Steal this Huge Italy Bucket List!
Last Updated on July 9, 2024 by Ingrid & Alex
From the first time I set foot in Italy, I was heading to this small village at the border with Slovenia. I was passionate about their food and their language but didn’t really have an Italy bucket list.
Close to two decades have passed since I moved to Italy to study. Later, I worked for an important beer producer from Italy and lived in Rome for a time. Since then, I returned countless times to one of my favorite countries in the world.
Despite this, there are still plenty of items to tick off my bucket list.
Let me share it with you so you can start your journey of discovering Italian.
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The Huge Italy Bucket List you’ll want to steal!
ROME
Naturally, any Italy bucket list has to start with the Eternal City.
Start your day with a breakfast with a Colosseum view
Some time ago, I saw this video of a mouthwatering breakfast served with a stunning view over the Colosseum. I’ve done my research, and I’ve found the Aroma Restaurant is “guilty” for it.
Start your day with breakfast here and come back for dinner once the night falls.
Toss a coin in the Trevi Fountain
You might not be allowed anymore to eat gelato by the fountain, and you cannot remake that scene from La Dolce Vita. However, nobody says you cannot toss a coin in the Trevi Fountain and make a wish.
My wish is to return to Italy as often as possible!:)
See Rome from above
Head over to the Vatican and climb the St Peter’s Dome for a stunning view of Rome from above.
The way to the top is an experience in itself, but once you reach the top, you will be stunned.
Book your skip the line self-guided tour to the St. Peter’s Basilica
Take a cooking class
Where else can you learn to cook better than in Rome? With so many options available out there, the only choice to make would be if you want to learn to make pizza or different kinds of pasta dishes with dessert.
Go back in time with a visit to the Fori Imperiali and the Colosseum
Anyone coming to Rome should learn about the history of this glorious town. The best way to do that is by booking a tour, at least through the Fori Imperiali and the Colosseum.
With so many ruins at every step of the way in Rome, it is literally impossible to see everything in only a few days. Hey, I’ve spent months there and haven’t seen everything. So, cherry-pick these two, and you’ll be all set.
See the Vatican – a city within a city
Just come prepared to wait in line, or with a skip-the-line ticket already purchased in advance online here.
The Sistine Chapel is something everyone should see at least once in a lifetime.
Learn to make gelato – the proper way
Eating tons of ice cream is not enough when in Rome. If you have the chance, enroll in a gelato-making class and go back home and impress your family with your skills. Everyone will love you, for sure!
Check out the gelato-making class here!
Have a fancy romantic dinner in Trastevere
Narrow cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, great food, and delicious wine. That’s what Trastevere is about.
Check out the best restaurants in Trastevere and book a table. Come with your belly empty and ready to indulge!
The best-kept secret on the Aventine Hill
Once night falls, climb the Aventine Hill, one of the 7 hills of Rome, and head towards the Priory of the Knights of Malta.
Look for the keyhole people are aligning for: you’ll get the perfect vista over the garden, with the Vatican perfectly lightened, taking center stage.
Explore Villas in Tivoli
Hadrian’s Villa, the Hundred Fountains at Villa D’Este, and Villa Gregoriana – these are all sights worth seeing on a day trip to the outskirts of Rome.
CINQUE TERRE & TUSCANY
Hike the Cinque Terre trail – or at least part of it
If you come to the most colorful villages in Italy prepared to break a sweat, the Cinque Terre won’t disappoint.
There is something for everyone, from the easy trail we did between Vernazza and Corniglia to the longer ones linking more villages together. The views are stunning, and you will have the chance to walk in nature and breathe fresh air.
Read also: An Easy Cinque Terre day trip
Ride a Vespa through Tuscany’s countryside
Italy stands for Vespa and the most epic road trip you could ever take is through the Tuscan hills. However, there are plenty of other destinations you can explore from the back of a Vespa: from the narrow streets of Florence to the historic sites of Rome, and all the way to the winding roads on the Amalfi Coast.
Book your Vespa ride through Tuscany here!
Climb the Florence Duomo and see the romantic town from above
The most visited city in the world, Florence is by far not the largest town in Italy. However, it is packed with beautiful places worth discovering, and Florence Duomo is at the top of the list.
Book a skip-the-line ticket in advance so that you won’t have to wait in line for hours.
Go for sunset and a bottle of wine at the Piazzale Michelangelo
While in Florence, head to the top of the hill for some breathtaking views. Come prepared with a slice of pizza al taglio and a bottle of great wine from Tuscany.
Eat a bistecca all Fiorentina in Florence
So simple and yet so delicious, this is a steak you will want to try in Florence. You’ll find it at any osteria or trattoria in town. The more local and less fancy, the better.
Read also: The best Italy subscription boxes to order at home!
See the 5 colorful villages from the sea by boat
One of the best decisions we made on our trip to the Cinque Terre was to take the train to La Spezia and hop on a boat along the coast.
Strolling through the streets of these small towns perched on the edge of cliffs overlooking the sea is incredible, but seeing them from the sea is as nice.
No matter if you just go from one village to the other, or see them all, you should not skip this experience.
Book a Private Sunset Boat Tour along the coast of Cinque Terre!
Book a Kayak Tour from Monterosso!
Go on a wine tour in Val D’Orcia and Chianti
Some of the best wines in the world cannot be left untasted. You can explore the Chianti Hills on a Vespa, stay at an old traditional winery, or even go on a hot air balloon above the Tuscany hills.
Spend a day at the Saturnia hot springs
Ever since I saw this place, I have wanted to go there someday! From above, the Saturnia waterfall looks out of this world.
In addition, you can book a room at a stunning hotel built on the thermal springs dating from 3000 years ago. Pamper yourself with cosmetic treatments, a day at the SPA, or swimming in the thermal pool.
Taste a real Genovese focaccia on a day trip to Genoa
There’s nothing that can top fresh focaccia with rosemary and salt. OK, maybe focaccia with freshly made pesto Genovese, tomatoes, and mozzarella.
My mouth literally waters at the thought of all these amazing delicacies I tried in Genoa, the Cinque Terre, and the small village of Finalborgo.
Liguria knows a lot about food!
Eat a basilic and lemon gelato in Portovenere
I know that might not sound appealing, but trust me, it is amazing! Refreshing and beautifully flavored.
After trying some of the best fresh pasta with pesto, we were lured by this small shop with basil and lemon ice cream in Porto Venere. Even though this village is not officially part of the Cinque Terre, I would include it on every visit to the region.
Particularly for this gelato!
VENICE
No Italy bucket list is complete without the iconic city on the canals.
Go on a gondola ride
Needless to say, that’s something to try at least once in a lifetime. Even though this is on the more expensive side of the budget, it is something worth splurging on, no matter if you only have 2 days in Venice or are here for longer.
You can always book a trip ahead of time and share the boat, in order to diminish the cost.
Take a picture at Libreria Aqua’alta
It is one of the most Instagrammable spots in Venice, one of the most photographed cities in the world.
Check it out here and make your way to this corner of a fairytale.
See one of the most colorful towns in the world: Burano
A scenic boat ride away from the most romantic town in the world sits one of the most colorful towns out there.
Go on a day trip to Little Venice – Comacchio
You can easily do this as a trip from Venice or a day trip from Bologna.
This is truly a hidden gem. It is located close to the Po Delta, from which you can take boat trips along the marsh.
Visit Venice for the Carnival
If you choose to do that, please don’t head there for your first trip to the city on the canals.
My first encounter was like this, and I couldn’t enjoy it to the fullest because all the streets were so crowded I couldn’t really see anything. I went back at least 2 times and fell in love with it.
However, make sure to go for the Carnival on your second encounter with Venice. It is an experience worth having, but it is not the true face of the town.
Read also: The perfect 10 days in Italy itinerary
NORTHERN ITALY
See the boats at Lago di Braies and take an Instagram-perfect picture
This lake is stunningly beautiful, which is why many flock in crowds here. However, don’t go too early in the morning because they’ve restricted access to the boats, and you must pay a fee to take a ride.
Explore the area on an 8-day trip around the Dolomites. It will take you not only to this famous spot but also to the next one on the list, and many others in between.
Go on a walk around the famous Tre Cime di Lavaredo
The mountains in the Dolomites offer some of the most unbelievable sights, especially for nature lovers.
A day spent hiking in these areas must be on anyone’s Italy bucket list.
Stay at one of the most stunning hotels in Italy
There are so many mind-blowing hotels in the Tyrol area that you will find it hard to choose only one. They all have great facilities, stunning views, spectacular infinity pools, and much more.
However, Gloriette Guesthouse and the Alpin Panorama Hotel Hubertus have been on my dream list for some time already. The Bolzano area is packed with stunning hotels, and I would explore them longer.
Read also: The perfect one week in Northern Italy itinerary
Visit the Italian Lake District
Perfectly located in the Italian Alps, the area is sprinkled with charming small islands and many historic villas, so a trip to the area is a must.
Spend more than just one day in the area and see Lake Maggiore, with its perfect views over the Alps, and small islands sprinkled with imposing historic villas. See Isola Bella, go on a sunset cruise, or discover all the Borromean Islands on a private cruise – the options are limitless in this corner of paradise.
Move forward to Lake Como and stroll through the fairytale Belaggio, but give Varenna a chance as well.
And while you’re in the area, don’t forget about fancy Lugano.
Climb the Milan Cathedral
Don’t come to Italy’s fashion capital without climbing the rooftop of Milan’s Cathedral and enjoying the stunning view from above.
Book your all-inclusive ticket here!
Go shopping in Milan
Apart from being a great photo spot in Milan, the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is the perfect place to go shopping for Italian fashion.
Take a picture of the leaning tower of Pisa
In the past months, I’ve seen so many jokes about this, people wondering how is the Pisa tower still standing without all the tourists holding it. As much as a cliche this might be, it sure is an item on any Italy bucket list.
Make your way to the Lake Sorapis in the Dolomites
Located in the Province of Belluno, in between mountain peaks, stands this hidden gem. Lake Sorapis is a glacial lake perched at 1900 m above sea level.
Needless to say, you will need to work out a bit to get to this place. However, that’s the fun of it. And it might mean there won’t be so many people around.
Discover Italy’s food capital: Bologna
Whether you spend two or 2 days or set your base camp in Bologna for your Italy itinerary, this city will treat you well.
Bologna and its surrounding area in Emilia Romagna are home to so many Italian delicacies that it will be hard to decide what to try first. Just don’t leave without participating in a cooking class or going on a food tasting tour.
Visit a country in a day: San Marino
The Republic of San Marino is one of the smallest countries in the world, and it is totally independent of Italy. Another interesting fact worth knowing is that San Marino is one of only three countries surrounded completely by another country (Italy, in this case).
Its area is only 16 square kilometers, and although it is not part of the European Union, it uses the euro currency.
Go skiing in Cortina d’Ampezzo
One of the most popular ski resorts in Italy, Cortina d’Ampezzo is as beautiful as other parts of Austria, or even Switzerland.
If you enjoy exploring mountains during winter and are looking for stunning places, check out this recommended Snowshoeing in the Dolomites tour.
Don’t miss Val di Funes
If this place is not paradise, then I don’t know where else is. I could easily allow myself to get lost in this mountain area for days and weeks.
The Dolomites are for sure at the top of my bucket list!
Check out this great offer for a 2-week itinerary through the Dolomites, ticking off Val di Funes as well.
Have fun at Gardaland
While I’m not a fan of amusement parks, I know many people would travel long distances for them. I know this for a fact because that’s what my colleagues did while we were in Rome.
That’s why a fun amusement park should be on the list. Visit its official site for more information.
Attend a concert at the Arena of Verona
Some years ago, I tried to book tickets for Adele’s concert at the Arena of Verona, but they were sold out in minutes. I also wanted to see Jovanotti perform here.
Since I still haven’t made it, and I’ve always wanted to, here it is.
Learn to make a Spritz Aperol
Even though this is such a popular drink all over the world, I must admit I absolutely detest it.
However, if you are a fan, then you’ll want to attend a guided spritz walk-in Padova and not only learn how to do it but also get to taste many types of local food.
Drive a Formula 1 simulator
For sports car enthusiasts, this is a perfect way to spend a day in Northern Italy. Visit the Ferrari Museum in Maranello and test the simulator. Read more about the experience here.
Relax on the beach in Rimini
Or just stroll the city center and take some beautiful pictures of the old bridge dating 2000 years back.
Feel like a princess at the Castello di Miramare
Located just outside of Trieste, this is another hidden gem. You won’t find the crowds you normally get at castles in Italy. Miramare Castle is set on the edge of the sea and sits in the middle of a lovely garden. It was my favorite getaway while I studied in Trieste.
Sip Tuscan wine in the famous Piazza del Campo in Siena
Siena epitomizes Tuscany, with its warm ochre tones beckoning you through the cobbled medieval streets towards the jewel in Siena’s crown, the famous Piazza del Campo.
It’s an extraordinary sight as you enter from Via di Citta and see the enormity and beauty of the square, home to the famous (yet totally crazy) Palio di Siena horse race held here twice a year since the 17th century.
Lined with fine buildings, don’t miss the tiny Fonte Gaia on the northern edge of the piazza, whose water is still supplied by a 500-year-old viaduct.
Bursting with gorgeous Gothic architecture, Renaissance palazzos, and churches full of stunning art, Siena’s intimate alleys and squares are a place to lose yourself for a day as you admire building after building in this city full of historic architecture.
Stop for lunch at one of the many busy restaurants lining the streets around the main square and sample delicious Ribollita, a traditional Tuscan soup made with vegetables and bread, with a delicious wine from the vineyards of Montalcino or Montepulciano to the south.
Siena is most definitely a destination you should visit as you campervan around Italy.
SOUTHERN ITALY
Stay in a trullo in Alberobello
Wake up early in the morning to catch the streets without people around. This place is pure magic. While you’re there, do a local wine tasting, buy some souvenirs, and eat some taralli.
Read next: Weekend in Puglia
Have dinner in a grotto restaurant
This famous restaurant, carved inside a water cave, sits on the edge of the sea. Grotta Palazzese has a timeless charm and is a must if you find yourself in Polignano a Mare.
Book a table ahead of time and check the menu before going so you won’t be set back by the prices.
Explore the white streets of Ostuni
On the top of a hill in Puglia, you’ll find this labyrinth of white buildings. The walls of the buildings are perfectly complemented by colorful doors, beautiful plants, and lazy cats.
Climb the streets of Matera
A magical town built in stone, the European Culture capital of 2019, the heart of Basilicata should not be skipped.
Don’t want to drive around Southern Italy? No worries! Here are 2 great options for a one week in Puglia and Basilicata:
Go on a sunset cruise along the Amalfi Coast
I know this is such a cliche, but come on – the Amalfi Coast is one of the most beautiful places in the world, and a sunset cruise makes it even better.
Grab a bottle of wine and your cruise ticket, and get ready to enjoy an unforgettable experience.
Read also: The perfect Amalfi Coast Itinerary
Take a day trip to Capri Island or the colorful Procida
Ok, you might not want to do both in one day, but these 2 islands should be on anyone’s list of things to do while in the Amalfi Coast area.
Check out an option for a day trip to Capri here!
Spend a night in Ischia
I’ve wanted to do that ever since I saw the HBO series My Brilliant Friend. The views from Ischia island are stunning, but it is not as popular as her sister Capri.
Visit the Blue Grotto
Spend half a day enchanted by the colors the sea has in this natural wonder of the Amalfi Coast.
Buy some stunning porcelain in Amalfi
This makes the perfect souvenir, and you can choose to have it shipped anywhere in the world.
Visit Pompeii and Herculaneum
Explore the archeological streets of Pompeii and learn about the people who lived here when the volcano erupted so many years ago.
On a day trip from Naples, we can see the well-preserved town that was buried under the ashes and waits for us to discover it.
Taste a real pizza in Naples
The home of pizza, Naples is a place where you want to come for the real margarita. Check out this list for the top 10 best pizzerias in town you’ll want to try.
See the sunset from Franco’s Bar in Positano
Positano is stunning from every angle! However, having drinks at Franco’s Bar for sunset is an absolute must.
Le Sirenuse is one of the best hotels in Positano, and I would love to spend a night there someday.
Hike the Path of God on the Amalfi Coast
It’s maybe the best hike in the world. You’ll escape the crowded streets and beaches of Amalfi and find yourself immersed in nature.
The hike starts from Agerola or Praiano, and ends in Nocelle, taking around 3 hours to complete.
Learn to make limoncello
Or simply taste it at a lemon farm. Taste it along with some delicious traditional local dishes, or learn how to cook with it and pair it.
Great options for tours in Southern Italy:
- A 7-day adventure is sailing along the Amalfi Coast – from Ischia and Procida to Pompeii, Capri, and Sorrento. You won’t skip anything on this trip. Check it out!
- Sorrento. Fun, Sea, and Food – 4 days packed with amazing views and food. Check it out!
- Pair up Puglia with the Neapolitan Riviera – 9 days across Southern Italy. Check it out!
Sail around Sardinia – the European Caribbean
Understandably one of the most popular summer destinations for Italians, Sardinia is the go-to place no matter the time of the year. The crystal clear waters here can compete with the Caribbean any day.
Plan your own one-week itinerary in Sardinia, or go on a sailing trip around the island.
Spend a day at the beach in Cefalu’
Even though I’ve only been to Cefalu for a few hours on a day trip from Palermo, I dream about going back and spending much more time exploring the area or simply relaxing at the beach.
See the sunset at Scala dei Turchi and explore the Valley of Temples
The perfect combination: turquoise waters, pink sky, and the blinding white marble cliff plunging into the sea. Come here for sunset and the perfect nature show.
Have an ice cream and baba’ in Taormina
For me, the streets of Taormina were as charming as Venice or any other romantic city in Italy. I’ve even seen a carnival day here while enjoying an ice cream at a local gelateria and pasticceria.
Don’t leave without trying more of the local Sicilian cuisine that won’t disappoint!
Climb Mount Etna
The highest volcano in Europe and the most active in the world, Etna is not only beautiful to look at but also a great hike on a sunny day.
Here are 2 great tours you might want to consider when you have around one week to spend on the Italian island:
- Sicilian Secrets – start from Catania and explore the whole island and all its highlights
- Sicily & Aeolian Islands – 9 days from Palermo to Taormina and the Aeolian Islands.
Now, it is up to you to tick off every item on your Italy bucket list.
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