Top 14 Things to Do in Italy: Everything to Add to Your Ultimate Bucket List in 2024

Italy is a fascinating destination, offering a world of history, art, music, romance, adventure, and out of this world mouthwatering cuisine.

In this article, we’re looking at the top things to do in Italy. From exploring with kids, young adults on the go, unique escapes, and adventurous expeditions.

Join us as we dive into the top things to do in Italy for every traveler.

Things to Do in Italy for Young Adults

Hit the best nightlife spots

Being a young adult in Italy offers a world of fun, excitement, and entertainment. The top cities invite young adults to take in the art, history, music, and delectable local cuisine, with Florence, Rome, and Milan being three of the most popular cities in Italy for young adults.

Whether you want to dance the night away, meet up with friends, or simply take a stroll through the historic narrow streets, Italy’s top cities offer something for everyone.

Depending on where you go you will find a host of exciting things to do for young adults. For example:

• Florence: The Piazza Santo Spirito is a square with a range of lively bars and late-night eateries.
• Milan: The Navigli District is a bustling area with nightlife along the canals, while Corso Como is one of the best streets for hitting the clubs.
• Rome: The Trastevere District is well known for its laid-back bars and live music venues, while the Campo de’ Fiori square is the place to be for bustling eternal city antics where drinks with friends often turns into a night of dazzling dancing.

Whatever your vibe, there is no doubt that Italy has a host of things to do for young adults.

Enjoy outdoor adventures

Young adults in search of the perfect outdoor adventure are in luck. Italy offers some of the best places for outdoor activities in the world.

Whether you’re looking to hit the slopes and go skiing in the Dolomites or want to go hiking in Cinque Terre, Italy is truly an outdoor lover’s dream destination.

As the seasons change, the outdoor adventures switch. From sensational summers on Lake Como, winter wonderlands in the Dolomites, serene springs in Tuscany, and abundant autumns in Rome, Italy is a year-round destination for young adults.

Explore the top tourist hotspots

While being young and in Italy is mostly about having fun and meeting the incredible locals, there are a few things that every adult, young or older needs to see when visiting Italy. These top tourist sites are a good starting point for your Italy trip:

• St. Mark’s Basilica: Located in Venice, this stunning cathedral will take visitors on a journey through time. The blend of Gothic, Renaissance, Romanesque, and Byzantine architecture is truly something to see to be believed.
• Accademia Gallery: Situated in the historic city of Florence, the Accademia Gallery invites you to marvel at some of the most important works of art in Italian history, including the infamous Statue of David.
• Vatican City: If you’ve seen the Da Vinci Code, you’ll know why this small sovereign nation is so important to Italians. This small city is in a league of its own with grand architecture and incredible tours to learn all about one of Italy’s most religious sites, including the infamous Sistine Chapel and Vatican Museums.
• Palatine Hill: Said to be where Romulus founded Rome, Palatine Hill offers a walk back in time with ancient ruins and stunning surroundings.
• Colosseum: The Gladiators formed a massive part of Italian history, and the Colosseum was where the Romans got their biggest form of entertainment, a fight to the death. The Colosseum is one of the most historic sites in Italy and is an absolute must-see.

Indulge in rich cultural experiences

If harnessing the culture of this incredible country is at the top of your Italy itinerary you’re in luck. Young adults can find a bountiful range of fun and culturally enriching things to do.

Foodies, the Emilia-Romagna region is an absolute must. From beautiful Bologna in Northern Italy with historic towers to Modena and Parma serving up some of Italy’s best, including Tagliatelle al Ragù, tortellini, and of course a handful of the freshest parmesan cheese. Find a food tour in these picturesque towns to harness the true feeling of Italy.

If getting into the Italian music scene is more your style, Italy boasts a variety of magnificent music festivals throughout the year. Rock in Roma, the Venice Jazz Festival, and the Milano Summer Festival are all popular options, depending on your music tastes. But simply being in Italy, savoring the wine and food amongst good friends makes the entire music festival experience top notch.

Flourishing fashionistas, it’s time to get your fix with Italy’s fashion shows. From the big guns at Milan Fashion Week to the AltaRoma in Rome, featuring the best upcoming designers, you are in for an absolute treat. Not to mention the shopping in Italy is out of this world, with historic boutiques that you simply can’t miss.

Young adults are always on the go, with some traveling across the globe to explore more of what various countries and regions have to offer. Young adults can take advantage of the Italy Digital Nomad visa, offering the chance of a lifetime to live and explore everything Italy.

Things to Do in Italy with Kids

Discover family-friendly historical sites

Italy is packed to the brim with UNESCO World Heritage sites. In fact, Italy is home to the most UNESCO world heritage sites than any other country, boasting a total of 60!

One of the best parts of going to Italy with kids is giving them the chance to experience the history of Italy in all its glory firsthand. From the ruins of the ancient city of Pompeii and the gladiator tours of the Colosseum to the Archaeological Park of Herculaneum where you can walk in the steps of Roman leaders, Italy transports visitors to a different time.

Whether you have kids that want something more interactive like the leaning tower of Pisa where running to the top is an absolute must or something more educational like Vatican City with historic architecture and world class tours, there is a historical site for every young mind to enjoy.

Italy is packed with ancient ruins and at least one UNESCO World Heritage site for any interest. Whether it’s art, music, nature, or anything in between, Italy is a bustling hub of history.

Get your adrenaline-fix in the amusement parks in Italy

Nothing says family fun in Italy like a day out at the amusement parks. Luckily, Italy has some famous amusement parks that will have parents and children on the ride of a lifetime.

Situated in Lake Garda, Gardaland is Italy’s most famous amusement park. As the largest theme park in Italy, Gardaland features roller coasters, an aquarium, water rides, and a host of hair-raising activities for the whole family to enjoy.

Movie buffs are in for a treat at Cinecittà World in Rome, offering a range of rides and shows surrounding local and international cinematic masterpieces. From the great minds of Jurassic Park to the legends of Indiana Jones, a world of adventure and thrills awaits.

If you’re traveling with little ones, a slower pace might be best. Leolandia, about an hour outside of Milan is a theme park specifically for little ones, with rides and attractions for all ages. Think water park, electric cars, mini roller coasters, and much more.

Discover the country’s interactive museums

One of the best ways to get kids into the history and mystery of Italy is an interactive museum. You’ll be hard pressed to find a young child that can stand listening to a tour guide for hours on end. Luckily, Italy offers world class museums where kids can get in on the action.

The Museo Leonardo da Vinci in Rome invites families to interact with some of the most famous inventions of Leonardo da Vinci. Self-guided audio tours are also available, with replicas of some world-renowned Renaissance art along the way.

If you’re looking to explore more of Italy with your family, our Italy Golden Visa Guide will provide a world of insights into how you and your family can enjoy Italian residency. Meaning you won’t miss a thing all year round.

Unique Things to Do in Italy

Go truffle hunting in Tuscany

One of the most unique things to do in Italy is truffle hunting in Tuscany. As one of the most sought-after ingredients in the world, finding some of these prized underground mushrooms is an experience all its own.

Take a guided tour and learn about this expensive ingredient while exploring the gorgeous woodlands of the Tuscan countryside. If you’re lucky, you may just be able to try out some of your treasured truffles in an exquisite local dish or learn how to use it in a cooking class.

Enjoy scenic gondola rides in Venice

Gondola rides through the ancient city of Venice are a top thing to do in Italy. While many explore the well-known canals passing some of the most historic buildings, it’s actually the lesser-known canals where history lovers can get their fix of all things Italy.

Since Venice is the city of water, the winding canals in this historic city are simply sensational. While some prefer to do a boat tour of the famous city, a gondola ride transports you back in time.

Sit back while your gondolier serenades you with the sweet sounds of Italian opera. Heading through some of the lesser-known canals allows you to harness the true sense of Italy. From the small cafes that you wouldn’t think of entering or Cicchetti bars, known locally as bàcari for a fresh Aperol spritz and tapas to tantalize the taste buds.

Plus, Venice is home to over 450 bridges, and from a gondola, they look even more beautiful. Come sunset, with a beaming bridge on the horizon as the soft light fades, Venice transforms into a bustling romantic hub.

Stay in a historic castle in the countryside

If you’re looking to feel like royalty, staying in a historic castle in the Italian countryside is right up your alley. The historical charm, grand furnishings, and ancient architecture will have you feeling like a king or queen in no time.

Some popular areas for experiencing the true historic castle feel include:

• Tuscany: Known for its verdant green hills that go as far as the eye can see. It doesn’t get more Italian countryside than Tuscany. Picture watching the sunset over lush green grape vines, sipping a glass of Tuscany’s best with a wine tasting tour, before heading indoors for a royal feast.
• Piedmont: Fine wines and rich history await in Piedmont. Known for its homemade cheese and sensational wine varieties, the historic castles of Piedmont are calling all history lovers.
• If peaceful and picturesque are on your mind, the hilltop town of Umbria offers a world of historic castles set between peaceful countryside bliss.

Staying in a castle is one of the most unique experiences in Italy. From the gorgeous surrounding countryside and lush furnishings to the fantastic service that Italy is known for, your royal getaway awaits.

Adventurous Things to Do in Italy

Hike Mount Vesuvius

Mammoth Mount Vesuvius is one of the top must-visit places in Italy. This world-famous volcano located near Pompeii and Naples is well known for its historic eruption in 79 AD.

Hiking Mount Vesuvius offers some of the best views in Italy. From peering into the crater to panoramic views of the Amalfi Coast, Naples, and the historic ruins of Pompeii.

Wondering how difficult it is to hike Mount Vesuvius? Have no fear, there is a well-kept gravel pathway that generally takes about 30-45 minutes to summit. Many places are uphill so proper walking or hiking shoes are recommended. But you don’t need any technical skills to hike Mount Vesuvius.

If you’re into adventure, the Mount Vesuvius hiking trails are like three adventures in one. History, physical activity, and sensational views await all who wish to explore this historic landmark. If you’re looking for even more history explorations, the Naples National Archaeological Museum has some of the most significant artifacts from the original Pompeii.

If you’re looking for more of a physical challenge, you can head further south towards Sicily. Mount Etna, the highest active volcano in Europe offers some fantastic hiking trails too, with a summit of about 3,300 meters. Just note, you’ll need a guide to summit this mammoth volcano.

Explore the Amalfi Coast

Situated in southern Italy, glitz glamor, and grand villas await on the Amalfi Coast. Adventure seekers in Italy are in for the ride of a lifetime on this prestigious coast.

If you’re looking for some hair-raising activities, look no further than the fantastic range of boat trips. From the hidden caves and coves to secluded beaches and islands all waiting to be explored. Whether you want to whirl through the water on a high-speed motorboat or take it relaxed on a yacht, the options are endless.

Plus, if you really want to experience the Amalfi Coast and all it has to offer, driving along the infamous Amalfi Drive gives you everything your adrenaline needs. From hairpin bends, dramatic cliffs with sea views, and small towns with the best seafood in Italy, the Amalfi Coast is truly one for the books.

Go cave diving in Sardinia

The crystal-clear Mediterranean Sea waters of Sardinia are home to some of the most infamous caves for diving. The intricate cave dwellings, rock formations, and caverns together with the turquoise waters are the ideal setting for adventure seekers in Italy.

There are a variety of cave diving sites in Sardinia offering a world of excitement and adventure. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, there are options for everyone to hop in and enjoy the incredible underwater sites.

Some popular diving sites in Sardinia include:

• Grotta del Nereo
• Grotta di Bue Marino
• Grotta di San Giovanni
• Capo Caccia

Each diving site offers something different, with the opportunity to get up close and personal with the local marine life.

It’s important whenever you’re diving somewhere new to find a reputable diving company before entering the water. The underwater caves of Sardinia are incredible but need some guidance from locals who know how to navigate the area.

Hit the slopes in the Italian Alps

Possibly the most famous mountains for winter sports in the world, the Alps offer the ideal conditions for a range of fantastically fun snow sports.

The Alps cross a range of regions, including Austria, France, Slovenia, Switzerland, and Northern Italy. Some popular regions for skiing and snowboarding in the Italian Alps include:

• Lombardy: A popular winter sports adventure region with resorts like Bormio and Lavignio offering incredible ski and snowboarding conditions.
• Valle d’Aosta: Home to the Mont Blanc massif, the tallest peak in Europe, this region in Northwest Italy offers snow sports, historical castles, and abundant scenery that will take your breath away.
• Trentino-Alto Adige: Here, you will find the ideal mix of Austrian and Italian culture with a range of popular ski resorts for the adventure lover.

Italy is truly a one stop shop for everything. Whether you want to shop, ski, history hunt, there is genuinely something for everyone. It’s one of the top reasons that the Italy citizenship by investment program is so popular. More and more people are looking for a way to make Italy their home, taking advantage of all this historic country has to offer.

Seasonal Activities in Italy

Summer in Italy

Summer in Italy generally runs from June to August, inviting visitors to explore all the outdoor activities Italy has to offer.

The beaches in Italy are something every summer lover needs to experience. Here are a few of the top beaches in Italy to explore in the summer:

• Costa Smeralda has some of the best beaches in Sardinia. Known for its sandy bays with crystal clear waters along with some of the most luxurious resorts in Italy.
• Amalfi is great for a slower pace with dramatic cliffs and historic buildings acting as a backdrop to some smaller secluded beaches.
• Portofino is a glamorous, small town with nearby coves like Paraggi Beach, perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
• Puglia is home to Torre Lapillo near Porto Cesareo. This beach offers soft sand and crystal-clear waters, often compared to the Caribbean.

Winter in Italy

Winter in Italy typically lasts from December to February, and you know what December means. Christmas!

Christmas in Italy is one of the most magical times to visit. Although it’s cold, the holiday festivities are in full swing, with Christmas markets at the top of the list of things to do in Winter in Italy. Whether you’re looking for traditional handicrafts, warm drinks, or local delights, the Christmas markets in Italy are fantastic. Here are some must-visit Italy markets over December:

• Florence (Piazza Santa Croce Christmas Market): Located in Piazza Santa Croce, this market brings German-style wooden stalls and Italian flair.
• Milan (Oh Bej! Oh Bej! Christmas Market): Held at Piazza Duomo, it features artisanal crafts and gourmet treats.
• Trento (Mercatino di Natale di Trento): Known for its medieval atmosphere, featuring local crafts and delicious food.
• Rome (Mercatino di Natale di Piazza Navona): The market in Piazza Navona offers festive lights, toys, and Christmas sweets.

Autumn in Italy

If you’re looking for one of the most beautiful times to visit Italy, Autumn has it all. Falling leaves, cozy cafes, and historic castles waiting to be explored.

Wine lovers listen up, the wine harvest tours in Tuscany are the place to be in Autumn in Italy. This hands-on experience takes you through the entire wine harvesting process. From picking grapes, learning wine making techniques, winery tours, and of course, wine tasting.

The scenic vineyards of Tuscany are simply sensational, offering a world of wonder and delight throughout the Autumn months of September to late November.

Spring in Italy

Flower enthusiasts, spring has sprung, and Italy is where you want to be. From mid-March to June, Spring in Italy blossoms with the colors and aromas of new blooms in the air.

A top activity during spring in Italy are the flower festivals in Lake Como. One of the most popular, Fiori di Como (Como Flower Festival) invites you to soak in the incredible artistic flair. The center of the historic city is transformed into a vibrant exhibit of floral art.

The festival dei Fiori (Flower Festival) in Bellagio is also a top choice. Known as the Pearl of Lake Como, the town offers various flower festivals through the spring with garden tours and floral artworks.

Frequently Asked Questions About Things to Do in Italy

What are the best cities to explore in Italy?

Rome, Florence, Venice, Milan, and Naples are must-visit Italian cities. Rome offers ancient history and vibrant culture, while Florence is renowned for its art and architecture.  Venice, the city of true romance, is famous for its canals and romantic ambiance at every turn. Milan is the fashion hub of Italy, and Naples provides a gateway to Pompeii and the Amalfi Coast.

What are some unique experiences to try in Italy?

Some of the top unique experiences to try in Italy include staying in a historic castle and truffle hunting in Tuscany. To see more of the famous eternal city (Rome) try your hand at a gondola ride through some of the lesser-known areas.

What are some family-friendly activities in Italy?

Family-friendly activities in Italy include visiting amusement parks like Gardaland, exploring the interactive exhibits at the Leonardo da Vinci Museum in Florence, enjoying the beaches of the Amalfi Coast, and exploring some the historic archaeological sites, including Pompeii, the Colosseum, and the Archaeological Park of Herculaneum.

Is Italy a good destination for outdoor activities?

Absolutely! Italy is one of the top destinations in Europe for outdoor activities. Whether you’re looking for coast, countryside, city life, or rolling hills, Italy has it all. From winter sports on the Dolomites and sailing on the Amalfi Coast to the hiking trails of Mount Vesuvius and diving in Sardinia, there are hundreds of outdoor activities to enjoy in Italy.

What are the top attractions to visit in Italy?

Italy has a range of top attractions that are a must visit. Some popular options include Vatican City, the Renaissance art in Florence, the ruins of Pompeii, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, and the canals of Venice.

What are the best foods to try in Italy?

Italy, the home of all things pasta and pizza. Italy offers a culinary scene that is unbeatable. Some absolute must-tries include gelato, spaghetti carbonara, lasagna, Neapolitan pizza, truffles, and seafood. It all depends on where you are, but rest assured the local delicacies will be well worth the trip alone.

Where can I find authentic Italian food tours?

Walking the picturesque streets of some of Italy’s smaller towns will find you some of the top restaurants. But if you want something a little more interactive, the best authentic Italian food tours are in Bologna, Florence, Rome, and Naples.