50 Ultimate Italy Bucket List Things To Do This Year!

Experience the vibrant charm of this Italian coastal village, an ultimate bucket list destination. Perched on rocky cliffs, it boasts colorful facades and lively boats with people enjoying the clear sky's embrace by the water.

During my college years, I lived in Italy and spent every weekend exploring the country’s incredible sites. Trust me, Italy is overflowing with bucket list-worthy destinations! In this post, I’ve rounded up the top 50 must-see spots, from iconic favorites like the Colosseum in Rome, and the Leaning Tower of Pisa. To a “bit” lesser-known sites like the villages of Civita di Bagnoregio and Urbino.

Planning your Italy bucket list can feel overwhelming with so much history and beauty to discover, but this list is here to help. While I’ve seen nearly everything on the mainland, I’m still dreaming of Sicily and Sardegna—maybe you’ll beat me there!

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A woman standing in front of the colossion in rome.

1. Walk through history at the Colosseum in Rome

This ancient amphitheater, once home to gladiator battles, is a masterpiece of Roman engineering.

Book tickets in advance to skip the line, especially during peak seasons, and bring good walking shoes for exploring its multiple levels.

Also see: The Best Way To See The Colosseum In Rome!

2. Marvel at the art in the Vatican Museums

These halls are overflowing with relics and Renaissance art, including works by Raphael and Caravaggio.

The collection spans over 70,000 pieces, making it one of the largest museums in the world.

Also see: 10 Interesting Vatican City Fun Facts You Need To Know!

St peter's basilica, vatican city, vatican city, vatican city, vatican city,.

3. Visit St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City

Climb to the top of the dome for one of the best panoramic views of Rome.

Early morning visits are less crowded, and Michelangelo himself designed part of its iconic architecture.

Intricately painted ceiling and walls within a cathedral, featuring ornate biblical scenes and architectural details, ideal for inclusion in the best 3-day Rome itinerary.

4. Admire Michelangelo’s masterpiece in the Sistine Chapel

Photos aren’t allowed here, but nothing beats seeing the iconic frescoes in person.

The ceiling alone took Michelangelo four years to paint, largely while lying on his back.

A woman standing in front of the trevi fountain at night.

5. Toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain in Rome

Legend says tossing a coin ensures your return to the Eternal City, so don’t skip this tradition.

It’s best to visit early morning or late at night for a less crowded atmosphere.

Also see: How To Take An Easy Rome DIY Walking Tour!

A woman standing in front of the pantheon in rome.

6. Explore the ancient Pantheon in Rome

The Pantheon is nearly 2,000 years old, with a dome so perfectly designed it’s still the largest unreinforced concrete dome in the world.

Entry is free, but its peaceful beauty is priceless.

Also see: 12 Beautiful Main Squares In Rome You Need To See!

A majestic cathedral with a towering clock.

7. Climb to the top of Florence’s Duomo

It’s a steep 463-step climb, but you’ll be rewarded with jaw-dropping views of Florence’s red rooftops.

An ornate hall with a vaulted ceiling, classical statues lining the walls, and an intricate floor pattern beckons as a must-see on any Italy bucket list. Large windows bathe the room in light, while a person sits quietly on the right.

8. Discover Renaissance treasures at the Uffizi Gallery in Florence

Housing masterpieces like Botticelli’s The Birth of Venus and da Vinci’s sketches, it’s an art lover’s dream.

Time-slot tickets help you skip the long lines and make the most of your visit.

A woman standing in front of the leaning tower of pisa.

9. Snap a photo of the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa

This world-famous structure leans due to soft ground beneath its foundation—it started tilting during construction.

You can climb its 294 uneven steps and enjoy a quirky experience like no other.

A group of tourists walks on a narrow bridge leading to an ancient hilltop village, a must-see on any Italy bucket list, under a clear blue sky.

10. Explore the enchanting hilltop village of Civita di Bagnoregio

Known as “the dying town” due to erosion, it’s connected to the mainland by a pedestrian bridge.

Its charm lies in its peaceful streets and stunning valley views.

The grand canal in venice, italy is a bucket list adventure.

11. Ride a gondola down the Grand Canal in Venice

A gondola ride offers unbeatable views of Venice’s historic palaces and romantic charm.

Bargain with gondoliers if you’re visiting in the off-season for a deal.

People sitting at outdoor cafe tables in a historic Italian square, a must-see on any Italy bucket list, with ornate architecture and a domed building gracing the background.

12. Take in the beauty of St. Mark’s Basilica in Venice

Lavishly filled with gold mosaics, this structure is an architectural masterpiece.

Visit mid-morning when the sun lights up the mosaics for a dazzling experience.

A woman standing on a balcony overlooking the ocean.

13. Stroll through the picturesque streets of Positano

Known for pastel-colored cliffside houses, Positano’s streets are an Instagram dream.

Handmade sandals and limoncello are the best souvenirs this town offers.

Plaster cast of a victim from the ancient eruption of mount vesuvius, displayed among preserved pottery in pompeii.

14. Step back in time at the ruins of Pompeii

Preserved by volcanic ash from Mt. Vesuvius, this ancient Roman city lets you walk through streets frozen in time.

Audio guides bring Pompeii’s dramatic history to life.

Also see: Your Simple Guide To Visiting Pompeii From Rome!

A woman in a blue dress walking down a cobblestone street.

15. Cruise along the serene waters of Lake Como

Surrounded by mountains, Lake Como feels like stepping into a postcard.

Hire a private boat for ultimate luxury or hop on the ferries connecting charming lakeside towns.

Also see: How To Go On The Best Lake Como Day Trip from Milan!

16. Hike the colorful trails of Cinque Terre

This UNESCO World Heritage Site features five picture-perfect villages linked by hiking trails.

The coastal views will make every step worth it, but bring water—it gets hot in summer!

A woman is standing in front of a large cathedral.

17. Marvel at the stunning Milan Cathedral

The Duomo took almost six centuries to complete, but its intricate design is well worth the wait.

Climb the rooftop for spectacular views of Milan’s skyline and Gothic spires.

Also see: Visiting Duomo di Milano? Here’s What You Need To Know!

The bustling interior of a shopping mall, teeming with individuals moving about.

18. Shop in style at Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II in Milan

One of the world’s oldest shopping malls, it’s a work of art in itself with its glass roof and mosaic floors.

It’s the perfect spot to mix retail therapy and history.

Also see: Best Places For Luxury Shopping In Milan For Fashionistas!

A view of the roman ruins in rome, italy.

19. Wander through the Roman Forum in Rome

Once the beating heart of Rome, the Forum is the top spot for ancient ruins.

Imagine the political debates that took place here as you explore.

Also see: Rome Bucket List: 50+ Ultimate Things To Do

A painting depicts a group of people seated at a long table in a dimly lit room with a high arched ceiling and decorative panels, reminiscent of an Italian masterpiece worthy of any cultural bucket list.

20. See Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper in Milan

This world-famous mural captures a dramatic moment with incredible detail.

Due to limited entry tickets, book weeks in advance to secure your spot.

An Italy bucket list essential: An outdoor cafe near St. Mark's Basilica, where tables and umbrellas create a charming scene. Against the backdrop of the bell tower and a pristine sky, people savor the quintessential Venetian experience.

21. Enjoy the ambiance of Piazza San Marco in Venice

Venice’s main square is filled with cafés, artists, and grand architecture.

Grab a coffee, take a seat, and soak in the city’s undeniable charm.

Aerial view of Cascate del Mulino, a must-see on any Italy bucket list, featuring a stone building next to natural thermal pools with turquoise water. The scene is surrounded by lush greenery and distant hills under a clear sky.

22. Relax in the natural hot springs of Tuscany

These thermal baths have been used since Roman times, offering an incredibly relaxing experience.

Saturnia is among the most picturesque spots, with warm cascading waters.

Baroque fountain featuring marble statues and an egyptian obelisk against a cloudy sky in an urban square.

23. Savor the charm of Piazza Navona in Rome

Known for its fountains and street performers, it’s one of Rome’s liveliest squares.

Take your time to people-watch and enjoy a gelato from a nearby vendor.

Also see: Best 3 Day Rome Itinerary + Pompeii Day Trip!

A white boat is docked on a canal in front of the Rialto Bridge in Venice, Italy, under a clear blue sky—truly an Italy bucket list moment.

24. Cross the historic Rialto Bridge in Venice

This iconic bridge spans Venice’s Grand Canal, offering stunning views and plenty of photo ops.

It’s also lined with shops selling keepsakes to remember your visit.

An aerial view of a medieval town square in Italy reveals enchanting stone buildings and towering structures, as people meander along cobblestone streets. This picturesque scene is truly a bucket-list experience for those yearning to step back in time.

25. Discover medieval beauty in San Gimignano

Nicknamed the Town of Fine Towers, it’s a medieval lover’s paradise.

Climb Torre Grossa for panoramic views over Tuscany’s rolling vineyards.

The coastal road, a must-see on any Italy bucket list, winds along a cliffside with breathtaking views of the blue ocean. Below, a small boat gracefully creates a wake on the water, while sparse vegetation clings to the rugged rocky terrain.

26. Drive along the scenic Amalfi Coast

With hairpin turns and surreal coastal views, this drive is a bucket-list-worthy adventure.

Stop along the way to explore charming towns like Ravello and Amalfi.

A marble statue of a standing male figure, a must-see on any Italy bucket list, is showcased in the museum, viewed from below.

27. See Michelangelo’s David at the Accademia Gallery in Florence

This 17-foot-tall statue is breathtaking in person, carved entirely from a single block of marble.

Early morning tickets allow you to avoid the crowds.

View through an archway revealing an ancient Roman-style building, under a partly cloudy blue sky—a must-see on any Italy bucket list.

28. Experience history at Verona Arena

Attend an opera in one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheaters. It has hosted performances for over 2,000 years.

Verona itself is also the city of Romeo and Juliet, making it irresistibly romantic.

Two people sit on a stone pier overlooking a serene lake, framed by a picturesque Italian village and majestic mountains in the background, creating a scene straight from an Italy bucket list under the cloudy sky.

29. Tour the elegant Isola Bella on Lake Maggiore

Take a boat to explore the Baroque palace and its stunning gardens. The 20-tiered garden is home to rare white peacocks.

Check ferry schedules in advance, as they depend on the season and weather.

A distant mountain with a snow-covered peak is surrounded by green fields under a sky with scattered clouds—an Italian bucket list gem waiting to be explored.

30. Explore the volcanic landscapes of Mount Etna in Sicily

Hike to explore Europe’s most active volcano. A UNESCO site, over 10,000 feet tall with stunning views of Sicily.

Myth says the monster Typhon is trapped in its depths.

A small boat with people enters a dark cave illuminated by vibrant blue water—a must-see gem on your Italy bucket list.

31. Sail into the enchanting Blue Grotto on Capri

Sunlight illuminates the cave’s sapphire waters, accessible only during calm seas—perfect in summer.

Ancient Romans once used it as a private bath.

A bronze sculpture of a reclining figure graces the forefront of an ancient Greek temple with columns, gleaming under the Italian sun—a must-see addition to your Italy bucket list.

32. Visit the ancient Valley of the Temples in Sicily

The Temple of Concordia is a major archaeological site in ancient Greece.

Well-preserved and beautifully lit at night, it’s surrounded by almond trees that bloom in February, adding to its charm.

An aerial view of a historic Italian plaza, a must-see on any Italy bucket list, showcases its tall clock tower and surrounding buildings. In the square below, people meander beneath colorful umbrellas, while a hilly landscape unfolds in the background.

33. Relax in the vibrant Piazza del Campo in Siena

Sip espresso in Siena and watch the world go by in one of Italy’s most beautiful medieval squares.

Twice a year, it hosts the Palio horse race, a tradition since 1656.

Its unique shell shape makes it truly one of a kind.

34. Visit the Basilica of San Francesco in Assisi

Admire the stunning frescoes of Saint Francis of Assisi.

The basilica has two beautiful levels and is a key site for Franciscan pilgrims.

Its hilltop location offers sweeping views of the Umbrian countryside.

Visiting Pompeii from Rome unveils the ancient stone streets and brick columns of this historic site, all set against the backdrop of Mount Vesuvius under a clear sky.

35. Hike around Mount Vesuvius near Naples

The volcano famously destroyed Pompeii in 79 AD.

A well-kept trail takes you to the crater’s edge with views of Naples and beyond.

It still emits steam, so you’re walking on an active volcano!

The image showcases an elegant villa reminiscent of Italy, featuring a columned entrance and statues gracing the roof. Wide steps lead up from a lush lawn and path, all under a clear, blue sky. Truly a sight fit for any traveler's bucket list.

36. Explore the Palladian architecture of Vicenza

The city is famous for its Palladian architecture by Andrea Palladio.

Don’t miss the Teatro Olimpico, the world’s oldest indoor theater, built in 1580.

Many of his local villas inspired buildings across Europe.

The interior of this richly decorated cathedral, a must-see on any Italy bucket list, features intricate mosaics on arched ceilings and walls, softly illuminated by dim lighting and candelabras.

37. Admire the mosaics of the Palatine Chapel in Palermo

With gold mosaics blending Byzantine, Islamic, and Norman styles, the Norman Palace is a highlight of Palermo.

Its wooden ceilings, featuring geometric patterns, showcase Islamic art at its finest.

An essential stop on your Italy bucket list, this fountain features ornate architecture nestled among trees, with historic buildings framing the picturesque scene on a sunny day.

38. Wander the gardens of Villa d’Este in Tivoli

Stroll through the fountains and terraces, with the stunning Fountain of Neptune, a masterpiece of Renaissance waterworks.

Built by a cardinal as a city escape, the villa remains a peaceful retreat.

An Ancient Greek temple with majestic stone columns under a clear blue sky, this marvel should be on every Italy bucket list. Surrounded by lush grass and scattered stone paths, it invites exploration and admiration from all who visit.

39. Explore the ancient Greek temples of Paestum

Explore the well-preserved Greek ruins, including three towering Doric temples from the 6th century BC, dedicated to Hera and Poseidon.

In spring, the site is surrounded by blooming wildflowers.

A stone pathway winds through a village of traditional conical-roofed trulli houses, nestled in lush greenery beneath a cloudy sky—a must-see marvel on any Italy bucket list.

40. Photograph the iconic Trulli houses in Alberobello

These limestone dwellings date back to the 14th century and were built without mortar to evade property taxes.

Their quirky architecture is as picturesque as it is fascinating.

Hikers explore a grassy trail overlooking a picturesque Italian valley with scattered buildings, surrounded by rugged mountains under a cloudy sky—a scene perfect for any bucket list adventure.

41. Take in the breathtaking Dolomites in Northern Italy

Hike or ski in a stunning mountain range with jagged peaks, green meadows, and alpine lakes.

A UNESCO site, these cliffs are famous for their pink sunsets.

Don’t miss the picturesque Lake Braies for photos.

People walk and cycle near a historic building with ornate doors and large arched windows, a must-see on any Italy bucket list. The square is busy with pedestrians.

42. Enjoy the culinary delights of Bologna

Explore Bologna, the “food capital of Italy.”

Enjoy handmade tortellini or rich Bolognese sauce in a cozy trattoria.

The city also hosts the world’s oldest university, founded in 1088.

A woman sitting on a wall with a view of a city.

43. Experience Renaissance art and architecture in Urbino

Visit Urbino, the birthplace of Renaissance master Raphael and a hub of Italian art.

At its heart is Palazzo Ducale, home to stunning frescoes and decor.

The city retains its old-world charm, untouched by modern development.

Two boats float on a tranquil lake at sunset, surrounded by majestic mountains, with a wooden dock in the foreground. This serene scene captures the enchanting allure of Italy, making it a must-see for any traveler's bucket list.

44. Relax by the shores of Lake Garda

Unwind on the shores of Italy’s largest lake, surrounded by charming villages and olive groves.

A favorite among water lovers, the lake offers everything from sailing to windsurfing.

Its mild microclimate makes it a year-round destination.

The picturesque castle by the sea at sunset should definitely be on your Italy bucket list, with small boats gently swaying along the rocky shore beneath a clear blue sky.

45. Walk through the historic Castel dell’Ovo in Naples

Visit Naples’ oldest fortress, “Egg Castle,” named after a legend of a magical egg in its foundation.

Free to enter, it offers stunning views of the bay.

The clear turquoise sea with gentle waves caresses a sandy beach, framed by a rocky coastline and lush greenery. A distant mountain nestles under a bright blue sky, creating an idyllic scene worthy of any Italy bucket list.

46. Bask in the luxury of Sardinia’s Costa Smeralda

Discover ultimate luxury, famed for its white sand beaches and turquoise waters.

The area was developed in the 1960s as a playground for the rich and famous.

It’s also home to one of the world’s most exclusive yacht clubs.

The white limestone cliffs of Italy curve down towards the blue sea under a clear sky, a sight that undoubtedly deserves a spot on your bucket list.

47. Discover the white cliffs of Scala dei Turchi in Sicily

Marvel at the white limestone cliffs formed by wind and water erosion.

Located along Sicily’s southern coast, the cliffs contrast beautifully with the Mediterranean’s blue waters.

It’s said to have once been a landing spot for pirates.

Visitors consider this stunning chapel, adorned with ornate frescoes and paintings on its walls and ceiling, a top priority on their Italy bucket list.

48. Admire the Gothic beauty of Orvieto Cathedral

Nest in Umbria is a jaw-dropping masterpiece of Gothic architecture.

Step inside and gaze up at the frescoes in the San Brizio Chapel, an awe-inspiring depiction of the Last Judgment.

Built atop volcanic rock, the cathedral is supported by tufa stone, making it an incredible combination of natural and human-made beauty.

Coastal villas on a rocky shoreline with turquoise water, nestled in Italy's lush greenery and hillsides, make for a dreamy bucket-list destination.

49. Stroll the colorful streets of Portofino

A charming Italian coastal town with pastel buildings and a glistening harbor.

Stroll the cobblestone streets to the Piazzetta and enjoy coffee with stunning views of the Ligurian Sea.

Once a fishing port, this picturesque village is now a celebrity hideaway.

An aerial view of an Italian town with densely packed buildings, winding roads, and green fields extending into the distance under a clear blue sky. This picturesque scene is perfect for anyone's bucket list adventure.

50. Visit the historic center of San Marino

One of the world’s oldest republics, San Marino offers stunning views and rich history.

Climb the path to Guaita Tower, the oldest of three fortresses on Mount Titano.

Though landlocked, San Marino has a unique charm all its own.

Final Thoughts-

Italy is a country that never fails to impress its visitors and is filled with bucket list-worthy spots to check out. From its natural wonders to its rich history, there’s always something exciting to discover in this beautiful nation. Which of these destinations would you most like to visit and why? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Happy exploring!

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