What to see in Italy: 9 landmarks to add to your itinerary

Discover the allure of Italy's famous landmarks - read our article for an in-depth exploration. Don't miss out!
Traveloka Team
6 min read

From ancient ruins to lava-encrusted towns to world-famous art galleries, Italy is packed with monuments, museums and historic towns that make the European nation one of the world's most-visited countries.

If you're looking for something to do between the plates of plasta and scoops of gelato, or have some time ton kill before Aperol Sprtiz hour hits, why not throw some sightseeing onto your Italian itinereray?

Colosseum in Rome, Italy

1. Colosseum

Where is it? Rome Address: Piazza del Colosseo, 1, 00184 Roma RM, Italy Best way to experience it: Walk around both the outside and the inside to truly take in the building (Pre-purchase tickets to skip long queues) Dress code: None, but if visiting in summer the inside has very little shade so protect yourself from the sun.

Of course, Rome's most famous site has to be on our list. The roughly 2,000-year-old arena was once the stage for fights between gladiators and hunts for animals. It's a testament to how talented the ancient Romans were at building. Visitors to Rome can still check out the Colosseum and learn about its really interesting past and the important role it played in the culture of the time.

Rome

Colosseum Ticket

Rome

AU$59

2. The Pantheon

Where is it? Rome Address: Piazza della Rotonda, 00186 Roma RM, Italy Best way to experience it: Go inside to take in the awe-inspiring dome (Pre-purchase tickets to skip the queue) Dress code: Shoulders and knees need to be covered

This ancient Roman building was actually built twice. The first time Marcus Agrippa, the son-in-law of Emperor Augustus, built it. But it was destroyed by fire. The second time Emperor Hadrian rebuilt it between 118 and 128 AD. And it's still standing to this day!

Over the centuries, The Pantheon has been used for different things, like a church, a tomb, and a tourist attraction. It's one of the most popular landmarks in Rome. Ancient Roman engineers and architects were very skilled and creative in building it.

The Pantheon is famous for its huge dome, the largest in the world for over a thousand years. The marble columns are beautiful too. Inside, many tiny details and decorations are impressive.

3. The Vatican

Where is it? Rome (Technically, Vatican City) Best way to experience it: Opt for a guided tour as it can get busy. Dress code: Shoulders and knees need to be covered

The Vatican is techicannly a small country within Rome. It holds the distinction of being the smallest country in the world in terms of both area and population. Despite its size, it boasts many cultural and historical attractions, making it a must-visit destination.

One of the most famous sights in the Vatican is St. Peter's Basilica, the largest church in the world. It was designed by renowned artists and architects such as Michelangelo and Bernini, and it is home to a stunning collection of artwork, including the renowned Pieta sculpture.

The Vatican Museums house an impressive collection of art and artifacts spanning many centuries and are not to be missed. Part of the museum, the Sistine Chapel, boasts a breathtaking ceiling painted by Michelangelo.

In addition to its cultural and artistic treasures, the Vatican has a rich political history. The Pope serves as both the spiritual leader of the Catholic Church and the head of state of the Vatican City.

Traveloka tip: Visit on the last Sunday of the month for free entry to the Vatican Museums!

Vatican City

St. Peter's Basilica Vatican Tour

10.0/10

Vatican City

AU$32

4. Leaning Tower of Pisa

Where is it? Pisa Address: Piazza del Duomo, 56126 Pisa PI, Italy Best way to experience it: View it from the surrounding square Dress code: None

The Leaning Tower of Pisa is a bell tower in Pisa, Italy, famous for its tilt. It took over 200 years to build, starting in the 12th century. The tower started to lean during construction because its foundation was too weak for weight.

Over time, the tilt became dangerous. But in the 20th century, the tower was stabilized to reduce the lean. Today, people can climb the tower's 294 steps to see amazing city views. This shows humans' creativity, even in the face of nature's power. The Leaning Tower of Pisa is still beloved by people worldwide.

Rome

Pisa and Florence Tour from Rome

Rome

AU$265

5. Duomo

Where is it? Florence Address: Piazza del Duomo, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy Best way to experience it: View it from the surrounding square and walk around the main floor to see the inside (it's free to enter) Dress code: Shoulders and knees need to be covered

Construction started in 1296 and took 140 years to complete, and many talented architects and artists contributed to the cathedral's current form.

The nave has beautiful stained glass windows, frescoes, and sculptures. The stunning high altar, created by Baccio Bandinelli, is also worth seeing.

The church is the largest in Florence, and its dome, designed by Filippo Brunelleschi, is particularly noteworthy for its innovative engineering. If you climb to the top of the dome, you'll get an incredible view of Florence.

6. Val d'Orcia

Where is it? Tuscany countryside Best way to experience it: Hire a car and visit medieval towns, castles and visit local wineries Dress code: None

Val d'Orcia is a stunning region located in Tuscany, Italy. It boasts beautiful natural landscapes, including hills, farmhouses, and fields of sunflowers and lavender that will leave you in awe.

Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking, cycling, and wine tasting. The area is rich in history and culture, with many medieval towns and villages preserved for centuries.

Popular sights include the medieval fortress of Castiglione d'Orcia, the Renaissance gardens of Villa La Foce, and the ancient thermal baths of Bagno Vignoni. Val d'Orcia is a fantastic destination that offers something for everyone.

7. St. Mark's Basilica and Square

Where is it? Venice Address: Piazza San Marco, 328, 30100 Venezia VE, Italy Best way to experience it: Visit for free if for prayer, or book online in advance for a timed entry. Dress code: Shoulders and knees need to be covered, and large bags are banned

St. Mark's Basilica is a beautiful church in Venice, Italy. It was constructed in the 9th century and has been renovated and expanded several times. The church has significant religious and political importance in Venice's history.

Initially built to house the remains of St. Mark, one of the four evangelists of the Christian faith, it also became a symbol of Venetian power and wealth. During war and political unrest, the church served as a haven for Venetians.

Today, St. Mark's Basilica is a popular tourist destination where visitors can admire its exquisite architecture and mosaics and learn about Venice's rich history and culture. Despite its status as a tourist attraction, the church remains a place of worship where visitors are welcome to attend services. If you're visiting Venice, a St. Mark's Basilica trip is a must-see!

8. The Rialto Bridge

Where is it? Venice Address: 30125 Venice, Metropolitan City of Venice, Italy Best way to experience it: Walk across it or take a water bus (vaporetti) ride beneath it Dress code: None

The Rialto Bridge is like the face of Venice, Italy, and one of the most famous spots in the world. The original bridge spans the Grand Canal and has been around since the 16th century.

An architect from Venice named Antonio da Ponte won a competition to build the bridge in 1588. It took him three years to finish it, and it replaced a wooden bridge that had been destroyed in 1524.

The Rialto Bridge is made of white stone from Istria and is quite fancy. It has two ramps that reach a cool portico in the middle. There, you'll find three arches, the biggest being 28 feet wide and 24 feet high. The bridge itself is 75 feet long and 24 feet wide.

Over the years, the bridge has been repaired several times, and the latest makeover was completed in 2014. Nowadays, the bridge is a hot spot for tourists, and you'll see locals selling cool souvenirs and jewelry to visitors.

9. Murano and Burano

Where is it? Near Venice Best way to experience it: Take a water bus (vaporetti) to the islands and wander their colourful streets and visit glass shops Dress code: None

Murano is an island in Venice, Italy, famous for its intricate glass-making art dating back to the 13th century. Glassmakers moved their furnaces to the island to prevent the risk of burning down the whole city.

Skilled artisans mix silica, soda, lime, and other materials to create Murano glass and melt them in an extremely hot furnace. They then shape and mold the glass using various techniques, such as blowing, cutting, and engraving.

Murano glass is popular worldwide among art collectors and enthusiasts due to its colorful and intricate designs. To learn more about the history and techniques of Murano glass, sign up for tours and workshops on the island.

Meanwhile, over on Burano, walk along canals lined with vibrantly painted houses. It'll be much quieter than Venice proper and give you a lovely taste of local lige.

Italy is a paradise for people who love to learn about its unique buildings' history and architecture. Pack your things, and let’s have a beautiful trip to Italy by buying ticket flights to hotels room all in one application, Traveloka.

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