8 best things to do in Italy

Ranked by how often travelers include them in real TravBuddy trips — with costs, timings and tips.

Quick answer

The top things to do in Italy include Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, Colosseum, Ponte Vecchio, plus 5 more. Each stop below is rated by real travelers and drawn from actual TravBuddy itineraries, so you see what people genuinely spend time on — not a generic list.

  1. 1.Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore

    4.8
    Landmark1,08,390 reviews~50010:30 AM

    Visit the iconic Duomo, a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture. Climb to the top for panoramic views of Florence (book tickets in advance).

    Tip: Dress respectfully (shoulders and knees covered) to enter the cathedral.

  2. 2.Colosseum

    4.8
    Ancient Ruin4,99,079 reviews~2,00009:30 AM

    Step back in time at the magnificent Colosseum, the largest ancient amphitheater ever built. Imagine the gladiatorial contests and public spectacles that once took place here.

    Tip: Book your tickets online well in advance to skip the long queues.

  3. 3.Ponte Vecchio

    4.7
    Bridge1,50,118 reviews~50011:00 AM

    Take a final stroll across the iconic Ponte Vecchio, Florence's oldest bridge. Admire the charming shops, mostly jewelers today, that line its length and soak in the views of the Arno River.

    Tip: Visit around sunset for beautiful light and a romantic atmosphere.

  4. 4.Tower of Pisa

    4.7
    Landmark1,91,976 reviews~2,00002:00 PM

    Arrive in Pisa and head straight to the iconic Leaning Tower. Take your classic 'holding up the tower' photos and marvel at this architectural wonder.

    Tip: Purchase tickets to climb the tower in advance if you want to experience the ascent.

  5. 5.Piazza dei Miracoli (Square of Miracles)

    4.7
    Square1,38,638 reviews~20003:30 PM

    Explore the entire Piazza dei Miracoli, home to the Leaning Tower, the Cathedral, and the Baptistery. Admire the stunning Romanesque architecture.

    Tip: Consider visiting the Cathedral as well, its interior is quite beautiful.

  6. 6.Giotto's Bell Tower

    4.8
    Landmark7,811 reviews~1,50001:00 PM

    Climb Giotto's Bell Tower for unparalleled panoramic views of Florence, including the Duomo and the surrounding Tuscan landscape.

    Tip: The climb is strenuous but rewarding; wear comfortable shoes.

  7. 7.Sunset Aperitivo

    4.2
    Bar2,894 reviews~1,80006:30 PM

    Experience the Italian tradition of 'aperitivo' as the sun sets over the Amalfi Coast. Enjoy a drink and some light snacks with breathtaking views.

    Tip: Many hotels and beachfront bars offer fantastic sunset views for aperitivo.

  8. 8.Lemon Grove Visit

    4.5
    Nature1,418 reviews~1,50003:00 PM

    Explore one of the many picturesque lemon groves that dot the hillsides of the Amalfi Coast. Learn about the cultivation of these famous lemons and perhaps sample some limoncello.

    Tip: Many farms offer tours; look for one that includes a tasting experience.

Things to do in Italy: quick questions

How many days do you need in Italy?+

Most travellers spend about 7 days in Italy, based on real trips planned on TravBuddy.

What are the top things to do in Italy?+

Top experiences in Italy include Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, Departure, Departure preparations, Colosseum.

Where should you eat in Italy?+

Popular places to eat in Italy include Pane e Salame, Breakfast at a Local Pasticceria.

Plan your Italy trip

Turn these into a day-by-day Italy plan

Tell the AI your dates, budget and pace — it slots these into an optimised day-by-day itinerary with timings, stays and live fares. Free.

Plan my Italy trip

Ranked from 8 places that appear across real TravBuddy trips to Italy and traveler ratings. Entry fees and timings change — confirm ahead for closures.