If you’re planning on visiting Italy soon or need some inspiration for your next vacation, I recommend putting a couple of these places on your bucket list. Italy has so much to offer! Italy’s history, food, culture, architecture, and scenery will entice you to come back again and again. Here are some beautiful places to visit in Italy that I hope will spark a sense of wanderlust in even the least spontaneous of travelers.
Venice
The ancient city is suspended on stilts above the water. Frequently dubbed as the world’s most beautiful city, there’s a certain sense of romanticism that courses through the city. Venice is built on more than 100 small islands in a lagoon in the Adriatic Sea. It has no roads, just canals. The central square, Piazza San Marco, contains St. Mark’s Basilica, which is tiled with Byzantine mosaics, and the Campanile bell tower offering views of the city’s red roofs. My favorite city in Italy, I must go!!
Lake Como
Lake Como is known as a place frequently visited by many celebrities. Luxurious hotels and 5-star restaurants line the beautiful coastline of this small lake located just north of Milan. The picturesque lake is surrounded by lush green gardens, opulent villas, and sleepy little villages. Enjoy gorgeous views, delicious food and wine in one of the prettiest destinations in the world.
Parma
Parma is in the western part of Emilia-Romagna, Italy, located between Bologna and Milan. Parma is home to one of the most stunning cathedrals in Italy, The Cathedral of Parma. Parma is famous for Parmigiano Reggiano cheese and Prosciutto di Parma (Parma ham). Best time to visit Parma Italy is from mid April to mid July when the temperature is pleasant, not too cold in the spring and not overly hot in the summer. When in Parma Italy, you must also stop at the University of Parma which, founded in the 10th century, is one of the oldest universities in the world.
Cascate del Mulino
Italy has some beautiful hot springs that are just off the beaten path and away from most tourists radars. Cascate del Mulino can be found amid the hills of Maremma. Access to the pools is public and free throughout the year. The large basin above the waterfall bestows a dreamlike atmosphere, especially enjoyable in the evening.
Florence
Known the world over as the birthplace of the Renaissance, Florence is an absolute must for any first-time traveler to Italy. Between the artistic and historical attractions as well as the day trips you can take in the region, you can easily spend a week in Florence and still uncover new things to do.
