What Are Things to Do in Italy? Fun Activities for Kids and Families

If you’re wondering what are things to do in Italy, you’re about to discover one of the world’s most captivating destinations where ancient history, breathtaking art, stunning landscapes, and incredible cuisine come together in perfect harmony. From exploring the iconic ruins of Rome and cruising the romantic canals of Venice to savoring wine in Tuscany’s rolling hills and relaxing on the Amalfi Coast’s dramatic cliffs, Italy offers endless experiences that appeal to every type of traveler. Whether you’re a history buff, art enthusiast, food lover, adventure seeker, or simply someone who appreciates la dolce vita (the sweet life), this beautiful country will capture your heart and leave you planning your next visit before you even leave. Let’s explore the must-do activities and hidden gems that make Italy an unforgettable destination.

1. Explore Ancient Rome and Its Iconic Landmarks

Rome, the Eternal City, is where your Italian adventure should begin. The concentration of historical sites here is simply overwhelming.

The Colosseum is Rome’s most iconic symbol and the largest amphitheater ever built. Walking through this 2,000-year-old structure where gladiators once fought is absolutely thrilling. Book a guided tour that includes underground access to see the chambers where gladiators and animals waited before entering the arena. The upper levels offer stunning views of the Roman Forum.

The Roman Forum was the heart of ancient Rome—a sprawling complex of ruins including temples, government buildings, and marketplaces. Walk the same paths that Julius Caesar once walked. Hiring a guide brings the crumbling columns and arches to life with stories of political intrigue, religious ceremonies, and daily Roman life.

The Pantheon is remarkably well-preserved and features the world’s largest unreinforced concrete dome. The oculus (open hole) in the ceiling creates dramatic lighting effects. Entry is free, making it an accessible wonder. Marvel at the engineering genius of ancient Romans who built this nearly 2,000 years ago.

Vatican City, though technically a separate country, is a must-visit within Rome. The Vatican Museums house one of the world’s greatest art collections, culminating in the breathtaking Sistine Chapel where Michelangelo’s ceiling frescoes leave visitors speechless. Book tickets online in advance to skip the notoriously long lines. St. Peter’s Basilica is architecturally stunning and spiritually moving regardless of your religious beliefs. Climb to the dome for panoramic views of Rome—it’s worth the 551 steps.

Trevi Fountain is one of the world’s most famous fountains. Toss a coin over your shoulder to ensure your return to Rome (tradition says use your right hand over your left shoulder). Visit early morning or late evening to avoid overwhelming crowds.

The Spanish Steps connect Piazza di Spagna with the Trinità dei Monti church. Though sitting on the steps is now prohibited, the area is perfect for people-watching and accessing luxury shopping streets.

Trastevere, a charming neighborhood across the Tiber River, offers narrow cobblestone streets, ivy-covered buildings, and authentic trattorias where locals eat. It’s romantic and less touristy than central Rome.

Pro tips: Rome is walkable, but wear comfortable shoes as you’ll walk on ancient cobblestones. Many major sites offer skip-the-line tickets—absolutely worth the extra cost. Visit popular attractions early morning or late afternoon to avoid peak crowds and heat.

2. Fall in Love with Venice’s Unique Charm

Venice is unlike anywhere else on Earth—a floating city of canals, bridges, and stunning architecture that seems to defy logic.

Gondola rides are quintessentially Venetian. Yes, they’re touristy and expensive (€80-100 for 30-40 minutes), but gliding through narrow canals while your gondolier navigates under bridges and past hidden corners is magical. For a more affordable option, take a traghetto (gondola ferry) across the Grand Canal for just €2.

St. Mark’s Square (Piazza San Marco) is Venice’s main square, surrounded by architectural masterpieces. St. Mark’s Basilica features stunning Byzantine mosaics covered in gold leaf. Climb the Campanile (bell tower) for panoramic views across Venice’s red rooftops and lagoon. The Doge’s Palace showcases Venetian Gothic architecture and was the residence of the Venetian ruler. Cross the Bridge of Sighs which connected the palace to the prison—so named because prisoners sighed at their last view of beautiful Venice.

The Grand Canal is Venice’s main waterway. Take the vaporetto (water bus) Line 1 from Piazzale Roma to San Marco for an affordable cruise past palaces, churches, and the iconic Rialto Bridge. It’s like a moving tour bus on water.

Rialto Market is where Venetians shop for fresh seafood and produce. Visit in the morning when it’s most vibrant. The nearby Rialto Bridge is one of Venice’s most photographed spots.

Get lost in Venice’s backstreets—seriously, this is the best advice. Wander away from main tourist routes into quiet neighborhoods like Cannaregio or Dorsoduro. You’ll discover charming squares, local bakeries, artisan workshops, and the authentic Venice that many tourists miss.

Murano, Burano, and Torcello are nearby islands worth visiting. Murano is famous for glass-making (watch demonstrations at glass factories). Burano features incredibly colorful houses and is known for lace-making. Torcello is peaceful with beautiful medieval mosaics.

Aperitivo hour is a Venetian tradition. Around 6-8 PM, bars serve drinks with complimentary snacks (cicchetti—Venetian tapas). It’s a delicious and affordable way to experience local culture.

Practical tips: Venice is entirely walkable (no cars!), but you’ll cross countless bridges with steps, so pack light. Accommodation is expensive—consider staying in Mestre on the mainland for budget savings. Avoid visiting during acqua alta (flooding season, November-December) or it gets complicated.

3. Discover Renaissance Art and Beauty in Florence

Florence is the birthplace of the Renaissance and an absolute treasure trove of art, architecture, and culture.

The Uffizi Gallery houses one of the world’s finest art collections with masterpieces by Botticelli (Birth of Venus, Primavera), Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, Raphael, and Caravaggio. It’s overwhelming in the best way. Book timed-entry tickets weeks in advance—lines can be hours long without reservations.

The Accademia Gallery is home to Michelangelo’s David, one of the world’s most famous sculptures. Standing before this 17-foot marble masterpiece is awe-inspiring. The museum also houses Michelangelo’s unfinished sculptures, fascinating to see his artistic process.

The Duomo (Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore) dominates Florence’s skyline with Brunelleschi’s iconic red-tiled dome. Climb 463 steps to the top for breathtaking city views. The cathedral interior is relatively plain, but the dome’s interior features stunning frescoes of the Last Judgment. Entry to the cathedral is free, but climbing the dome requires tickets.

Ponte Vecchio, the medieval stone bridge over the Arno River, is lined with jewelry shops. It’s especially beautiful at sunset when the Arno glows golden. Walk across and explore the Oltrarno neighborhood on the other side.

Piazzale Michelangelo offers the best panoramic view of Florence. Climb the stairs or take a bus to this hilltop square, especially for sunset. Bring wine and snacks for a romantic evening.

Boboli Gardens behind Pitti Palace provide a peaceful green escape with sculptures, fountains, and manicured Renaissance gardens. It’s a perfect afternoon retreat from crowded museums.

Mercato Centrale is a two-story food market. The ground floor sells fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and other ingredients. The upstairs food court features stands serving Tuscan specialties—perfect for an affordable, delicious meal.

Leather markets in Florence offer high-quality leather goods at San Lorenzo Market and around the city. Bargain respectfully—it’s expected.

Take a day trip to the Tuscan countryside. Chianti wine region, Siena with its medieval square, San Gimignano with its medieval towers, or Pisa to see the Leaning Tower are all easily accessible.

4. Experience the Stunning Amalfi Coast

The Amalfi Coast is one of the world’s most beautiful coastlines with dramatic cliffs, colorful villages, and azure Mediterranean waters.

Positano is the most photogenic town—colorful houses cascade down the hillside to a picturesque beach. It’s expensive and touristy but undeniably beautiful. Wander the steep, narrow streets lined with boutiques selling linen clothing and limoncello. Relax on the beach (pay for sunbeds or find free rocky areas) and swim in clear water.

Amalfi, the coast’s namesake town, is larger and less vertical than Positano. Visit the stunning Amalfi Cathedral with its Arab-Norman architecture and climb the dramatic staircase. Explore the paper museum to learn about Amalfi’s traditional paper-making industry.

Ravello sits high above the coast offering spectacular views. Visit Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone—both have gardens with panoramic terraces overlooking the sea. Ravello hosts classical music festivals in summer with concerts in these stunning settings.

The Path of the Gods (Sentiero degli Dei) is a hiking trail offering breathtaking coastal views. The most popular section runs from Bomerano to Nocelle (above Positano) and takes 3-4 hours. The views are absolutely worth the effort if you’re reasonably fit.

Capri is a short ferry ride from the Amalfi Coast or Sorrento. Visit the Blue Grotto, a sea cave where sunlight creates an ethereal blue glow (weather dependent). Take the chairlift to Monte Solaro for incredible views. Explore Capri town with its designer boutiques and celebrity-watching opportunities.

Drive the coastal road (SS163) if you have strong nerves—the winding road carved into cliffs offers stunning views but can be nerve-wracking with narrow lanes, buses, and hairpin turns. Alternatively, take the SITA bus or hire a driver.

Eat limoncello and lemon everything—the Amalfi Coast is famous for its giant lemons. Try limoncello (lemon liqueur), lemon granita, lemon pasta, and lemon desserts.

Best time to visit: May-June or September-October. July-August is extremely crowded and hot. Many hotels close November-March.

5. Indulge in Italian Cuisine and Wine

Italian food is world-renowned, and eating your way through Italy is one of the greatest pleasures of visiting.

Pizza in Naples is a religious experience. Naples invented pizza, and eating authentic Neapolitan pizza here is unforgettable. The crust is thin with slight char, the tomato sauce is fresh, and mozzarella is creamy. Try pizza Margherita (the original) at legendary pizzerias like L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele or Sorbillo. It’s inexpensive, delicious, and life-changing.

Pasta perfection varies by region. Try carbonara (eggs, pecorino cheese, guanciale, black pepper) in Rome—never with cream! Bolognese sauce originated in Bologna—it’s richer and more complex than you’ve had elsewhere. Cacio e pepe (cheese and pepper pasta) is simple Roman perfection. In Venice, try pasta with squid ink. Each region has signature dishes.

Gelato is not just ice cream—it’s creamier, more flavorful, and less fatty. Have it daily (sometimes twice daily). Look for gelaterias where gelato is stored in covered containers (not piled high which indicates added air and stabilizers). Pistachio, stracciatella, and hazelnut are classic flavors.

Wine tasting in Tuscany is essential. Visit Chianti region vineyards for tours and tastings of Sangiovese-based wines. The rolling hills dotted with cypress trees and vineyards are as delicious to photograph as the wine is to drink. Montalcino and Montepulciano also produce exceptional wines.

Aperitivo culture is a pre-dinner tradition. Order a drink (Aperol Spritz, Negroni, Prosecco) and receive complimentary snacks. In Milan, aperitivo often includes substantial buffets—practically a free meal with your drink.

Coffee culture is serious in Italy. Espresso is the default coffee. Cappuccino is a breakfast drink only (ordering it after 11 AM marks you as a tourist). Coffee at the bar is cheaper than sitting at a table. Learn the lingo: caffè (espresso), caffè macchiato (espresso with a dash of milk), cappuccino (breakfast only), caffè latte (lots of milk).

Markets and food tours offer the best culinary education. Food tours in Rome, Florence, or Bologna provide tastings and cultural context. Visit local markets to see seasonal ingredients and watch Italians shop for dinner.

Regional specialties include Florentine steak (bistecca alla Fiorentina), Venetian seafood risotto, Sicilian arancini and cannoli, truffle dishes in Umbria, and buffalo mozzarella near Naples.

6. Explore the Romantic Charm of Tuscany

Tuscany embodies the Italian dream with rolling hills, medieval towns, world-class wine, and Renaissance art.

Drive or cycle through the countryside—rent a car and explore the winding roads through Val d’Orcia and Chianti. Stop at roadside vineyards, photograph cypress-lined roads, and discover medieval hilltop towns. The landscape looks like a Renaissance painting come to life.

Siena is a perfectly preserved medieval city. The shell-shaped Piazza del Campo is one of Italy’s most beautiful squares. Twice yearly (July 2 and August 16), the Palio horse race takes place here—an intense, passionate event representing Siena’s neighborhoods. The Siena Cathedral rivals Florence’s in beauty with intricate marble floors and striped columns.

San Gimignano, the “Medieval Manhattan,” features 14 surviving medieval towers (there were once 72). Walking through this UNESCO World Heritage town feels like time travel. Climb Torre Grossa for views. Try the local Vernaccia white wine and excellent gelato.

Lucca is encircled by intact Renaissance walls that you can walk or bike atop. The town is charming and less touristy than others. Climb the Guinigi Tower with oak trees growing on top for unique views.

Pienza is a tiny Renaissance town known for pecorino cheese. The main street offers stunning views of Val d’Orcia. It’s peaceful, beautiful, and perfect for a relaxed afternoon.

Montepulciano produces Vino Nobile, one of Tuscany’s finest wines. The hilltop town offers wine tastings in medieval cellars and spectacular countryside views.

Stay in an agriturismo (farm stay) to experience authentic Tuscan life. These working farms offer accommodations, often include meals with their own produce and wine, and provide peaceful countryside settings.

Hot springs in southern Tuscany offer free natural spa experiences. Cascate del Mulino near Saturnia features waterfalls and pools of warm thermal water—completely free and magical, especially at sunset.

7. Discover the Lakes Region of Northern Italy

Northern Italy’s lakes offer stunning Alpine scenery, elegant villas, and a slower pace.

Lake Como is the most famous, surrounded by mountains and dotted with elegant villas. Base yourself in Bellagio, the “Pearl of the Lake,” a charming village with colorful buildings, stepped streets, and lakefront cafes. Take ferries between towns—it’s the most scenic and practical transportation. Visit Villa del Balbianello and Villa Carlotta with their stunning gardens.

Varenna is a quieter Lake Como town with a romantic waterfront promenade, colorful houses, and fewer crowds than Bellagio. It’s perfect for relaxing lakeside dinners.

Lake Garda is Italy’s largest lake, offering something for everyone. Sirmione features Roman ruins and a medieval castle. Riva del Garda in the north offers mountain scenery and water sports like windsurfing and sailing. The lake’s varied landscapes range from Mediterranean olive groves in the south to Alpine peaks in the north.

Lake Maggiore feels less touristy than Como. Visit the Borromean Islands—particularly Isola Bella with its baroque palace and terraced gardens. The town of Stresa is elegant and relaxing.

Activities include boat rides between towns, swimming in summer, hiking the surrounding mountains, cycling lakeside paths, visiting historic villas and gardens, and simply relaxing with an aperitivo overlooking the water.

The Dolomites are easily accessible from the lakes for those wanting dramatic mountain scenery, hiking, and skiing.

8. Experience the Historic Ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum

These ancient Roman cities, preserved by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD, offer an unparalleled glimpse into Roman life.

Pompeii is larger and more famous. Walking through the remarkably preserved streets, you’ll see homes with frescoes still visible, bakeries with ancient ovens, bathhouses, brothels, theaters, and even graffiti. The plaster casts of victims caught in the eruption are haunting. The site is huge—plan at least 3-4 hours. Hire a guide or use an audio guide to understand what you’re seeing.

Herculaneum is smaller but better preserved because it was buried by volcanic mud rather than ash. The buildings have intact upper floors, wooden elements, and even some organic materials. It’s less crowded than Pompeii and easier to see in 2-3 hours.

Mount Vesuvius itself can be climbed. Drive or take a bus to the parking area, then hike about 30 minutes to the crater rim. Looking down into the crater of this still-active volcano that destroyed two cities is sobering. On clear days, views extend across the Bay of Naples.

Practical tips: Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid peak heat and crowds. Wear comfortable walking shoes—ancient Roman streets are uneven. Bring water and sunscreen as there’s limited shade. Buy skip-the-line tickets online in advance.

Stay in Sorrento as a base for visiting Pompeii, Herculaneum, Vesuvius, and the Amalfi Coast. It’s a charming town with good connections to all these sites.

9. Explore Colorful Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre (Five Lands) consists of five colorful fishing villages clinging to the rugged Ligurian coast.

The five villages from south to north are: Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza, and Monterosso. Each has unique character. Manarola and Vernazza are particularly photogenic. Monterosso has the best beaches. Corniglia sits atop a cliff requiring a steep climb (or elevator).

Hiking between villages is one of the best ways to experience Cinque Terre. The trails offer stunning coastal views. The most famous path, Via dell’Amore (Lover’s Lane) between Riomaggiore and Manarola, has been closed for repairs but other trails are open. The hike from Monterosso to Vernazza is beautiful and moderately challenging.

The train connects all five villages and is the easiest way to visit each one. Buy a Cinque Terre Card which includes unlimited train travel and hiking trail access.

Swimming is possible at several beaches and rocky spots. Monterosso has the largest sandy beach. In other villages, you can swim from rocks or small pebbly beaches.

Sunset from any village is magical, but Manarola’s harbor at sunset is particularly stunning. Arrive early to claim a spot on the rocks.

Seafood is exceptional—try anchovies (a local specialty), mixed fried fish, pasta with pesto (pesto originated in nearby Genoa), and local white wine.

Accommodation is limited and expensive in the villages. Consider staying in nearby La Spezia or Levanto for more affordable options with good train connections.

Best time to visit: April-May or September-October. Summer is extremely crowded. Some restaurants and hotels close in winter.

10. Visit Milan for Fashion, Art, and Modern Italy

Milan is Italy’s fashion and financial capital, offering a more modern, cosmopolitan experience.

The Duomo (Milan Cathedral) is a Gothic masterpiece covered in intricate marble spires and statues. The interior is vast and impressive. Walk on the rooftop terraces among the spires for unique views across Milan to the Alps on clear days. Book tickets online to skip lines.

The Last Supper by Leonardo da Vinci is housed in the Santa Maria delle Grazie church. This Renaissance masterpiece requires advance reservations (book weeks or months ahead). You’re allowed only 15 minutes with the painting in climate-controlled conditions, but seeing this iconic work in person is unforgettable.

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is one of the world’s oldest shopping malls with a stunning glass-vaulted arcade. It houses luxury shops like Prada and Louis Vuitton, plus historic cafes. Tradition says spinning on the bull mosaic in the floor brings good luck.

Fashion district (Quadrilatero d’Oro) around Via Montenapoleone features every luxury brand imaginable. Even if you’re not shopping, window shopping here is entertaining.

Navigli district is Milan’s canal area with waterfront cafes, restaurants, and bars. It’s the best area for aperitivo and nightlife.

Brera district offers art galleries, boutiques, and a bohemian atmosphere. The Pinacoteca di Brera art gallery houses important Renaissance and Baroque paintings.

Castello Sforzesco, a medieval castle, now houses several museums including Michelangelo’s final sculpture, the Pietà Rondanini.

Day trips from Milan: Lake Como (1 hour by train), Verona (1.5 hours), Bergamo (under 1 hour), or Turin (1 hour).

10 FAQs About Things to Do in Italy

1. How many days do you need to visit Italy?
   A minimum of 10-14 days allows you to see major highlights (Rome, Florence, Venice, plus one region like Tuscany or Amalfi Coast). Three weeks lets you explore more deeply and add destinations like Sicily, Milan, or Cinque Terre. Many people return multiple times because Italy offers so much.
2. What is the best time to visit Italy?
   April-June and September-October offer pleasant weather, manageable crowds, and reasonable prices. July-August is peak season with high prices, heat, and crowds (many Italians vacation in August, so some businesses close). November-March is off-season with fewer tourists and lower prices but some attractions have limited hours and weather can be cold and rainy.
3. Do I need to speak Italian to visit Italy?
   Not necessarily. In major tourist areas, many people speak some English. However, learning basic Italian phrases (hello, thank you, please, excuse me, the check please) is appreciated and enhances your experience. In smaller towns and rural areas, English is less common, so a translation app helps.
4. Is Italy expensive to visit?
   It varies greatly. Major cities (Rome, Venice, Milan) and tourist hotspots (Amalfi Coast, Capri) are expensive. Smaller towns and southern Italy are more affordable. Eating at local trattorias instead of tourist restaurants, staying in B&Bs or agriturismos instead of hotels, and traveling in shoulder season reduces costs significantly.
5. What should I wear in Italy?
   Italians dress stylishly and you’ll feel more comfortable matching the dress code. Avoid athletic wear, flip-flops, and shorts in cities (save these for beach areas). Modest clothing is required for churches (covered shoulders and knees). Comfortable walking shoes are essential—you’ll walk on cobblestones daily. Pack layers as temperature varies.
6. How do you get around Italy?
   Trains connect major cities efficiently and affordably. Trenitalia and Italo are the main carriers. Book high-speed trains in advance for better prices. Regional trains don’t require reservations. Renting a car is ideal for Tuscany and rural areas but unnecessary and problematic in cities. Buses connect smaller towns.
7. What are the must-try foods in Italy?
   Pizza in Naples, pasta carbonara in Rome, gelato everywhere, Florentine steak in Florence, risotto in Milan, seafood in coastal areas, buffalo mozzarella near Naples, truffles in Umbria, Parmigiano-Reggiano and balsamic vinegar in Emilia-Romagna, cannoli in Sicily, and regional wines everywhere.
8. Do I need to book attractions in advance?
   Yes, for major attractions. The Colosseum, Vatican Museums, Uffizi Gallery, Accademia (David), and Last Supper require advance booking or you’ll wait hours in line (or not get in at all). Many attractions offer skip-the-line tickets online—worth the small extra cost.
9. Is Italy safe for tourists?
   Generally very safe. Violent crime against tourists is rare. Pickpocketing occurs in crowded tourist areas, public transportation, and near major attractions. Keep valuables secure, use anti-theft bags, and stay aware of surroundings. Scams targeting tourists exist—be wary of people offering “free” bracelets or asking you to sign petitions.
10. What’s the tipping culture in Italy?
    Tipping is less expected than in the U.S. Many restaurants include “coperto” (cover charge) and “servizio” (service charge). If service isn’t included and you had good service, rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% is appreciated but not required. For exceptional service, 10% is generous. Tipping isn’t customary for coffee at the bar.