9 Best Cities in Italy & Best Time of Year to Visit

Italy, a country renowned for its rich history, stunning architecture, and delectable cuisine, offers a plethora of cities that are a must-visit for any traveler. From the ancient streets of Rome to the romantic canals of Venice, each city boasts its own unique charm and attractions. Whether you're an art lover, a history enthusiast, or a foodie, Italy has something special for everyone. Here are nine cities that travelers absolutely love, each offering its own blend of culture, history, and modernity, ensuring an unforgettable Italian experience.

Rome

The eternal city of Rome is a living museum, with historical sites like the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and the Pantheon. The Vatican City, a country within a city, is home to the awe-inspiring St. Peter's Basilica and the Vatican Museums, where the Sistine Chapel and its famous ceiling by Michelangelo can be found. For a taste of local life, visit the Trastevere neighborhood with its charming streets and vibrant nightlife. Cost-saving tip: many of Rome's attractions are within walking distance of each other, so save on transportation by exploring on foot.

When to Visit: The best time to visit Rome is during the spring (April to June) or fall (September to October) when the weather is pleasant, and the crowds are thinner. A particularly exciting time to visit is during the Settimana della Cultura, when state museums and historical sites offer free entry.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the Borghese Gallery, which houses a substantial part of the Borghese collection of paintings, sculpture, and antiquities. The gallery's gardens are also a beautiful and peaceful retreat from the city's hustle and bustle.

Where to Stay & Eat: Consider staying at the Hotel Campo De' Fiori for its central location and rooftop terrace views. For dining, try Da Francesco for its authentic Roman pizza and pasta dishes.

Venice

Venice is a city like no other, built on over 100 small islands in a lagoon in the Adriatic Sea. No cars, just canals lined with Renaissance and Gothic palaces. The central square, Piazza San Marco, contains St. Mark's Basilica and the Campanile bell tower, which offer views of the city's red roofs. A gondola ride through the Grand Canal provides a unique perspective of the city's historic buildings. For shopping, visit the Rialto Market for fresh produce and local crafts.

When to Visit: Visit Venice in the shoulder seasons of late spring (May) or early fall (September to October) to avoid high water levels and the summer tourist rush. The Venice Carnival in February is a spectacular event with elaborate masks and costumes.

Travel Tip: Make sure to visit the Doge's Palace, a symbol of Venice's maritime power and wealth. The palace's opulent rooms and the Bridge of Sighs are a testament to the city's glorious past.

Where to Stay & Eat: Hotel Danieli is an iconic place to stay, offering luxury with a view of the lagoon. For a meal, Osteria alle Testiere serves exquisite seafood with a Venetian twist.

Florence

Florence, the cradle of the Renaissance, is an art lover's dream. The Uffizi Gallery and the Accademia Gallery showcase works by the likes of Michelangelo and Botticelli. The Duomo, with its iconic dome by Brunelleschi, dominates the skyline. For a break from art, stroll through the Boboli Gardens or explore the San Lorenzo Market for leather goods and local food. Cost-saving tip: The Florence City Pass offers free entry to numerous museums and public transport.

When to Visit: The best time to visit Florence is from May to June or from September to October when the weather is warm, and the tourist crowds are manageable. The Maggio Musicale Fiorentino festival in spring offers a range of classical music and opera performances.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the Palazzo Vecchio, Florence's town hall, which offers a glimpse into the city's political history and stunning art, including works by Michelangelo and Donatello.

Where to Stay & Eat: The Hotel Brunelleschi is nestled in the heart of Florence, offering a blend of history and modern comfort. For dining, Trattoria Mario is a local favorite for traditional Tuscan dishes.

Milan

Milan is Italy's fashion and design capital, but it's also rich in history and art. The Gothic Duomo di Milano cathedral and the Santa Maria delle Grazie convent, housing Leonardo da Vinci’s mural "The Last Supper," testify to centuries of art and culture. For a shopping experience, visit the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, one of the world's oldest shopping malls. Cost-saving tip: Many museums offer free entry on the first Sunday of the month.

When to Visit: The best times to visit Milan are April to June or September to October when the weather is pleasant, and the fashion weeks are not in full swing. The Festa di San Ambrogio in December is a great time to experience local culture and festivities.

Travel Tip: Explore the Brera district, known for its bohemian atmosphere, and visit the Pinacoteca di Brera, a premier art gallery housing an impressive collection of Italian Renaissance art.

Where to Stay & Eat: Armani Hotel Milano offers a luxurious stay with a modern design aesthetic. For a taste of Milanese cuisine, try Ratana for its contemporary take on traditional dishes.

Naples

Naples is a city with a vibrant street life and a treasure trove of art and architecture. It's the birthplace of pizza, and no visit is complete without trying a slice at one of the city's many pizzerias. The historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage site, with the impressive Naples Cathedral and the Royal Palace. Don't miss the chance to visit the nearby ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum, destroyed by Mount Vesuvius in 79 A.D. Cost-saving tip: The Campania Artecard offers discounted access to various sites and public transport.

When to Visit: The best time to visit Naples is during the spring (April to June) or fall (September to October) when the weather is mild, and the city is less crowded. The Pizza Festival in September is a fun event for food lovers.

Travel Tip: Make sure to visit the National Archaeological Museum, which houses one of the world's most important collections of Greek and Roman antiquities, including artifacts from Pompeii and Herculaneum.

Where to Stay & Eat: Grand Hotel Vesuvio offers stunning views of the bay and luxury accommodations. For authentic Neapolitan pizza, Pizzeria da Michele is a must-visit institution.

Verona

Verona is a charming city known for its Roman amphitheater, the Arena, which still hosts concerts and opera performances. It's also famous as the setting for Shakespeare's "Romeo and Juliet." Visitors can see Juliet's balcony and even leave a letter to her. The city's historic center is filled with medieval buildings and picturesque squares, such as Piazza delle Erbe. Cost-saving tip: The Verona Card offers free or discounted entry to many attractions and free public transport.

When to Visit: The ideal time to visit Verona is from April to June or September to October when the weather is comfortable, and the city is not overrun by tourists. The Verona Opera Festival in the summer is a spectacular event for opera enthusiasts.

Travel Tip: Don't miss Castelvecchio, a medieval castle that now houses a museum with a rich collection of art and artifacts from Verona's history.

Where to Stay & Eat: Hotel Gabbia d'Oro offers a luxurious stay in the heart of Verona. For dining, Osteria Giulietta e Romeo serves traditional Veronese dishes in a cozy setting.

Bologna

Bologna is known for its culinary tradition, lively student population, and well-preserved medieval architecture. The city's porticoes, miles of covered walkways, are perfect for strolling and exploring the historic center. The Two Towers, Asinelli and Garisenda, offer panoramic views of the city. Bologna is also home to the oldest university in the world, the University of Bologna. Cost-saving tip: Many of Bologna's museums are free on the first Sunday of the month.

When to Visit: The best time to visit Bologna is during the spring (April to June) or fall (September to October) when the weather is pleasant, and the city is less crowded. The Bologna Children's Book Fair in April is a unique event for families and book lovers.

Travel Tip: Visit the Mercato di Mezzo for a taste of local food and culture. This historic market offers a variety of fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and other regional specialties.

Where to Stay & Eat: Grand Hotel Majestic già Baglioni provides a luxurious stay in a historic building. For a classic Bolognese meal, Trattoria Anna Maria is renowned for its homemade pasta.

Turin

Turin, the capital of the Piedmont region, is known for its refined architecture and cuisine. The city's landmarks include the Mole Antonelliana, which houses the National Museum of Cinema, and the Royal Palace of Turin, the former home of the Savoy dynasty. Turin is also famous for its chocolate and coffee culture, with historic cafes dotting its grand boulevards. Cost-saving tip: The Torino+Piemonte Card offers free admission to many museums and attractions.

When to Visit: The best time to visit Turin is from April to June or September to October when the weather is mild, and the city is not too crowded. The Turin Film Festival in November is a highlight for movie buffs.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the Egyptian Museum, which boasts one of the largest collections of Egyptian artifacts outside of Cairo. The museum's exhibits are both educational and fascinating.

Where to Stay & Eat: TownHouse 70 offers a comfortable and central stay. For dining, try Del Cambio, an elegant restaurant with a history dating back to 1757, serving Piedmontese cuisine.

Palermo

Palermo, the capital of Sicily, is a city rich in history and culture, with a unique blend of architectural styles reflecting its diverse past. The Palermo Cathedral, the Norman Palace, and the Palatine Chapel are just a few of the city's must-see sites. The bustling markets, like the Vucciria and Ballarò, offer a glimpse into the local life and are great places to sample Sicilian street food. Cost-saving tip: Palermo's attractions are often close together, making it easy to explore on foot.

When to Visit: The ideal time to visit Palermo is from April to June when the weather is warm but not too hot, and the tourist crowds are smaller. The Feast of Santa Rosalia in July is a vibrant celebration with processions and fireworks.

Travel Tip: Make sure to visit the Palatine Chapel, located within the Norman Palace, for its stunning mosaics and Arabic-Norman architecture.

Where to Stay & Eat: Grand Hotel Piazza Borsa is situated in the heart of Palermo, offering a mix of history and modern amenities. For authentic Sicilian cuisine, Osteria dei Vespri is a local favorite.