Top Cities and Historical Places to Visit in Italy by Debbie

I had the pleasure of visiting Italy for 7 days earlier this year. Italy is one of those rare places where every turn reveals something breathtaking. Whether you’re standing under the Sistine Chapel or walking through a city frozen in time, there’s no shortage of moments that feel like magic. Here are my absolute must-dos in Rome, Florence, Vatican City, and Pompeii.

Top Things to Do in Rome – The Eternal City:

• Visit the Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill: Walk in the footsteps of gladiators and emperors. It is truly like stepping into history. Highly recommend a tour guide. Palatine Hill offers stunning views of the Forum & is considered the birthplace of Rome.

• Visit the Pantheon: One of the best preserved buildings of Ancient Rome & a true architectural marvel. It is a church & free to enter.

• Walk in Piazza Navona: This is a gorgeous public square lined with cafes & home to Bernini’s Fountain of the Four Rivers. It’s a great place to people watch & grab a pastry or gelato.

• Toss a coin in the Trevi Fountain: Legend says tossing one coin ensures a return to Rome. It’s packed with tourists, but still so worth it. Go early or late for less crowds.

• Climb the Spanish Steps: Great views, great photos, and close to some of the city’s best gelato shops.

• Eat like a local: The Italian restaurants are really as good as you can imagine. They are plentiful & meals are reasonably priced. Save room for Gelato. We literally had gelato every night.

Top things to do in Vatican City – A Country Within a City: Just a short walk or bus ride from central Rome, Vatican City is the smallest country in the world — but it holds some of the most powerful art and architecture you’ll ever see.

• See the Sistine Chapel: Michelangelo’s ceiling is even more stunning in person. You’ll find yourself silently spinning in place to take it all in.

• Explore the Vatican Museums: It’s a massive complex, but the art and artifacts are world-class. Give yourself time here.

• Visit St. Peter’s Basilica: Climb to the dome for a panoramic view of the city, and take in the beauty of the basilica’s grand interior.

• Attend a Papal Audience or Mass

Top things to do in Florence – The Cradle of the Renaissance: Florence feels like walking through a living museum. It’s the heart of art, culture, and Tuscan charm — and honestly, it’s hard not to fall in love with it – I sure did.

• See Michelangelo’s David at the Accademia Gallery: He’s taller and more impressive than have imagined.

• Wander through the Uffizi Gallery: Home to works by Botticelli, da Vinci, and Raphael — art lovers will be in heaven.

• Experience the sunset at Piazzale Michelangelo: For the best view of the city, especially at golden hour.

• Enjoy the local food – Florence is a foodie’s dream.

Top things to do in Pompeii – A City Frozen in Time: Pompeii is both haunting and awe-inspiring. This ancient city was buried by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD and preserved almost perfectly under ash. It’s a time capsule of Roman life.

• Walk through the ruins: You’ll see everything from homes and bakeries to theaters and temples.

• See the preserved body casts: It’s a powerful reminder of how suddenly life changed that day.

• Visit the Villa of the Mysteries: A bit off the main path, this villa has stunning frescoes still intact.

• You can also visit Mount Vesuvius: Hike to the crater of the volcano that caused it all. I did not do this, but I’m sure the views would be stunning.

My visit to Italy was unforgettable & a deep dive into history, art, culture, and flavors. I had the pleasure of traveling with a group which was such a great experience. I feel like I have learned so much about travel in Europe. My last thoughts would be – don’t be afraid of public transportation, book a tour guide for everything you want to experience, embrace the beauty of Rome at night, & enjoy the trains – they are such a great way to travel.

Have you been to any of these places in Italy? Is it still on your bucket list? If so, reach out to your travel advisor at Mystical Dream Travel to start planning your Italian vacation

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