1. Rome
The capital of the Roman Empire, ‘Rome’is presently the government seat as well as capital city of Italy. Situated in the country’s central region of Lazio, Rome is a gigantic and complex city that is both historic and modern at the same time. It is one of the most visited cities in Italy. This historic city is renowned for being the homeland of ancient Roman structures and the ‘Vatican City’, Rome has survived for over 2,500 years as a significant center for culture, religion and power.
2. Tuscany
Tuscany is the most famous region and among the top places in Italy to go on a family holiday. This place combines pictorial views of stunning rolling hills, vineyards, cypress trees and olive groves. Many of the pleasures in which you can indulge in Tuscany include relaxing in hill towns such as San Gimignano, tasting wine in Chianti or exploring Renaissance art in the Florence. Moreover, the medieval city of Sienna also portrays exceptional works of art while its ‘historic center’ is amongst the most famous places to visit in the country. Also, Elba, the biggest of many Tuscan islands, offers has amazing beaches on the other hand Pisa is renowned for its Leaning Tower (Leaning Tower of Pisa).
3. Venice
As much as we have tried to exclude it from the list as it seems a bit too predictable, there is no way that a list of the most romantic places in Italy would be complete without including Venice on it. Whilst the tourists that flock to the city can make it feel a bit too busy to offer the chance for some quiet time as a couple during the day, once the crowds have gone home, there is nothing more romantic than being serenaded by your gondolier as he leads you through the narrow canals of the city.
4. Pienza
A UNESCO World Heritage site since 1996, Pienza too often gets missed off the tourist trail but it definitely deserves it’s place on this list. After all, the town even has streets named ‘Via dell Amore’ (Street of Love) and ‘Via dell Baccio’ (Street of the kiss). It is also home to the Palazzo Piccolomini, which was used as a set location by Franco Zeffirelli to film some of the scenes from arguably his most famous and romantic movie, Romeo and Juliet.
5. Florence
Instead of joining the growing trend of lovebirds who bring a padlock with them to the city’s most famous bridge – the Ponte Vecchio – and adding it to the hundreds already in place on the structure of the bridge, be a bit more creative. Head instead to Michelangelo’s Piazza as the sun sets to enjoy a wonderfully romantic view over the city.
6. Milan
A global capital of fashion and design, Milan is certainly not short of shopping opportunities. A must visit being the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, an elegant 19th century arcade that’s Italy’s oldest shopping mall. But Milan has much more to offer besides this. The city is home to Da Vinci’s ‘Last Supper’ and spectacular structures such as the Milan Duomo (cathedral). There’s also La Scala, one of the most famous opera houses in the world.
7. Naples
Famous for its food, Naples was the birthplace of pizza. So no trip to this Italian city would be complete without sampling a slice. Once you’ve eaten your fill, check out the National Archaeological Museum of Naples or the 13th-century Gothic cathedral. The vibrant Spaccanapoli district is well worth a visit, with its winding streets filled with shops and churches. Naples is also a great base for visiting Pompeii, Herculaneum and the beautiful Amalfi Coast.
8. Pisa
Although Pisa is most famous for its leaning tower, there’s much that tourists don’t know about this destination. It’s home to one of the most elite universities in all of Italy, with the student population meaning there’s a lively café. There’s also food markets, incredible gelato and stunning sunsets over the River Arno. The beaches are also just a 15-20 minute journey away, so you can cool off in the Mediterranean after exploring.
9. Genoa
Gateway to the Italian Riviera, Genoa was one of the greatest trading powers in the world in medieval times. Its history is still evident in its medieval core, which offers a tight network of atmospheric streets. Discover artisan shops and historic eateries, where you can enjoy more of Italy’s most famous dishes. Interestingly, the city is also home to Europe’s first bank and Italy’s oldest football team. As Genoa is still a working port, you can easily enjoy day trips out along the coast.
10. Riomaggiore, Cinque Terre
The Southernmost town in the Cinque Terre, it’s also probably the most overlooked by tourists who tend to head more to the arguably more dramatic views to be enjoyed from Vernazza and Manarola but this is why we love it. It’s where you can enjoy that perfect romantic selfie without having the crowds in the way!