25 Unmissable Experiences To Add To Your Italy Bucket List! 

A journey through Italy is like stepping into a living masterpiece where every corner tells a story of centuries past. From the grandeur of ancient cities to the picturesque countryside, Italy beckons with a plethora of unforgettable experiences that deserve a spot on your Italy bucket list! 

Whether you are captivated by the rich history, delectable cuisine or breathtaking landscapes, this beautiful country offers an array of unmissable activities. That is why we’ve collated 24 extraordinary experiences in Italy, recommended by fellow travel bloggers that will awaken your wanderlust! 

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Some Helpful Tips for Visiting Italy

How to get around Italy

Luckily, navigating Italy is pretty easy thanks to its efficient transport options! 

For convenient and affordable travel between cities, Flixbus is an ideal choice, offering an extensive network of bus routes. We always use Omio to streamline our planning. The platform allows you to easily compare trains, buses and flights, ensuring you choose the most suitable option for your itinerary. 

How to book your accommodation in Italy

Booking your ideal accommodation in Italy is a breeze with a variety of options at your fingertips! We always use Booking.com and Hostelworld when we travel and used a mixture of the two during our time in Italy. Booking offers a vast range of hotels, apartments and villas ensuring you’ll find a perfect match. 

If you’re on a budget, or looking for a social experience, Hostelworld has an extensive selection of hostels across Italy for every type of traveller. 

How to book your tours and experiences in Italy

To book a lot of the experiences on this list you will likely need to do so in advance. Viator and GetYourGuide are always the first platforms we check to book activities and tours. Even if you choose not to book through them and to book with your accommodation or tour guides, it’s a great way to gauge the price and be sure you are getting a good deal.

25 Experiences to add to your Italy bucket List

1. Take a tour of the Colosseum, Rome

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One of the best and most popular experiences in all of Italy is found in the capital Rome. An Italian bucket list would not be complete without taking a tour of the Colosseum, or the Trevi Fountain for that matter.

Seeing the Colosseum for the first time is a pretty cool experience in itself, but stepping inside the two thousand-year-old amphitheatre and taking a tour of the Colosseum is unforgettable. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience for most people, and you simply can’t visit Rome without taking a tour.

There are lots of different tour options and you can choose the one which suits you best. Some tours even have exclusive access to the arena floor, which is off-limits to general visitors.

When it comes to cost, it depends on what you’re looking for. Generally speaking, €30-100 per person is the standard price for a Colosseum tour. The price bracket is so large as there are so many different types of tours.

But no matter which tour you opt for, you are guaranteed to have an amazing time, learn a lot about the Colosseum, and get the best insight into what life was like in ancient Rome. Nothing beats stepping through the Colosseum’s gladiator door and imagining yourself as a gladiator preparing for battle.

2. Visit Mount Etna, Sicily

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Being Italy’s largest island, Sicily is famous for many things. The region is known for its beautiful beaches, well-preserved historical sites, lovely coastal towns and fantastic local cuisine.

Still, its most prominent attraction is undoubtedly Mount Etna, a 3,329m high volcano on the island’s east coast. Etna is one of the world’s most active volcanoes and it’s in a constant state of activity with frequent eruptions. Whats not to enjoy about walking between lava flows and experiencing an otherworldly landscape and the power of nature?!

There are numerous ways to explore Mount Etna. Half and full-day guided tours are available from Catania and Taormina. Both can be booked online or through local tour agencies and prices start from €40.

It is also possible to visit Mount Etna independently. The most budget-friendly option is taking the AST Etna Bus, which departs from Catania Central Station at 08:15am every morning. Bear in-mind that there’s normally only one bus per day and tickets will be given out on a first-come, first-served basis. Renting a car may be a better choice.

From the parking lot, a cable car takes visitors up to the Mountain Hut at 2,500m. Alternatively, it’s possible to hike independently up to 2,900m, but attempting a summit hike without a guide is not permitted. Those who want to visit the active summit craters at 3,320m must sign up for a guided excursion or catch a 4×4 bus on the site.

To experience Etna at its best, consider staying at Cavanera Etnea Resort. This luxury wine resort is situated within a vinery at the foot of Mount Etna. The property is rustic but fully renovated to provide visitors comfort and all modern necessities. Perfect for a romantic getaway!

3. Bagni San Filippo, Tuscany

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Bagni San Filippo are wonderfully hidden and still undiscovered by most foreign tourists. Located in Southern Tuscany in the Val D’Orcia, this slew of beautifully unique hot springs is unlike any other in Italy. The calcium carbonate deposits have created large, water-fall-like rocks from which the warm waters run. The most famous of them called La Balena Bianca or White Whale. 

You can easily arrive at the small town of Bagni San Filippo by car in two hours from both Florence and Rome. Once you arrive, park along the one-way road, and pay and display your ticket. Now make your way to the trailhead located across the small bar, perfect for a post-dip coffee or gelato. Follow the trail past a couple of picnic tables and through the woods to the various pools of differing temperatures. Be sure to try various pools to find your ideal temperature and setting. 

It’s recommended to wear good shoes and bring your own food, water and towels. Note there are no changing rooms or bathrooms so use the restroom at the bar. It’s also important to know that these natural hot springs smell grossly of sulfur, similar to that of rotten eggs. Don’t be put off but rather, embrace it as this is what helps make thermal water so good for you. Sit back, relax and soak yourself in some of the more untouched thermal waters in Tuscany. And what’s better, it’s free!

If you would like to spend the night, I would suggest looking into any farm stay (agritourism) in the area. If you are looking for spa treatments, check out the Terme di Saturnia Spa Resort in Saturnia, Fonteverde in San Casciano dei Bagni, or the ADLER Spa Resort in Bagno Vignoni.

4. Juliet’s Balcony, Verona

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Verona is a beautiful city in Northern Italy and known for being the home of the famous star-crossed lovers, Romeo and Juliet. The city is also located near the mightily impressive Lake Garda which is a great place to visit for some relaxation.

One bucket list item to do in Verona is to visit Juliet’s House where you can step upon Juliet’s Balcony. In Shakespeare’s play, the balcony scene is one of the most crucial, as this is where Romeo climbs up to profess his love for Juliet. While Juliet was a fictional character, Juliet’s house in Verona dates back to the 1300s. It’s said to have been an inspiration to Shakespeare to write his most famous play.

Today, Juliet’s House and balcony are one of Verona’s best attractions. Juliet’s House is a museum that can be visited from Tuesday-Sunday from 9am to 7pm. Tickets for Juliet’s house are €6. However, make sure to spend at least one day in Verona visiting its other popular tourists attractions such as the Verona Arena and the Castelvecchio Museum. If you do, then the Verona Card is well worth it as it includes several popular Verona activities.

For a lovely boutique hotel in the heart of Verona, near the PIazza Erbe, check out the Hotel Aurora.

5. The Blue Grotto, Capri

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The Blue Grotto is a luminescent sea cave casting an azure glow. It’s one of the best things to do in Capri and an absolute bucket list activity for anyone touring Italy. The grotto is a dreamy natural marvel, captivating visitors with its turquoise waters.

Most travelers go on a day trip to Capri from Sorrento or Naples. Travelers can book a tour of Capri and the Blue Grotto either from Naples or Sorrento. Alternatively, they can take the ferry to Capri and start the journey to the Blue Grotto from the vibrant Marina Grande in Capri. There, they can charter a short boat tour to the Blue Grotto. They’ll then switch to a smaller rowboat, designed to allow visitors to pass through the grotto’s small entrance.

The boat from Marina Grande costs around €20 and it includes the boat, rowboat journey and the entrance fee. Despite its cost, the Blue Grotto experience is absolutely priceless.

Keep in mind that there might be a long waiting time to enter the Grotto, as the entrance is very small. It’s recommended to go as early as possible to avoid the crowds and the noon heat.

When it comes to lodging, the Hotel Della Piccola Marina, a mere 10-minute walk from the Piazzetta, is a gem. With an outdoor pool near Capri’s lively center, it makes the perfect retreat after a day of exploring.

6. Hike to Cala Goloritze, Sardinia

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Cala Goloritzé is located in the Gulf of Orosei, in Sardinia. This tiny cove is characterized by white pebbles and incredibly clear water that is instantly deep and incredibly fresh. This is thanks to freshwater sources that sprout from the cliffs and underwater.

About 200m from the shore, there’s the famous Goloritzé Arch, a natural monument of Sardinia along with the Goloritzé Pinnacle, a paradise for rock climbers. Do remember that climbing the arch is forbidden.

Cala Goloritzé is a highly protected beach and boats are only allowed to anchor 300m meters from the shoreline. The only way to actually get there is via a hike that starts in the Porteddu parking lot in the Golgo Plateau, above the village of Baunei. The hike is 4km each way, with a 400m difference in altitude between the starting point and the beach. The trail is easy to follow, and on the way back you will be predominantly downhill baring a short uphill section. It’ll take you roughly 90 minutes in both directions.

Access to the beach is limited to no more than 250 visitors per day, so you will need to book your visit atleast three days in advance via the local app Heart of Sardinia. Bring whatever you need for your stay at the beach, and plenty of water for the hike.

7. Visit the Vatican City

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One of the most iconic experiences in Italy is undoubtedly making a visit to the Vatican! The Vatican City is an independent country completely contained inside of the city of Rome and a must on any Rome bucket list.

In addition to being the home of the Catholic Church and the seat of the Pope, the Vatican holds many artistic treasures. Start off in the Piazza san Petro, one of the most beautiful piazzas in Rome, and admire the stunning St. Peter’s Basilica.

Take a tour of the Vatican to see the wonders of the Vatican Museum and the world-famous Sistine Chapel. Admire the breathtaking ‘Creation of Adam’ painting by master artist Michelangelo gracing the ceiling.

The Vatican is an extremely popular destination, so to ensure you don’t miss out, purchase entry tickets in advance. Basic ticket prices start at €17 if purchased through the Vatican Museum’s website. Alternatively, for an additional cost (and more perks), splurge on small-group guided tours or tours with early entry and breakfast!

If you’re looking for a perfectly located accommodation, why not stay at the Starhotels Metropole.  Located just blocks from the Roma Termini train station, this 4-star hotel is a great choice for a visit to Rome.

7. Private Boat Tour of Positano

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Embarking on a private boat tour from Positano is an unparalleled bucket list activity in Italy. It offers an unforgettable experience that captivates the heart and soul of any traveller.

This will allow you to experience the pristine waters of the Amalfi Coast, the breathtaking landscape of rugged cliffs, vibrant coastal villages, and mesmerizing blue seas that stretch beyond the horizon. The sense of exclusivity and freedom onboard their private vessel allows you to soak in the beauty of this enchanting region at your own pace, away from the bustling crowds.

As you glide along the coast, every twist and turn unveils hidden coves, secluded beaches, and ancient sea caves, inviting you to explore Italy’s natural wonders up close. In this personalized setting, you can savour the warmth of the Mediterranean sun and indulge in local delicacies and refreshing drinks served by attentive crew members. 

Of course, a visit to Positano is not complete without staying at Hotel Poseidon. This is a bucket list experience in itself. Enjoy panoramic views of the Positano hillsides and outstanding service that will have them talking about it for years.

The intimate connection with the sea, combined with the awe-inspiring views of Positano and the Amalfi Coast from the water, etches a lasting memory in their minds, making this boat tour an incomparable experience and an ultimate addition to any traveler’s Italian bucket list.

8. Visit Piazzale Michelangelo, Florence

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One of the best things to do during a trip to Florence, Italy is to see the city from above at the Piazzale Michelangelo.

This plaza is located on the south side of the Arno meaning you must cross the famous Ponte Vecchio to get there! From the Piazzale Michelangelo, you can see the city spread out before you and really understand how giant the Duomo is. It is arguably the most beautiful view in Florence, which makes it one of Italy’s unmissable experiences. To make things even better, this experience is totally free!

To get there, follow the footpath up the stairs from the Piazza Giuseppe Poggi. You can also drive or take the city bus. Keep in mind that this is a popular spot for tourists, so be prepared for crowds, especially at sunset. Nonetheless, it’s a huge space with lots of room to spread out and plenty of places to take in the views of the city.

To really make the most of it, why not bring a picnic and a bottle of wine to enjoy the city views during sunset.

If you’re looking to make the most of your time in this beautiful city, why not stay at Plaza Hotel Lucchesi. This hotel is located on the bansk of the Arno River providing great views as well as top of the range facilities.

9. Visit Alberobello, Puglia

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If you’re looking for a unique things to do in Italy, then head to Alberobello, one of the best towns to visit in Puglia. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a true gem, unlike anything you’ve seen before.

Nestled in the Valle d’Itria, Alberobello is known for its iconic cone-shaped, white-washed buildings called trullo. It is the only place in Italy you can find them, and a definite highlight on any trip to the region of Puglia.

To wander around this whimsical world, head to the Rione Monti quarter, home to over 1000 trulli. These unique structures house everything from churches and museums to shops and cafes. And don’t miss a visit Trullo Sovrano, the only two-story trullo in town. This heritage museum costs €2 and is open from 10 am – 1:30 pm & 3:30 pm – 7 pm.

Alberobello can get crowded, especially in peak season, so it is recommended to arrive early to beat the tour buses. The easiest way to get there is to drive yourself or take a direct bus from Bari, less than an hour away.

Of course, staying in a trullo is a magical, once-in-a-lifetime experience. Trullo Dell’Antica Fileria is a charming apartment in the historic center that blends modern comfort with traditional Apulian trullo features.

10. Pasta Making Class, Rome

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Learning to make pasta in Rome is an authentic and hands-on experience that immerses you in the heart of Italian culinary tradition. With its rich history of pasta-making, Rome offers the perfect setting to master the art of crafting this beloved dish.

During your pasta-making class, you’ll be guided by expert local chefs who’ll teach you the secrets of selecting the finest ingredients and blending them into the perfect dough. From kneading the mixture to shaping various pasta types, such as fettuccine, you’ll gain a true appreciation for the craftsmanship behind this culinary staple.

Beyond the technical skills, the class also provides insight into the cultural significance of pasta in ancient Italian society. As you create and savour your own homemade pasta, you’ll connect with the Italian passion for food and the sense of community that surrounds the dining table.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, learning to make pasta during your three days in Rome promises to be a memorable and delectable experience that you can take home and share with loved ones.

Depending on the size of the course and if it’s done in a professional kitchen or a local’s home, this experience can range from $75 to $200.

11. Visit the Gardens of the Royal Palace of Caserta

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Encompassing five floors with 1,200 rooms and over 1,700 windows, the Reggia di Caserta is an unmissable experience in Italy. From the Grand Staircase of Honour that was used to wow guests to the impressive Court Theatre, this palace is a true Italian gem. 

In addition to the amazing palace, the Royal Park is as equally impressive. The park is over two miles long, accentuated by a series of pools and fountains that line the middle. At the far end, a large waterfall represents the power it took to build this place. 

A €15 ticket includes a visit to the Royal Apartments and the Royal Park including the English Garden. There is a shuttle service that runs from the palace to the end of the garden. It costs €2.50 for a round-trip ticket. There are also bicycles available to rent for €4 per hour. 

The palace is located in the Campania region north of Naples and is easy to get to by train or car.  Enjoy a luxurious stay at the nearby Titti Artistic B & B. It includes breakfast and is located just a short walk from the palace and train station. 

12. The Roman City of Aquileia

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There are so many unmissable experiences in Italy that everyone knows about. Why not try an experience that will be just as unforgettable, but in an off-the-beaten-track way? That’s why you should visit the ancient Roman city of Aquileia when you are in Northern Italy. 

Aquileia was one of the largest cities in the Roman Empire, and there are so many fabulous ruins and mosaics to explore here. That’s why the treasures of Aquileia are listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

You will be able to explore the ruins here without being crowded with tourists the way you are in Rome. Entrance to the Roman Forum is free. You can also see many ancient treasures at the National Archeological Museum of Aquileia, which is only €7 per person.

Finally, don’t miss the Basilica di Santa Maria Assunta. The interior of the church is full of stunning 4th-century mosaics depicting fabulous sea creatures and other wonders. Admission to the complex is €10.

It’s easy to visit Aquileia from the nearby city of Venice, which is just a two-hour train trip away. If you are staying in Aquileia, try the Casa Delneri, which has a perfect location and a delicious breakfast included. 

13. Visit Pompeii

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If you’ve enjoyed the historic sites in Rome, then a trip to Pompeii should absolutely be on your bucket list for Italy. While sights like the Colosseum are fabulously impressive, a trip to Pompeii will show you how everyday Romans really lived.

When Vesuvius erupted in 79AD, the town of Pompeii was buried under tonnes of volcanic rocks and ash and buildings lay undiscovered for centuries. Today, visitors can go inside ordinary Roman houses and walk Pompeii’s streets like the Romans did. You can also see takeaways and shops, alongside the usual temples and bath houses. Entry tickets for Pompeii cost €19, but it’s well worth paying a little extra for a guided tour.

Pompeii is 15 miles south of Naples, halfway between Naples and Sorrento. The best way to get to Naples is the local Circumvesuviana train, which runs along the Bay of Naples to Sorrento and also stops at Ercolano, home of another fabulous Roman site, Herculaneum.

Most visitors to Pompeii stay in Sorrento, as it’s a great base for not only Pompeii but day trips to Capri and the Amalfi Coast. The Grand Hotel Cesare Augusto is a simple but reasonably priced hotel near Sorrento’s train station. Some rooms have balconies with views of Mount Vesuvius and the sea. 

14. Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, Milan

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One unmissable experience in Italy can be found in Milan at the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. This 19th-century shopping centre executes elegant Neo-Renaissance architecture. If tourists are looking for a place that can compare to the beautiful architecture of Venice, they should head here!

On top of its beauty, this landmark is famous for its high-end boutiques, restaurants, and cafes. It truly helps Milan live up to its name as a worldwide fashion capital!

The mall is located in the Centro Storico neighbourhood, one of the most popular areas in Milan. Regarding how to visit, there are several access points. However, the most popular is from the Piazza del Duomo, as visitors can walk through the picturesque triumphal arch.

Along with the convenience of being in the centre of Milan, this shopping arcade benefits by being next to the stunning Duomo di Milano. In fact, the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II connects the Piazza del Duomo and Piazza della Scale, making it convenient to see two other main attractions.

While visiting the shopping centre is free of charge, there are some activities with costs. The most popular is the Highline Galleria, a rooftop pathway that provides picturesque views of Milan. This experience costs visitors €12.

Hotel Regina is a 4-star hotel near the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II and Duomo di Milano. The hotel also offers breakfast, a bar, and room service. All of this is, without a doubt, one of the best places to put on your Milan Travel Guide and Milan bucket list!

15. Visit Venice Carnival

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Venice is undeniably one of the most magnificent cities in the world. Not many places in the world can rival the beauty of Venice.

But Venice gets even more spectacular during the carnival. Venice Carnival is one of the most extravagant events in the world. Venice Carnival masks and costumes are probably the most glamorous carnival masks and costumes in the world. Typical Venice Carnival costumes recall the lavish dressing of the medieval aristocracy. Did you know, traditional Venice Carnival masks represent the characters of Commedia del’ Arte?

Venice Carnival is among the oldest carnivals in the world. The event started in the Middle Ages when ordinary people got masqueraded to publicly mock the aristocracy and authorities of the medieval Republic of Venice. Venice Carnival happens in February every year and lasts for ten days. The event takes place in the streets of Venice where you can see glamorous masquerade costumes in every corner. But, the main areas of Carnival are St Marc Square and Riva Degli Schiavoni. 

So, if you wish to attend one of the most spectacular events in one of the most magnificent cities in the world, put this carnival on your Venice bucket list. Consider staying at charming Antico Portego in the historic Cannaregio neighbourhood. The hotel is only 15 minute walk from St Mark Square and Rialto Bridge. 

16. Laghi di Fusine, Udine

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Mountain lakes might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Italy, but Italy is also a popular hiking destination. Laghi di Fusine is a pair of Alpine lakes of glacial origin, situated in the northeast Italian province of Udine. You’ll find the lakes right on the border of Italy, Slovenia, and Austria. You can easily visit from all of these countries, and the location makes it an excellent idea for a day trip from Pula, Croatia, too!

The easiest way to get to the Laghi di Fusine is by car. There is a large parking before you reach the trail, and you’ll have to pay a small parking fee. If you’re walking or mountain biking to the lake, which is another bucket list destinations in Italian mountains, you won’t have to pay any entrance fee.

The first lake is right next to the entrance. This large, crystal-clear lake with an impressive mountain in its background reflects on the still water. You can walk around the lake, or take a small wooden boat ride. There is a small cafe next to the lake where you can grab coffee and snacks.

You’ll just have to follow the simple dirt path to get to the second lake. You don’t need any special equipment, and the walk takes about half an hour as you’ll want to stop for photos. It is one of the most beautiful places in Italy!
If you want to stay close to the lakes, the mountain Hotel Rosengarten is a fantastic option!

17. Hiking in Cinque Terre, Liguria

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The coastal landscape of the Cinque Terre is beautiful enough with its dramatic cliffs, beaches, lush forest, and terraces of vineyards. But it’s the five small towns along the way and pockets of quaint colourful buildings, that make it so special.

Cinque Terre is on the northwest coast of Italy, between Pisa and Genoa. Covered by a national park about 20km, most people focus on just the stretch of five towns along half that length. There are no roads, but it’s possible to take a train or even a boat between the towns. For many people, a big part of the experience is walking the coastal trail between the five towns. They are Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. As well as gorgeous nature along the way, there are incredible views of settlements and adventurous things to do in Italy each one. For example, historic buildings, restaurants, shopping, and even beaches.

When it comes to hiking the Cinque Terre, it’s possible to do the whole route in a day, but some people prefer to split it between two days. The first two sections from Monterosso require an entry ticket, €7.50 for a day or €14.50 for two days.

A train stops at most of the Cinque Terre towns, with each having gorgeous local hotels or apartments. To save a bit of money on accommodation, you can also stay at the nearby city of La Spezia, The Poet Hotel is a cool boutique option here.

18. Visit the Prosecco Hills, Treviso

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The Prosecco Hills are one of the most important wine regions in Italy and where the homonymous wine is produced, the Prosecco.

The geographical area where the Prosecco grapes are cultivated extends for nearly 100 km² and it’s located in northeast Italy. It’s worth knowing that the best Prosecco is only produced in Veneto, in the Conegliano, Valdobbiadene and the Asolo area.

The Prosecco Hills are one of the most recent UNESCO World Heritage Sites. They are worth visiting for their stunning hilltop views and the numerous wine-tasting experiences that are on offer in the local area.

The Prosecco Hills can make the perfect day trip from Venice and there is the option to either join a small guided tour or get there independently. During a visit to the Prosecco Hills, visit local wine cellars which offer the chance to try the best Prosecco in the world.

At the family-owned wine cellar Moret Vini in San Pietro di Felletto, why not have a picnic surrounded by the vineyards while tasting their delicious wines and food?

When looking for an elegant stay immersed in the countryside, Locanda MaMaGiò is perfect to explore the Valdobbiadene hills and beyond.

19. Climbing the Asinelli Tower, Bologna

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For more of an off-the-beaten path unmissable experience in Italy, head to Bologna! Not only is this town the foodie capital of Italy, this historic city offers incredible sites, museums, culture, and of course, restaurants! But for a bucket-list activity that everyone should do while visiting Bologna, climbing Le Due Torri – and more specifically, the Asinelli Tower – is an unforgettable experience.

Located in Italy’s Emilia Romagna region, Bologna is easily reachable by train from Rome or Venice in about two hours. It’s a must-visit region for anyone who loves food and culture. It’s more of a relaxed town with plenty to offer, including climbing the tallest leaning medieval tower in the world!

Bologna’s Two Towers, Asinelli and Garisenda, are iconic city landmarks dating back to the 12th century, and are just steps from Piazza Maggiore. Le Due Torri were built as a symbol of grandeur, and was also used as a defensive stronghold.

Climbing the Asinelli Tower offers one of the best views of Bologna. There are sweeping 360 views of Bologna and beyond and the climb is definitely worth the reward. Tickets are just 5 euros and must be purchased in advance with a pre-selected time. The Asinelli Tower is open daily with start times every 15 minutes from 10:00 am – 6:15 pm. Allow at least 45 minutes for this unmissable experience in Italy!

For fantastic accommodations while in Bologna, Attico di Via d’Azeglio provides plush accommodations just 10 minutes from the centre of Bologna. It offers views of terracotta rooftops and mountains, plus includes breakfast at a local cafe downstairs.

20. Ride a Gondola, Venice

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Whilst it may not be a hidden gem in Venice, going for a gondola ride is a must when you visit the city.

Gondolas are in a way synonym with the city of Venice, and with romance. Is there anything more romantic than sailing on the narrow canals of the city, alongside your loved one, in the chants of a gondolier? In real life the gondolier don’t sing, but are more like tourist guides, telling the story of the places you are passing by, but even so, the experience is still extremely romantic.

Gondola rides are regulated in Venice, which means that they all cost the same, and you can only embark on certain points around the city. The fare for a gondola ride differs, depending on the time of the day. Until 7pm, the price for a half an hour ride is 80 euros. Between 7pm and 4am, the price for a 35-minute gondola ride is €100. The maximum number of passengers per gondola is six.

It is highly recommended to spend the night in Venice, to experience the city by night as well. It has a special kind of charm after the crowds leave. A good place to stay at is the family-run Ca’ San Rocco, in Dorsoduro.

21. Duomo di Milano, Milan

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For those traveling through Northern Italy, one city that you’ll want to pass through is Milan. This city is known for having an abundance of high-end luxury stores and its delicious regional dishes. While both of these activities are worth adding to your itinerary, one experience that every person should do is visit the iconic Duomo di Milano!

This 14th-century cathedral is one of the most impressive displays of Gothic architecture in Europe and will leave you absolutely breathless. From the stunning façade on the exterior to the intricate sculptures and larger-than-life artworks that can be found within the cathedral, witnessing this architectural masterpiece is not to be missed.

In addition, for as little as €13, visitors can walk up to the rooftop and marvel at the architecture up close! Alternatively, visitors can also opt to pay €15 for a rooftop ticket that provides access via an elevator lift!

Regardless of which ticket you opt to get, enjoying the magnificent views and beauty of the Duomo di Milano is a must-do experience! And, for places to stay, consider VIU Hotel Milan. This five-star hotel offers stunning views of the city and all the amenities that you need for a relaxing getaway!

22. Leaning Tower of Pisa

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One epic experience worth adding to your bucket list ideas in Italy is climbing the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Built in the 12th century, this famous tower known for its tilt provides stunning views of Pisa and the surrounding Tuscan landscape from its tower.

To admire these gorgeous views from the Tower of Pisa observation deck, you must go up a winding staircase that brings you over 250 steps. The climb to the can be done in about 30 minutes with a medium level of fitness. 

Climbing the Leaning Tower of Pisa is a popular activity, and the best way to ensure your spot is to show up early or book a guided tour in advance that allows you to skip the line. The cost to climb the tower is €18 if bought at the door. Be aware that if you’re in Pisa with kids, children under the age of 8 are not allowed to climb the Leaning Tower of Pisa. 

The Leaning Tower is part of a larger Duomo complex building. You should give yourself two to three hours to climb the tower, explore the landscaped grounds and get pictures from outside, as well as the Duomo. 

To have the best access to the Leaning Tower as well as other attractions around Pisa, stay at Hotel di Stefano, only a 5-minute walk from the tower. Wake up to a delicious breakfast each morning while enjoying breathtaking views of Pisa.

23. Take a road trip in Tuscany

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Going on a road trip around Tuscany is one of the best things to see in Italy must do. Driving through the picturesque landscape of vineyards and cypress trees and visiting enchanting towns is a memory you’ll never forget.

The most natural place to fly into is Florence thanks to it’s great transport connections. While you are there, you should spend a couple of days exploring the best viewpoints, and stroll around the old town. The historic centre is the best place to stay in Florence, especially for first-timers.

Next, your road trip itinerary could include charming towns like Siena where you can have drinks on the iconic Piazza del Campo, San Gimignano. Moreover, why not also climb the Torre Grossa for Tuscany’s best vineyard views, and explore the tiny walled town of Monteriggioni.

The most picturesque region in Tuscany for a road trip is the Val d’Orca with the iconic Cypress trees elegantly lining the rolling hills. While in Tuscany, make sure you stay at least one night on a farm stay between the vineyards to taste the best local wines with your pizza or pasta. Agriturismo Fattoria San Donato near San Gimignano is a great alternative and makes for a lovely walk through the vineyards to reach the village.

24. Visit Murano and Burano

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Murano and Burano are two beautiful islands located in the Venice lagoon which you can visit to escape the city’s crowds. These islands are small and can be explored together effortlessly. They are a must-see and an excellent addition to any Italy itinerary.

Murano is famous for its glass production and you can get to experience the thrilling blown glass manufacturing process, which has been passed down through generations. The best place to visit to experience this history is Museo del Vetro, a seventeenth-century palace converted into a museum. This museum is a display of beautiful glass pieces, some of which date back to Egyptian times.

You can also visit the Murano Cathedral which is a real gem and cannot be missed. In addition, there are various craft shops on the island where you can hunt for incredible glass artefacts and purchase as souvenirs or gifts.

Similarily, Burano is very warm and welcoming. With its colourful houses, Burano serves a wonderful aesthetic for your Instagram pictures. However, Burano is most known for its laces and it is one of the income sources for the island. There are traditional lace stores which you can visit to buy beautiful, traditionally made laces.

These islands can be a great escape from the crowded main island and offer a unique and authentic experience. You will not be disappointed when it comes to these islands. 

You can use maritime transport known as the Vaporetto ferry to visit Murano and Burano. Line 12 runs from the Fondamente Nove jetty to Burano. The one-way tickets are priced at around $9, and the trip will take about 40 minutes. You should take a day pass if you are going to take water buses multiple times as it will make your travel hassle-free.

25. Take a trip to Portofino

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Taking a day trip to Portofino truly is an unmissable Italian experience and was one of the highlights of our whole trip around Italy! Portofino is a beautiful, compact destination easily reachable by either tour or public transport from the city of Genoa. 

If you enjoy a bit of shopping, the village has heaps of exquisite boutiques, high-end fashion stores and local craftsmanship. In addition, the harbour, framed by bobbing boats and serene waters, captures the Mediterranean lifestyle perfectly.

We’re big gin lovers so were drawn to the area to taste some of Portofino’s own gin. It’s distilled with botanicals from the surrounding hills and some of the best gin we’ve ever tasted!

Walking through the village unveils a postcard-perfect scene, with charming coloured buildings that line the harbour and narrow streets. To savour the experience, consider staying at the Belmond Hotel Splendido, nestled on a hill overlooking the beautiful waters. 

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There you have it 25 unmissable experiences to add to your Italy bucket list. From hiking the Cala Goloritze to exploring the ruins of Pompeii, Italy has such a range of activities that you’ll have fun no matter what you enjoy. Having never been to Italy before ourselves, we absolutely loved the culture, the food and the people. We particularly enjoyed Venice as we didn’t visit during peak tourist season which made it much more relaxing. In addition, the houses on Burano were incredible and absolutely a must see for any visitor.

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