Italy is one of the most popular countries in the world for travelers to visit. Italy is the 5th most visited country with over 49.8 million visitors according to Wikipedia World Tourism Ranking statistics. Three famous cities in Italy are at the top of the must-see list: Rome, Florence, and Venice. Each city is very special with lots of great sights, history, and fun things to do.
Rome – The Eternal City
Rome is the capital and largest city in Italy. It is called the “Eternal City” because ancient Roman ruins can be seen all over the city. Some of the top things to see in Rome are:
- The Colosseum – This huge amphitheater was built around 80 AD. Gladiators, animal fights, and more happened here long ago. It’s one of the best examples of ancient Roman engineering.
- Roman Forum – In ancient times this was the downtown area and political center with temples, markets, and government buildings. Today you can walk among the ruins.
- Pantheon – This Roman temple still has its giant domed roof and columns standing since 126 AD. There is a hole at the top that lets in light and rain.
- Trevi Fountain – People love throwing coins over their shoulders into this huge Baroque fountain. Legend says it means you’ll come back to Rome again one day.
- Vatican City – The Pope lives here and you can visit the Sistine Chapel painted by Michelangelo or St. Peter’s Basilica, the largest church in the world.
Rome has lively outdoor cafes, excellent Italian food like pizza and pasta, and fun nightlife. Exploring the city feels like stepping back in time!
While on their Italy tours, travelers can enjoy watching the street performers and musicians who entertain crowds gathered in popular evening spots like the Spanish Steps or Piazza Navona. Luxurious hotels converted from former palaces provide comfortable accommodations after long days of exploration. An evening stroll around the majestically lit Colosseum offers a unique perspective on this iconic landmark.
Florence – Birthplace of the Renaissance
Florence is the capital city of the Tuscany region in Italy. During the Renaissance period around the 1400s, Florence was where many famous artists and thinkers lived and worked. Some top sights are:
- Michelangelo’s David, one of the most famous sculptures in the world, is housed at the Accademia Gallery.
- Uffizi Gallery – A famous art museum with paintings by Da Vinci, Raphael, Botticelli, and other Renaissance masters.
- Duomo – The huge cathedral with a red dome called the Santa Maria del Fiore church is a symbol of Florence.
- Ponte Vecchio – An old bridge that has shops all along it. They used to be butchers but now sell jewelry.
- Piazza della Signoria – A main square surrounded by statues like a copy of Michelangelo’s David.
Florence has great food like pasta, pizza, gelato, and Chianti wine. Leather goods and paper products are craft specialties of Florence.
Florence features quaint cobblestone streets that are perfect for strolls. You can stop to listen to street musicians or pick up a custom-made leather journal as a unique souvenir. The locals embrace an unhurried lifestyle, savoring long lunches with friends.
Venice – City of Canals
Venice is probably the most unique city in the world. It was built on a lagoon with over 126 small islands inside a marshy lagoon. Instead of roads, there are canals and instead of cars, there are boats! Some top sights are:
- Grand Canal – The main waterway running through Venice. Taking a ride down it is awesome.
- St. Mark’s Square – A lively open plaza surrounded by architecture and St. Mark’s Basilica.
- Rialto Bridge – The oldest and most famous of four bridges that cross over the Grand Canal.
- Gondola Rides – Everyone should take a ride on a gondola, the traditional boat of Venice.
- Doge’s Palace – An old palace where the leaders of Venice lived that has grand rooms and prison cells.
Venice is super famous for Carnival celebrations, masks, blown glass, and getting lost in the maze of canals and alleyways.
To understand how unique Venice is, here is a comparison of key facts:
|
|
Venice |
Other Cities |
|
Streets |
None, only canals |
Paved roads for cars |
|
Transportation |
Boats like gondolas |
Cars, buses, trains |
|
Main thoroughfare |
Grand Canal |
Roads or boulevards |
|
Bridges |
400+ pedestrian bridges |
Larger bridges for vehicles |
|
House entrances |
Water doors facing canals |
Front doors facing streets |
In the evening, you can listen to the echoes of the old bell tower in St. Mark’s Square while enjoying the romantic waterfront view. Seek out a cozy restaurant to savor fresh seafood, straight from the boats. And don’t forget to greet the gondoliers with a friendly wave!
Getting Between Cities
Rome, Florence, and Venice are all great places to visit. Traveling between them is easily accomplished through:
- High-Speed Train – Runs between cities in 1-3 hours with comfy seats and big windows.
- Overnight Sleeper Train – You sleep on the train in a bunk bed and arrive at your destination in the morning.
- Rental Car – Driving yourself allows you to take scenic routes through the countryside.
- Bus Tours – Organized bus trips make travel between cities easy but on a set schedule.
No matter where you start, exploring Rome, Florence, and Venice allows you to experience the very best of Italy.
Conclusion
Italy’s famous capital Rome, beautiful Florence, and one-of-a-kind Venice should be on every traveler’s bucket list. Each destination has an amazing history, sights, culture, food, and fun things to do. Traveling by train between the cities is an awesome way to appreciate the magic of each place. Exploring Rome’s ancient ruins, Florence’s Renaissance treasures, and Venice’s unique canals will create amazing lifelong memories. Italy caters to travelers of all ages and interests. These three iconic cities serve as the perfect starting point for your Italian adventures!
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to visit Italy?
Late spring and early fall offer pleasant weather with fewer crowds, while summer can be hot and bustling. Winter brings chilly weather but still offers plenty to see and do.
How many days do you need in each city?
At least 3 days in each is good to see the main attractions without rushing too much. More time lets you go deeper into museums and neighborhoods.
What languages are spoken in Italy?
Italian is the main language. English is common in tourist areas too. Learning a few Italian phrases is always polite.
What are the entry requirements for U.S. citizens?
You will need a valid passport, and for tourist stays of fewer than 90 days, no visa is required. Ensure your passport has at least 6 months of validity remaining.
What is the currency and tipping custom in Italy?
The euro is the currency used in Italy and most of Europe. It’s customary to leave tips of 10-15% at restaurants or a few euros for hotel porters and taxis.
Do I need any vaccinations before going to Italy?
No vaccinations are required except for yellow fever if coming from affected areas in Africa or South America.
What are good souvenirs to buy in Italy?
Leather goods in Florence, Murano glass in Venice, limoncello liqueur, Italian wine, olive oil, and postcards of iconic sites.