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City Walks Through Italy: Your Guide to 20 Must-See Destinations

When you think of Italy, does your mind wander to sunlit piazzas, mouthwatering plates of pasta, or sipping a glass of Chianti while soaking in breathtaking views?

Italy is the ultimate dream destination, where every corner seems to tell a story. Italy offers endless must-see destinations, whether it’s your first visit or a return trip.

But beyond the allure of Rome, Florence, and Venice lies a treasure trove of lesser-known towns and villages that are equally captivating.

That’s why we’ve compiled a list of 20 must-visit destinations in Italy—ranging from iconic cities to off-the-beaten-path gems.

To make your journey even more rewarding, our Europe City Walks will guide you in easily navigating the big cities of Rome and Florence.

If you’re ready to explore Italy like never before, our European City Walks will take your travel experience to the next level. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, these self-guided maps are the perfect companion for discovering Italy on foot.

Download your European City Walk Guide to make it easier to navigate Rome.

Why City Walks Are the Best Way to Explore Italy

Italy’s charm lies not just in its famous monuments but also in its cobblestone streets, tucked-away cafes, and vibrant local culture. A self-guided walking map lets you explore at your own pace, uncovering secrets and stories you’d otherwise miss.

With our walking guides, you can:

• Navigate must-see destinations in Italy effortlessly.
• Discover hidden corners and authentic experiences beyond the tourist hotspots.
• Immerse yourself in Italy’s most enchanting cities’ history, art, and culture.

Walking through Italy isn’t just a mode of travel—it’s an invitation to connect deeply with this beautiful country.

20 Must-See Destinations in Italy

Italy is filled with destinations that will take your breath away. While cities like Rome, Milan, Florence, and Venice deserve their fame, a world of lesser-explored places is waiting to be discovered.

Here’s a taste of what awaits:

• Trieste: Wander through ancient ruins and bustling piazzas at this famous seaside harbour.
• Orvieto: A hillside town with underground caverns and the spectacular Orvieto Cathedral.
• Verona: Enjoy a coffee at the famous Piazza della Erbe before discovering Juliet’s balcony.
• Matera: Explore this unique UNESCO-listed city’s ancient cave dwellings and winding streets.
• Gerona: Visit Spianata Castelletto for great views of the city Christopher Columbus called home.
• Palermo: Discover Sicily’s vibrant capital, filled with a mix of cultures, history, and incredible street food.

From bustling cities to peaceful villages, each destination offers something unforgettable.

Ready to explore Italy’s must-see destinations?

Your Italian adventure awaits. So, let’s get planning.

And remember to organise data for roaming with Airalo before you leave home.

Map of 20 Must-See Destinations in Italy

Italy has a way of capturing hearts and inspiring wanderlust. Whether you’re planning your first trip or returning to uncover even more treasures, the list of must-see destinations can feel endless.

From the North of Italy to the Island of Sicily, many of these Italian places are a little below the radar. Having visited each place, we can personally recommend that you visit.

1. Trieste, Friuli Venezia Giulia

Trieste is the capital city of the Friuli Venezia Giulia region in northeast Italy. A port city, it occupies a strip of land between the Adriatic coast and Slovenia’s border.

We have spent time in Trieste twice on the way to Croatia.

The merchants of Trieste built the Gran Canal de Trieste. You will be in awe of the canal, which you will find linked with the squares, churches and historic cafés.

Castello di San Giusto and the mohttps://www.travelkiwis.com/self-guided-city-walks-2/saic-filled Trieste Cathedral sit on the hillside above. The Cathedral was built on Roman ruins, some still visible.

The hillside also has spectacular views of Trieste and the harbour.

Unità d’Italia is the main square in Trieste. It overlooks the waterfront, is surrounded by grand buildings and cafes, and features a landmark fountain.

Grab your Trieste city walk guide.

2. Padua, Emilia-Romagna

Padua’s architecture and history will have you adding this city to your Italy travel itinerary. With an overhanging portico, narrow cobblestoned streets and youthful vibrancy.

The University of Padua is Italy’s second-oldest university, founded in 1222.

The most impressive sight is turning the corner into Via Cesaroti and seeing the Basilica of St Anthony rising at the opposite end. Opened in 1238, the Byzantine Domes and Turkish Minarets will attract your attention.

At 80,000 square meters, Prato della Valle is the largest square in Italy and one of the largest in Europe. It is a must-see when in Padua.

The square was once a Roman theatre, but 1775, it was changed to a plaza with a statue-lined canal. Festivals and markets are held here near one of the old city gates.

More places to see near Padua can be found here: A Road Trip to Northeast Italy.

3. Vicenza, Veneto

Between Verona and Venice is another beautiful town, starting with the letter V: Vicenza. It is a small city, and most of what you want to see is near the beautiful Piazza dei Signori.

The impressive 16th-century Basilica Palladiana lines one side of the piazza. A climb up to one of its three levels provides wonderful views of the Piazza dei Signori. As well as a view across the rooftops of the city.

Palazzo Chiericati is a museum of art and sculpture from the 13th to 20th centuries; it is housed in a 16th-century palladium building. It is worth the short walk down Corso Andrea Palladio, the main street of Vicenza, to see the building.

Another must-see is the Teatro Olimpico, which was constructed between 1580 and 1585. It was the first covered theatre in Europe.

4. Verona, Veneto

Romeo, Romeo, wherefore art thou Romeo?

Verona has been made famous due to the Shakespearean tragedy Romeo and Juliet, as the play is based in the city. But there is so much more to the medieval town than Juliet’s Balcony (despite the crowds, it is worth a visit.)

Other places of interest in Verona include the impressive 1st-century Verona Arena, which still hosts concerts and large-scale opera performances.

The incredible Castelvecchio Bridge, built between 1354 and 1356, is a fortified structure that houses the Castelvecchio Museum.

The Piazza della Erbe is surrounded by buildings and monuments that have marked the history of Verona, including the City Hall and Lamberti Tower. It is a vibrant place filled with markets and people buzzing everywhere. It was the town’s forum during Roman times.

Take our Verona city walk to see more.

 

5. Turin, Piedmont

Turin is the capital of Piedmont in northern Italy. It is known for its refined architecture and cuisine. The city has many wonderful buildings, including churches, palaces, and defensive structures.

One of the main points of interest in Turin is the famous Shroud of Turin.

The shroud is housed in the Cathedral of St John the Baptist, built between 1491 and 98, and has been guarded for four centuries. Even if you are not a believer, the story portrayed in the video within the church is fascinating.

While in Turin, visit the Piazza San Carlo, the main plaza of Turin. It is a big area lined with many cafes and the churches of Santa Cristina and San Carlo at the southern end, known as the “twins” of Turin.

The Palazzo Reale di Torino is the historical residence of the Savoy family, who controlled Verona for more than 300 years.

6. Dolceacqua, Liguria

Dolceacqua is a small commune near the border with France. The 10km diversion is worth as you head towards Nice from Italy. It very much feels like time has stood still for centuries. With buildings in good condition and people going about their lives in an ancient setting.

The 15th-century Ponte Vecchio is an arch bridge, the subject of a Monet painting. It crosses the river Nervia to the wonderful old medieval village of Doria, which is full of winding lanes climbing the hill to the castle.

The narrow lanes with tall buildings on either side feel like walking in a canyon.

Doria Castle’s origins are in the 12th century, built by the Counts of Ventimiglia. It began as a circular tower and a smaller building. This was added over the years to become a fortified noble residence for the Doria family.

7. Genoa, Liguria

Genoa’s port city is the Liguria region’s capital in northwest Italy. Over the centuries, it has played a major role in maritime trade, and the famous explorer Christopher Columbus called Genoa home.

Piazza de Ferrari fountain is the main attraction of Genoa’s main square. Impressive buildings surround the piazza, including Palazzo Ducale, a 13th-century mansion with an inner square.

Genoa Cathedral (Cattedrale di San Lorenzo) is a medieval church built in the 12th century. In 1941, a shell fired from a British warship into it failed to detonate, but the shell is now on display in the church.

The cathedral is also known for its frescoed interior and unique holy relics.

Much is happening at the Port of Genoa, including the Galeone Neptune, a floating, climb-aboard replica of a 17th-century Spanish galleon built for the 1985 film “Pirates.”

8. Modena, Emilia-Romagna

Between Bologna and Parma is the lovely town of Modena, known for its wonderful food.

Modena is where delicious balsamic vinegar is produced. And don’t just try any balsamic vinegar. It needs to be the Traditional Balsamic Vinegar, aged 12 years. Delicious.

Torre Civica – Ghirlandina provides magnificent views of the city. The Duomo di Modena, next to the Tower, is a UNESCO building where the sunken nave is one of splendour to visit. It was at this church the funeral of Luciano Pavarotti was held.

And for those who love cars, Modena was the birthplace of Enzo Ferrari. The Ferrari Museum has some great showpieces.

9. Bologna, Emilia-Romagna

Bologna is the capital of the Emilia Romagna province in northern Italy, and if you love Spaghetti Bolognese, you have found the city to try the authentic dish.

One of the best things to do in Bologna is to climb the 498 steps to the top of 97.2m tall Torre degli Asinelli. Along with Torre Garisenda, Asinelli is one of the famous Due Torri of the city.

Piazza Maggiore is the place to find a seat and take in the splendour of the City Hall, the Fountain of Neptune and the Basilica di San Petronio.

Basilica di San Petronio is the world’s largest church built of bricks. At a length of 132m, a width of 66m, and a height of 47m, it is the world’s 10th largest church by volume (258,000 m³). Although construction started in 1390, the cathedral wasn’t completed until 1663.

More insights into Bologna can be found at A Road Trip of Northeast Italy.

10. Ravenna, Emilia-Romagna

Ravenna was the capital of the western Roman empire from 402AD and then the Byzantine capital in the 5th-6th centuries.

Behind the old city walls of Ravenna, you will find eight UNESCO-listed buildings.

It was our son Richard who told us about the mosaics. We made sure to stop on our way to Moresco, but we were unprepared for the beauty we saw.

Basilica di San Vitale had us standing still, heads up and taking in the beauty of the mosaic depictions. The Basilica was completed in the year 548. The mosaics completely cover the walls and ceilings of the church and are as vibrant today as when they were created 1500 years ago.

A €10.50 ticket gives entry to 5 places of interest – Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, Basilica di san Vitale, Basilica di Sant’Apollinare Nuovo, Battistero Neoniano and Museo Arcivescovile e Cappella di Sant’Andrea.

 

11. Urbino, Marche

Urbino is a lovely walled city in the Marche region dating back to Roman times.

The magnificent Ducal Palace was built in 1454. It now houses the Galleria Nazionale delle Marche, one of the world’s most important collections of Renaissance paintings. It includes paintings by Titian and Raphael, who were born in Urbino.

The home of Raffaello Sanzio da Urbino, known as Raphael, houses more of his paintings. Most of his work is now found at The Vatican.

From a distance, the Cathedral of Urbino dominates with its large domes.

There has been a religious building on this site since the 6th century. The current version was completed in 1801 following damage to parts of the former church (built from 1021 to 1604) by an earthquake in 1789.

 

12. Siena, Tuscany

Siena is one of the jewels of Tuscany and is famous for its cuisine, art, museums, and medieval cityscape.

The Piazza del Campo is the main square in the city of Siena. Unique for its shell shape, it is a stunning piazza and a great place for people to watch.

Palio di Siena horse race has been run for over 500 years from this Piazza. Horses and riders dressed in the colours of 10 city wards contest three laps of the Piazza. This is in front of 40,000 passionate fans.

Also located here are the Palazzo Pubblico, the Gothic town hall, and Torre del Mangia. This slender 14th-century tower has great views from its 88m height.

The Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta (Siena Cathedral) is a towering edifice and will leave your jaw on the floor. On entering the cathedral, you will be further astounded by the opulent beauty, the columns, the black and white marble, the artwork, and the mosaics.

The interior is stunning, making Siena a must-see travel destination in Italy.

13. Assisi, Umbria

The amazing hilltop town of Assisi is the birthplace of St Francis of Assisi (1181–1226).

Assisi has beautifully paved streets and lanes with flower boxes, speciality food stores, and cafes.

A walk to the top of the hill through the town’s lovely lanes, and you will come to Rocca Maggiore, a medieval fortress with panoramic views over the town and valley below.

The Basilica of San Francesco d’Assisi, built in 1253, will captivate you.

A sculpture called Pellegrino di Pace (Pilgrim of Peace) captures the moment when, in 1204, Saint Francis heard the voice of God telling him to leave the war and return home.

Here in the Basilica, the stone sarcophagus of St Francis lies. And to be in the presence of the body of such a religious figure evokes powerful emotions.

St Francis is the Patron Saint of Italy.

14. Orvieto, Umbria

If driving along the Autostrada del Sole in the region of Umbria, you can’t miss Orvieto sitting high on a rock cliff.

The 14th-century Orvieto Cathedral is undoubtedly the highlight of a visit to this lovely town. It is startling to walk into the Piazza del Duomo and see the huge building, similar to Siena Cathedral.

The golden mosaic façade is so beautiful it will take your breath away. Inside the church, the polished marble floor is stunning.

View the Pozzo di San Patrizio, a 16th-century well shaft with a 248-step double spiral staircase. Also, a network of underground caves, tunnels and wells was created over 2500 years ago by the inhabitants of the time.

The town has cobblestoned lanes, with many boutique shops, restaurants, and bars.

15. Sorrento, Campania

Sorrento is one of the many towns to visit on the Sorrento Peninsula, including the Amalfi Coast. With such stunning places nearby to visit, such as Positano, Amalfi, and Capri, Sorrento is a great place to base yourself.

Sorrento is one of several places that claim the liquor Limoncello as its own. Famous for the narrow streets, Sorrento is a great town to walk in as much of it is pedestrian. You also have the bonus of walking down to the marinas to see the fisherman working on their vessels.

And you can take ferries to more destinations in Italy like the island of Capri or Naples.

The Piazza Torquato Tasso, lined with cafes and bars, is the perfect lunch or dinner spot.

16. Alberobello, Puglia

Alberobello in Italian means beautiful tree; when you visit this small town, it is beautiful but unique.

Alberobello, in the Puglia region of southern Italy, is famous for its unique trullo buildings—dry stone huts with whitewashed walls and cone-shaped roofs.

You can wander the narrow streets in this area with many Trulli now retail outlets and some offering accommodation for travellers.

The Trulli date back to the 14th century when a feudal lord, to avoid paying taxes, had his workers live in a Trulli. The Lord could dismantle the Trulii to avoid taxes for a settlement of people. Very clever.

 

17. Matera, Basilicata

Matera is a UNESCO-listed city for its ancient cave dwellings located in the Basilicata region of southern Italy.

Matera is one of the oldest inhabited places in the world and dates back more than 7,000 years.

The old town became known as the Sassi area. A complex of cave dwellings was carved into the mountainside to house people and their livestock. Local people lived here until 1952, when a lack of electricity and basic sewerage made the caves uninhabitable.

The Sassi have now renovated caves offering accommodation, restaurants, and shops.

Visiting Casa Grotta di Vico Solitario is worthwhile for getting a perspective on the layout of a cave dwelling.

If you have time, a visit to Casa Noha offers you a multimedia perspective of cave living put together by two local families.

 

18. Scilla, Calabria

Scilla (pronounced Sheella) is a coastal fishing village with the spectacular Ruffo Castle perched on a cliff above the water. Legend says the castle dates back to the time of Ulysses, and it is the site of the sea monster Scylla, who menaced Odysseus in Greek Mythology.

The town of Scilla covers the hillside with houses, local shops and a large piazza overlooking the sea. A visit to Chiesa Matrice (Mother Church) or a walk down the winding path to the old fishing village and beach.

Scilla is one of those seaside towns you tend to fall in love with.

With views across the Strait of Messina, a strategic advantage is to guard the shipping routes. And on a sunny day, you can view the Aeolian Islands, seven small islands off the coast of northern Sicily.

If you plan to travel south of Rome, you’ll want to read 5 Best Places to Visit in Southern Italy.

 

19. Erice, Sicily

The medieval town of Erice is located on a 751-m-high hill, offering great views in all directions.

You can enter the city through the Porta Trapani by taking the 3km cableway ride (known as the Funivia) from Trapani.

Wander the delightful streets, visiting boutique artisan shops and restaurants with great views.

Make sure you visit the great bakery shop of Pasticceria Maria Grammatico for tasty sweets and baked goods. It’s one of the best things to do in Erice.

Erice Castle (also known as Venus Castle) was built by the Normans in the 12th Century using stones from a temple originally built for the Goddess Venus.

Erice is a perfect romantic getaway. Its sweeping views over the land and the sea beyond are quite spectacular.

 

20. Syracuse, Sicily

The Ancient Greeks, in 734 BC, founded the city of Syracuse.

You can still see the remnants of that civilization, including the Greek Theatre, built in the 5th century BC in the old city of Ortigia. It is a beautiful old town with narrow lanes and a great view across the blue water.

You will love the hidden plazas where you can drink in bars or cafes.

And as the weather is warm, Ortigia Island is perfect for swimming, like the area known as Forte Vigliena. Take the steps to the sea for a swim and sunbathe on the rocks.

Conclusion: Your Italian Adventure Awaits

Italy is a land of dreams—where ancient history, world-class art, and breathtaking landscapes blend seamlessly with vibrant culture and unforgettable cuisine. Every step you take, from the iconic streets of Rome to the hidden gems of Sicily, reveals something extraordinary.

With so many incredible must-see destinations in Italy, exploring on foot is the best way to experience its charm truly. Whether wandering through historic city centres, discovering quiet villages, or soaking in scenic views, a self-guided city walk lets you connect with Italy at your own pace.

Don’t just visit Italy—experience it.

Our collection of European City Walks is your ticket to uncovering the heart and soul of this beautiful country. With carefully crafted routes, insider tips, and must-see highlights, you’ll enjoy an unforgettable journey from start to finish.

So, what are you waiting for?

Download your City Walk Guide now, pack your walking shoes, and get ready to fall in love with Italy, one step at a time. The adventure of a lifetime starts here!