Italy was made for slow travel, but not everyone has the luxury of time. These 20 phenomenal Italian cities are all perfect for a short city trip of 2-3 days.
Each of the cities on this list is a year-round destination that is easy to reach by plane or train. All are walkable, and packed with wonderful things to see and do in a short period of time – from outstanding museums and Renaissance architecture, to once-in-a-lifetime foodie experiences.
Read on to discover the ideal destination for your next weekend break in Italy.
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Quick tips for planning the perfect city break in Italy
- Use Skyscanner to search for low-cost airfares to Italy from Europe and elsewhere.
- Book your train tickets well in advance, especially if you’re visiting during summer high season. In Italy, I recommend using Omio to find and buy tickets.
- Consider an annual travel insurance policy that will cover you for multiple city breaks and save you cash in the long run. I use and recommend HeyMondo – use my link to get 5% off your policy.
- Save time when you arrive by pre-purchasing an eSIM for Europe that will automatically activate when you touch down. I recommend using the Airalo marketplace to buy an eSIM (prices start from just 4.50 USD).
- To make the most of a short city break, consider a guided walking tour. Viator is the best online marketplace for unique city tours and cultural experiences in Italy and the rest of Europe. Below, you will find specific tour links for each of the cities mentioned.
- If you want to go beyond the city for a Tuscan wine tasting or alpine hiking, hire a car to make efficient use of your time. I recommend using the Discover Cars website to find a great deal.
20 of the best Italy city breaks
Florence
Capital of Tuscany and one of the most classically beautiful cities in Italy, Florence needs no introduction. Considered the birthplace of the Renaissance, Florence is brimming with fascinating architecture and art and is undoubtedly one of the best cities to visit in Italy.
This is an all-year city that is best visited in the shoulder or low season, outside of the busy summer months. Florence is easy to reach by train from elsewhere in Italy/Europe, while Peretola International Airport makes it an ideal fly-in-fly-out destination for a short Italian city adventure.
Not that you should rush it: If you have a few more days up your sleeve, be sure to take advantage of the picture-perfect Italian landscapes, wineries and cellar doors that are in close proximity to the city centre.
Some of the best things to do in Florence in 2-3 days include:
- Climbing to the top of Il Duomo di Firenze, part of the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. This 13th-century landmark is the main attraction in Florence, and climbing the 463 steps to the top is a must-do for panoramic city views.
- Seeing Michelangelo’s David sculpture, a symbol of the Italian Renaissance, in the flesh. The Galleria dell’Accademia is filled with more treasures so be sure to set aside ample time to explore.
- Strolling around the Boboli Gardens, designed for Florence’s famous Medici family before opening to the public in the 18th century. There are lovely statues and fountains scattered throughout the grounds.
- Photographing the carousel in the Piazza della Repubblica, one of Florence’s most picturesque squares.
- Watching the sunset from Ponte Vecchio over the glorious Arno River.
⭐ Top-rated city tour: Uffizi and Accademia Small Group Hidden Highlights Walking Tour with skip-the-line access or full-day Florence Vespa Tour for seeing the city sights the local way.
🛎️ Where to stay: 4F Boutique Hotel Florence.
Naples
Those seeking a city escape with a bit of edge need look no further than Naples. Italy’s third-largest city is one of the oldest continuously inhabited settlements in Europe. Its storied past combined with an interesting contemporary history makes Napoli one of the best Italy city breaks.
It’s easy to reach Naples Airport via budget carrier Wizz Air. Stay somewhere central to discover Naples by foot, or use the underground metro to make efficient use of your time (some of the stations have fabulous art installations).
With just one day in Naples, you can take in many of the must-sees. A long weekend is recommended so you can add-on a day trip to the Amalfi Coast, Pompeii or Herculaneum.
When in Naples, don’t miss:
- Browsing the Mercato La Pignasecca, a lively produce market selling everything from baked treats to fresh pasta and seafood.
- Wandering the charming Santa Chiara neighbourhood and dropping in on the medieval Monastero di Santa Chiara, which includes a church, monastery, cloisters, tombs, and an archeological museum.
- Touring the Sansevero Chapel Museum and beholding the ‘Veiled Christ’ (1753), a one-of-a-kind sculpture by Naples-born Giuseppe Sanmartino that depicts Jesus Christ draped in a marble shroud.
- Eating an authentic Napoletana pizza at L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele. At this Naples institution you can watch the Pizzaiuoli ‘pizza artists’ at work. The four-step process they take to make the world’s best pizza is so important to Naples culture, it’s even a UNESCO-listed culinary tradition.
- Feasting on sfogliatelle, the shell-shaped pastry that is famous in Campania region. Popular fillings include orange-flavoured ricotta (traditional), almond or pistachio. Pasticceria Giovanni Scaturchio has a good selection.
⭐ Top-rated city tour: Naples Street Food Tour with a local expert, with ragù, baccalà, pizza and sfogliatelle tastings.
🛎️ Where to stay: Dante Maison de Charme.
Perugia
If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-track destination for an Italian city break (whether that be in winter or summer – it’s beautiful year-round!), look no further than Perugia, the capital of Umbria. Sitting between Rome and Florence, Perugia can be visited as an add-on to a break in either city, or as a standalone destination.
With stunning winding city streets leading out to incredible lookouts over the city (and all of Umbria), this university town is teeming with fantastic restaurants and bars, offering a taste of local life.
While it’s not as ‘bucket-list’ as more famous Italian cities such as Venice and Rome, there are a few excellent things to do in Perugia, and it’s ideal for eating some rich and hearty Italian food (Umbria’s a foodie destination, and its epicentre is Perugia!) and enjoying Aperol spritzes and local Umbrian wines under a sunny sky.
Plus, Perugia has an international airport, with flights from several European capitals. By road, it’s just a two-hour journey from either Rome or Florence.
The best things to do in Perugia include:
- Visiting the National Gallery of Umbria. A must for art connoisseurs, the National Gallery of Umbria houses one of the best art collections in all of Italy. It’s also the only gallery in the country that’s located in the municipal government’s building, which means the architecture is phenomenal!
- Enjoying the Umbria Jazz Festival. It takes place every year in summer and is one of the most significant events in this part of Italy. More information about the festival here.
- Visiting the Casa del Cioccolato. Umbria doesn’t mess around when it comes to food, and one of Perguia’s staples is chocolate. You can learn all about Umbrian chocolate, with tastings and talks, at Casa del Cioccolato.
- Taking a side trip to Assisi. The UNESCO World Heritage town of Assisi is a short drive from Perugia; it’s where Saint Francis, one of Italy’s patron saints, was both born and buried, and remains an Italian pilgrimage site to this day.
⭐ Top-rated city tour: Hot Air Balloon Ride over Perugia, for the best views of the city and the Perugian countryside.
🛎️ Where to stay: Locanda della Posta Boutique Hotel.
By Claire from Europe in Winter
Siena
Nestled in the heart of Tuscany, the medieval city of Siena is a gem of Italian culture and history. Known for its stunning Gothic architecture, lively piazzas and mouth-watering cuisine, Siena is the perfect destination for a short trip to Italy.
With its compact size and walkable streets, you can easily explore all that this charming city has to offer in just a few days.
Siena can be reached by air or train from Florence, with a journey time of just over an hour. While Siena is a year-round destination, the best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months, when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller.
There are so many wondrous things to see and do in Siena. Here are a few must-see sites that should be on every traveller’s list:
- Wandering the Piazza del Campo – this 13th-century square is the heart of Siena and one of Europe’s greatest medieval squares. The large square is famous for its distinctive shell shape and being home to the Palio di Siena horse race, a tradition that dates back to the Middle Ages.
- Visiting the Siena Duomo – this stunning Gothic cathedral is a masterpiece of Italian architecture and a must-visit for art and history lovers. The cathedral is home to many works of art, including frescos by Pinturicchio and sculptures by Donatello. The highlight, however, is the Libreria Piccolomini, a library filled with frescos and ancient manuscripts.
- Indulging in the heavenly flavours of freshly made Pici pasta, the city’s specialty dish that originated in Siena. Enjoy a leisurely meal at Osteria da Divo, a restaurant that lies in a series of carved-out medieval vaults under the Duomo.
⭐ Top-rated city tour: Siena Duomo and City Walking Tour, with skip-the-line privileges at the cathedral.
🛎️ Where to stay: Villa Scacciapensieri Boutique Hotel.
By Renee from Dream Plan Experience
Bergamo
If you like your city breaks with a side of spectacular nature, Bergamo should be on your wish-list. Nestled in northern Italy’s scenic Lombardy region, Bergamo is only 30 kilometres from the Swiss border and a day trip’s distance from Como, Garda and Maggiore lakes.
The Bergamo Alps provide a backdrop to the city centre and are tantalisingly close if you have time for a day hike.
Bergamo is notorious for being one of the chilliest places in Italy in winter, thus summer or shoulder season is a fine time to visit. It doesn’t get as crowded here as in other cities – plus you can always escape to nature if you need some reprieve. Bergamo shares Il Caravaggio International Airport with Milan, and is only a 20-minute drive away.
Spend your days in Bergamo indulging in the following activities:
- Wandering the cobblestoned streets of the old walled city, Città Alta, which towers over the lower part of the city. The defensive walls were built by the Venetians and are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Admiring the gilded icons and lavish tapestries inside the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore, the 12th century church that is the heart and soul of Bergamo.
- Browsing the Accademia Carrara, the city’s finest art museum-academy that was established in 1780 and holds an exquisite collection of works by Botticelli, El Grecco and others.
⭐ Top-rated city tour: 2.5-hour walking tour, focusing on the historic Upper Town and accompanied by a private guide.
🛎️ Where to stay: GombitHotel.
Milan
Milan is a bustling city in Northern Italy known for its business and fashion scene. Modern skyscrapers mixed in with historic buildings make this city different from all the others in Italy.
Milan makes for the perfect quick trip in Italy because you can see most of the must-sees in just 1-2 days. It’s also easily reachable by train or plane. Milano Centrale is the main train station in Milan and has many high-speed connections. There are two airports, making it easy for travellers to fly in and out of the city from all over. Malpensa Airport is the main international airport and Linate is the smaller airport, mostly used for domestic or European flights.
The best time of the year to visit Milan is spring and early fall. Summers can get very hot in Milan and winters can get quite cold.
Here are some of the must-see things to do in Milan. These are great if you’re travelling to Milan with kids or without!
- Visiting the centre of Milan, Piazza del Duomo. Here you’ll find the stunning gothic cathedral, the Duomo di Milano. For some of the best views of the city and to see its incredible architecture up close, head to the Duomo’s rooftop terrace.
- Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is Italy’s oldest active shopping gallery. Come here to shop, eat and enjoy the stunning architecture.
- Viewing Leonardo da Vinci’s iconic painting, ‘The Last Supper’.
- Grabbing a coffee and a pastry and enjoying the atmosphere at the only Starbucks Reserve Roastery in Europe.
⭐ Top-rated city tour: Skip the line at the Milan Duomo & The Last Supper, two of Milan’s must-sees accompanied by an expert guide.
🛎️ Where to stay: Galleria Vik Milano.
By Kim Swanson from Traveling Swansons
Catania
One of the most unique (and convenient) city breaks in Italy would have to be the Sicilian city of Catania. As the second-largest city on this southern Italian island, Catania is home to Sicily’s highest-traffic airport and boasts countless flight connections across Italy and the rest of Europe – meaning it’s very easy to reach.
Though this city is often outshined by Palermo, Catania is an excellent addition to any trip to Sicily and makes for the perfect stand-alone destination as well. Charming cafes, pottery studios and other artisan souvenir boutiques, gorgeous churches – Catania has it all.
Because it is located in southern Italy, Catania is a great year-round destination. If you want to beat the crowds while still making the most of the beautiful weather, visiting in the shoulder seasons of April-June and September-November is ideal.
Some of the top things to do on a trip to Catania include:
- Visiting the Catania Fish Market, where you can see vendors hawking freshly caught seafood and other local produce. There are also some great restaurants (such as Scirocco Sicilian Fish Lab) where you can try some of the local specialties.
- Taking in the view from the dome of the Chiesa Badia di Sant’Agata. Here, you can get an incredible panoramic view of Catania and, on a clear day, imposing Mount Etna in the distance.
- Sampling Catanese and Sicilian fare such as pasta alla norma, arancini, pasta con le sarde and much, much more.
- Going on a day trip to nearby Taormina, Siracusa or Mt Etna.
⭐ Top-rated city tour: Catania Street Food Walking Tour, visiting the historic fish market and vibrant Benedettini neighbourhood.
🛎️ Where to stay: Palazzo Marletta Luxury House Hotel.
By Maggie from The World Was Here First
Genoa
The handsome port city of Genoa is the gateway to Liguria’s Italian Riviera. Steeped in history and showcasing an abundance of Baroque, Gothic and Renaissance architecture, this is definitely one for the history buffs.
Genoa has a long history of maritime exploration and is famous for being the birthplace of Christopher Columbus. Between the 12th and 15th centuries, Genoa was one of the world’s most prosperous and prolific empires, forging Genovese colonies all over the Mediterranean and Black Sea regions, including in the Spanish city of Cadiz, in Lisbon, and as far afield as Romania.
Being a coastal city, Genoa is quite seasonal so it’s a good idea to visit in either late spring or early autumn when most businesses remain open. Fly into either Genoa or Milan Linate airports, or consider arriving and departing from Nice, which is only 3 hours from Genoa by car.
Add these experiences to your Genoa list:
- Delve into the historical centre, Le Strade Nuove, and get lost down the narrow cobbled laneways known locally as caruggi.
- Tour the magnificent University of Genoa, one of the oldest educational institutions in Europe with a history that goes back to the 15th century.
- Visit the Lighthouse of Genoa and discover more about the city’s history at the small museum inside.
- If it’s warm enough, paddle your feet in the Ligurian Sea. Boccadasse Beach is a popular swimming spot where you can lounge in the shadow of Genoa sea district’s fabulous coloured houses.
- Eat your bodyweight in Genovese pesto, a local specialty made with extra virgin olive oil from the groves around Liguria.
⭐ Top-rated city tour: Genoa Walking Tour, six hours of hidden treasures and street food treats.
🛎️ Where to stay: Grand Hotel Savoia.
Trieste
Located right at the border with Slovenia, in the northeast part of Italy, Trieste is a bit different from other cities in the country. But that’s what makes it such a unique place to visit.
For centuries, Trieste was at a crossroads, under various influences and rulers, and only became part of Italy in 1954. Today you can still enjoy the multicultural and cosmopolitan vibe the city has always been known for. This is a perfect destination for an alternative Italian city break.
The city has its own airport, but still the easiest way to get here is via Venice. You can also take the train to Trieste from Ljubljana, the nearby capital of Slovenia.
The best time to visit Trieste is in late spring or early autumn when the weather is good for sightseeing and you can enjoy long, warm days.
The best things to do in Trieste include:
- Sitting down in one of many historical cafes and enjoying the local cafe culture, a true legacy of the Habsburg heritage of Trieste.
- Admiring the Piazza Unità d’Italia, one of the most beautiful main squares in Italy.
- Taking in the best panorama of Trieste from the 16th-century Castello di San Giusto.
- Visiting the fairytale-like Miramare Castle built for Archduke Ferdinand Maximilian Habsburg in the mid-19th century.
- Finding Roman ruins – the best ones are Teatro Romano and the Roman arch.
- Trying the local food, a mix of Austrian, Italian, and Slovenian cuisines. Local dishes include jota (a stew), chifeletti (a dough-like mixture of mashed potatoes, flour, butter, and eggs), and goulash alla Triestina (a local variation of the Hungarian goulash minus the peppers).
- Hopping across the border to visit Piran and Slovenia, an easy side trip from Trieste.
⭐ Top-rated city tour: Discover Trieste on Foot, a short, private walking tour customised to your interests.
🛎️ Where to stay: The Modernist Hotel.
By Kami from Kami and the Rest of the World
Bari
Located on the Adriatic Coast, Bari is the largest city in Apulia. While it is most popular for being the getaway to ferry routes connecting to other countries on the Mediterranean coast, the city itself is well worth a visit.
Because of its location, Bari is a great choice for a warm winter escape (although it does snow at times!). But for a superb experience, late spring (May-June) and early fall (September-October) are the best choices.
If you visit from another European country, you’ll likely arrive here by way of Bari’s International Airport Karol Wojtyla (BRI), located just 8km from the city centre and connected to the Bari Centrale Train Station by both buses and trains. Most of the flights are seasonal, but there are some operators that fly year-round.
If, however, you fly from overseas, chances are you’ll arrive by train after flying into one of Italy’s larger airports (Rome or Milan). Bari Centrale is ideally located close to both the Old and New Town and receives a lot of domestic and international traffic. Or you may hop on a bus from another Italian city.
Prefer to drive? Rent a car once you’ve landed in Italy and enjoy the gorgeous views along its roads. Just pay attention that you need to pay tolls to use the highways.
Some of the best things to do in and around Bari include:
- Getting lost in the Old Town. Bari Vecchia has retained its medieval plan and charm. You’ll walk on small streets, meandering past old buildings, excellent places to eat, and plenty of souvenir shops. Don’t miss visiting the Basilica of Saint Nicholas and Cathedral of Saint Sabino.
- Taking a day trip to Alberobello. The trullis are part of a UNESCO Heritage Site and offer a really charming experience. Hop on a train or bus then spend the day walking among the gorgeous houses, stopping to take photos, eat, and shop for souvenirs. Matera, Locorotundo, Polignano a Mare, and Monopoli are also gorgeous and within easy reach from Bari.
- Walking the Bari Lungomare. After you’ve indulged in the local staples such as focaccia or orecchiette, take a walk along the seafront promenade. Or, if you are a morning person, show up early and shop for fresh seafood.
- Staying at a hotel in the Old Town. Without a doubt, this is the best area to stay and it offers options for every budget. iH Hotels Bari Oriente is a 4-star hotel close to the train station and just 5-min walk from the seafront promenade.
⭐ Top-rated side trip: Excursion to Alberobello and Matera from Bari, to see two UNESCO Sites in one day.
🛎️ Where to stay: B&B Boutique Four Rooms.
By Cris from LooknWalk
Matera
Matera, a small city located just an hour outside of Bari, is easy to reach by bus or train. It has a fascinating history that you can easily discover with just a couple of days in Italy.
Continuously inhabited for over 9,000 years, Matera is where residents dwelled in caves carved into the cliffside until the 1950s, when the Italian government relocated them to the upper part of the more modern town. Several decades later, the revitalisation and restoration of Matera started, turning the caves back into homes and creating hotels and restaurants.
In 1993, it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its fascinating history dating to the Palaeolithic period and its unique ‘Sassi’.
You also might recognise Matera if you’ve seen films like James Bond: No Time to Die or The Passion of the Christ, as Matera is a popular filming location for its old-world look.
If possible, try to go any time other than the summer, as it is very hot and people are swarming the city.
Must-dos in Matera include:
- Touring the Casa Noha Museum, where you’ll learn more about the caves and the unique history of the town.
- Checking out the Casa Grotta di Vico Solitario, a reconstruction of an 18-century cave house, where you can get a taste of what life was like in Matera long ago.
- Visiting the Park of the Rupestrian Churches, ornate churches built into the cliffside that are also under UNESCO World Heritage designation.
- Dining in a local cave trattoria, where they serve simple, delicious dishes with ingredients from the area. Southern Italy is also known for its amazing wine and olive oil, so make sure you sample those!
⭐ Top-rated city tour: Private City Tour in a Classic Ape Calessino (a local tuk-tuk).
🛎️ Where to stay: Sextantio Le Grotte Della Civita.
By Megan from Megan Starr
Palermo
At the tip of Italy’s boot lies a patch of land surrounded by pristine Mediterranean sea. This island is renowned for great food, beautiful beaches and a slightly sordid relationship with the mafia.
Sicily is the perfect getaway in Italy and its capital, Palermo, has a wealth of history and culture alongside some of the island’s best street food and ornate churches. If you are staying a few days or planning a long extended vacation, Palermo is the very best place to stay in Sicily.
Multiple flights run daily between Palermo and Rome as well as various other major European airports. Palermo has a direct train connection from Catania, the other major hub on the island.
When visiting Palermo, be sure to add these sights to your agenda:
- Visiting the UNESCO World Heritage Listed Palatine Chapel, where a reported 6,000 tiny golden mosaics adorn the ceiling.
- Heading over to the Palermo Cathedral for the best views over the city. Admittedly, it looks much more beautiful on the outside than the inside!
- Having a gander around the historical markets Vucciria, Ballaro or Il Capo, a must for both people watching and trying some of the best Sicilian street food on offer. By night, the market stalls make room for little bars with live music and are a popular hangout for both locals and tourists.
- If you’re visiting in summer, head to the suburbs, known as Mondello, where a long stretch of sandy beach and various lidos await sunseekers and beach lovers.
⭐ Top-rated city tour: ‘The Godfather’ Origins Tour from Palerma, including Corleone and Portella della Ginestra.
🛎️ Where to stay: B&B Hotel Palermo Quattro Canti.
By Caroline from Veggiewayfarer
Arezzo
One of the most beautiful places for a short city vacation in Italy is undoubtedly the city of Arezzo. The medieval old town is particularly impressive, a hidden pearl of Tuscany that should not be missed in this region.
Arezzo is only an hour’s drive southeast of Florence, making it easy and quick to reach by car or public bus.
You can visit Arezzo all year round as the city is not overly touristy. The warmer months are particularly enjoyable and not as crowded as other cities.
Arezzo has always been famous for its fine porcelain ceramics, and also for its metalwork. Handicrafts and jewellery are deeply rooted in the city’s history and once brought Arezzo great wealth and prosperity. Unbelievably, ten tons of gold are processed here every month!
A stroll through the city centre will reveal shops that sell fine jewellery and beautiful ceramics, including the world-famous Arezzo vases.
Other things to do in Arezzo include:
- Taking a walking tour through the historic centre of Arezzo.
- Visiting the Piazza Grande, the stunningly beautiful main square and a wonderful place for a coffee break. This classic Italian square slopes down at an angle, creating an almost surreal setting.
- The monthly antique market in Arezzo, one of the most famous in all of Tuscany.
- Eating dinner at Teorema del Gusto restaurant, which serves delicious handmade pasta and excellent wines.
⭐ Top-rated city tour: Private Pasta-making Class with wine tasting in a family kitchen.
🛎️ Where to stay: Il Piccolo Cavour Charming House B&B.
By Martina from PlacesofJuma
Rome, for a classic Italy city break in the Eternal City
Most first-time Italy city breakers will choose Rome for a long weekend away as it is easy to get to, has lots of history – making it an open-air museum – and boasts delicious food and wine.
Rome is a popular destination all year round, especially in summer, so if you want to avoid bus tours and huge crowds while you step back in time at the Colosseum, avoid May, June, July, August and September.
Fiumicino Airport (FCO), also known as Leonardo da Vinci, is the main airport in Rome. To get to the city from the airport, consider the bus, the FL1 train, which stops at Trastevere, Ostiense, Tuscolana, and Tiburtina stations, or a private taxi.
Since you only have a short break, you will be limited in time to see everything, but that’s OK, as one of the best things to do in Rome is wander and people-watch!
Other highlights of Rome include:
- Visiting the Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, and the Spanish Steps. All are close to each other, so you can do your best Lizzie Mcguire coin toss and then Audrey Hepburn poses within 10 minutes of each other.
- For art, architecture, and culture, set aside a morning to visit St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican, where you will see ‘The Creation of Adam’ by Michelangelo at the Sistine Chapel. From here, you can walk to Castel Sant’Angelo.
- Learning to whip up local delicacies – pizza, pasta and tiramisu – with one of these celebrated cooking classes in Rome.
- Visiting diverse neighbourhoods in Rome at night, including the famous Monti, stunning Trastevere, Via San Giovanni, and the less touristy Ostiense. Here you can dine, drink, and debrief all the cool things you did that day.
⭐ Top-rated city tour: Gladiator Gate and Arena Floor Special Access Colosseum Tour, including fast-track entry to the Colosseum.
🛎️ Where to stay: The Liberty Boutique Hotel.
By Gemma from Two Scots Abroad Travel Guides
Viterbo
Viterbo is an off-the-beaten-path city located around 100 km northwest of Rome.
You can easily reach it by direct train from Roma Tiburtina or Roma Ostiense stations. The closest airport is Rome Fiumicino.
Viterbo is famous throughout Italy for its thermal baths. In fact, the hot springs are also among its most important historical landmarks. Dante Alighieri mentions in his Inferno the Bullicame spring, which flows about 1 km from the city’s historic centre.
In addition to being a perfect destination in Italy for relaxing and rejuvenating, Viterbo boasts a wonderfully preserved medieval quarter and ancient defensive walls.
The best times to visit Viterbo are spring, fall, and winter, from around October to April. That’s partially because the thermal waters that feed the spas are very hot. The Viterbo thermal baths are accessible even to travellers on any budget – some are free, others are priced at around €10-18, and the Salus Terme is an exclusive €45-per-day spa.
Mark down these must-dos:
- Exploring San Pellegrino District, starting from the Piazza San Lorenzo onto which the Cathedral and the Palace of the Popes overlooks. Admission to the cathedral is free, while for the palace you pay €10 for a ticket that includes an audio guide.
- Bathing at Terme dei Papi, the most popular thermal bath in Viterbo, housing a monumental 2,000-square-metre pool and a natural steam cave.
- Swimming at Bullicame hot spring. Here there is a thermal pool that is free to use.
- Eating pizza at Restaurant il Labirinto, a traditional restaurant located in the historic centre of Viterbo.
⭐ Top-rated city tour: Viterbo Private City Tour, with the Popes Tombs Conclave Palace and the Duomo.
🛎️ Where to stay: B&B dei Papi Boutique Hotel.
By Annalisa from Travel Connect Experience
Turin
Turin, capital of the Piedmont region, is one of the most underrated cities in Italy. This elegant metropolis offers a rich mix of history, art and impressive architecture, as well as delicious local cuisine, fantastic panoramas and great photo spots.
Turin is absolutely worth visiting as there’s something here for everyone! Due to its close proximity to France, it has a distinctly French feel, unique to the rest of Italy, and is often called the ‘Paris of Italy’ as a result.
In addition, Turin’s compact size makes it easy to explore in just a few days, plus it gets nowhere near the number of visitors that other Italian cities get, so it never feels crowded. That’s despite Turin being the first capital of Italy!
Turin can be reached in an hour from Milan by train or in two hours if driving. If you’re flying in, the city has its own airport.
The best time to visit Turin is in the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild.
Some of the top things to see in Turin include:
- Climbing the Mole Antonelliana. This iconic landmark tower of Turin has a panoramic terrace you can visit that offers a breathtaking view of the city.
- Touring the Royal Palace of Turin. A former residence of the House of Savoy, this UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts beautiful Baroque-style architecture and stunning gardens.
- Buying a ticket for the Egyptian Museum, where you can see the world’s second-largest collection of Egyptian artefacts.
⭐ Top-rated city tour: Highlights of Turin Private Walking Tour, the best of the city in 2 hours with a local guide.
🛎️ Where to stay: Opera35 Suite & Studio.
By Catrina from 24 Hours Layover
Venice
Venice, also called ‘La Serenissima’ or the ‘City on the Water’, features on every traveller’s bucket list. The capital of Veneto region in north-east Italy, Venice’s 100 small islands and bridges can be explored solely by foot. It is most pleasant to visit during spring or early autumn.
Getting lost on the narrow calli (streets) and campi (small piazzas), crossing bridges and canals while watching gondolas glide by – this is what makes this city unique. Here, you can marvel at the beauty of world-famous attractions such as St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace. Remember not to miss out on some of the off-the-beaten-path attractions as well.
With its own airport, Venice is only a couple of hours from other European cities such as London, Amsterdam and Berlin, and is well-connected by train to cities including Paris, Vienna and Munich.
If you only have limited time to spare, then spend 2 days in Venice, which will allow you to cover many of the best landmarks.
Here are three unmissable things to do in Venice:
- Eating Cicchetti and drinking a Venetian spritz in a traditional bacaro (local bar). Al Mercà is one of the most loved bacari among locals and is close to the Rialto Bridge.
- Enjoying spectacular views of the city and the Grand Canal from Fondaco dei Tedeschi, a rooftop terrace located on the former trading headquarters of German merchants.
- Taking a boat trip to visit Murano, Burano and Torcello or any of the other beautiful Italian islands in the Venetian lagoon.
⭐ Top-rated city tour: Venice In a Day, visiting the Basilica San Marco and the Doges Palace, finishing with a Gondola ride.
🛎️ Where to stay: Hotel Al Ponte Mocenigo.
By Maddy from Venice Travel Tips
Como
For a sweet weekend break in Italy, consider visiting the city of Como in the Northern Lombardy region. Como is easily reachable by direct train from Milan, with Malpensa as the most convenient airport.
It’s suitable for a short visit as you can truly see and enjoy the city of Como in just a short few days, with enough time to squeeze in some Lake Como enjoyment, too.
The spring months of April and May are the best time to visit Como. In spring, the city is not too busy with tourists, all local activities are open, and the weather is already warm (19°C on average).
Como offers a good balance of things to see and do for those travelling alone, with loved ones or with friends. For example:
- Hiking in the hills for a view above Como. The most popular route is to first take the Como-Brunate funicular then hike to Faro Voltiano and to the peak of Monte Boletto.
- Checking out some of the many local Italian restaurants serving fresh dishes – think fish, pizzas and of course pastas. The restaurants surrounding the Piazza Alessandro Volta are great options (especially Vintage Jazz Food & Wine).
- Taking a relaxing boat trip on Lake Como. You can either take a local boat one-way to one of the many villages then take a bus back, or enjoy an official boat tour. Buy tickets on the same day from the main ferry terminal.
⭐ Top-rated city tour: Lugano and Bellagio Cruise from Como, a full day on the lake.
🛎️ Where to stay: Suites&Atelier Lake Como.
By Zoe from Together In Switzerland
Verona
Verona is a charming city located in northern Italy’s Veneto region. Known worldwide as the city of love (thanks to William Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet), Verona is the perfect romantic getaway in Italy for couples.
The city is easily accessible by train, with the Verona Porta Nuova train station connecting to major Italian cities including Milan, Venice, and Florence. Alternatively, the Verona Villafranca Airport offers direct flights from many European cities.
The best time to visit Verona is shoulder season, particularly in April and May, before the summer crowds descend.
Here are some key things to do in Verona:
- Seeing an opera performance at the Verona Arena. This Roman amphitheatre dates back to the first century and is one of the world’s most well-preserved ancient structures. It is now used for concerts and operas in the summer months.
- Exploring Piazza delle Erbe. This lively square is the heart of Verona’s historic centre and features colourful buildings, outdoor cafes, and a daily market. Grab a dessert, sit at the fountain and watch the visitors pass by.
- Admiring Juliet’s Balcony. The balcony where Romeo supposedly declared his love to Juliet is located in a small courtyard near Piazza delle Erbe. Visitors can leave love notes on the walls and take photos on the balcony. However, this area can get quite busy and depending on when you go, there might be a short line.
- Trying the local cuisine. Verona is famous for its hearty food, including dishes such as risotto all’Amarone, which goes perfectly with a glass of local Valpolicella wine.
⭐ Top-rated city tour: The Verona Food, Wine & History Tour, with lunch or a sunset aperitif and a skip-the-line cable car ride.
🛎️ Where to stay: Relais Balcone di Giulietta.
By Diana from Travels in Poland
Parma, one of the best Italy city breaks for foodies
One of the things we love most about Italy is good food, right? Located in the northern Emilia-Romagna Region, Parma boasts some of the most beautiful sights, sounds, and specialty foods in Italy. One of the best non-touristy places in Italy, Parma is the perfect weekend break destination for foodies.
Several trains run daily and can take you from Bologna to Parma in under an hour. The city is easy to navigate and has a laid-back atmosphere. The historic centre is particularly charming, with narrow cobbled streets, colourful buildings and hidden courtyards that add to its allure.
As a city, Parma has been inhabited since the Bronze Age. Its architecture perfectly blends Romanesque and Gothic styles – but the real draw to Parma is its gastronomy. The city is famous for its culinary excellence and is home to some of the most renowned Italian delicacies, like Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, Parma ham and balsamic vinegar.
Don’t miss these food-focused Parma activities:
- Taking a full-day guided tour of a Parmigiano Reggiano factory, a Prosciutto di Parma facility, and a Balsamic Vinegar manufacturer to explore the regional specialties. You’ll learn about how each product is produced before having an opportunity to taste them for yourself.
- If you want a more in-depth look at how to use the city’s famous ingredients in your own dishes back home, take a cooking class in the city centre. You’ll learn how to make traditional Emilia-Romagna dishes with a local home chef.
- If you’re a theatre lover, you must watch an opera at the historic Teatro Regio. Built starting in 1821, the opera house is considered one of the most influential homes of Italian opera–alongside more famous counterparts like Teatro La Scala in Milan or Teatro La Fenice in Venice.
- Finally, walk off some of that food with a long stroll around the University of Parma’s Orto Botanico di Parma Botanical Gardens.
⭐ Top-rated city tour: Private Full Day Parma Food Tour, for an in-depth insight into the history of Parmesan cheese, Parma ham and vinegar.
🛎️ Where to stay: Palazzo Dalla Rosa Prati.
By Lyndsay from The Purposely Lost
3 things to pack for a city break in Italy
- A travel raincoat – this reversible poncho packs down small and is great for travel.
- Comfortable walking shoes – I swear by my Whiten Minimalist Barefoot Shoes.
- Wing Wings – I love these handy bottle protectors for bringing home Italian wine, vinegar or olive oil!
Italy essentials
Here are some helpful websites and resources you can use to organise your trip to Italy.
FLIGHTS: Find affordable flights to Italy on Skyscanner.
TRAVEL INSURANCE: Insure your trip with HeyMondo, my preferred provider for single-trip and annual travel insurance.
SIM CARD: Buy an eSIM and data package for Italy online before you go. My top choice is the Eurolink eSIM from Airalo (10 GB for 30 days).
ACCOMMODATION: Find the best hotel deals in Italy on Booking.com.
CAR HIRE: Find the best price on a hire car in mainland Italy or Sicily using Discover Cars.
DAY TOURS: Book skip-the-line tickets, city tours and day excursions in Italy using Viator.
FOODIE EXPERIENCES: Find the best food tours and cooking classes in Italy on Cookly (use the promocode EMILYLUSH to get 10% off).
More ideas for Italy
- The best Airbnbs in Italy – local accommodation for your city break
- 10-day Italy itineraries – extend your trip
- Guide to the Aeolian Islands – my favourite destination in Italy
- What to buy in Sicily – Sicilian souvenir guide
- Europe by train – itineraries for Italy and beyond
- Winter road trips in Europe – scenic drives in Italy and elsewhere
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