The most beautiful cities in central Italy. The most beautiful cities in central Italy What is the most beautiful city in Italy

In addition to its impressive rural landscapes, Italy has many beautiful cities that are worth visiting for any traveler. Here you will find incredible art and culture monuments, unusual architectural buildings and ancient ruins. And although it is quite difficult to choose the most beautiful from the many cities in Italy, we still took the liberty of compiling this rating.

Rating “The most beautiful cities in Italy”

Verona is not only the place where Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet were born, but also an incredibly beautiful city, where there is a lot to see. Ancient Roman ruins (including a very well-preserved arena), medieval castles, magnificent squares and ancient churches - this is Verona that will appeal to even the most discerning tourists. Well, as you would expect, Verona can rightfully be called the most romantic city in Italy.

What makes Venice one of the most beautiful cities in the world? In addition to its beautiful architecture (everyone has heard about the palaces of Venice), this city is famous for the fact that it is built entirely on canals. There are no exhaust fumes from buses and cars, and the only thing you can hear when moving along the numerous canals of Venice is the splashing of water.

Bologna is the capital of the Emilia-Romagna region. The city is widely known in the academic community, as the oldest universities in Europe are located here. Bologna is worth a visit to enjoy the region's colorful cuisine, as well as to see the local Leaning Tower (not to be confused with the Leaning Tower of Pisa).

The largest city in Italy and its capital, Rome, with its 2,500-year history, countless archaeological sites, churches and ruins, simply could not help but be in our ranking. Despite the fairly compact historical central part of Rome, you can spend months walking around the city and not see everything. Italy has many beautiful cities, but coming to Italy and not visiting Rome would be a real crime.

Naples is sometimes called one of the most chaotic cities in Italy, but despite this, you should definitely visit it. Only in Naples can you taste the best Italian pizza and pastries. Also located below the city is a unique underground city, which includes ancient monuments such as ancient tombs, and earlier bomb shelters and catacombs from World War II. Naples also boasts three ancient castles.

Visit Florence just once, and you will understand why this city inspired many writers, sculptors, and artists to their brilliant achievements. With its graceful buildings and cobbled streets, Florence is a feast for the eyes. Here you can see masterpieces by Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, Raphael, Titian, and Caravaggio.

Lecce is one of the largest cities in the Apulia region (its population is about 100,000 people). The city's Baroque architecture is noticeably different from that of Florence, Venice or Bologna. A walk around the city will bring a lot of pleasant impressions, for example, you can see an ancient castle from the 16th century or an ancient Roman amphitheater.

8.LUCCA

The city is located just five minutes by train from Florence. Lucca will delight you with views of cobbled streets, elegant palaces, and churches. The city is also notable for its Renaissance fortified walls, which have now been converted into pedestrian and bicycle paths. Music lovers will be interested to know that composer Giacomo Puccini was born in Lucca.

... A country with a long history, the birthplace of many geniuses and delicious food. This country is to be enjoyed. And to really enjoy and immerse yourself in all the beauty of Italy, you need to visit the most impressive cities. TravelAsk has specially compiled for you a list of the most beautiful cities in Italy (although, admittedly, it was difficult), which should be on every traveler’s wish list.

Pisa

But in addition to the Leaning Tower of Pisa, there are a lot of monuments here, because this is an ancient medieval city.

Florence

Graceful buildings, cobbled streets - this city is truly beautiful.


Here you can see with your own eyes the masterpieces of such geniuses as Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, Raphael, Titian and Caravaggio. inspired many sculptors, artists and writers.

Naples

Naples has the best pizza and pastries. Yes, we are talking about food again) what would life be without delicious food?) But this is not the only reason why the city was included in our rating.

So, for example, do you know that it was about Naples in the 18th century that they said “See and Die”?

And only then the phrase “migrated” to other cities. Castles, cathedrals, catacombs are not all the city's attractions. Near Naples are the ruins of Pompeii and the lesser-known Herculaneum, also damaged by Vesuvius. This is a real open-air museum that captures the history and power of nature.


Bologna

― the capital of the Emilia-Romagna region. The oldest universities are located here, so the city is widely known in the academic community.


It also has its own leaning tower, even two.

She also gave us Bolognese) so here you just need to enjoy the colorful cuisine of the region.

Rome

Well, of course, we couldn’t ignore it. A city with a long history and an incredible number of monuments from different periods.


It’s beautiful: its center is quite compact, you can walk around it for months and always discover something new for yourself. Coming to Italy and not visiting Rome is a real crime.

Verona

Shakespeare immortalized this city: it is the birthplace of the most romantic couple in the world, the birthplace of young love - Romeo and Juliet. Therefore, Verona can safely be called the most romantic city in Italy. It is also incredibly beautiful and full of attractions.

The ruins of Ancient Rome (by the way, there is a well-preserved arena), castles from the Middle Ages, beautiful squares and ancient churches - this magnificence will appeal to even the most demanding travelers.

Venice

A city built on canals, beautiful palaces, the constant splash of water - this makes Venice one of the most beautiful cities in the world. The architecture here is very beautiful.


By the way, returning to Shakespeare, Venice also inspired him: Othello was the Venetian Moor, and, of course, “The Merchant of Venice” comes to mind.

There are practically no cars in the city, and therefore no exhaust gases; even public transport is mainly river transport.

And just imagine: more than 400 gondoliers work on the canals!

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 more picturesque small towns and villages that amaze with their varied landscapes and architecture. There are no crowds of tourists here, there is only real flavor that will help you feel the spirit of true Italy.

LifeGuide has selected 20 of the brightest, most 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 off the shores of picturesque Lake Como.


3. San Quirico d'Orcia. A charming town in Tuscany with beautiful vineyards.

4. Sorrento. Quite a famous resort in Italy with beautiful beaches, architecture and nature.


5. Pitigliano. It is also called “little Jerusalem”, thanks to many monuments of Jewish culture.


6. Lipari. This volcanic island in the Tyrrhenian Sea is famous for its very clean and clear water around the islet.


7. Portofino. A fishing town with a population of just 500 people, it is 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 is home to the palace of the Dukes of Urbino, with a gallery containing one of the world's most important collections of Renaissance paintings.

10. Riomaggiore. The village was founded at the beginning of the 13th century and is famous for its amazing wine. Car traffic is prohibited here.

11. Burgos. This wonderful village with wonderful views and landscapes is located in the Sardinia region.


12. Horta San Junio. A small and cozy city lies on the shores of Lake Orto. And opposite the city on the island there is another San Junio.


13. Verona. This is probably the most famous place on this list. Verona is Paris's main rival for the title 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 its unique trulli structures (see photo), included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.


16. Misurina. A small village located by the lake of the same name and at the foot of three peaks.

Italy is a unique museum country that houses more than 60% of European cultural heritage. On the territory of modern Italy there are architectural monuments and religious buildings from the era of the Roman Empire, castles and fountains from the Renaissance, and masterpieces of the Middle Ages. The most beautiful cities in Italy offer tourists luxurious attractions with a 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 your financial capabilities and preferences. This is not only a European level of beach holidays and many respectable hotels, but also excursions to the very old town of Salerno, climbing to the top of Ravello.

Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre consists of several cities that are built in the spirit of medieval Italy. These are winding streets and ancient houses, beautiful mansions and villas, as well as magnificent landscapes and views. In taverns you can get acquainted with national dishes, taste excellent wine and any seafood.

Naples

Naples is also ranked as the 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 original restaurants.

Verona

Verona is also one of the most beautiful cities in Italy: the city attracts everyone who comes here to listen to real Italian opera. Fans of Shakespeare and lovers of romance try to visit this city, stand on the Stone Bridge and enter the Old Castle. Many tourists want to look at Juliet’s tomb within the monastery walls of San Francesco.

Sienna

Siena is less popular among tourists. But it confidently takes its place in the ranking of visited European cities. This is the territory of ancient Tuscany with colorful streets and a beautiful cathedral, intricate alleys and slopes. Siena is considered the most peaceful place and is suitable for leisurely travel.

The Basilica of San Domenico is built of rare red stone; the building is decorated with a low crenellated tower. From a distance the basilica looks like an ancient 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 itself.

Palazzo Piccolomini was built in the Renaissance style: this famous mansion of the city also attracts tourists thanks to the special atmosphere of the Middle Ages. Opposite is the former Jesuit college. After restoration, the palace appeared before visitors as a modern art gallery. Today, exhibitions, lectures, courses, painting master classes, and events related to art and music are held here. The building houses exhibition spaces and a beautiful used bookstore on one of the floors.

Milan

Among the best places in Italy, tours to Milan are in deserved demand. This is a large city that combines the Italian beauty of buildings and streets with a completely modern business center. People come here for gastronomy experiences, masterpieces of culture and architecture.
In Piazza Duomo you can visit several palaces, see the Arc de Triomphe, famous for its design, take pictures near La Scala, and get acquainted with entire neighborhoods built in the Gothic style. The equestrian statue of Ruler Emanuel II will also attract the attention of tourists; you can also see the Milan Cathedral, which is rare in its beauty and decoration. Many travelers want to come to Milan for another reason, so that in one of the monasteries of the city they can see with their own eyes the painting “The Last Supper” by Master Leonardo - it decorates the refectory of the ancient monastery.

Lake Como

Lake Como is a beautiful body of water in the northern part of the country, which has long attracted the Roman aristocracy: noble nobles built luxurious villas on its shores. The most interesting and popular park complex is Villa d’Este. It was erected on the site of a Benedictine monastery by order of a cardinal five centuries ago.

The ancient park with many picturesque grottoes and descents to the water, amazing fountains and elegant terraces is in harmony with the beautiful decoration of the villa itself. The pearl of the complex was the Neptune Fountain, which is unusual in design and architectural style. Tourists should definitely see the Rometta fountains and the famous Water Organ, should definitely look into the Grotto of Diana and be sure to visit the Alley of 100 Fountains. Water flows through the channels of this Alley from mascarons - mysterious mask fountains protruding from the walls.

Venice

Venice also took pride of place among the rated and most beautiful cities in Italy. For millions of tourists who visit the Apennine Peninsula, a visit to the city on the water, an architectural miracle - Venice, standing on 122 islands connected by 400 bridges, is considered mandatory. Experienced travelers advise choosing a trip time in the off-season, when there are not many tourists.

Almost every building in this city is a historical and architectural monument. Among the main attractions of Venice, it is recommended to visit Piazza San Marco, walk across 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 included in the list of the best places in Italy. The capital is considered a true cultural center, home to famous works of art. For many centuries it has attracted 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 by travelers. Often, huge queues of people wishing to join the world of beauty gather at the entrance, but this is compensated by the true pleasure of the masterpieces of room 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 style, attracts the eye with mosaic patterns sparkling in the sun: the structure is visible from any part of the city.

Palazzo Vecchio is considered by connoisseurs of beauty to be the most luxurious building in Florence. The palace is a real architectural diamond, filled with an exclusive collection of sculpture and painting.

Sicily

Sicily stands at the crossroads of sea routes, and has long been considered a center of mixing unique cultures. Traces of various cultures and peoples remain here. Beautiful beaches washed by the warm sea, the legendary volcano Etna, unique ancient and medieval monuments will make a visit to Sicily unforgettable.

Of all the abundance of tourist places, Palazzo Reale can be highlighted; you should definitely sign up for an excursion to the Palatine Chapel and explore the Cathedral in Palermo. The ruins in Syracuse and the Temple of Concordia in Agrigento easily transport tourists back to the depths of centuries.

Sardinia

Sardinia is an island in the Mediterranean Sea with amazingly beautiful picturesque coastlines. The best place in Italy for a beach holiday. Here, vacationers can enjoy the comfort of seaside resorts and the original, southern flavor among picturesque landscapes with wild beaches and nature untouched by civilization.

The clearest Mediterranean waters are a paradise for divers who come here from all over the world. The mountains of Gennargentu and the cliffs 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 ignore the mystery of the nuraghe - 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 appearance. Here you can experience the stunning beauty of the Eternal City. You should definitely visit the Colosseum, enjoy the architectural ensemble and unique frescoes of the Sistine Chapel, as well as many beautiful squares and fountains.

The Trevi Fountain has attracted tourists since the 18th century. There is a sign according to which anyone who throws a coin into the fountain will certainly return to Rome again.

To visit the best places in Italy and take away a unique experience, just buy a tour of Italian cities from a travel company website. These are affordable trips and excursions to any city and country in the world, exotic places and attractions.

If Greece is famous for its islands, then Italy is famous for its cities. The Apennine Peninsula is home to many beautiful cities, interesting from any point of view: be it culture, history or architecture. Traveling around Italian cities is best done by train, as local driving conditions may seem extreme to many, and the Italian railway system is very extensive and inexpensive. But it seems we got distracted. It's time to move directly to the rating.

No. 10 Genoa

Located on the North-West coast of Italy, it has been an important port hub since ancient times. Thanks to developed trade, the city did not lack money, and the authorities very far-sightedly invested it in the development of urban infrastructure. Now Genoa is on the rise again, and its status is already evidenced by the fact that in 2004 the city was chosen as the European Capital of Culture. Among the highlights of Genoa are the impressive aquarium, the intriguing port area and the historic centre, believed to be the largest medieval complex in Europe.

№9 Perugia

Perugia, the capital of the Umbria region, is mentioned in chronicles dating back to the 9th century BC. Its history is rich and cosmopolitan, and the city, like many of its Italian counterparts, is famous for its historical and cultural monuments. Even during the Renaissance, Perugia became famous for the artists of the so-called Umbrian school, the most famous of whom are Perugino and Raphael Santi. Today it is a fortified city on a ridge of hills, offering stunning views of the surrounding area and Lake Trasimene. The city has a number of interesting museums and a beautiful central square. Both of Perugia's universities are world-famous, and its University for Foreigners is undoubtedly one of the best places in the country to learn Italian.

№8 Bologna

Bologna, the capital of the Emilia-Romagna region, is strong in the welfare of its inhabitants. Thanks to its favorable location, traditions of industry and education, it has always been a fairly comfortable city. In addition to the wealth in Italy itself, Bologna is also famous for its beauty, cuisine and left-wing political views. The city has a very remarkable historical medieval center and several beautiful squares. The University of Bologna is known as one of the oldest (if not the oldest) in Europe and dates back to the distant year 1088

For some time, Turin even managed to visit the capital of Italy

№7 Turin

The administrative center of the Piedmont region - after the completion of the Risorgimento (1861) remained the capital of united Italy for almost 4 years, and during this short period of time the city managed to acquire significant architectural structures. However, even until the 19th century, Turin played an important role in the history of Europe, being the capital of the powerful Savoy dynasty. Today Turin is famous for its FIAT concern, numerous museums, elegant shops and good restaurants. It makes sense to pay attention to outstanding examples of the Baroque style in the architecture of buildings and palaces. In 2006, the city became the capital of the Winter Olympic Games.

№6 Verona

The greatest fame of Verona, without a doubt, was brought by the story of Romeo and Juliet, although even if it did not exist, the city would still make sense to visit. Among the architectural attractions of Verona, it is worth highlighting the Ancient Roman Arena, which is the 3rd largest in Italy and currently serves as a natural platform for the Opera Festival. In addition, there is a remarkable medieval center, relatively well-preserved ancient Roman ruins or an interesting palace complex. Verona is the fourth most visited city in Italy and is definitely worth 1-2 days if you are traveling in the northern part of the country.

Read also: