Ultimate Italy Bucket List: 10 Best things to do Italy

This Italy bucket list covers the best cities, resorts, attractions, and food spots, so you don’t miss a thing when exploring the country.

Italy is a top choice for every travel lover who wants an unforgettable vacation. The beaches, the Mediterranean sun, the people, the monuments, the food, the vibe!

Everything seems to be perfect in Italy, and it’s no surprise that every committed traveler boards a plane annually to return to the incredible country.

There are many cities you have to see at least once in your lifetime and just as many amazing things you should check off your bucket list to fully embrace the Italian culture.

Italy Bucket List

1. Go back in time at the Colosseum

When planning a trip to Italy, you surely can’t miss its incredible capital, Rome.

There are plenty of things NOT to do in Rome, but atop of your Rome bucket list, has to be one the most famous monuments of all time, the Colosseum.

Considered one of the new seven wonders of the world, thanks to its unique architecture and underlying history, tours allow you to learn about Roman culture and see the Arena where gladiators had battles.

These tours include the trap doors that cage wild animals, the first tier, which was reserved for the royal families of the ancient world, the second tier for the wealthy class of the ancient Roman empire, the gladiators’ gate that was the entrance point in the Arena, and the Emperor Box for the best views of the Arena. 

2. Eat pizza in Napoli 

Napoli is the homeland of pizza, so it’s a must-try during your vacation. As one of the best cities in Italy, we love spending time exploring the sights, enjoying some shipping and of course, eating pizza as much as possible!

You can try the most traditional type of pizza, the Margherita, which has a thin base and is topped with tomatoes, mozzarella, and a few leaves of basil. As simple as it might sound, it’s considered the best Italian dish.

The top 3 pizzerias in Napoli that host millions of tourists every year are L’ Antica Pizzeria di Michele, Pizzeria Sorbillo, and Concettina ai Tre Santi, which are all famous for being the only restaurants that have kept traditions alive for generations, but be aware that since they’re so popular, you can wait in line for a long time (but it’s worth it). 

3. Take an iconic photo with the Leaning Tower in Pisa 

You can’t go to Pisa without taking the iconic photo with the leaning tower. This is a tradition for tourists from all over the world, and there are many funny and failed pictures running online.

You can do a funny pose, too, or at least try to get a good capture of “holding” the tower. This popular monument has one of the most remarkable architectures of medieval Italy, and its construction took over 200 years.

It has an unintended tilt, but nowadays, the errors of the architects of old times have surely become an excellent attraction for tourists from all parts of the world. 

4. Go for a bike ride in the Dolomites 

The Italian Dolomites are famous for the breathtaking views that attract adventure seekers from all over the world every year and in every season.

The Italian mountains are the perfect places for winter sports and summer hiking trips, but the best thing you can do any time of the year is ride your bike on the beautiful trails.

Before your trip, consider purchasing an electric mountain bike to face the challenging trails and explore the beauty of nature without feeling exhausted. Also, check the weather to pack appropriately, and don’t forget to bring a battery pack to charge your phone; you will be taking plenty of pictures!

5. Relax on a beach in Sardegna 

Sardegna is popular for its beautiful beaches and friendly locals; a hidden gem in Italy. So, to combine both of the best aspects of this place, relax on a beach with new Italian friends.

You can spend your day under the Mediterranean sun without getting bored because the locals in Sardinia are funny by nature, and you can enjoy a cold Aperol while chatting about their culture.

The most popular beaches among tourists are La Pelosa, Cala Mariolu, Spiaggia La Cinta, and Poetto, which have the clearest water and the most beautiful views in Sardinia.

6. Take a walk along the Amalfi Coast 

The Amalfi Coast is a Pinterest-like place that is popular for the breathtaking views and picturesque landscapes that make tourists question reality.

You can walk the coastline to admire the beautiful Italian houses, natural environments and crowded streets filled with friendly people ready to socialize.

Some of the best walking trails along the coast are the Path of Gods, from where you can marvel at the golden beaches, Valle dei Mulini, to see ancient buildings and luscious forests, and the path from Montepertuso to Positano, where you can see the traditional villages and enjoy a laid-back atmosphere. This is also one of the more beautiful Europe road trips to enjoy.

7. See the traditional Trulli houses in Puglia 

Puglia has the most distinctive and traditional Italian houses, the Trulli. They have interesting rural architecture; they are huts with walls and a dome, which are all made of stone.

A Trullo is a top choice for accommodation for people who want to experience the real Pugliese traditions, and you can book your stay online from any trustworthy website.

You can find the oldest trulli in Alberobello, which is considered a UNESCO world heritage, and it can be a refuge from the crowds if you want to enjoy your time in Italy relaxing. The rooms have a simple design, and you can also opt for a trullo with a private garden and a pool to have the best time.  

8. Admire the Duomo in Milan 

The Duomo in Milan is another attraction that you shouldn’t miss on your bucket list. It’s popular thanks to the unique architectural features and the beauty of the cathedral from the inside. You can find millions of statues, sarcophagi, and illustrations of popular biblical figures.

By visiting the Duomo, you can explore the religious Italian history and admire the traditional artistic culture of Italy. It’s considered the third-largest cathedral in the world and surely a must-see for every tourist. 

9. Explore the secrets of the Vatican 

The Vatican City is the smallest independent country in the world, and it is home to the oldest roman catholic church where the papa lives.

The Vatican is on the Italy bucket list because of its location within Italy itself; although not part of Italy. Visit the Vatican museums, where you can find works from Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo but also explore St. Basilica’s Cathedral.

10. Ride a gondola in Venice 

What could be more romantic than riding a gondola in Venice? This experience can surely stay with you forever, as it’s one of the most iconic things to do in Italy and a must for those visiting Venice.

While in Venice, make sure you visit the cute cafes, explore the art museums, and spend time crossing the many bridges.

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We hope this Italy bucket list inspires you to book your Italian adventure and make the most of your vacation, creating memories that you can keep forever in the most beautiful Italian cities.

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