Why Italy is the Best Country to Visit

I know this is a subjective topic, but let us have it anyway. In case you agree or disagree with me, let us engage in the comments.

I’ve just returned from my third trip to Italy, and with each visit, my love for this extraordinary country deepens. There’s something magical about Italy—the way the golden light spills over ancient cobblestones, the aroma of freshly baked pastries wafting from corner bakeries, the sound of church bells echoing through piazzas. It’s not just a place you visit; it’s a place you experience with every sense.

Italy is a country that lingers in your soul long after you leave. Whether you’re a history buff, a food lover, an art enthusiast, or simply someone who craves beauty in everyday life, Italy delivers in ways no other destination can.

Tip: Never try to see all of Italy in just one trip. You simply can’t! Just pick a few areas and explore them slowly and leave the rest for the next time. Actually, I know a guy who has been visitng Rome only for the last 10 years and each time he sees something different and that blows his mind.

Imagine you can find all of these in Italy:

• Rome
• Florence
• Venice
• Tuscany countryside and villages
• Lake Como
• Milan
• Lake Garda
• The Dolomites
• Cinque Terre
• Portofino
• Amalfi Coast
• Pompeii
• Sardinia
• Sicily
• Siena
• Pisa

and many more cute villages and towns. I don’t think there is any other country on Earth that delivers as much as Italy.

Now, let us look at just a few reasons why I belive Italy is the best country to visit.

1. Incredible History

Italy is a living museum, where every street, ruin, and monument tells a story. Having explored its ancient ruins, Renaissance masterpieces, and medieval towns, I can confidently say that no other country offers such a dense and immersive historical experience.

Ancient Rome: Where Empires Rose and Fell

Walking through Rome feels like stepping into a time machine. The Colosseum, the largest amphitheater ever built, is even more awe-inspiring in person. I remember standing in the center, closing my eyes, and imagining the roar of 50,000 spectators cheering for gladiators. Nearby, the Roman Forum—once the heart of political and social life—is a sprawling complex of ruins where you can still see the remnants of temples, basilicas, and triumphal arches.

And then there’s the Pantheon, a marvel of engineering. Its dome, still the world’s largest unreinforced concrete dome, has stood for nearly 2,000 years. The oculus at the top lets in a beam of sunlight that moves like a celestial spotlight

One early morning, my wife and I were walking from the Trevi Fountain on our way to the Piazza Navona. I vividly remember us taking a corner, and coming face to face with the Pantheon, in all its 2000 years of glory. I shed a tear. I could be wrong but it is the building with the most aura in the entire city.

Florence: The Cradle of the Renaissance

If Rome is the heart of ancient history, Florence is the soul of the Renaissance. The Duomo (Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore), with its iconic red-tiled dome, dominates the skyline. Climbing the 463 steps to the top was exhausting, but the panoramic view of Florence was worth every step.

Tip: You can either climb to the top of the Dome, or you can opt for the Bell Tower. I have done both and I prefer the Bell Tower. The Tower allows you to see the beautiful Dome and the city as well.

Inside the Uffizi Gallery, I stood inches away from Botticelli’s The Birth of Venus—a painting I’d only seen in textbooks. The Accademia Gallery, home to Michelangelo’s David, left me speechless. The sheer scale and perfection of the sculpture are humbling.

Tip 2: While in Florence make sure to visit Pizzale Michelangelo in the evenings. That is where you will see the best view of the city and its quite lively too. You can walk (or should I say climb) there but if you are unable to just take a taxi

Venice: A Floating Masterpiece

There’s nowhere else like Venice. My first gondola ride through the Grand Canal was surreal—passing under arched bridges, gliding past centuries-old palaces with peeling facades. St. Mark’s Basilica, adorned with golden mosaics, feels like stepping into a jewel box. And the Doge’s Palace, with its Gothic arches and opulent chambers, is a testament to Venice’s former power.

Pompeii and Herculaneum: Frozen in Time

One of the most haunting yet fascinating experiences of my travels was walking through Pompeii. The preserved ruins—bakeries with petrified loaves of bread, frescoes still vibrant after millennia—made the tragedy feel eerily real. Nearby Herculaneum, buried under volcanic mud, is even better preserved, with wooden furniture and upper floors still intact.

When visiting Pompeii, it is highly reccommended that you hire a guide. That is the only way to know what you are looking at. Thye also take you to places you otherwise wouldn’t have found on your own.

Medieval Towns: Timeless Charm

Beyond the famous cities, Italy’s medieval towns are hidden treasures. Siena’s Piazza del Campo, where the famous Palio horse race takes place, is a masterpiece of medieval urban design. San Gimignano, with its 14 surviving tower houses, feels like a medieval Manhattan. And Orvieto, perched on a volcanic cliff, boasts a cathedral with one of the most stunning facades I’ve ever seen.

2. Art & Culture: A Feast for the Soul

Italy is not just a country with art—it is the birthplace of Western art itself. From Renaissance masterpieces to world-class opera, Italy’s cultural contributions are unmatched.

The Renaissance: Where Art Changed Forever

The Renaissance began in Florence, and the city still breathes creativity. The Uffizi Gallery is overwhelming in the best way—room after room filled with works by Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, Raphael, and Caravaggio. Seeing Botticelli’s Primavera up close, with its intricate details and dreamlike colors, was a highlight.

Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel ceiling in the Vatican is another must-see. I remember craning my neck in awe, trying to take in every detail of The Creation of Adam. (Pro tip: Book an early morning tour to avoid crowds!)

Opera and Music: A Passionate Tradition

Italy invented opera, and the passion for music is still alive. Attending a performance at La Scala in Milan—one of the most prestigious opera houses in the world—was unforgettable. Even if opera isn’t your thing, the grandeur of the theater alone is worth the visit.

In Verona, I watched Aida in the Roman Arena, an ancient amphitheater under the stars. The acoustics were incredible, and the atmosphere was electric.

Fashion and Design: Where Style Meets History

Italy is synonymous with luxury and craftsmanship. Milan’s Quadrilatero della Moda (Fashion Quadrilateral) is a shopper’s paradise, home to Gucci, Prada, Versace, and Armani. Even if you’re not buying, window-shopping here is an experience.

Just to let you know though, that shopping isn’t that cheap in Milan. I remember seeing my wife’s jaw drop, upon seeing a handbag going for five thousand euros inside the Prada store. I took her outside and bought her a big gelato and she was back to her beaming self.

Beyond fashion, Italian design is everywhere—from Ferraris to Florentine leather goods. A friend once told me that some of the leather good sold in the Florence market are from China so be careful when making a purchase.

UNESCO Overload: More Heritage Sites Than Anywhere Else

Italy has 59 UNESCO World Heritage Sites—more than any other country. From the Leaning Tower of Pisa to the Amalfi Coast, every visit feels like stepping into a protected piece of history.

3. Food & Wine: A Culinary Paradise

If there’s one thing Italy does better than anyone else, it’s food. Italian cuisine isn’t just about eating—it’s a way of life.

Regional Delights: Every City Has Its Own Specialty

• Rome: Cacio e pepe (cheese and pepper pasta) and supplì (fried rice balls).
• Naples: The birthplace of pizza. L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele serves the best Margherita I’ve ever tasted.
• Bologna: Tagliatelle al ragù (real Bolognese—no spaghetti here!) and mortadella sandwiches.
• Sicily: Arancini (stuffed rice balls), cannoli, and pasta alla Norma (with eggplant and ricotta salata).

Gelato: A Daily Ritual

I ate gelato every single day in Italy. The best? Gelateria dei Gracchi in Rome (try the pistachio) and Gelateria Dondoli in San Gimignano (winner of the Gelato World Cup!).

Wine That Tastes Like Sunshine

• Tuscany: Chianti and Brunello di Montalcino (I did a vineyard tour—highly recommend).
• Piedmont: Barolo (the “king of wines”) and truffle-infused dishes.
• Prosecco Hills: Sipping bubbly in Valdobbiadene was pure bliss.

Coffee Culture: No Starbucks Needed

Italians take coffee seriously. No milky drinks after 11 AM—just perfect espresso shots at historic cafés like Caffè Florian in Venice or Sant’Eustachio in Rome.

When ordering coffee in Italy, you have the option to have it while standing at the bar (cheap) or when sitting (cost a little more).

Breakfast in Italy is simple. It is usually just a cappuccino and a pastry. My favorite is Pistachio Cornetto. (which is basically croissant filled with rich pistachio flavored custard).

Also, coffee size in Italy are smaller than what you may be used to in the United States

4. Breathtaking Landscapes: From Dramatic Coasts to Alpine Peaks

One of Italy’s most underrated qualities is its geographical diversity. In a single day, you can go from sunbathing on a Mediterranean beach to skiing in the Alps. During my travels, I’ve been constantly amazed by how quickly the scenery transforms.

The Amalfi Coast: Vertical Beauty

Driving along the Amalfi Coast remains one of my most memorable (and slightly terrifying) travel experiences. The SS163 coastal road winds precariously along cliffs, with every turn revealing another postcard-perfect view.

• Positano’s pastel houses tumbling down to the sea
• Ravello’s cliffside gardens at Villa Cimbrone
• The Path of the Gods hike with heart-stopping vistas

I’ll never forget watching the sunset from Da Adolfo, a tiny beach restaurant only accessible by boat. The grilled mozzarella wrapped in lemon leaves was worth the journey alone.

Cinque Terre: A Hiker’s Dream

These five colorful fishing villages clinging to rugged cliffs are even more vibrant in person. The Sentiero Azzurro coastal trail connects them all, though parts were still closed from landslides during my visit.

Pro tip: Visit Manarola at golden hour when the buildings glow like jewels. The seafood at Trattoria dal Billy in Riomaggiore (try the anchovies) was some of the freshest I’ve ever tasted.

Tuscany: Rolling Hills and Cypress Trees

Renting a farmhouse near San Gimignano let me experience the Tuscan countryside properly. Waking up to mist drifting over vineyards, with the scent of wood-fired bread from the local bakery – this is the Italy of dreams.

Don’t miss:

• Hot air ballooning over Val d’Orcia at sunrise
• Wine tasting at Castello di Ama
• The medieval streets of Montepulciano

The Dolomites: Italy’s Mountain Secret

I didn’t expect to find Alpine perfection in Italy, but the Dolomites surpassed all expectations. Hiking the Tre Cime di Lavaredo loop felt like walking through a fantasy novel, with jagged peaks piercing the sky.

Winter tip: The Sella Ronda ski circuit connects four valleys with incredible rifugios (mountain huts) serving speck and polenta.

5. La Dolce Vita: The Sweet Life

Italians have perfected the art of joyful living. After multiple visits, I’ve adopted some of their philosophies:

The Aperitivo Ritual

Around 6-7 PM, bars serve Aperol Spritz with complimentary snacks. My favorite spot was Terrazza Aperol in Venice, overlooking the Grand Canal.

Passeggiata: The Evening Stroll

In every town, locals dress up and promenade through the main streets. Joining this ritual in Lucca’s Renaissance walls or Lecce’s Baroque center made me feel part of the community.

Festivals That Bring History to Life

• Venice Carnival (masks and mystery)
• Siena’s Palio (a bareback horse race dating to medieval times)
• Truffle festivals in Alba

6. Practical Magic: Why Italy Works for Every Traveler

Seamless Transportation

Italy’s train system puts many countries to shame. The Frecciarossa high-speed trains connect major cities comfortably, while regional trains reach charming smaller towns.

Pro tip: Make sure you validate all your tickets to avoid fines. If you booked the trains online, have a digital or physical copy of the ticket, or evn both.

Accommodation for All Tastes

From luxury palazzos in Venice to agriturismos (farm stays) in Puglia, there’s perfect lodging for every budget. My most memorable stay was a converted monastery in Umbria with frescoed ceilings.

Safety and Accessibility

As a solo female traveler, I’ve always felt safe in Italy. English is widely spoken in tourist areas, though learning basic Italian phrases earns smiles.

Conclusion: Italy Stays With You

After three extended trips, I still have an endless list of places to explore – Puglia’s trulli houses, Sicily’s Greek temples, the lesser-known Le Marche region.

But more than the sights, it’s the feeling Italy gives you:

• The warmth of strangers who treat you like family
• The pleasure of a perfectly al dente pasta
• The awe of standing where emperors and artists once stood

Italy doesn’t just deserve a visit – it deserves repeat visits, slow exploration, and a permanent place in your heart.

Now, I’d love to hear from you:

• What’s your favorite Italian memory?
• Which region should I explore next?

Let me know in the comments! And if you found this guide helpful, please share it with fellow Italy lovers.

Alla prossima avventura! (Until the next adventure!)