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Italy Sightseeing: These 20 beautiful places you have to see

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The sights in Italy on the map

To give you an overview of where to find the most beautiful sights in Italy and where you absolutely have to go, I have summarised all the attractions for you on an interactive map.

Our top sights at a glance

In Italy, there is a historical building or natural highlight on almost every corner. To give you an overview of the most beautiful places, here are the top 5 sights that should definitely be on your bucket list:

Manarola im Abendlicht

Manarola is one of the highlights of Cinque Terre

  • Rome Colosseum

  • Venice

  • Cinque Terre

  • Lake Garda

  • Milan

  • Lake Maggiore

  • Verona

  • Leaning Tower of Pisa

  • Florence

  • Val d'Orcia Tuscany

  • Pompeii and Vesuvius

  • Amalfi Coast with Positano

  • Trulli of Alberobello

  • Ostuni - the white city in Apulia

  • Sicily

  • South Tyrol and the Dolomites

  • Sardinia

  • Teatro Olimpico Vicenza

  • San Marino

  • Capri

1. Rome Colosseum Das Kolosseum in seiner ganzen Pracht – von dem Fotospot scheinen sogar Möwen begeistert zu seinThe Colosseum in all its glory - even seagulls seem to be thrilled by this photo spot

As we all know, all roads lead to Rome - and so does ours. The capital of Italy was already called the "Eternal City" in the first century BC and lives up to its name: every corner is teeming with historical buildings waiting to be discovered by you.

Rome's landmark is the world-famous Colosseum. It is the largest amphitheatre in the world and was the site of gladiator fights in ancient times. If you want to learn more about the history and construction of this wonder of the world, you are welcome to join me on my tour of the Colosseum.

Right next to the Colosseum is the Roman Forum, which, like the Agora in Athens, was the central marketplace in ancient Rome. This is where the economic, political, religious and cultural life of the city took place from the 6th century BC onwards.

On a visit to the archaeological site you can immerse yourself in the everyday life of the ancient Romans and enjoy a beautiful view from the panoramic terrace on the Palatine, one of the seven hills of Rome.

Die Gemälde in der Sixtinischen Kapelle

The Sistine Chapel. Simply wonderful, isn't it?

The next highlight is the Vatican City, the seat of government of the Pope. Here you will find the majestic St. Peter's Bas ilica, one of the largest and most important churches in the world. In the Vatican Museums you can visit the Sistine Chapel , where Michelangelo's world-famous painting "The Creation of Adam" is very popular.

For more top sights like the Spanish Steps and the Trevi Fountain, check out Pauline's article on Rome. A visit to the Italian metropolis will definitely remain in your memory.

We have summarised the most beautiful sights in Rome for you and put together a guide for three days in Rome.

Der Trevi-Brunnen mit Touristen

The Trevi Fountain with crowds by day 2. venice

We take you to Veneto on the east coast, where a unique city on the water awaits you: Venice. The lagoon city was built on more than 100 islands, which are connected by around 400 bridges. Since 1987, the Venice Lagoon has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site and attracts millions of tourists every year.

Blick auf die Basilica und den Dogenpalast

It does look a little eerie, doesn't it?

One of the most famous sights is the Piazza San Marco, which is submerged at high tide. The square is lined with numerous imposing buildings and is a popular place to linger, and not just for pigeons.

The main attractions here are the 98.6-metre-high Campanile di San Marco, the beautiful Basilica di San Marco and the impressive Palazzo Ducale, which was once the seat of the government of the Republic of Venice and is a reminder of the splendour of old times both inside and out.

A gondola ride is a relaxing way to explore Venice from the water, and you'll also get to see hidden corners of the city. The Grand Canal, on the other hand, is usually very busy - as is the famous Ponte di Rialto, which crosses the canal and is one of the most beautiful bridges in Venice.

Blick auf die Rialtobrücke ohne Menschen

View of the famous Rialto Bridge

The islands of Murano - famous for its glass art - and Burano are also worth a visit by boat. The latter is a delight with its colourful fishermen's houses and makes the hearts of Instagrammers and co. beat faster.

We have summarised more fantastic sights in Venice for you in the article. Our Venice secret tips also invite you to dream.

Cinque Terre

We continue on to Liguria, where one of the most beautiful stretches of coastline in Italy is located on the Italian Rivera: the so-called Cinque Terre (roughly translated as "Five Lands" or "Five Villages"). The five picturesque villages line up close to each other on the rugged cliffs and enchant with a very special ambience.

Cinque Terre

A famous photo motif in the evening: the Cinque Terre

In the past, the villages could only be reached on foot or by water. Nowadays, thanks to the rail and road connections, the five villages are a real tourist magnet. The twelve-kilometre-long coastal strip offers magnificent views of the glittering sea and the dreamy villages with their colourful houses, which you can explore on foot.

Since 1997, the Cinque Terre have been part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site and, as a national park, are protected from interference with nature. The romantic hiking trail Via dell'Amore is one of the most popular attractions and connects the villages of Riomaggiore and Manarola.

There are also many other beautiful hiking trails in the national park where you pass olive and vineyards and have a fantastic view of the villages and the surrounding vineyard terraces . How about a break with a glass of local white wine?

Another recommended activity is a boat trip, where you can admire the unique landscape from the sea. A visit to the Cinque Terre is pure Dolce Vita!

Lake Garda

Now it's time for one of the most popular and beautiful holiday destinations in the north of Italy. Lake Garda is the largest lake in the country and will also cast a spell over you with its sparkling water, picturesque towns and fantastic mountain panorama.

In this idyll, you can not only relax wonderfully, but also go on many different excursions. A top attraction for families with children is Gardaland, the largest amusement park in Italy. Fun for young and old is also offered by the Canevaworld Resort, which houses a water park and an amusement park, among other things. You can find our tips for children on Lake Garda in the linked article.

On Isola del Garda, the largest island in Lake Garda, you can admire the imposing Venetian Gothic villa and the beautiful Italian and English gardens. The most famous towns are Sirmione, Limone, Arco, Riva del Garda, Malcesine and Garda.

Active holidaymakers are in good hands in the Corna Vecchia region. You can really let off steam on the numerous hiking and cycling trails and catch a glimpse of Lake Garda. You also have a breathtaking view from the summit of Monte Baldo.

Blick auf den Gardasee vom Monte Baldo

The view of Lake Garda from Monte Baldo - isn't that dreamlike? As beautiful as any holiday in Italy

If you prefer to travel by car and at the same time enjoy the spectacular landscape between rocks and water, you can take a spin on the panoramic roads in the Parco Alto Garda Bresciano. There is definitely no shortage of activities in the region around Lake Garda.

You should definitely take a look at the most beautiful hikes on Lake Garda. Also our tips for the most beautiful places on Lake Garda.

Hafen von Riva del Garda

The small harbour of Riva del Garda

You can book the following activities on Lake Garda:

5. Milan

From the Upper Italian Lakes, a day trip to Milan is also a good idea. The northern Italian metropolis is considered the place of pilgrimage par excellence for fashionistas, but is also famous for its historical buildings and attractions.

Milan's landmark and probably the most famous sight is the Milan Cathedral, one of the largest churches in the world. The magnificent building impresses with its richly decorated façade as well as the large stained glass windows, the magnificent cathedral treasure and the imposing crypt inside. Another highlight are the cathedral terraces, from which you have a magnificent view of the entire city.

The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, an impressive 19th-century shopping mall, is located directly on Piazza del Duomo. Here you can admire the magnificent architecture, the shop windows of the designer shops and fill your belly in the renowned restaurants.

At the other end of the shopping arcade, on Piazza della Scala, is the world-famous Teatro alla Scala. It is one of the most important opera houses in the world and seats over 2000 people.

For fashion lovers, the Quadrilatero della Moda is pure paradise: Among other things, the fashion district is home to the 470-metre-long Via Monte Napoleone, one of the most expensive shopping miles in the world, where renowned luxury shops are lined up next to each other.

Another top sight is the Dominican Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie. It is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site and owes its fame to a world-famous painting in the interior. Leonardo da Vinci's Secco painting "The Last Supper" adorns the north wall of the former dining room.

As you can see, there is much more to discover in Milan than just the latest fashions. My dear colleague Pauline gives you more tips about Italy's second largest city in her article about the most beautiful sights in Milan.

Blick auf die Galleria Vittorio Emanuele

From the terraces you have a wonderful view of Milan (here of the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II). 6. 6. Lake Maggiore

Our round trip through Bella Italia begins at the border between Italy and Switzerland. Nestled in majestic mountain scenery, the beautiful Lake Maggiore stretches over an area of 212.5 km², making it the second largest lake in Italy after Lake Garda.

Der Lago Maggiore am Abend

This is the view of Lake Maggiore from the Swiss side in the evening

Lake Maggiore offers a variety of natural and cultural attractions. These include picturesque fishing villages like Cannobio and sophisticated seaside resorts like Stresa. Another highlight is a boat trip to the Borromean Islands, whose location and architecture will enchant you.

Of course, outdoor fans also get their money's worth on Lake Maggiore. There are many varied hiking routes on the mountains around the lake. Those who love thrills should not miss the bungee jump from the 220-metre-high dam wall in the picturesque Valle Verzasca on the Swiss side of the lake.

You can find more exciting excursion tips in the region in my article about Lake Maggiore. If you can't get enough of the paradisiacal lakes of Northern Italy, I recommend a trip to nearby Lake Como - you'll go into raptures just like I did.

You can find out all about the most beautiful sights on Lake Maggiore in the linked article.

7 Verona

Our next sight - the picturesque city of Verona - is only about 30 kilometres away from Lake Garda. Let yourself be enchanted by the romantic charm of the historic old town, which has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2000, and relive one of the most tragic love stories of all time.

Arena in Verona im Abendlicht

The Arena is one of Verona's landmarks

The city's landmark is the Arena di Verona, one of the best-preserved ancient amphitheatres in all of Italy. The architectural masterpiece was built in 30 AD and today serves as a majestic backdrop for the famous opera festivals in summer - a must for all theatre fans.

Another top attraction not to be missed is the Casa di Giulietta, which is said to have inspired Shakespeare'sRomeo and Juliet. However, it is now known that Juliet never lived in the house and the famous balcony was added later for tourists.

Dom Santa Maria Matricolare

The Santa Maria Matricolare Cathedral is one of the greatest sights of Verona

Nevertheless, a romantic atmosphere prevails in the beautiful courtyard of the Gothic house and inspires lovers to this day to immortalise their love with letters on the wall. There is also a bronze statue of Juliet, where touching her right breast is said to bring luck in love. Why not try it out for yourself?

For more romantic attractions and culinary insider tips, browse through our article on the most beautiful sights in Verona.

Leaning Tower of Pisa

The most famous leaning building in the world is located in Pisa, Tuscany: the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Only 12 years after the foundation stone was laid - in 1185, when the third storey was to be built - it began to lean. The reason for this was the nature of the ground, which consisted of clayey mud and sand.

Militär am Schiefen Turm von Pisa

The Leaning Tower is guarded around the clock by the military

The leaning of the tower led to a 100-year halt in construction, with it not being completed until the 14th century after another interruption. Due to its inclination, the tower was only built 54 metres high instead of the planned 100 metres.

In the 1990s, renovation measures reduced the angle of inclination from 5.5 to around 4 degrees. As a result, the tower should continue to delight its visitors for the next 300 years.

Gasse in der Altstadt

The old town is criss-crossed by a network of narrow alleys

Today, the imposing tower of white Carrara marble is a real feast for the eyes and, together with the cathedral, the baptistery and the cemetery, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It serves as the bell tower of Pisa Cathedral and houses seven bells that ring at noon and before masses.

You can not only admire the Leaning Tower of Pisa from the outside in Piazza dei Miracoli, but also climb it and explore it up close.

Tip: To avoid standing in long queues, it's worth buying tickets online in advance.

Scuola Normale Superiore

The building of the elite Scuola Normale Superiore at Piazza dei Cavalieri 9 Florence

The capital of Tuscany and one of the most beautiful cities in all of Italy, Florence is considered the cradle of the Renaissance. The historic city centre has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1982 and fascinates with a unique wealth of cultural and architectural sights.

A prime example of the Renaissance style is the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. The highlight - the 107-metre-high dome - was built by the Italian sculptor and architect Filippo Brunelleschi in the 15th century and impresses with its magnificent frescoes.

Another famous landmark of Florence is the Ponte Vecchio, which was built of stone between 1335 and 1345 and is thus the oldest bridge over the Arno. It is one of the oldest arched bridges in the world and is still home to many small jewellery shops. Here you can join the hustle and bustle and enjoy the beautiful panoramic view of the river and the city.

Near the Ponte Vecchio are the Uffizi, an imposing building complex that was originally intended to house offices and ministries. Since 1580, it has housed the Galleria degli Uffizi art collection, which exhibits works by famous artists such as Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo. It is a must-see not only for art lovers.

10. Val d'Orcia in Tuscany

From Florence you can also take a road trip through Tuscany and explore picturesque towns like Arezzo, Siena and Montepulciano. Of course, a stop or two at a winery is a must on a trip through the idyllic wine countryside.

We are often asked: Where is the most beautiful place in Tuscany? Well, it is beautiful everywhere in Tuscany. But one of the most popular regions is the famous Val d'Orcia. The Val d'Orcia is also the most famous landscape in Tuscany. If you see a typical picture from the region: this was certainly taken in the Val d'Orcia.

The beautiful Orcia Valley is located in the centre of Tuscany and is known for its very special hilly landscapes with cypress avenues. The valley takes its name from the river that flows through the beautiful villages.

Die Zypressen von San Quirico d'Orcia im Val d'Orcia aus der LuftThe Val d'Orcia is one of the most beautiful and famous landscapes in Tuscany. The Val d'Orcia is what made Tuscany so famous in the first place.

Der Blick am Morgen vom Podere Belvedere über die Hügel des ToskanaThe view from Podere Belvedere is world famous. This special photo spot is a must-see in Tuscany, and not only for photographers.

Ein Baum in der Dämmerung im Val d'OrciaA tree at dusk in the Val d'Orcia

Probably the most famous postcard motif in Tuscany comes from the Val d'Orcia, the view from Podere Belvedere near San Quirico d'Orcia. Several films have been shot in the valley, including Gladiator. Throughout the year, many Gladiator fans make a pilgrimage to the locations and take photos there.

In our eyes, the Val d'Orcia with all its sights reflects the typical Tuscan photo motifs. But the cypresses, agriturismo and hills are also beautiful to look at. The most famous photo motifs of Tuscany can be found along the road between San Quirico d'Orcia and Pienza.

Hotel tip: directly at one of the most famous photo spots is the beautiful Agriturismo Poggio Istiano. Gorgeous flat, pool, great views from the window and you can buy the family's products. There is wine, pasta and oil.

Zypressen-Allee

(2) Tuscany: A typical scene in Tuscany. But which camera system was used to take the photo?

You can find our most beautiful sights in Tuscany in our extra article. Here we recommend the most beautiful cities in Tuscany such as Lucca, Siena and San Gimignano. But read for yourself - Tuscany will enchant you.

Hügel in der Toskana

The typical hills of Tuscany

Tuscany is also home to the famous thermal springs of Saturnia. They look back on a long history and have been among the most important spas in Italy for 3,000 years. The Etruscans and Romans already appreciated this place. Today, the Saturnia springs are a popular photo motif. We were there and were very impressed by the springs. It is well worth a visit.

11 Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius

Near Naples at the foot of Mount Vesuvius was once the prosperous ancient city of Pompeii, which was doomed by a volcanic eruption in 79 AD. Together with the cities of Herculaneum, Stabiae and Oplontis, it was buried under masses of lava and ash and destroyed.

After its demise, Pompeii fell into oblivion and was only rediscovered in the 18th century. Thanks to the volcanic ash, the remains of the city have been preserved and provide an insight into the everyday life of Pompeii's inhabitants over 2000 years ago.

On a tour of the excavation site, you can explore the ruins of ancient houses, temples and streets, and even visit a brothel. The sleeping dead, from which sculptures were created with the help of plaster, tell the story of the tragic struggle for survival during the volcanic eruption.

Speaking of the volcano, a visit to the malefactor is also worthwhile. The ascent to Vesuvius is easy on foot, but you can also drive up almost to the crater rim by car or bus. From the 1281-metre-high summit, you have a fascinating view of the Gulf of Naples and the surrounding Campania region.

Above Pompeii lies Naples. The city is either loved or hated by its visitors. We are very enthusiastic about the city.

Insider tip: Close to Naples is the island of Ischia. It is the main island of the Phlegraean Islands in the Gulf of Naples. One of its special features is the thermal springs. The oldest spa in the world is also located here.

12 Amalfi Coast with Positano

About 40 kilometres south of Naples you can again look forward to a particularly beautiful pearl of nature: the Amalfi Coast. The coastal region enchants with its rocky shores and colourful villages and - how could it be otherwise - is part of the UNESCO World Heritage.

Nestled against the steep cliffs are idyllic towns such as the eponymous Amalfi, whose top attraction is the 10th-century cathedral, and the former fishing village of Positano, whose beautiful beaches such as the famous Spiaggia Grande, colourful houses and winding alleyways not only touch the hearts of Instagrammers and bloggers.

Another feast for the eyes are the fragrant lemon groves where the unusually large and incredibly delicious amalfi lemons grow. Their peels are also used in the production of the famous lemon liqueur Limoncello.

The Sentiero degli Dei ("Path of the Gods") is a spectacular hiking trail that offers divine views of the Amalfi Coast and the island of Capri - also a wonderful destination.

A highlight is also the drive along the Amalfitana coastal road, which runs for a total of 50 kilometres along the coast and offers fantastic views of the sea as well as the villas, terraced vineyards and lemon gardens on the steep slope.

It's no wonder that the ancient Romans loved the Amalfi Coast and built their summer residences on the coast.

The following activities are available on the Amalfi Coast:

13th Trulli in Alberobello Häuserzeile in AlberobelloWe simply loved this row of houses in Alberobello. Even the cats were still lazing in the sun in the morning

A detour to Apulia is also worthwhile. Here is the sweet little town of Alberobello, which has become famous for a very special attraction: the so-called trulli. These are whitewashed stone houses with conical roofs that exude a very special charm.

The spread of trulli construction dates back to the 17th century and the ingenuity of the then count and feudal lord, Giangirolamo II Acquaviva. He wanted to save the money that would have cost permission to found new places in the Kingdom of Naples, and obliged the newly arriving settlers to maintain the simple construction method.

In the event of an imperial inspection, the simple roof could be removed very quickly. And a collection of poor-looking houses and roofless walls could hardly be called a settlement. In this way, Giangirolamo could avoid paying taxes. Pretty clever, wasn't it? Because of his success, no mortar was used in the construction of the trulli in Alberobello, even in the following centuries, and the traditional construction method was maintained.

Blick auf Alberobello von oben

From the stairs to the church of Santa Lucia you have this great view of the trulli

The unique historic houses have been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1996 and are a real tourist magnet. It's best to get there early in the morning so you can stroll through the small alleys in peace and quiet.

The Rione Monti district offers particularly beautiful views of the lovingly decorated trulli and picturesque streets. A great photo motif is also the pilgrimage church of Sant'Antonio di Padova, which was built in 1926 with the typical conical roof of the trulli.

A tour of Alberobello is like a journey into your own little fairytale world - you can find out everything you need to know about your trip to the city in our article on Alberobello.

Touristen in Alberobello

This is what it looks like when the buses with visitors start arriving at 9 a.m. 14 Ostuni - the white town in Apulia

After I have already introduced you to the beautiful town of Alberobello, I must of course describe Puglia to you. The best way to do this is on a road trip through southern Italy. We'll drive the entire heel of Italy's boot with you. Andiamo!

Nudelstraße Bari

The famous pasta street in Bari

We were particularly taken with Bari. We felt right at home in the pasta city of orecchiette. This was not only due to the delicious pasta made by the nonnas right on the street, but also to the wonderful flair. You can find the most beautiful sights in Bari in the article.Ezoic"/>

We continued on to Alberobello in the direction of Ostuni. Ostuni is not called the white city for nothing. It resembles a white fortress. At the bottom, the mighty walls enclose the city, while the cathedral sits enthroned at the top. Check out the best attractions in Ostuni.

Türen in Ostuni

Ostuni's old town is beautifully designed. The colours provide a great contrast to the white houses. Blick auf OstuniThis view of Ostuni is amazing, isn't it?

Via Brindisi we continue to Lecce. This city enchanted us. The baroque buildings in Lecce dominate the cityscape and are very impressive. In Lecce you have the feeling that you are standing at a special sight on every corner. We especially liked the Piazza del Duomo with the cathedral and the Roman amphitheatre. You can find out which other great sights in Lecce you absolutely have to see in the article.

Of course, you should also visit Monopoli and Otranto on your road trip through Puglia and drive to the southernmost corner of Italy's boot, to Santa Maria di Leuca.

Außenansicht der Basilica di Santa Croce

The Basilica di Santa Croce is one of the top sights in Lecce. 15 Sicily

What would a road trip through Italy be without a visit to the largest island in the Mediterranean? Andiamo in Sicilia! You can expect beautiful beaches, historical excavation sites, picturesque towns, many attractions and the highest active volcano in Europe, Mount Etna.

Ätna

Mount Etna is Europe's most powerful volcano.

It is a whopping 3,323 metres high and was listed as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site in 2013. It is definitely a highlight to experience Etna up close. The city of Catania, which lies at the foot of the volcano, is also worth a visit, with its magnificent baroque buildings and lively fish market.

Sicily's capital Palermo impresses with its many historic buildings and vibrant Mediterranean flair. Top sights include the church of Santa Maria dell'Ammiraglio, the monastery of Santa Caterina d'Alessandria and the Capuchin Crypt. Just check out our article on the best highlights in Palermo.

For history buffs, the archaeological sites of Agrigento are a must-see. In the so-called Valley of the Temples, you can explore the ruins of the ancient city of Akragas, which in the 5th century BC developed into the second most important Greek polis in Sicily after Syracuse. A highlight is the Temple of Concordia, one of the best preserved temples of ancient Greece.

You can find more historical sites and beautiful places in our article on the most beautiful sights in Sicily.

Tip: Stromboli is also close to Sicily. The volcanic island in the Tyrrhenian Sea is famous for the large Stromboli volcano. The volcano was active as recently as 2022 and spewed out a lot of ash, lava and smoke. Together with Lipari, Salina, Vulcano, Panarea, Filicudi and Alicudi, Stromboli belongs to the Aeolian Islands.

16 South Tyrol and the Dolomites

Another very popular holiday region for Germans is South Tyrol and the Dolomites. South Tyrol is the northernmost part of Italy. In combination with Trento, the regions form Trentino-South Tyrol. One of the most beautiful cities is Merano. In our Merano sightseeing article, we take you on a tour of the city of flowers and walk with you along the Sissi Trail, walk the Tappeiner Trail with a view of the city's attractions, look at the spa promenade with the famous Kurhaus and follow in Kafka's footsteps.

Blick von oben auf die Pfarrkirche St. Nikolaus

The parish church of St. Nikolaus is another top sight you shouldn't miss.

Another great city is Bolzano. Bolzano, as the capital of South Tyrol is called in Italian, has its own special flair. The main attraction is the Archaeological Museum, where none other than Ötzi"lives". We especially liked the fact that no matter where you are in the city, you always have a view of the mighty mountains, the Dolomites. In the evening you can experience the typical Italian flair at Waltherplatz , and during the day there is a lot going on at the fruit market. We show you the most beautiful sights in Bolzano on a city tour.

Der berühmte Ötzi im Archäologischen Museum

The famous Ötzi in the Archaeological Museum

The Dolomites are an impressive mountain range that is especially worthwhile for wonderful hikes. Hiking in the Dolomites is not only something for experienced mountaineers. "The most beautiful mountains on earth" (quote Reinhold Messner) also have numerous easy hiking tours with magnificent views to offer for beginners and even for families with older children. We show you the most beautiful hikes in the Dolomites. The main attraction is the Three Peaks.

Blick aus einem Bunker auf die drei Zinnen

From the old bunkers from the First World War you have a great view of the imposing rock faces of the Three Peaks.

In the Dolomites you will also find beautiful lakes such as the Pragser Wildsee, the exotic Lago di Sorapis and the breathtaking Karer See. We show you more beautiful lakes in the Dolomites in the article.

Sonnenuntergang am Karersee

Lake Carezza is a great photo motif at sunset. 17 Sardinia

As our last holiday destination in Italy, I would like to show you another beautiful island. Sardinia really impressed us. Turquoise blue water, white Caribbean beaches and fantastic landscapes in the interior make this Mediterranean island, which belongs to Italy, the perfect holiday destination. Relaxing on the beach and sunbathing, watching fish while snorkelling or enjoying the landscape while hiking - all this is possible on the beautiful island.

Cala Goloritzè, for example, is one of the most beautiful beaches on the island. The beaches on Sardinia remind us a little of the Seychelles. In an extra article, we tell you the top sights on Sardinia - beautiful places that you simply have to see. By the way, we have also prepared an article in case it rains in Sardinia. Here you can find out what you can do in Sardinia when it rains.

18th Teatro Olimpico Vicenza

Another top sight in Italy is not far from Verona. The Teatro Olimpico Vicenza is the first free-standing autonomous theatre building to be built in Europe since the end of antiquity. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The architect was none other than Andrea Palladio. He is one of the most important architects of the Renaissance - at least in Italy. It was opened in 1585 - but after Palladio's death.

When you stand in the theatre you will be speechless. From the beautiful figures, the unbelievably beautiful interior design made of white stone - even the perspective effects are incredible. For example, the buildings create the illusion of depth.

Several film scenes were shot in the Teatro, including Casanova.

Of course, you shouldn't miss Vicenza itself. A really great city awaits you here.

Tip: The Teatro Olimpico in Vicenza is located on the so-called European Route of Historic Theatres.

19 San Marino

A state within a state - that's San Marino. Not only is it one of the oldest republics in the world, it is also the fifth smallest internationally recognised state in the world.

Italian is spoken in San Marino. The small state impresses with its beautiful, historic buildings. The capital is also called San Marino. The medieval old town is surrounded by a wall. A very special flair awaits you here. Walk through the narrow, cobbled streets. No wonder the city's sights are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Another landmark of San Marino are the three 11th-century fortified towers that tower over the capital.

Tip: If you like collecting stamps in your passport, stop by the tourist information office at Piazzetta Giuseppe Garibaldi in San Marino. For a fee of 5 euros, you can get a stamp in your passport.

20 Capri

Capri, the Italian rocky island, has always been a place of longing for artists and creators of art. Emperor Tiberius proclaimed Capri the Roman seat of government in 26 AD.

Capri is the second largest island in the Gulf of Naples and is famous for its caves by the sea. The most visited attraction is the Blue Grotto (Italian: Grotta Azzurra). Thanks to the mild climate, the landscape is mainly characterised by vineyards, olive trees and fruit trees.

The most popular beach is Marina Grande. The island of Capri also made it into the New York Times. The eccentric Italian writer Curzio Malaparte built a villa here, which the newspaper called the most beautiful house in the world.

The following activities are available in Capri:

Extra tip: Coffee house culture in Trieste Der Triest Kaffee PassThe Trieste coffee pass is definitely worth it. Now you can try all kinds of coffee

Finally, we have an extra tip for you that few travellers to Italy have on their radar. Trieste (also known as Trieste) is right on the border with Slovenia. We came to Trieste in the course of our 700-kilometre hike of the Alpe Adria Trail.

Im Café Stella Polare

In the Café Stella Polare, lanterns hang from the ceiling

Not only the sights of Trieste are a dream. The city also captivates with its coffee house culture, which is reminiscent of Austria and Vienna. Trieste was Habsburg-Austrian from 1382 to 1918. So it's no wonder that the Viennese coffee house culture was able to establish itself here. We spent a few days in Trieste and have summarised the most beautiful coffee houses in Trieste for you in an extra article.

Blick auf den Canal Grande und die Häuserzeilen in Triest

The famous Grand Canal of Trieste Exciting Fun Facts about Italy

  • Italy has about 60 million inhabitants

  • In Italy, the coffee nation, around 70 million cups of espresso or "caffè" are drunk every day.

  • The smallest state in the world is the Vatican City in Rome

  • Together with China, Italy has the most UNESCO World Heritage Sites, namely 55

  • The University of Bologna was founded in 1088, making it the oldest university in Europe.

  • On New Year's Eve, red underwear is traditionally worn, which is supposed to bring good luck for the new year.

  • On the other hand, according to Italian superstition, the number 17 brings bad luck.

As you may have noticed, Italy is one of my absolute favourite countries. My personal highlights include the Upper Italian Lakes in the north, cities like Venice and Rome, and the coastal regions of Cinque Terre and the Amalfi Coast. Which of your favourite places is missing from this list? Feel free to write it to me in the comments. Until then, all I have left to say is: Ciao Italia, ci vediamo presto!