Discovering the Top 10 Places to Visit in Italy

Italy, located in Southern Europe, is rich in culture, history, and natural beauty. From the ancient ruins of Rome to the picturesque canals of Venice, there are myriad reasons to visit this beautiful country. Whether you are interested in art and architecture, delicious food and wine, or simply want to soak up the Mediterranean sun, Italy has something for you in the store. 

Whether you are travelling for leisure or business purposes, it is essential to buy Italy travel insurance before your trip starts to stay financially protected against unexpected events like emergency medical situations, lost or stolen baggage, trip cancellation or curtailment, and more. Travel insurance provides peace of mind for your trip, as you would be assured that you would be financially protected if required.

To help you on the part of your trip as well as insurance, we have curated the best places to visit in Italy considering multiple factors - from seasonality to sights - to help you determine where you can go. We will also understand the fundamentals of Italy travel insurance, the process of obtaining it, its features, and more.

Top Places to Visit in Italy

Let’s begin with a quick look at the top places to visit in Italy - 

1. Venice

Venice, a popular destination in Northeastern Italy, has been frequently referred to as the ‘most romantic city’, the ‘city of canals’, or the ‘floating city’ in Europe. It is located on 118 small islands interlinked by bridges and separated by various canals. Due to its historic buildings, structures, and architecture, Venice and its lagoons have been listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. 

The major attractions in Venice in the city consist of museums, churches, and squares like the Bridge of Sighs, St. Mark's Basilica, and more. These places are dedicated to Saints and reflect architectural significance in the city. In addition, Venice is also famous for its art, with many galleries displaying works by artists such as Titian and Tintoretto. 

A remarkable aspect of Venice is that you can easily explore this beautiful city on foot. You can stroll the streets, cross bridges, and enjoy the beauty of medieval buildings. 

As a romantic destination, you can also spend a romantic evening with your partner and explore different activities. From embarking on wine tours and going on Gondola rides together to candlelight dinners, Venice has many such things that make it one of the most exotic places to visit in Italy.

Key Attractions: Doge’s Palace, Piazza San Marco aka the Drawing Room of Europe by Napoleon, Scuola Grande di San Rocco, Torre dell’orologio clock tower, Grand Canal, Rialto Bridge, Riva Degli Schiavoni, and more.

2. Rome

Rome offers a wealth of cultural and historical sights and experiences, making the capital city a must-see destination for any traveller. Among the main draws of Rome are its historical landmarks and monuments such as the Colosseum, the Pantheon, and the Trevi Fountain, to name a few. These ancient structures offer a glimpse into the city's past and illuminate Roman culture and architecture. Another major attraction in Rome is the Vatican City, which is home to the Pope and the famous Sistine Chapel. 

You can also explore the Vatican Museums and St. Peter's Basilica, exhibiting the world's most important works of art and architecture. Packed with conventional tourist spots, you can also glimpse its western civilisation through cafes and bars. In addition, Rome is also known for its beautiful piazzas, such as Piazza Navona and Piazza di Spagna, which are great places to relax, watch, and enjoy the city's vibrant atmosphere. 

Key Attractions: Roman Forum, Piazza Navona, Sistine Chapel, Trastevere District, Spanish Steps, St. Angelo Bridge, Borghese Gallery, Aventine Hill, Circus Maximus, Trevi Fountain, Belvedere Del Gianicolo, and so on.

3. Florence

Florence, located in Central Italy, is one of the world's wealthiest and most populous cities. It is surrounded by hills from all sides and is dotted with green villas, orchids, and vineyards. The city is considered the birthplace of the Renaissance and is home to many famous works of art and architecture from that period. 

You can explore the Uffizi Gallery, which houses an impressive collection of Renaissance paintings, including works by Botticelli, da Vinci, and Raphael. Another popular attraction is the Florence Cathedral, famous for its iconic dome designed by Brunelleschi and its bell tower designed by Giotto. 

You can also walk around the historic centre of Florence, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and admire the beautiful palaces, churches, and piazzas. The city also offers a variety of food options -  from traditional Tuscan cuisine to contemporary Italian dishes. Florence is certainly a good place to visit in Italy for those interested in art, history, and architecture, and is an excellent base for exploring the beautiful Tuscan countryside.

Key Attractions: Museo Archeologico Nazionale di Firenze, Riccardi Medici Palace, Casa Buonarroti, Basilica di Santo Spirito, Museo Galileo, Pitti Palace, Palazzo Vecchio, etc

4. Milan

Milan, the second-most populous city in Italy, is a global capital of fashion and design. It has numerous historical and modern landmarks including the Gothic Cathedral of Milan, the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II shopping mall, and the iconic Santa Maria Delle Grazie church, which houses Leonardo da Vinci's famous painting ‘The Last Supper’. 

With its deep roots in history, the city has become a renowned manufacturing, leading, and commercial centre of Italy. Additionally, Milan is a must-visit for the foodies out there, with the city having delicious cuisine and being particularly famous for its risotto dishes. The city is also lined up with bars and cafes, making it one of the best places to visit in Italy with family.

Key Attractions: Duomo Di Milano, Cimitero Monumentale, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, Maurizio Cattelan’s L.O.V.E Sculpture, Hangar Bicocca, Triennale Di Milano, Armani Silos, Santa Maria Delle Grazie, Quadrilatero D’Oro, and more.

5. Sorrento

Sorrento is often referred to as the land of mermaids. As a small town in southern Italy on the Sorrentine Peninsula, it is situated on the Amalfi Coast and overlooks the Bay of Naples. The town is primarily famous for its stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and its attractive streets filled with shops, restaurants, and hotels. 

Sorrento is one of the top destinations in Italy due to its mild climate, picturesque scenery, and proximity to other famous sites such as Pompeii and the Isle of Capri. The town is also a hub for activities such as boat tours, hiking, and fishing. 

Additionally, Sorrento is well-known for its production of Limoncello, which is a traditional Italian liquor made from lemons grown in the Sorrentine Peninsula. 

Key Attractions: Marina Grande, Marina Piccola, Cloister of San Francesco, Bagni Della Regina Giovanna, Capri, Pompeii, Bell Tower, Sant’ Antonio, Amalfi Coast, Villa Comunale, Terranova Museum and more

6. Siena

Siena is a medieval hill town in the Tuscany region of central Italy. You can find exquisite well-preserved Gothic architecture here including the iconic Siena Cathedral and the Palazzo Pubblico town hall. To explore the country's art, history, and traditional food, Siena is indeed one of the best places in Italy.

Siena is a great place for horse race admirers, with the city hosting a yearly horse race called the ‘Palio di Siena’, which takes place in its main square, Piazza del Campo. Other than that, Siena has several notable museums and art galleries such as the Pinacoteca Nazionale di Siena, which houses a collection of Sienese art from the 13th to the 15th centuries. 

The city is also a popular destination for wine lovers, as it is surrounded by vineyards that produce some of Tuscany's most famous wines, such as the Brunello di Montalcino and the Nobile di Montepulciano. 

Key Attractions: Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, Piazza Del Campo, Museo Civico, Palazzo Pubblico, Torre Del Mangia, Pinacoteca Nazionale, Facciatone, San Domenico, and more.

7. Verona

Verona is a historical city in the Veneto region of northern Italy. Its beauty lies in its architecture, cobbled streets, winding streets, and more. The city has historic sites, such as the ancient Roman arena called the Arena di Verona - still in use today as an open-air concert venue - and the Castelvecchio Museum. 

The city is also known for its food and wine, with many local specialities such as pasta with Amarone sauce and the Valpolicella wine. Verona is a charming place and one of the top destinations in Italy, offering a glimpse into the rich history and culture of Northern Italy.

Key Attractions: Centro Storico, Piazza Bra, Verona Arena, Torre Dei Lamberti, Piazza delle Erbe, Ponte Pietra, St. Anastasia, Basilica Di San Zeno Maggiore, Arco Dei Gavi, Ponte Scaligero, and so forth.

8. Pisa

Pisa, located in the Tuscany region of central Italy, is a pleasant and historically rich city that is a popular destination for tourists from all over the world. The city is famous for its Leaning Tower, a freestanding bell tower that is a part of the cathedral complex in Pisa's historic centre. 

The tower started to lean during its construction in the 12th century due to an inadequate foundation on the ground (excessively soft on one side). It is open to visitors, who can climb its 251 steps to enjoy views of the city from the top. 

Pisa is also home to other historical and architectural gems, such as the Pisa Cathedral, the Baptistery and the Cemetery, all of which are part of the Piazza Dei Miracoli, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Italy to see paintings, sculptures, and manuscripts of the 12th century.

Key Attractions: Leaning Tower, Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, Baptistery, Campo Santo, Museo dell'Opera del Duomo, Murale Tuttomondo by Keith Haring, Arsenals & Museum of Ancient Ships, Palazzo Dei Cavalieri, Santa Maria Della Spina, Borgo Stretto, and more.

9. Tuscany

Tuscany, among the most popular destinations in Italy, has numerous attractive beaches, galleries, architecture, olive groves, and more. It is especially appealing to visitors who want to take a tour of the poetic landscapes, vineyards, art masterpieces, and monumental structures. Tuscany is also a gourmet destination for food lovers and culinary delights. 

Another draw of Tuscany is its rolling hills, populated by golden vineyards and found on the prints and postcards of Italy. If you visit the place with your family, you can also take advantage of the famous truffles and truffle hunting. 

Key Attractions: Piazza Del Duomo & Renaissance Florence, Ponte Vecchio, Lucca's Walls & Centro Storico, and so on.

10. Turin

Turin, located in northwest Italy, is a city steeped in history, art, and culture. It is best known for its baroque architecture and as the birthplace of the Italian automobile industry. Its historical landmarks, such as the Royal Palace of Turin and the Mole Antonelliana, a museum of cinema, and more, offer a glimpse into the city's rich cultural heritage. 

The city is also renowned for its excellent cuisine and cafes, making it a popular destination for food lovers. Additionally, its proximity to the Italian Alps makes it a great starting point for outdoor activities such as skiing and snowboarding. Another feature that makes it one of the most beautiful places to visit in Italy is its scenic beauty and friendly people.

Key Attractions: Mole Antonelliana, Palazzo Reale & Palazzo Madama, Historic Coffee Houses, Parco del Valentino, Fondazione Sandretto Re Rebaudengo, Castello di Rivoli, Quadrilatero Romano, Balon Flea Market, Cortile del Maglio,  Museo Nazionale dell’Automobile, Museo Egizio, Basilica di Superga, and more.

How to Buy Travel Insurance for Italy from the UAE?

Although it is tough to contemplate what could go wrong during your trip to Italy, it is better to be prepared than to deal with the aftermath. While it is not mandatory to have travel insurance to Italy, it is certainly the best way to secure your trip from uncertainties. 

Travel insurance provides coverage for unexpected events such as medical emergencies, trip curtailment or cancellation, lost or stolen luggage, and any other travel-related issues. With appropriate travel insurance, you can avoid the high out-of-pocket expenses for medical care or evacuation in an emergency, and be financially responsible for covering the cost of any cancellations or trip interruptions. With travel insurance, thus, you can have peace of mind and financial protection while enjoying your trip to Italy.

If you are looking to buy travel insurance online in the most convenient way, the Policybazaar UAE platform would be ideal for you. Policybazaar.ae has a user-friendly website and a dedicated customer service team to assist you with any questions or claims. 

Our platform provides comprehensive travel insurance plans from the leading providers in the country, allowing you to choose from a variety of options. The application process is quite straightforward, as you can visit the official website of Policybazaar UAE and follow the given steps – 

• Go to the ‘Travel Insurance’ section on policybazaar.ae.
• Enter the details in the travel insurance lead form.
• Submit the form to be taken to the 'Travel Insurance' section.
• You will have access to the best Italy travel insurance plans from the reputed travel insurance providers here.
• Compare the travel plans as per their features, premiums, inclusions, exclusions, and more, and apply for the plan suiting your needs and budget.
• Once you have selected the plan, tap on the ‘Apply’ button and follow the prompted steps.
• One of our customer representatives will contact you and inform you about the next steps.

Before Going On Board

Italy offers a wealth of beautiful and historical places - from Venice and Milan to Turin, Pisa, and much more. Whatever your interests are, you can find something that appeals to you in this fascinating country. 

While making a travel plan, it's important to remember the importance of having travel insurance for your trip to Italy. Whether it's to protect yourself and your family against unexpected cancellations, lost luggage, or medical emergencies, travel insurance can ensure that your trip goes smoothly and that you get to fully enjoy everything that Italy offers.