Top Vacation Spots in Italy

Why is Italy a popular tourist destination? The answer inescapably lies in Italy’s majestic architecture, its astonishing natural beauty, its unprecedented cuisine, and its distinguished culture. There is so much to do, you’ll not waste a second ruminating over where to go in Italy.

Beautiful heights of the Alps and Apennines and the warm waters of the Mediterranean have blessed Italy with some of the most breathtaking natural landscapes you will ever come across on this planet. After all, what else can beat the ecstasy of relaxing in those famed Sicilian villas while sipping some quality Prosecco wine? So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and hit the road! Don’t worry, we are here to help you plan your itinerary. Read on to know more about the top 33 vacation spots in Italy.

One of the most popular destinations in Italy, the floating city of Venice is built on an archipelago in the Adriatic sea in northeast Italy. The city has no roads and is known for its extensive network of canals. Boating on the canals through majestic renaissance era waterfront palaces and basilicas will give you a vibe of those olden times. Want an immersive first-hand experience of Italian culture, architecture, and cuisine? Head to Venice right away without a thought. To make the most of your tour while here, don’t miss out on the following:

• Explore the city and its labyrinthine canals on a Gondola

• Admire the beautiful Gothic architecture and paintings at Doge’s Palace museum

• Treat your ears to some classical music at Teatro La Fenice opera house

• Pay your respects at the Basilica of Saint Mark

• View some fabulous masterpieces at the Peggy Guggenheim Collection

• Relish some fresh-made pasta and pastries

You have to actually visit Rome to see why they say it wasn’t built in a day. The fabled city of Romulus and Remus isn’t just another capital city - it houses the heart of Christendom, or Catholicism to be precise. Located on the Tiber midway on the Italian peninsula, the city of Rome has been in existence for more than 2700 years. It’s no wonder why the city, also known as the ‘Eternal City’, is loaded with world heritage sites and ancient architectural marvels. Following are some of the top attractions in the city that should definitely be struck off your bucket list:

• Meet the Roman gods at the Pantheon

• Seek the blessings of the Holy Father at Saint Peter’s Basilica at the Vatican

• Feel the presence of fallen warriors at the Colosseum

• Admire the beauty of the iconic Trevi Fountain

• Witness the ancient architecture of the Roman Forum atop Palatine Hill

• See the fabulous art at Galleria Borghese

• Shop and stroll through the neighborhood of Trastevere

Florence, the capital of Tuscany, is located in the north and is one of the best destinations to visit in Italy. Being the birthplace of the renaissance, this historical city is home to some of the best art and architecture from the era. The ‘most beautiful city’ title that it received from Forbes is well deserved. But Florence is not all about art and culture. The city is a fashion lover’s paradise and houses some of the biggest Italian fashion labels. Some other attractions in Florence worth your time are:

• Appreciate the works of great masters like Michelangelo and da Vinci at Uffizi Gallery

• Taste the amazing local cuisine at Mercato di Sant’Ambrogio

• Enjoy a panoramic view of Florence from Michelangelo Square

• Visit the historic Cathedral of Florence

• Be amazed by the grandeur of Palazzo Vecchio

• Shop for high-end fashion labels at ‘The Mall’

Located in northern Italy, the city of Milan is the capital of the Lombardy region of the country. It is the second-largest city and one of the top destinations in Italy. The city is full of historical landmarks and world-famous shopping centers. Are you a fashion enthusiast? Milan, one of the four fashion capitals of the world, is the best place to satiate the fashionista in you. Also, your visit to the city would be incomplete without the following:

• Marvel at the Cathedral of Milan, an architectural masterpiece

• Enjoy some delicious locally made Gorgonzola

• Explore the expansive Sforza Castle

• Listen to the soothing music at the La Scala opera

• See da Vinci’s ‘Last Supper’ at the Church of Holy Mary of Grace

• Shop for your favorite labels at the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

Fans of 'The Godfather' must already be having an idea of what Palermo is all about. The capital of Sicily and the birthplace of Vito Corleone, the godfather, Palermo is the quintessential Mediterranean city. The city is home to some unique architecture with heavy Arab influence. Are you a pizza aficionado? You wouldn't want to ever depart from Palermo! We will tell you where to find the best pizza, and also:

• See the beautiful Norman Palace

• Ask for the Lord's mercy at the grand Cathedral of Palermo

• Entertain yourself at the Teatro Massimi

• Relish the amazing Sicilian street food

• Savor the finest pizza at the Frida Pizzeria

• Pick up some fresh fruits from the Mercato Ballaro

• Unwind yourself at the Spiaggia di Mondello

Italy is not all about churches and museums. Take Positano, for example. Located in southern Italy on the coast of Amalfi, Positano is the ultimate seaside resort town. Cascading hillsides covered with colorful buildings and amazing Mediterranean weather makes this idyllic settlement a favorite among couples looking to spend some romantic time together. Add to that some good fashion shopping and amazing local food. Too lazy? Just enjoy the superb view from your hotel balcony. Here are some of the things you shouldn't miss in Positano:

• Bask in the sun at the Spiaggia Grande

• Pray to the Holy Mother at the Church of Santa Maria Assunta

• Hike on the beautiful Sentiero degli Dei or the 'Path of Gods'

• Discover the beautiful Amalfi coast

• Shop for some amazing ceramicware at the nearby Ceramiche Piccadilly

• Explore the caves of Emerald Grotto on a boat

Craving a place where the tourist crowd is relatively thin? Welcome to Bologna! Located about five hours north of Rome in northern Italy, the metropolitan city of Bologna is the capital of Emilia Romagna. Nicknamed ‘The Learned One’, the city is home to the oldest university in the world. But it’s much more than just a university town - it’s a financial and tourist hub, a display of amazing architecture, and a thrilling nightlife. No matter who or what you are, the city will leave you enthralled. For an immersive experience of Bologna:

• Bow before the Virgin Mary at the Sanctuary of the Blessed Virgin of Saint Luke

• Enjoy some quality Italian wine at Osteria Del Sole

• Take a panoramic look at the city from the Two Towers

• Have a bellyful of local delicacies at the Marcato di Mezzo

• Spend some time strolling around the Piazza Maggiore

• Experience masters like Raphael and Reni at the National Art Gallery of Bologna

• Shed a tear or two for Christ at Compianto sul Cristo Morto at the Sanctuary of Santa Maria della Vita

Located in the central Italian region of Marche, Corinaldo is one of those bucolic small towns that appear to have been frozen in time. Perfectly preserved fourteenth-century walls and tranquil terraces lined with old-world buildings try their best to teleport you to an altogether different era. Located in an area that abounds with natural beauty and cultural heritage, the town can also be a great vantage point for delving deeper into the Italian countryside. While here, make sure to:

• Marvel at the imposing walls or Mura di Corinaldo

• Snap a selfie at Potenta Well

• Hail the virgin-martyr at the Diocesan Sanctuary of Santa Maria Goretti

• Visit the birthplace of Santa Maria Goretti

• Acknowledge the art at Civica Raccolta d'arte Claudio Ridolfi

• Savor the awesome pastry at Bar Pasticceria Gelateria Dolci Tentazioni

Remember those beautiful villas and rustic Italian countryside shown in the superhit classic ‘The Godfather’? You guessed it right, Sicily it was. Located just across the Strait of Messina from the Italian mainland, Sicily is the largest island of the Mediterranean. Towering volcanic mountains, magnificent architecture, picturesque villas, and some heavenly Pizza - Sicily is too much to be described in a single paragraph. A day is not enough; you need more time while here to:

• Take a sojourn on the island of Ortigia

• Be dazed by the imposing Mount Etna

• Call on the gods at the Valley of Temples

• Grab a seat at the ancient Theatre of Taormina

• Admire the blend of Byzantine and Moorish architecture at the Palatine Chapel

• See the beautiful Norman Palace

• Relax on the beach at the Rabbit Island

• Taste some exquisite wine at Gambino Winery

I can bet rolling hilly landscapes and beautiful vineyards are the first things that come to mind upon hearing the name ‘Tuscany’. Located in central Italy, the region of Tuscany is on the list of every visitor to the country. It’s somewhat a region of contrast, embodying both stunning agrarian countryside and sprawling urban areas, such as Florence and Pisa. Are you a wine lover? Tuscany is made for you! And this is not just any wine - it’s top-notch country-made Italian wine. Some other things to do in Tuscany include:

• Cheer the racing Palio horses at Piazza del Campo in Siena

• Stand in awe of Michelangelo’s David at the Galleria dell'Accademia

• Snap a photo at the Ponte Vecchio bridge

• Experience amazing hospitality and superb wine at the Casa Emma vineyard

• Invoke the blessings of the Christ at the Cathedral of Siena

You haven't heard of Verona? Well, it's the city of Romeo and Juliet! Located on the Adige in the northern region of Veneto, Verona is one of the most iconic Italian cities, partly thanks to it being the setting of Shakespeare’s 'Romeo and Juliet'. With beautiful medieval architectural and artistic heritage, fairs, museums, and transcendent opera, your tour to Italy wouldn’t be complete without a visit to this city. While in Verona, don’t forget to:

• Attend a show at the Arena di Verona

• Shop through the arcades at Piazza del Erbe

• See the marvelous art at Museo di Castelvecchio

• Have an all-encompassing look at Verona from Torre dei Lamberti

• Witness some amazing Christian art at the Cathedral of Verona

• Recreate the iconic balcony scene at Juliet's House

The imposing Vesuvius, warm sunny beaches, beautiful hilly cliffs, and wonderful souvenir shops - isn't it enough to bring you to Sorrento, the land of oranges? Located on the beautiful Amalfi Coast in the region of Campania in southern Italy, Sorrento is a perfect seaside sojourn for beach lovers. Also, that drive along the beautiful Tyrrhenian Sea on the Amalfi Drive is going to be the experience of a lifetime. Still not impressed? Try the following:

• Have a drink at Piazza Tasso

• Laze away some hours at the Sorrento beach

• Roam around the Corso Italia

• Enjoy some authentic Mediterranean citrus fruits at I Giardini di Cataldo

• Go on a boat cruise on the Bay of Naples

• Visit the winery of Limonoro

• Marvel at the ornate architecture of Chiostro di San Francesco

Can anything beat the sight of beautiful vineyards nestled in the splendid Alpine valleys? Probably not; and that's exactly why Bolzano is among the top vacation spots in Italy. Located in the northern province of South Tyrol, the city of Bolzano was previously a part of Germany and still has a strong German influence. The city is a potent blend of culture, taste, tradition, and precious archaeological heritage. For a thorough feel of Bolzano, make sure to:

• Meet 'Otzi the iceman at the South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology

• Get a bird's eye view of the beautiful valleys from the cable car of Renon

• Hike along a trail of choice in the Puez-Geisler Nature Park

• Drift about the Piazza Walther

• Appreciate the secular frescoes at the Runkelstein Castle

• Go souvenir hunting at the Bolzano Christmas Market

The city of famed sixteenth-century architect Andrea Palladio, Vicenza is a World Heritage Site and home to some amazing renaissance architecture. Straddling the Bacchigleone, Vicenza is located just sixty kilometers west of Venice in the northern region of Veneto. Beautiful churches, plazas, museums, and famed Palladian Villas define this city. The city is surrounded by agricultural countryside and is a good place to enjoy some traditional delicacies made from locally produced fresh ingredients. When here, don't forget to:

• Watch a concert at the Teatro Olimpico

• Wander around the Piazza dei Signori

• Marvel at the architecture of Basilica Palladiana

• Appreciate some art at Palladio Museum

• Seek the blessings of Saint Mary of Mount Berico

• Spend some time at the magnificent Villa La Rotunda

• Relax at the Parco Querini

• Walk across the San Michele bridge

This is one of those few Italian destinations where the tourist crowd is thin. Located in the heart of the beautiful Apulia region in southern Italy, Crispiano is a small village surrounded by beautiful farms. No wonder it's known as “the land of a hundred masserie” (ancient farms). Beautiful hills dotted with farmhouses, and Mediterranean olive groves make this place perfect for those looking to leave behind the city crowds for a while. Those visiting Crispiano should definitely:

• See the Villa Comunale

• Pay your respects at the Chiesa di San Gregorio Magno

• Nibble on some fresh-made cheese at Masseria Mita

• Go hiking on the surrounding hills

• Explore the nearby caves

• Enjoy roasted meat delicacies at a local rosticceria

• Explore the nearby medieval town of Taranto

• See the local archaeological finds at the Museum of Taranto

Small villages and hamlets spread over lovely islands surrounded by a serene lake amidst picturesque hills - can it get any more beautiful? It's no wonder Monte Isola was chosen as the third-best tourist spot in Europe in 2019. Located in the northern region of Lombardy in Lake Iseo, Monte Isola is the largest lake island in Italy. The island is home to some beautiful medieval churches and an island castle that is a real treat for the eyes to look at. Also, you should definitely:

• Take a ferry to Centro Storico di Monte Isola

• Explore the beautiful Lake Iseo on a kayak

• Invoke the blessings of the Virgin Mary at the Santuario della Madonna della Ceriola

• Take a trip to the beautiful castle atop the nearby Loreto Island

• Visit the iconic Rocca Mortinengo castle

• Take a walk among the hills surrounding the lake

Thanks to that iconic leaning tower, Pisa is perhaps one of the most well-known cities in Italy. Located on the west coast of Italy at the mouth of Arno in Tuscany, Pisa is just a four-hour drive away from Rome. The city is known for its beautiful churches, museums, palaces, towers, and villas. Who doesn’t want to strike that signature pose pretending to keep the tower from falling using the force of their hands? Well, it’s not limited to just that:

• Visit the historic monuments at the Square of Miracles

• Dash to the Cathedral of Pisa just across the Leaning Tower

• Contemplate the meaning of life at the Camposanto Cemetery

• See the Baptistery of Saint John

• Stroll around the Knight’s Square

• Appreciate some art at the National Museum of Saint Mathew and Palazzo Blu

The Bay of Naples is an area of amazing seaside beauty. Take the Amalfi Coast, or the rugged island of Capri, for example. Towering cliffs, citrus groves, splendid waterfront palazzos, and beautiful beaches define the Amalfi Coast and the island of Capri in a nutshell. The charm of the Amalfi Coast can be gauged from the fact that something as simple as driving along the coast is a goal in itself for many tourists. The coastline of the Capri island is dotted with numerous coves and grottos inundated with clear turquoise waters that make for a perfect exploration trip. For a complete experience, you should certainly:

• Stand in awe of the Faraglioni rock formations

• Interact with some locals at the Piazza Umberto I

• Enjoy the panoramic view of the bay from the Gardens of Augustus

• Get an authentic taste of fine Italian wine at the Le Vigne di Raito

• Take a mesmerizing drive down the Amalfi Drive

This small coastal town is not only known for some of the finest quality Genoese silk but is also a favorite among visitors to Italy. Located just thirty kilometers west of the metropolis of Genoa, Zoagli is a quaint little town in the naturally endowed northern region of Liguria. Experience the Italian Riviera in all its glory by hiking or driving down the cliff roads that lead to nearby villages. Also, do surely:

• Make a confession at the Church of Sant'Ambrogio

• Visit the Gothic castle of Sem Benelli

• Watch the waves smash against the rocks at La Passeggiata

• Watch over the town from Torre Saracena

• Engage in some small talk with locals at the Bar Tabacchi F.lli Casaretto

• Leisure away your extra time at the Pietra di Luna beach club

• Dive down to have a look at ‘Our Lady of the Sea’

The Italian Riviera, dotted with beautiful coastal settlements, never ceases to fascinate its visitors. Located in the metropolitan region of Genoa in the region of Liguria in north Italy, Portofino is a tiny fishing village of less than a thousand inhabitants. Come summer and tourists swarm to this popular Ligurian resort destination. The small and beautiful port of the village is its lifeline and is very popular for scuba diving. Apart from that, do:

• Ask the Christ of the Abyss to look after you when diving

• Trek up the slopes to the Brown Castle

• See the Portofino Marine Protected Area

• Climb up to the Portofino Lighthouse

• Take in the beauty of the Church of San Giorgio

• Familiarise yourself with the local art at the Art Gallery of Portofino

• Satisfy your appetite with authentic local cuisine at the Chuflay Restaurant

Located on the Italian Riviera in the northwestern region of Liguria, Cinque Terre or 'Five Lands' is a group of five small fishing villages. It comprises the villages of Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. Along with the neighboring city of La Spezia, these villages are among the top vacation spots in Italy. Rugged terrain, vertical cliffs, colorful villages straddling steep terraces, and amazing seafood with traditional pesto sauce make for a signature Mediterranean tour. The area is a UNESCO designated World Heritage Site and motor vehicles are prohibited. So be prepared to walk or hike a few miles. But believe us, every step would be worth it! For some everlasting memories:

• Choose your favorite from Cinque Terre's many hiking trails

• Take the beautiful footpath from Monterosso Vernazza

• Be awestruck by the beauty of Cinque Terre National Park

• Sunbathe at the Fegina Beach

• Inform yourself at the Museum of Naval Technology at La Spezia

• Stand in awe of the Castle of San Giorgio

• Saunter around the Parco Salvador Allende

• Stride across the Thaon di Revel Bridge

There is something about those old-world sleepy mining towns that makes them so appealing, especially with them being a regular feature in western cinematic genre. Well, we recommend Montevecchio if you are a fan. It is an ancient mining town located on the southwest part of Sardinia Island, in the Mediterranean. It's not your regular run-of-the-mill destination, but it is good for spending some quiet time away from the din and bustle of tourist hordes. You can also add the nearby town of Guspini to this trip. But Montevecchio is not all about relaxing, as you can:

• Explore the old mines in the area

• Visit the Palazzo della Direzione

• Learn about the local geology at the Mineralogical Park in Guspini

• Seek forgiveness at the Parochial of Saint Nicolo in Guspini

• Explore the scenic Sardinian surrounding country on foot

• Have a look at the awesome rock formations at the nearby Monumento Naturale delle Canne d'organo di basalto

Who knows, you might just find George Clooney lazing around the lake one fine day here. Yes, the star has chosen this place of stupendous natural beauty as his home. The beautiful Lake Como laps at the foothills of the Alps, less than 100 kilometers from Milan in the northern region of Lombardy. The area has been a popular retreat for the affluent ever since the days of the Roman Empire, and modern luxury resorts around the lake testify that it still is. To utilize your time most efficiently in Lake Como, you should:

• Take the funicular to Brunate

• Gape at the majesty of Villa del Balbianello

• Walk the pathways of the astonishing Garden of Villa Melzi

• Explore the city of Como

• Perceive the magnificence of the Cathedral of Como

• Enjoy a panoramic view of the lake from the Voltiano lighthouse

• Traverse the Lake Como Greenway to see some heritage villages

The city of art, the city of romance, the city of pizza, the city of heritage - you may call it whatever suits your taste. Located about two hours south of Rome, the city of Naples is the capital of the southern region of Campania. Vesuvius, the giant volcano that destroyed Pompeii, keeps a perpetual watch over this precious open-air museum. Some things you must do while here include:

• Get lost in the taste of original Napoletano pizza at the Pizzeria Pavia

• Descend to the depths of subterranean Naples

• Be surprised by the centuries-old tunnels and grottos at Galleria Borbonica

• Make a wish before the saints buried at the Catacomb of San Gennaro

• Be amazed by the unbelievably genius Christian art at the Museum of Sansevero Chapel

• Study the ancient relics at the National Museum of Archaeology

White cliffs and beaches, warm sun, and the tangy smell of citrus greet the visitors to the island that showers its guests with the natural hospitality of the Mediterranean. Sardinia, located five hundred kilometers off the coast of Sicily, is one the largest and most beautiful Mediterranean islands. Owing to sincere conservation efforts, the island bears some undisturbed natural landscapes with amazing wildlife. Some things to indulge in here include:

• See the vertical cliffs of Capo Caccia

• Survey the Port of Giunco

• Be dazzled by the white sands of La Cinta beach

• Observe the local wildlife at the National Park of La Maddalena Archipelago

• Admire the brilliance of Cathedral of Saint Mary

• Savor the local fruits at the Saint Benedict Market

• Explore Su Nuraxi and other famous nuraghi

The city houses a mysterious shroud that millions venerate, believed to be the one in which the mortal remains of Christ were wrapped. Home to the world-famous Shroud of Turin, Turin is the capital of the northwestern region of Piedmont. Located in the Alps on the banks of Po, the city is a great place to experience some truly Italian art, architecture, culture, and cuisine. Because of it being a cultural hotspot, Turin is also known as the Paris of Italy. You might regret it later if you don't:

• Stand face to face with Egyptian gods at the Egyptian Museum

• Revel in some blissful chocolate at Guido Gobino

• Gait across the Plaza of Saint Carl

• Weep for the lord in front of the Shroud of Turin at the Church of John the Baptist

• Enjoy the street food at Central Market of Turin

• Make time for the National Museum of Cinema

None of the Italy vacation spots can combine as much as this one does - millennia-old monuments, fantastic beaches and resorts, a pulsating nightlife, and mesmerizing coastal scenery. Located on the Adriatic coast in central Italy in the region of Emilia-Romagna, Rimini is undisputedly the finest coastal resort in Italy. The historic center of the town is more than two thousand years old and home to some iconic monuments such as the Arch of Augustus, the historic bridge on the Tiberius, and many others. For a truly delightful experience of Rimini, you must:

• Be surprised at the engineering skill displayed in the ancient bridge on the Tiberius

• Travel to a different era through the historic center of the town

• Retrace the steps of emperors passing through the Arch of Augustus

• Recline back restfully at the Libera beach

• Become the life of a party at the beach nightclubs

• Laze around the Cavour plaza

Home to a unique nightlife, a very significant port, and an equally important Christian pilgrimage, this historic city has many things to offer. Located on the coast of the Adriatic, Bari is the capital of the region of Apulia in southern Italy. The old quarter of the city holds the remains of Saint Nicholas in an eleventh-century basilica, along with some other heritage structures. An important financial hub, and a favorite among tourists, Bari is full of life and activity throughout the year. Some of the must-do things while spending time here include:

• Cherish the religious significance at the Basilica of Saint Nicholas

• Explore Citta Vecchia, or the old quarter of the city

• Walk along the Lungomare e Murat

• Relish some authentic Mediterranean cuisine at Mastro Ciccio

• Catch a performance at Teatro Margherita

• Spend some time relaxing at the Pane e Pomodoro beach

• Dance away the night at Demode Club

• Marvel at the dazzling white Trulli of Alberobello

Picture this: A beautiful seaside town with waters of the Adriatic lapping at its feet and enchanting peaks of Slovenia towering over it. It’s a description that epitomizes the perfect destination spot, and you’ll find it on Italy's border with Slovenia in the northeastern region of Friuli Venezia Giulia, in the capital city of Trieste. Prepare to be surrounded by spectacular karst landscapes and awe-inspiring formations that signify the geological processes of prehistoric times. Due to its location and historical reasons, the city has strong Austrian and Balkan influences. Rush to this city if you are a fan of nature, history, sea, and lots of sunshine. Definitely take the time to:

• Stroll around the Piazza dell' Unità d'Italia

• Be amazed by the beauty Gulf of Trieste

• Delve into the past at Miramare Castle museum

• Pray or meditate at the Cathedral of Saint Justus the Martyr

• Get sun-soaked on the Barcola Beach

• Explore the sprawling Castle of Saint Justus

• Experience nature at the Rosandra Valley Nature Reserve

• Drift on the Grand Canal on a Boat

One of the most important ports on the Mediterranean, home to the famed Genoese silk, and an old quarter that is a UNESCO designated world heritage site, this city fully deserves the nickname 'the proud one'. Located in the northwestern region of Liguria, the fabled city of Genoa has played a central role throughout the history of the Region. Heritage churches, narrow alleys, and amazing local cuisine make this city a big hit among tourists. To get the most of Genoa, you should definitely:

• Make some new friends at a local bar in the seaside neighborhood of Boccadasse

• Familiarise yourself with the illustrious maritime history of Genoa at the Galata Museo del Mare

• Take a cliff walk along the Passeggiata Anita Garibaldi a Nervi

• Marvel at the beautiful architecture in the old quarter at Piazza de Ferrari

• Have fun at the Aquarium of Genoa

Sanremo is an elegant seaside city on the Italian Riviera with a famous music festival that draws in heaps of jazz enthusiasts from all over the world. What an exquisite blend of sun, sea, and sax! Located on the Tyrrhenian coast in northwestern Italy in the region of Liguria, the city of Sanremo boasts some beautiful medieval buildings, a sunny beach, and amazing resorts. Also, the annual Music Festival of Sanremo held in February is quite popular with music lovers, who reach here in numbers in time. While here, do take some time to:

• Ponder over the fragility of life at the ruins of Old Bussana

• Rejoice in the Lord's mercy San Basilio

• Have a brush with the past at the historic quarter of La Pigna

• Rent a bike a drift down the Pista Ciclabile Area 24

• Nibble your way through the eateries on Corso Matteotti

• Try your hands at some games of chance at a local casino

Just reading the name “Montepulciano” is enough to stimulate the salivary glands - maybe it makes you think of succulent slices of cheese and pork, the famous pici pasta, and the world-famous red wine Vino Nobile di Montepulciano. Surrounded by the bucolic scenery of the Tuscan country, the small renaissance era town of Montepulciano is the ultimate destination for those looking to taste the finest of Italian wines. It's also a great vantage point to launch excursions into the agrarian surroundings. Some of the must-do things in Montepulciano are:

• Sample some Vino Nobile at the great Ercolani Winery

• Appreciate the tranquility of Tempio di San Biagio

• Walk around the Grand Plaza of Montepulciano

• Take a panoramic look around from the Tower of Montepulciano

• Go hiking into the surrounding country

Did you know that one of the prime ways to enjoy Italy’s beautiful scenery is by standing in another country altogether? San Marino, the third smallest country in the world, is a microstate enclave in the Apennines that is surrounded by the Italian regions of Marche and Emilia-Romagna. It provides a spectacular view of Italy, proving that distance makes the heart grow fonder! Officially known as the Most Serene Republic of San Marino, the country is the oldest functioning republic in the world. But it's not all about history; to make the best of your time in San Marino you can:

• Trek to the top of Mount Titan

• Keep a watch on the country from the Fortress of Guaita

• Take a look at the bygone era at the historic center of the city of San Marino

• Spend the evening at Piazza Della Liberta

• Count your blessings at the grand Basilica of San Marino

• Feel the creepiness at the Museum of Torture

From the sun-soaked beaches and villas of Sardinia and Sicily to the beautiful hill towns of northern Italy, what doesn't the country have? Nobody in their right mind would disagree with Italy being one of the most beautiful countries in the world. So if you are confused about the type of vacation to go on, let us clear it up for you - Italy’s the place to be. The country will definitely charm you, regardless of your tastes or expectations. Did we miss any good destination spots in Italy? Let us know where in the comments below.