16 Things to Do in Italy, According to Our Italy Specialist
Italy is easily one of our favourite destinations, and it’s not hard to see why. Home to rich history, renowned artwork, romantic architecture, postcard-perfect landscapes and, of course, world-class cuisine, this captivating country truly has something for everyone. With so much to cover, though, it can be difficult to know where to start – enter Valeria, a born-and-bred Italian and our resident Italy specialist, with her list of must-see sites and unbeatable activities. Ready to start living la dolce vita? Read on to discover Valeria’s recommendations for the best things to do in Italy…
- Visit Vatican City
- Sail to Murano & Burano Islands
- Hike Mount Etna
- Wine tasting in Chianti
- Tour Matera
- Explore Florence's Gardens
- Take part in a cooking class
- Discover Doge's Palace
- Marvel at the Uffizi Gallery
- Cruise along the Amalfi Coast
- Snorkel in the Maddalena Archipelago
- Enjoy a food tour in Bologna
- Stroll around Naples
- Hike along Via Ferrata
- See traditional trulli in Alberobello
- Swap Perugia for Orvieto
1. Visit Vatican City
Rome
For a dose of history, pay a visit to Vatican City, the sacred city-state that sits neatly within Italy’s capital city of Rome. Start by admiring the splendour of St. Peter’s Basilica, home to 2,000 years of Christian and papal legacy, before heading to the Vatican Museums, one of the finest collections of art in the world. Take your time admiring the intricate details of the incredible artwork, including Michelangelo's frescoes in the Sistine Chapel, and learn about the stories behind the work as you go.
Valeria’s top tip? The Vatican can get pretty busy, so either visit early in the morning or come prepared to queue.
Image by Gary Yeowell / Getty Images.
2. Sail to Murano and Burano Islands
Venice
For a change from Venice’s classic gondola rides, head out on a boat for a tour of the Murano and Burano Islands. Begin in Murano, home to some of the world’s best glassblowers, to see the local artisans at work and learn how their craft has developed.
Once you’ve picked up a crystal-clear souvenir, set sail for nearby Burano, where colourful houses line sparkling canals. Like Murano, this island is known for its craftsmanship, but Burano’s speciality is handcrafted lace. Wander along the water to a local workshop, where you can watch craftswomen as they weave intricate lace patterns fit for royalty.
Image by Jerome Galland.
3. Hike Mount Etna
Sicily
As Europe’s tallest active volcano, Mount Etna has earned itself a bit of a reputation as a must-see site, best explored alongside a local guide. It might sound a bit alarming, but don’t be put off by the ‘active’ part – this towering geological wonder is among the most monitored volcanoes in the world, and your knowledgeable guide will take good care of you as you weave through pine forests and past solidified lava flows.
You’ll likely build up an appetite as you go, so we recommend pausing at charming villages complete with small trattorias perfect for refuelling. If you fancy it, you can even stop at an authentic winery set on Etna’s slopes for a picturesque picnic (and a tasting, of course).
Image by Dagnija Berzina / Unsplash.com.
4. Wine tasting in Chianti
Tuscany
Tuscany’s Chianti region is famous for its rich red wines, so a visit to its vineyards is a must for any aspiring sommelier. Located between Florence and Siena, Chianti is home to a number of historic wineries, many of which are set along a section of the famous Via Francigena pilgrimage route. Think rolling hills, lush landscapes and fresh country air – where better to enjoy a glass of vino?
While it’s best to visit more than one vineyard to get a true taste of the region’s offerings, Valeria specifically recommends Castello di Albola in Radda. Along with a guided tasting of some legendary wines, including Chianti Classico, you can also visit their fascinating wine cellar, explore the gorgeous green estate or enjoy a cooking class with their very own professional chefs.
Image by Lucy Laucht.
5. Tour Matera
Basilicata
If you’re after a historic city with fewer crowds than the capital, look no further than Matera. Set in the Basilicata region and surrounded by steep limestone cliffs, Matera is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, dating back almost 10,000 years. To best immerse yourself in the city’s rich history, step out on a walking tour with a local guide, who’ll fill you in on Matera’s past. ‘Be prepared, though,’ Valeria notes, ‘to do a lot of steps…’
Spend time roaming the city, admiring its stone buildings and grand churches. Matera is perhaps best known for its sassi – ancient cave dwellings carved into the rock cliffs – located within the two main districts, Sasso Barisano and Sasso Caveoso. Pay a visit to these UNESCO-listed caves, which once acted as homes, churches and monasteries, for a true glimpse into how ancient communities lived.
Image by ronnybas/stock.adobe.com.
6. Explore Florence's Gardens
Florence
Escape the city heat with a wander around the famous Boboli Gardens, set directly behind the iconic Pitti Palace in Florence. Designed by the prominent Medici family, these gardens became renowned across the continent, inspiring a number of other European aristocrats to replicate the style. Take your time soaking up the history and beauty of this outdoor museum, ambling along grand avenues flanked by imposing statues and enjoying panoramic views of Florence.
For a more off-the-beaten-track experience, stroll the romantic Torrigiani Gardens. Famous for its botanical garden and abundant with exotic sculptures, ancient cedars and restored greenhouses, the estate is perfect for a lazy wander.
Image by CoinUp / Getty Images.
7. Take part in a cooking class
Anywhere in Italy
There’s no disputing Italy’s cuisine is iconic – so iconic, in fact, that it was the first cuisine to be added to UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list in 2025. While visiting trattorias, osterias and ristorantes is a non-negotiable, we’d also recommend taking part in a cooking class to get up close and personal with traditional methods, local ingredients and regional dishes.
Unlike the other suggestions on our list, there really is no ‘best place’ to enjoy a cooking class – it’s all down to personal preference. Valeria notes that each region’s cuisine is deliciously distinct, so whether you’d rather whip up cacio e pepe in Rome or try your hand at making Sicilian arancini, there’s something for every palate.
Image by Jackie Cole.
8. Discover Doge's Palace
Venice
Step back in time at one of the most famous landmarks in Venice: the beautiful Doge's Palace. Renowned as a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, this palace-turned-museum was once the official residence of the city’s doges, dukes who ruled over the city.
If you’re not quite sure where to start, take a guided tour around the palace with a local historian, marvelling at its grand halls and Renaissance artworks and stopping at the Inquisition chambers and prison cells, where the infamous Casanova was imprisoned.
Image by Olivier Romano.
9. Marvel at the Uffizi Gallery
Whether you’re an art aficionado or you don’t know your da Vinci’s from your Botacelli’s, Florence’s Galleria degli Uffizi is a must-do on trips to Italy. It's one of the oldest and finest museums in the world, housing a vast collection of art ranging from the Middle Ages to the Modern Period.
For an even closer look at the artwork, opt for a guided tour of the galleries with an art historian, who’ll fill you in on the history of Renaissance art – but no matter what you do, remember to book in advance.
Image by Roberto Moiola / Sysaworld / Getty Images.
10. Cruise along the Amalfi Coast
Campania
Sun-soaked, serene and spectacularly romantic, the Amalfi Coast is popular for good reason. Stretching 30 miles across the coast of Campania, this pretty seascape is home to a number of scenic towns, including Positano, Ravello and Praiano. Exploring these villages is a must-do, but to truly take in the region’s beauty, we’d recommend a boat trip along the pristine coastline.
Board a traditional gozzo boat and set sail, taking in views over the sparkling sea and dramatic cliffs. For an island experience, cruise to Capri, stopping at hidden coves for a cooling dip in the water, or for a more comprehensive tour of the coastline, set off on a full-day trip all the way from Amalfi to Positano. If you happen to be travelling with your better half, head out on a sunset cruise for a truly love-laced experience.
Image by Lucy Laucht.
11. Snorkel in the Maddalena Archipelago
Sardinia
Speaking of boats – if you’re looking for things to do in Sardinia, we’d recommend sailing over to the beautiful Maddalena Archipelago. This serene smattering of islands really only arrived on the travel map in 2008, when the huge NATO naval base there shut down for good – as a result, the archipelago remains a beautifully unspoilt and secluded corner of Italy, protected by its status as a national marine park.
With seven large islands and fifty-five smaller islets, Maddalena is the perfect place to discover hidden coves and relax on pristine beaches. If you prefer sea to sand, you’re in luck: the water surrounding the islands is known for its clarity and purity, making the archipelago a snorkeller's paradise. Don a mask and spend a day gliding through the crystal-clear waters, keeping your eyes peeled for groupers, rainbow wrasse and even the occasional sea turtle or dolphin.
Image by Adam Neumann / Unsplash.
12. Enjoy a food tour in Bologna
Bologna
Affectionately nicknamed ‘La Grassa' (‘the fat one’), Bologna is Italy's culinary capital – an impressive title to claim in a nation of fantastic food. The city is the birthplace of some seriously delectable dishes, including ragu (bolognese to us Brits), tortellini in brodo (filled pasta in a rich broth) and mortadella sausage.
It might be difficult to try everything Bologna has to offer, but you can give it a good go on a culinary tour of the city. Accompanied by a fellow local foodie, wander along winding streets and through hidden alleyways, sampling everything from savoury parmigiano to perfectly sweet gelato.
Image by Gary Yeowell / Getty Images.
13. Stroll around Naples
Naples
Discover the many facets and intricacies of Neapolitan culture on an underground tour with a local guide, whose passion and knowledge will bring the city to life. As you stroll through the picturesque streets of the UNESCO-listed old town, visit iconic landmarks and discover hidden gems, from covert courtyards and artisan workshops to the best street food, pastries and coffee around.
Along the way, your guide will fill you in on the secrets of the city as you visit the jaw-dropping Duomo and historic museums. You'll also get the inside track on the perfect lunch spot for sampling delicious local dishes after the tour – Naples is the birthplace of pizza, after all.
Image by Luca Musella / Pexels.
14. Hike along Via Ferrata
The Dolomites
Historically overshadowed by more famous sections of the Alps, word is getting out about the Dolomites. This staggeringly beautiful mountain region isn’t quite like the others, though – along with the classic hiking trails and natural beauty, the Dolomites also boast a network of via ferrata, or ‘iron paths’. These mountain routes are made up of iron ladders, narrow footways and rope bridges, allowing everyone from total novices to pro climbers to experience the thrill of mountaineering.
Fitness fanatics can tackle more challenging paths, while beginners can stick to simple via ferrata trails (both alongside an expert guide, of course). If you’re a true thrill seeker, you could even take on the most difficult climbs, travelling through historic World War I tunnels still used to train both UK and US special forces.
Image by pexels-silentjars.
15. See traditional trulli in Alberobello
Puglia
If there’s one thing Puglia is famous for – apart from its fantastic food, beautiful architecture and postcard-perfect coastline, of course – it’s trulli. Recognisable by their whitewashed walls and conical roofs, these UNESCO-listed huts are built without mortar, relying instead on a double layer of stacked limestone bricks for stability.
You can find trulli in several towns across Puglia, but we’d recommend heading to Alberobello, home to over 1,500 of these iconic structures. As you wander through the village, soak in the fairytale scenery and learn about the history of its trulli, some of which have been standing since the late 14th century.
Image by Kirsten Velghe / Unsplash.
16. Swap Perugia for Orvieto
Umbria
When it comes to Umbria, Perugia might be popular, but according to Valeria, there’s somewhere even better. ‘Perugia is beautiful, but if you’ve got limited time, I’d opt for Orvieto. It has all the charm of the capital, but with fewer crowds and a beautiful cathedral.’
Set off on a stroll around the city’s charming alleys, winding your way to the main square and the ornate Orvieto Cathedral. Said to be the site of the 13th-century Miracle of Bolsena, when a doubting Catholic priest witnessed the blood of Christ drip from his consecrated bread onto the altar, this historic church boasts intricate frescoes and ancient relics. Once you’ve been suitably wowed, step back out for an ice-cold spritz and panoramic views over the cityscape. It doesn’t get much better than this…
Image by T. S. / Unsplash.
