescoes, and golden mosaics of St. Mark’s Basilica, or head to the historic city of Verona to explore the backdrop to William Shakespeare’s famous Romeo and Juliet. Travel to the sprawling northeast region of Traviso to tour the medieval villages in the region or admire the grassy terraces of Prosecco while sipping a glass of prosecco. No matter where you go, Italy is guaranteed to immerse you in its vibrant past.

2. Coastal Charms for Miles

Beach lovers likely won’t need many more reasons to visit Italy than its stunning coast. With close to 5,000 miles of shore, Italy has one of the longest coastlines in Europe, stretching from the Adriatic to the Meditterean. With such dazzling seas, it’s little wonder that Italy can claim some of the prettiest coasts in Europe. One such pretty coast is the Amalfi Coast, heavily regarded as the most scenic in the whole country. But with a coastline that spans five seas and the Strait of Sicily, Italy boasts much more than just this one sunny shore. Explore the rugged cliffs of Cinque Terre, sit back on the sunny beaches of Salento, and dive into the enchanting blue waters of Sardinia.

Between the clifftop castles overlooking the shore, colorful cottages clinging to volcanic inclines, and ancient watchtowers standing guard against the current, Italy promises to charm the sandals right off your feet.

3. Art & Architecture by the Thousands

With art from centuries past and architecture spanning three thousand years, Italy is a treasure trove of history and beauty. From the soaring ceilings of the Sistine Chapel to the towering presence of Michelagelo’s David and the art-lined walls of the Uffizi Gallery, Italy’s museums showcase the height of human creativity and a penchant for beauty throughout the ages that’s unlike anywhere else in the world. And it’s not just in the art, but the buildings, too. Italy’s architecture weaves through time, with ancient structures from the Roman and Byzantine eras still standing proud and ornate designs of the Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque eras peaking through the streets.

Explore the Sistine Chapel, one of the best examples of architecture and art blending together to create a breathtaking masterpiece of vaulted ceilings and arched windows highlighting the stunning frescoes from Renaissance masters within. Head to the iconic monument that is the Trevi Fountain and admire its astounding sculptures from every angle. Italy houses years of Western art and ancient empires in its streets and museums. From its small towns to its bustling cities, Italy’s art and architecture are always bursting from the seams.

4. Romantic Cities That Sweep You Off Your Feet

If you’re looking for reasons to visit Italy, it doesn’t hurt that Italy is the quintessential romantic escape, one that takes your hand and sweeps you right off your feet. The country has every kind of romantic covered, from the quiet lovers who dream of walking hand in hand down the glittering sands of stunning beaches and sharing cups of espresso in a quaint cafe to daring couples looking to soar above the fields of Tuscany in a hot air balloon. Snow-capped peaks enchant those looking to cozy up together, while wine country has everyone a bit giddy with its delicious wines and incredible beauty.

One is never short of options when choosing a romantic city or town in Italy. Take a leisurely ride up the winding mountain roads of Amalfi to the quaint town of Ravello and enjoy its natural beauty and gorgeous villa gardens. Head south of Rome to see some of the prettiest castles or jettison off to Italian islands like Giglio Island, with its emerald waters and picturesque town, or Pantelleria, with its grottos and caves. Italy has no shortage of romantic towns guaranteed to make you fall head over heels.

5. Picturesque Landscapes for Every Kind of Nature Lover

Italy boasts every kind of picturesque landscape, from rugged mountains to serene coastlines and everything in between. Pastoral fields, lush woodlands, and craggy cliffs delight hikers while shimmering lakes and glittering seaside cliffs enchant sight-seers.

Escape to Capri, where towering rock formations called Faraglioni protrude from the cerulean waters of the Mediterranean. Hike past crystalline lakes, alpine meadows, and rugged cliffsides in the Dolomites, or set your sights on the Selvaggio Blu for a rough challenge that leads past limestone gorges and thick forests. Postcard views amaze kayakers as they paddle through the mountainous scenery and exquisite waters of Lake Como and Lake Maggiore, while Tuscany’s rolling hills and cypress trees lull visitors into kicking back and enjoying the view. No matter where you go, Italy guarantees dreamy landscapes.

6. “La Bella” Fashion for the Fashion Forward

Italy was built on fashion. From textiles to accessories, fashion is the third-biggest industry in Italy, so it’s no surprise that Italy seems to have it all: classic eyewear that completes a simple look, leather goods that take your look to the next level, and designer clothes that make passersby take a second glance. And because fashion is such a big part of Italian culture and economy, you can find it everywhere. Shops and boutiques line the winding boulevards and narrow cobbled streets, displaying row after row of fashionable clothes and accessories. Find the products of local artisans at street vendors, or dig for novelty items on the shelves and racks of small boutiques.

Explore Milan’s rich fashion history and specialty shops for the perfect statement pieces or hop on a high-speed train to Florence and Via Giovan Battista Zannoni, a street brimming with artisanal shops, including Florentine leather. The beautiful Naples has just about everything from luxury shops to street markets and vintage wares. Whatever you desire to feed the fashionista in you, Italy is sure to provide.

7. Mouthwatering Flavors That Have Stood the Test of Time

Italian cuisine isn’t just fuel: it’s a work of art cultivated by a love of storytelling and craft. Ingredients of Italian cuisine are often simple but flavorful, thanks to their unmatched quality. Olive oil is a kitchen staple and versatile in its uses—as a base in sauces, frying oil, or mixed with herbs to create a seasoned olive oil drizzle. Basil brightens every dish with its smokiness, oregano adds a touch of earthiness, and the zing of Balsamic vinegar brings a refreshing tang to meals.

Head to Bologna for its iconic tortellini, a ring-shaped pasta stuffed with juicy cuts of pork and cheese. Pizza fanatics must visit Naples, the birthplace of Italian pizza, to work their way through its endless pizzerias and flavorful Neopolitan and Margherita pizzas. Or roam the streets of Rome to find the best plate of carbonara, famous for having only five ingredients. Italy’s flavors promise to take you on a culinary journey that’s just as exciting as your adventures throughout the country.

8. Colorful Celebrations That Make You Want to Join the Party

What’s better than a good party? One the whole town, or even country, is part of! Italy is full of vibrant festivities, from local parades to countrywide celebrations. Food festivals delight the taste buds, international music festivals move the soul, and carnivals bring laughter and cheer.

Head to Ivrea for a blend of history and fun. The Battle of Oranges sees thousands of townspeople gathering in the historic square to hurl oranges at one another in a medieval rebellion reenactment. Journey into taste in Montecarlo, where the village’s Wine Festival puts local wines and traditional dishes front and center. Or delve into the can’t-miss Carnival of Venice, with its extravagant celebration of decadent costumes, ornate masks, and spectacular parades. Wherever and whenever you travel to Italy, one thing is certain: If Italy makes you fall in love, then Italy during its festival seasons will ensure you come back for more.

9. Whimsical Wine Regions Dotting the Countryside

Wine regions dot Italy’s landscape, and they make a pretty convincing reason for why you should visit Italy year-round. Whether you dream of sipping delicious reds and whites with mountainous landscapes in your peripheral or wish to explore the beauty of the countryside, Italy’s wine regions are straight from a daydream.

Renaissance towns and villages dot the landscape of Tuscany, the birthplace of the Renaissance, where a Chianti, with its tartness and notes of dried herbs, is a classic favorite. In Piedmont, mist-cloaked mountains and fog-filled valleys promise breathtaking scenery. Come truffle season, experience truffles, the “diamond of the kitchen,” and pair them with Piedmont’s “King of Wines,” the velvety Barolo. Cozy up in Veneto, the region nestled between the Adriatic Sea and the Alps, where its rolling hills stretch far into the horizon. Try its Amarone, a rich wine that explodes on the palette with notes of cherries and chocolate. Italy’s wine regions will have you believing you’ve tripped into a fairytale—and the wine will likely assist in this fantasy.

10. Fairytale Destinations Straight Out of a Storybook

Speaking of fairytales, Italy has magic around every corner and enchantment tucked away in every village. Palaces fit for a princess sit high atop cliffs, and towns settled by lush woodlands might just house forest spirits. Dramatic landscapes, sparkling seas, and snow-capped mountaintops all make for images that seem like they were pulled from the prettiest of fairytale books.

Surround yourself with the beauty of nature and idyllic houses in Aosta Valley. Lose yourself in the beautiful Civita di Bagnoregio, where ivy cascades over the walls of this medieval town like an emerald curtain. Stroll down the cobbled streets of Bellagio until you reach the romantic shoreline and admire the scenic views of the tree-covered mountains. Italy is a land of whimsy and countless stories just waiting to sweep you away into your own personal fairytale.

11. Lovely Lakes to Escape the Summer Heat

Italy’s coasts may get all the love, but its lakes could rival any shoreline, with near-endless beauty and serenity for one to get lost in. Volcanic craters, verdant forests, and flourishing olive groves surround iridescent lakes, while hills brimming with blooming blossoms and dotted with ancient ruins wait to be explored. Luxurious villas with staggering gardens wink from the lakes’ shorelines while jutting mountaintops create striking backdrops.

Lake Lugano lures in visitors with its beautiful scenery, best admired from a serene boat ride across the glacial lake or a funicular ride up the rugged mountainside. The glittering Lake Iseo captivates all in the summer, where a ferry ride guarantees a perfectly lazy and lovely way to spend the afternoon. Adventure awaits on the Ancient Valeriana road, where visitors can hike past meadows, olive groves, and quaint villages—all marked by arresting views of Lake Iseo. Or spend a day visiting the beautiful Franciacorta, which abuts the lake and is home to a sparkling wine named after the Franciacorta region. Whether you’re looking to cool down or relax beside gorgeous scenery, Italy’s lakes are reason enough to have you booking your next flight to visit this stunning country.

12. Traditional Villages to Get Lost In

From coastal towns with sandy inlets and glittering beaches to quaint villages nestled among sprawling plains and swathes of brilliant blooms, Italy is replete with captivating villages that will have you spellbound. Medieval towns cascade down hillsides, while rustic villages burst with historic architecture. These fairytale-like villages will have you strolling down cafe-lined streets, standing in quiet reverence of beautiful mosaic-adorned cathedrals, and roaming countrysides filled with castles and vineyards.

Sit back and sip Tuscan wines in a cafe in the hilltop village of Montemerano. Take in the medieval village with its stone walls and cobbled streets before taking a short drive to the famous Saturnia Hot Springs. Laconi, hidden amongst lush forests, is another the perfect getaway. Tour the village’s historic ruins before stopping for a traditional Sardinian meal at an old-school restaurant. And who could pass up tasting the deliciousness of a genovesi ericine pastry in Erice, a beautiful town on top of a mountain? Getting lost in an Italian village is a pastime you will surely get behind.

13. World Heritage Sites That Live Up to the Hype

From volcanoes that shaped regions to mountainous terrain spanning thousands of acres and glittering palaces sculpted by human hands, the country of Italy is teeming with World Heritage Sites that demand to be seen. Traverse quaint, lakeside towns, promenade through historic centers, and explore beautiful villas.

Head to the largest palace in the world to take in the opulent Baroque architecture of the Royal Palace of Caserta, where ornate frescoes decorate the lavish Royal Apartments and remarkable sculptures and cascading fountains fill the palace park. Not to be outdone, the Villa d’Este Palace is a grand work of the Italian Renaissance with its sloping terraces and gorgeous water garden. And who could visit Italy without a trip to the magnificent Rome, bursting with World Heritage Sites from the breathtaking Colosseum to the ageless Pantheon? Italy winds through time and place to leave visitors straddling two worlds, one of the past and the other, the present.

Discover the Best Reasons to Go to Italy with Next Vacay

From sprawling wine regions that sweep you off your feet to coastal shores that invite you to dig in your toes and stay a while, Italy captivates any and every traveler with something to explore, discover, or simply enjoy. Delight in fine food, hike across stunning vistas, admire priceless art, or shop till you drop. There are countless reasons to visit Italy, and three great reasons to use Next Vacay to do it: