Italy is a country of timeless charm and iconic landscapes. History and art fill some of the most beautiful cities in North Italy. Florence, Venice and Verona, among others, captivate art lovers and romantic visitors.
Follow this list and discover the most emblematic sites of each city:
1. Aosta
Aosta is a beautiful city surrounded by the Alpine peaks and with great views of the mountains. Here, outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking, skiing, and other alpine activities throughout the year.
Its fascinating history dates back to Roman times. There are well-preserved Roman ruins, like the Arch of Augustus and the Roman Theater. It’s nice to stroll through the historic center, with its cobbled streets and medieval buildings.
The Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, with its Romanesque architecture, stands as a symbol of the city’s religious and architectural significance. Additionally, museums like the Aosta Valley Archaeological Museum deserve to be visited.
The surrounding valleys and mountains of Aosta provide opportunities for hiking, skiing in renowned resorts like Courmayeur and Cervinia, and exploring picturesque villages that dot the landscape.
Aosta Valley’s gastronomy is a delightful fusion of Italian and Alpine cuisines. Visitors can savor local specialties such as Fontina cheese, hearty stews, polenta, and cured meats, complemented by fine wines produced in the region.
Book here a Guided Food Tour in Aosta
2. Turin (Torino)
Torino’s grandeur is steeped in Baroque architecture. The city’s centerpiece, Palazzo Reale (Royal Palace), and its adjoining gardens, as well as Piazza Castello, framed by historic buildings, serves as a hub of cultural and social life.
The city has a lot of cultural attractions such as the Egyptian Museum. There are several art galleries such as the Pinacoteca Giovanni e Marella Agnelli. The Turin Cathedral houses the revered Shroud of Turin, believed by some to be the burial cloth of Jesus.
Torino is renowned for its chocolate, especially in the form of gianduja and exquisite pastries like bicerin. Delve into its thriving café culture and savor local specialties such as agnolotti pasta and bollito misto, often accompanied by fine Piedmontese wines.
The city has a significant industrial legacy, once serving as Italy’s automotive capital. The Fiat Lingotto Factory, now transformed into a multipurpose complex, offers visitors a glimpse into its automotive history.
Book here an Egyptian Museum Tour with Skip-the-Line Entry
3. Milan (Milano)
Milan is renowned as a global fashion hub. There are high-end boutiques, designer stores, and the prestigious Quadrilatero della Moda (Fashion Quadrangle). The city also hosts Fashion Week events that showcase the latest trends and innovations in fashion.
The magnificent Duomo di Milano, an intricate Gothic cathedral, stands as the city’s centerpiece. Nearby, the opulent Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, a 19th-century arcade, entices visitors with its luxurious shops and stunning architecture.
You may need 3 days in Milan to fully experience and explore all the attractions it has to offer.
The city is home to world-class museums and art galleries. The Pinacoteca di Brera houses masterpieces by renowned artists. Leonardo da Vinci’s iconic mural, “The Last Supper,” resides in the refectory of the Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie.
Milan is a cosmopolitan and Italy’s financial center, attracting entrepreneurs from around the world. It also hosts a myriad of cultural events, from opera performances at La Scala, one of the world’s most prestigious theaters, to contemporary art exhibitions.
Amidst the urban landscape, Milan offers tranquil green spaces. The expansive Parco Sempione, adjacent to the Sforza Castle, provides a serene retreat with gardens, a lake, and the iconic Arco della Pace (Arch of Peace).
Book here a Da Vinci’s Last Supper Guided Tour at the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie
4. Bergamo
The city is split into two parts: Città Alta, a medieval treasure on a hill with ancient buildings, and Città Bassa, the vibrant modern area filled with bustling markets and contemporary vibes.
Città Alta, a UNESCO site, boasts historical marvels like Piazza Vecchia, surrounded by Palazzo della Ragione and Campanone. Venetian walls offer panoramic views, showcasing impressive fortifications.
Bergamo showcases notable art in museums and churches. The Accademia Carrara features works by Botticelli and Raphael. The Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore exhibits intricate frescoes and marble carvings, highlighting the city’s artistic and religious legacy.
Bergamo holds diverse cultural events celebrating music, art, and traditions year-round. From the famous Bergamo Jazz Festival to historical reenactments like La Festa di Santa Lucia, it offers a vibrant cultural calendar.
Bergamo delights food enthusiasts with its delectable cuisine. Local specialties like casoncelli (stuffed pasta), polenta, and the famous sweet treat, “polenta e osei,” attract visitors eager to savor authentic Lombard flavors.
Book here a Dining Experience at a Local Home in Bergamo
5. Verona
This city is forever immortalized as the setting for Shakespeare’s timeless love story, “Romeo and Juliet.” Visitors flock to Juliet’s House (Casa di Giulietta), where the famous balcony serves as a symbol of undying love, attracting romantics from around the world.
Verona is also one of the amazingly cheapest places to visit in Italy. It showcases a rich history with the well-preserved Arena di Verona, an ancient Roman amphitheater hosting top opera performances in summer. Piazza delle Erbe, the central square, captivates with its medieval vibe, bustling market, historic sites, and the stunning Palazzo Maffei.
Verona features diverse architectural treasures. The intricate Romanesque Verona Cathedral (Duomo) displays stunning artwork. Castelvecchio, a medieval fortress turned museum, delves into Verona’s military past and boasts a remarkable art collection.
The historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a labyrinth of narrow streets, picturesque squares, and elegant Renaissance palaces. Exploring this area unveils hidden gems, artisanal shops, and cozy trattorias offering traditional Venetian cuisine.
The Adige River winds through the city, adding to its scenic beauty. Visitors can stroll along the riverbanks or cross picturesque bridges like the Ponte Pietra, offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscapes.
Book here a Small Group Guided Walking Tour with Arena Tickets in Verona
6. Venice
Venice’s iconic landscape features intricate canals bordered by elegant palaces, bridges, and historic buildings. The Grand Canal, graced by the Rialto Bridge and opulent palazzos, is its main thoroughfare.
The city’s rich history is reflected in its architecture. St. Mark’s Square (Piazza San Marco) hosts cultural landmarks such as St. Mark’s Basilica, showcasing Byzantine architecture, and the elaborate Doge’s Palace, an epitome of Venetian Gothic design.
Venice has inspired artists, poets, and musicians for ages. The Gallerie dell’Accademia exhibits masterpieces by Venetian artists like Titian and Tintoretto. The Venice Biennale, a prestigious art exhibition, solidifies the city’s standing in the contemporary art scene.
Venice preserves age-old traditions like the art of glassmaking on the nearby island of Murano and lace production on Burano. The annual Carnival of Venice, with its elaborate masks and costumes, is a celebration of the city’s vibrant cultural heritage.
Gondolas gliding along narrow canals, steered by gondoliers serenading passengers, offer a quintessential Venetian experience. These romantic rides provide a unique perspective of the city’s beauty, allowing visitors to appreciate its charm from the water.
3 days in Venice may be needed to truly immerse oneself in its charm and explore all the sights that deserve to be seen.
I suggest you take your time to visit the Dolomites in winter if you happen to be there during this season. It’s only a 3-hour drive from Venice, and you will have the chance to enjoy winter sports.
Venice is also a perfect starting point for a ten days in Italy itinerary through Venice, Florence and Rome.
Venetian cuisine is a delight for food enthusiasts. Indulge in local specialties such as sarde in saor (sweet and sour sardines), cicchetti (Venetian tapas), and risotto al nero di seppia (black squid ink risotto), complemented by fine Veneto wines.
Venice’s delicate ecosystem faces challenges from rising sea levels, earning it the status of a “sinking city.” Efforts to preserve its heritage and combat the effects of climate change add urgency to the appreciation of its unique beauty.
Book here your Doge’s Palace & St. Mark’s Basilica with Terrace Access Tour
7. Padua (Padova)
Padua, nestled in the Veneto region, boasts a rich historical legacy dating back over 3,000 years. The Prato della Valle, one of Europe’s largest squares adorned with statues, stands as a testament to Padua’s historical grandeur.
Home to one of the oldest universities in the world, the University of Padua, founded in 1222, the city has been a center for learning for centuries. The university’s prestigious history includes scholars like Galileo Galilei and the anatomist Andreas Vesalius.
Padua boasts remarkable artistic treasures. The Scrovegni Chapel, adorned with Giotto’s breathtaking frescoes depicting the life of Christ, is a masterpiece of Renaissance art. Additionally, the Eremitani Civic Museum houses a diverse collection of art.
The Basilica of Saint Anthony of Padua (Basilica di Sant’Antonio) is a revered pilgrimage site dedicated to Saint Anthony, attracting devoteesfrom around the world. Its architecture shows domes and intricate sculptures.
The Orto Botanico di Padova, founded in 1545, is one of the oldest botanical gardens in the world. This UNESCO World Heritage Site showcases a diverse collection of plants, providing a serene escape within the city.
Padua’s gastronomy celebrates the flavors of the Veneto region. Visitors can indulge in regional specialties like risotto, baccalà mantecato (creamed codfish), and bigoli pasta, complemented by wines from nearby vineyards.
Book here a Padua City 2.5-Hour Walking Tour
8. Bologna
Bologna’s historic center preserves a medieval core with the iconic Two Towers (Due Torri) dominating the skyline. The city’s red-roofed buildings and extensive porticoes, spanning over 25 miles, offers sheltered walkways and scenic views.
The University of Bologna, founded in 1088, is the oldest university in the Western world. Its legacy as a center for education and innovation has shaped Bologna’s cultural identity and intellectual prominence.
Bologna is a paradise for food enthusiasts. It’s the birthplace of iconic Italian dishes such as tagliatelle al ragù (Bolognese sauce), tortellini, and mortadella. The city’s markets, including Mercato di Mezzo, offer a wide array of fresh produce and delicacies.
Piazza Maggiore serves as the main square and a vibrant hub of activity. Surrounded by historical landmarks like the Basilica of San Petronio, Palazzo Comunale (City Hall), and the Neptune Fountain, the square is a gathering place for locals and visitors alike.
The Pinacoteca Nazionale di Bologna showcases pieces by Raphael, Titian, and Carracci. The Archiginnasio, formerly the university’s main building, exhibits intricate frescoes and a stunning anatomical theater.
Book here a Bologna City Center Walking Tour
9. Genoa
As a historic port city, Genoa has a deep maritime tradition. Its Old Port (Porto Antico) reflects its seafaring heritage and has been revitalized into a vibrant area featuring attractions like the Aquarium of Genoa, one of Europe’s largest aquariums
The heart of Genoa’s charm lies in its ancient narrow streets, known as “caruggi.” The UNESCO-listed Old Town (Centro Storico) is a maze of alleyways lined with colorful buildings, historic churches, and hidden squares, preserving a medieval atmosphere.
Genoa boasts impressive palaces and architectural gems. The Palazzi dei Rolli, showcase Genoa’s wealth during the Renaissance. The Strade Nuove and the Palazzi dei Rolli have been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for their outstanding architecture.
The city houses several museums and galleries. The Palazzo Ducale, a former Doge’s residence, hosts art exhibitions and cultural events. The Galata Maritime Museum chronicles Genoa’s maritime history and the city’s role in exploration.
Genoa is renowned for its delectable cuisine. Visitors can savor local specialties like pesto alla Genovese, focaccia, and fresh seafood dishes in traditional trattorias and restaurants throughout the city.
Genoa hosts various cultural events and festivals throughout the year. The Festival of the Lanterns (Festival delle Lanterne) and the Genoa International Boat Show are among the notable events that attract visitors from different parts of Italy and beyond.
Book here a 2-Hour Guided Walking Tour in Genoa
10. Pisa
Pizza, in the Tuscany is seat of the iconic Leaning Tower, part of the Piazza dei Miracoli (Square of Miracles). It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of architectural wonder. Visitors marvel at its unique lean, which resulted from unstable soil during its construction in the 12th century.
Beyond the Leaning Tower, the Square of Miracles hosts other magnificent structures like the Cathedral (Duomo) and the Baptistery. The Cathedral showcases intricate artwork and stunning architecture, while the Baptistery boasts exceptional acoustics.
Pisa’s history as a maritime republic during the Middle Ages is reflected in its elegant palaces, churches, and squares. The city’s rich heritage is evident in landmarks like the Piazza dei Cavalieri, the Church of San Michele in Borgo, and the Palazzo Blu
The University of Pisa, established in 1343, is one of Italy’s most renowned institutions. Its historic university buildings and botanical gardens add an academic flair to the city’s ambiance.
The Arno River gracefully flows through the city, offering picturesque scenes and charming riverside promenades. The Ponte di Mezzo and Ponte Solferino are among the bridges that provide stunning views of the river and the city’s skyline.
Book here an all-Inclusive Guided Tour in Pisa with Optional Leaning Tower
11. Florence (Firenze)
Florence (Firenze in Italian), the birthplace of the Renaissance, is situated in the heart of Tuscany. Its cityscape is adorned with architectural masterpieces.
The Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore (Duomo), with Brunelleschi’s iconic dome, Giotto’s Bell Tower, and the Baptistery, comprises a significant part of the renowned Florence skyline. Some of the best places to stay in Florence are located close to these attractions.
The city houses some of the world’s most treasured art collections. The Uffizi Gallery, a treasure trove of Renaissance art, boasts works by Botticelli, Michelangelo, Raphael, and Leonardo da Vinci’s famous “Annunciation.” The Galleria dell’Accademia is home to Michelangelo’s sculptural masterpiece, David.
Florence’s historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a labyrinth of narrow streets, charming squares like Piazza della Signoria, and elegant palazzos. The Ponte Vecchio, a medieval bridge adorned with shops, spans the Arno River, adding to the city’s allure.
There is so much to see that you may need 4 days in Florence to enjoy all the highlights without feeling rushed.
The city’s cultural legacy extends to its churches and cultural institutions. The Basilica di Santa Croce houses the tombs of illustrious figures like Michelangelo, Galileo Galilei, and Machiavelli. The Laurentian Library and San Lorenzo Church, designed by Brunelleschi, are architectural gems.
Book here a Small Group Tour to Uffizi Gallery, David & Accademia in Florence
12. Siena
Siena, a picturesque city in Tuscany, is a UNESCO-listed historic center. Piazza del Campo, a shell-shaped square, serves as the heart of the city and hosts the famous Palio di Siena, a thrilling horse race dating back to the Middle Ages.
The Duomo di Siena, or Siena Cathedral, is a splendid example of Italian Gothic architecture. Its facade, adorned with intricate sculptures, and the interior featuring impressive artworks by Donatello, Pisano, and other renowned artists, are awe-inspiring.
Siena’s well-preserved medieval streets, narrow alleyways, and majestic palaces like the Palazzo Pubblico exude a timeless charm. The Torre del Mangia, a towering structure adjacent to the Palazzo Pubblico, offers panoramic views of the city and countryside.
Siena’s traditions show through events like the Palio, a fiercely competitive horse race held twice a year. The city’s devotion to its districts (contrade) and their respective flags, ceremonies, and celebrations adds to the vibrancy of its cultural scene.
Siena’s culinary offerings are a delight for food enthusiasts. Local specialties such as pici pasta, panforte (a dense fruit and nut cake), and Chianti wines from the nearby region are a treat for the taste buds.
Book here a Guided Tour with Cathedral Skip-the-Line Entry in Siena
