What are the names of cities in Italy. The most famous Italian cities. Italian city-states

Italy belongs to the list of countries for which tourism is an important component of the economy. The industry brings significant income, as it satisfies the most diverse needs of the guests of the state. There is something to see for lovers of architecture and antiquity: from Rome to Florence, where unique sights of the past have been preserved. Inveterate romantics in without fail visit Venice and Verona. Fans of a serene holiday will easily choose one of the beaches of Positano. Gourmets and wine connoisseurs will appreciate the cuisine of Sorrento. Not the last role in the list is played by religious tourism, such as pilgrimages to the Vatican. Developed infrastructure helps to get to exotic corners and enjoy comfort even in the conditions of provincial Italy.

Italy - list of the most interesting and beautiful cities

The best cities and resorts for holidays in Italy

Rome

All roads, as you know, lead to Rome - a city where history and modernity collided and were tightly intertwined. Here is the oldest European aqueduct, the Colosseum, the Pantheon, many iconic squares and more than nine hundred churches. Since ancient times, there has been a rather small area of ​​​​urban development, especially when compared with other capitals. Another feature is that it is good to come here at any time of the year.

Venice

The fact that Venice is slowly sinking into the water only adds to the popularity of the city. More than a hundred islands have become a single entity, and it is customary to move between them on gondolas or river buses. Numerous bridges and frescoes are the main attractions of the city, where every little thing is connected with an important stage in history. It also hosts the Venice Film Festival, a world-class status event.

Milan

Milan does not get tired of competing with the capital for the title of the most popular city in the country. In addition to architectural sights from the past, there are enough trends of the present. Milan is the center of high fashion. Both the shows of famous designers and simple shopping attract tourists every year. Theater La Scala has not lost ground for many decades. And football is the second religion for local and visiting fans.

Florence

Created as a cultural and commercial center, Florence continues to be so. At different times, prominent citizens of Italy lived and worked here: da Vinci, Galileo, Michelangelo, Dante and others. Galleries, cathedrals, palaces and squares are the main goals of tourist groups. They introduce you to the spirit of the city, which is quite cozy and green, given the density of buildings.

Sorrento

Another Italian city located on the coast. Its development was influenced by different peoples and countries, so there is enough color here. Visitors take with them porcelain figurines produced by a small manufactory, and liqueurs. Neapolitan music was born here and is popular all over the world. Seafood dishes and olives grown nearby - business card region.

Verona

Verona owes its popularity primarily to Shakespeare. The fictional characters of his "Romeo and Juliet" made the city one of the romantic centers of the world. Another reason for the endless tourist flow is architecture. Several eras and styles coexist perfectly side by side. The streets are lined with ancient Roman and medieval buildings and monuments, as well as churches and palaces of later periods.

Positano

After World War II, many artists from different countries, including the USSR and Germany, moved here. They attracted the attention of the world community to the city. Sunny weather, Mountain landscape and long beaches make tourists come throughout the year. Commune - beautiful place for sedate rest: unhurried walks, a couple of hours on a sunbed and local cuisine.

Naples

The proximity of Naples to Vesuvius does not bother tourists at all. But the criminal situation on the streets is overgrown with legends and may scare away some potential guests of the city. Naples is the birthplace of special music and pizza. The neighborhood of modernity and architectural monuments of different periods is very noticeable here. The resulting contrast is the highlight of a region that advocates diversity.

Turin

The fourth most populous city in Italy. Several of the local palazzos and castles are included in the UNESCO heritage list. The Shroud of Christ is kept in the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist. The museum of Egyptian culture stands out from the general ensemble, which, however, has become popular. Football occupies an important place in the life of the city, since the Juventus club is based in Turin.

Palermo

The Royal Palace of Palermo - a lot of styles brought together: the Arab approach, the work of Constantinople masters, the symbiosis of wood and stone, not to mention the uniqueness of the interior decoration. There are about three hundred churches, cathedrals and former monasteries in the city. They also belong to different eras. A gloomy but unique attraction is an underground cemetery with eight thousand graves.

Ischia

A small volcanic island located in the Gulf of Naples. Most of the sights here are natural, but there is an exception - an ancient fortress, rebuilt into an Aragonese castle. Tourists are more attracted to thermal springs, medical resort, using them, as well as sulfide silt mud, a botanical garden and volcanic water vapor emissions.

Bologna

Despite the constant development and growth, Bologna has retained the atmosphere of the old city. The local university is one of the most respected in Europe. Tourists never bypass numerous squares with their arches, unique architecture and monuments. In the vicinity of the city is located monumental cemetery more like an art object.

Genoa

The largest port in Italy is located in Genoa. Palazzi dei Rolli is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. The architecture is largely typical of a typical city in the north of the country. The surroundings are rich in interesting places. Here is the largest aquarium in Europe. And the marble tombstones of the Staglieno cemetery are no less valuable and majestic than the city monuments.

Cagliari

The historic center of Cagliari will not leave anyone indifferent. Along with architectural monuments, here you can find modern shops, cozy restaurants with local cuisine and wines. The archaeological museum will allow you to get acquainted with the history of the region. There is also a botanical garden and art festivals. The rest of the time, tourists spend mostly not on the beaches, if the weather allows.

Catania

Catania is located at the foot of Mount Etna. The city was built mainly in the Baroque style from dark volcanic stone. Cathedral Square the heart of Catania. Wide and narrow streets, where you can meet churches, fountains, statues and other beauties in a chaotic manner. Fish market- an addition to the local color that stands out from the general decor.

Syracuse

There are not many historical monuments in Syracuse. The most important of them can be bypassed in less than one day. These include Piazza Arcimede, the Cathedral of Syracuse, the Temple of Apollo, the Arethusa Fountain, the Grotticelli Necropolis, the Maniace Castle, the Gothic Theater and others. There are museums focused on different time layers. The city is also famous for its Drama Festival in May and June.

Pisa

It's not just a leaning tower. Numerous palaces, cathedrals and simpler buildings, decorated with frescoes, as well as galleries created during the heyday of the Medici family - this is the true look of the city. Local kitchen will test the taste buds of gourmets, as it is often spicy and fragrant. Pisa is quieter than other tourist centers. It is less crowded, but in demand.

Lucca

A city for lovers to follow not only all the famous tourist routes. In the middle of the plain of the Serka River, you can admire nature and sights and escape the hustle and bustle of megacities. A special pride of the locals is the Guinigi tower with its oaks growing directly on the upper platform. The fortress walls and fortifications are better preserved here than in any city in Italy.

Padua

The outskirts of Padua are a place of concentration of villas that once belonged to the Venetians. The city itself is a haven for the remains of St. Luke, the author of one of the Gospels. Astronomy lovers will be able to examine in detail the numerous frescoes on this subject. The palace and defensive redoubts are also perfectly preserved and accessible to the public. And the Botanical Garden of Padua is included in the list of UNESCO monuments.

Rimini

The city is considered the center of the Roman Riviera. Rimini has many beaches with rich entertainment programs and parks within walking distance. The cuisine is simple and colorful at the same time: Parma ham and mortadella sausage are beyond competition. Antiquities lovers can explore the ruins of the amphitheater or arch bridge the time of Tiberius. There are also churches here, one of which contains part of the relics of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker.

Trieste

Outwardly, it looks quite modern, although some prints of past centuries have been preserved in it. Tourists are interested in the ruins of ancient Greek buildings, the tombs of contenders for the Spanish throne, several castles, one of which was built on the basis of a Venetian fortress. The beach of Trieste is divided for vacationers by gender, which is an exceptional case for Europe.

Lecce

The buildings in Lecce are invariably flashy. No matter what period of construction they belong to, there is something attractive in the architecture of the whole city. The ancient amphitheater does not stand idle: even now artists give performances in it. The Basilica of Santa Croce looks a little more modest, but the interior painting is amazing. Politeama Greco is an old theater with great sound. As for the cuisine: it is traditionally "poor", simple and satisfying.

San Gimignano

The development of San Gimignano largely stopped in the Middle Ages in terms of expansion and building density. Well-preserved walls and stone towers, from a distance looking like skyscrapers. There are fourteen of them in total, the highest reaching fifty meters. The historic center of the city is rich in frescoes and amazing buildings different periods. And the local museum consists of ten galleries.

Salerno

seaside town with rich history. The mild climate allows you to relax on the sea almost all year round, albeit in different qualities. Indigenous people are hospitable and love to bargain. A whole street is dedicated to the sale of souvenirs and other shops. The sights are varied: numerous palaces, Mercatello Park, Minerva's garden, fragments of an ancient waterfall, the fortress of Areki and others.

Perugia

Picturesque city surrounded by greenery. The panorama of the area is impressive, but in fact the streets here are quite narrow. There is little architecture of historical value. Although there are churches built in different centuries. The wedding ring of the Virgin Mary is kept in St. Lawrence Cathedral. Many shops open throughout the city add to the noise. The locals love to hold festivals.

Sienna

The center of Siena is protected by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. The old town has been perfectly preserved, its narrow streets and cramped buildings are the face of the region. It is in Siena that the Palio festival is held - a horse racing competition in the square between the Sienese contradas. The event is divided into two dates. The school of painting of the same name, which has its own traditions, was born in the city.

Taormina

In Taormina, at every step you can find something amazing and ancient. Most of the churches were built between the 15th and 17th centuries. The Greek theater, naumachium and odeon are well preserved, the latter having geographical features location that distinguishes it from similar structures. The squares, castles and towers are in a different state: some are fully functional, some are in need of reconstruction.

Bergamo

The city is divided into two halves: old and new. They are located on different heights and are connected by funicular. There are many attractions in Bergamo: the fortress wall, the Colleoni Chapel, the Baptistery, the Covered Staircase, the City Palace and others. It is noteworthy that with such a rich and diverse collection interesting objects, the city is not included in most tourist routes.

Cinque Terre

The association of five settlements received a common name - the Cinque Terre. Car traffic is almost completely prohibited here. In one of the villages it is allowed, but with restrictions. Among the must-see sights are the statue of Neptune, an impressive size, the Aurora Tower, the local confectionery and wine cooperative, the Capuchin monastery and the path of love. Walking between them is worth admiring the beauties of nature.

Vatican

The Vatican City State is the seat of the Pope. Pilgrims flock to the Holy See-ruled enclave from all over the world, regardless of religion. The main sights are predictably connected with Catholicism: St. Peter's Basilica, The Sistine Chapel, Vatican Library and others. The city is also interesting for its decoration and traditions. There are few residents here, and they have special passports.

rocky cliffs and mountain peaks in Italy, no less than the seas with beaches and vineyards. This is very beautiful country, but the ancient cities built on the tops of hills or mountain slopes. In them, historical architecture is harmoniously combined with majestic landscapes, from which any wanderer is breathtaking. These are the best mountain towns in Italy.

1. Manarola

This incredibly beautiful city, which climbed onto the rocks, was once very popular among travelers, despite the fact that there were no places for recreation and refined beaches. In this old town, life flows very calmly and measuredly, which is the best bait for a certain category of tourists.
Manarola has winding, narrow old streets without noise and the stench of cars with annoying traffic jams. But there are many generously fruitful vineyards. Local grapes are used to make many types of wines that are popular all over the world. To see this cozy town, you need to go through the Bridge of Lovers along the most picturesque tourist route in this region.

2. Roccascalegna

Three hours from Rome, in the province of Chieti, is the small commune of Roccascalegna. It is located 455 meters above sea level. Tourists come here to enjoy the purest mountain air and magnificent Mediterranean nature. The suddenly opening view of the castle, as if transferred to the tops of two limestone cliffs that rise from the valley of the Secco River, causes indescribable delight among travelers. The locals call this castle simply - La Rocca, that is, "fortress". It was built by the Lombards to protect against attacks by the Byzantines. At first it was just a watchtower, but gradually, due to additions, it turned into a castle of decent size.
A legend is connected with this castle about how Baron Corvo de Corvis died in 1646, who decided to revive the feudal tradition of the “right of the first night” (any bride from the feudal lord’s estate had to spend her wedding night with the seigneur). The legend says that either the newlywed herself, or her newly-married husband dressed in a woman's dress, killed a lustful aristocrat, and he, dying, allegedly left an indelible imprint of a bloodied hand on the wall.

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3. Urbino

At 2 hours from Bologna in the Marche region is the cultural and historical center - the ancient city of Urbino. There is a very interesting architecture of buildings, among which the house in which Rafael Santi, one of the geniuses of the Renaissance, was born and spent his young years, is especially noteworthy. At that time, Urbino was one of the centers of education, culture and politics in Italy. Now its center has been included in its UNESCO World Heritage List as a specially protected area.
What makes Urbino unique is its location on the slopes of two hills at once - narrow cobblestone streets here either climb steeply up or go down. The local palaces and medieval residential buildings are also interesting.

4. Civita di Bagnoregio

In the metropolitan region of Lazio, 140 km from Rome, in the province of Viterbo, there is a medieval castle town of Civita di Bagnoregio. It has a picturesque location on top of a hill separating two valleys. You can get there only on a 300-meter footbridge, which appeared here only in 1965.
In 2006, UNESCO listed Civita di Bagnoregio as one of the 100 sites in danger of destruction. This small settlement is over 2500 years old - it was founded by the Etruscans, after which it became part of the Roman Empire, survived the Middle Ages. Now it is almost deserted, but it has become a bustling tourist spot with accompanying trattorias, pizzerias, hotels and souvenir shops.

5. Erice

This Sicilian commune is located 1.5 hours drive from the capital of the island - Palermo. This medieval city has three castles at once: Balio, Pepoli and Norman, and besides them there are several other equally ancient temples. There is an observation deck here, from which, in full view, a gorgeous panorama of the coastal town of Trapani opens with its turquoise beaches, the Aegadian Islands can hardly be seen in the blue sea haze, and in clear good weather, on the very edge of the horizon, you can see the African coast of Tunisia.

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6. San Gimignano

In the province of Tuscany there is a medieval town of San Gimignano, proudly flaunting its towers on a hill as symbols of the former power. Its ancient palaces and stone-paved streets annually attract huge masses of tourists. It is no coincidence that it was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.
This city was first mentioned in documents dated 929. At that time, it was an intermediate stop for pilgrims traveling from England to Rome, as well as on the way from Pisa to Siena, thanks to which it grew and prospered for a long time. As soon as you turn into San Gimignano a little away from the main street, you immediately find yourself in the Middle Ages, as if time had stopped here. The peculiarity of the town is a large number of towers in its streets.

7. L'Aquila

In the central part of the Apennines, the ancient town of L'Aquila climbed to a height of over 700 m above sea level. It is located in the Apennine mountains, in the picturesque valley of the river Aterno. Many attractions are concentrated in this place: palaces, fountains, monuments, bridges, museums, a labyrinth of narrow winding streets, vividly reminiscent of the medieval life of the city.
L'Aquila has several educational and cultural institutions, including a conservatory and an art academy. Around the historical center of the city there is a powerful fortress wall, which seems to be trying to protect a corner of medieval culture from the onslaught of modernity. L'Aquila is located in a seismically active area, so strong earthquakes periodically occur here. So, on April 6, 2009, a powerful earthquake happened here, which destroyed part of the historical buildings and claimed the lives of over 200 residents of the city.

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8. Pitigliano

Not so far from Rome in Tuscany is the commune of Pitigliano. Already at the entrance to it, a wonderful panorama opens up, which you can admire for a long time. Many of the cars passing along the road slow down on a specially prepared observation deck. Tour guides like to call the view from here the most luxurious not only in Tuscany, but throughout Italy.
From here it seems that Pitigliano literally grows out of the rocks, especially since some houses here are really carved right into the rocks. About 4,000 people live in Pitigliano, who earn mainly from tourism and agriculture. The city is sometimes called "little Jerusalem" - apparently for a long and interesting story, and also for the fact that Jews historically settled here.

9. Sorano

A two-hour drive from Rome is the commune of Sorano, which is an intricate labyrinth of tiny streets, courtyards, stairs and arches. A well-known attraction of Sorano are wine cellars, carved right into the rock. But the main one is still considered to be the royal castle of Orsini built in the XIV century, which in 1552 was rebuilt by Niccolò IV Orsini. This castle is considered a typical example of Renaissance military architecture. There is also an unusual attraction here - Masso Leopoldino - a natural fortified tuff terrace, which was cut down here by order of Prince Leopold. Not far from Sorano are the fortress of Vittosu and the cave settlement.

10. Aosta

The capital of the Valle d'Aosta region is the small medieval town of Aosta, located 585 meters above sea level at the foot of the Pennine Alps near the confluence of the Butir and Dora Baltea mountain rivers. In Aosta, the entire perimeter of the walls, the layout, all the towers have been preserved, there are many monuments of the Roman period. The entrance to the city from the east is the famous Praetorian Gate. A local monument of the Middle Ages is the temple complex of St. Orso, built here in the period from 994 to 1025. A large Romanesque three-nave church, the walls of which are decorated with frescoes, has replaced here more old temple the time of the Carolingians.
The patron saint of Aosta is Saint Orso, who traveled with a bird on his shoulder. For his kindness to people, he was ranked among the bosom of saints. The inhabitants of Aosta greatly revere this saint; on New Year's Eve they regularly organize fairs dedicated to him.

If you have planned a trip to Italy, then your itinerary will most likely include the most famous tourist spots. Rome, Milan, Venice, Florence… But in Italy there are a lot of beautiful villages and small towns, which certainly deserve to foreign tourist paid attention to them.

The most beautiful Italian villages

1. Horta (Piedmont)
2. Brugnato (Liguria)
3. Apricale (Liguria)
4. Castellaro Lagusello (Lombardy)
5. Portobuffole (Veneto)
6. Calcata (Lazio)
7. Civita di Bagnoregio (Lazio)
8. Pacentro (Abruzzo)
9. Scanno (Abruzzo)
10. Locorotondo (Apulia)
11. Alberobello (Puglia)
12. Castelmola (Sicily)
13. Sperlinga (Sicily)

Photos taken from Instagram accounts.

San Candido (Trentino-Alto Adige)

San Candido is located at an altitude of 1175 m above sea level, near the border with Austria, in picturesque mountains Dolomites. This is a typical town South Tyrol, a place full of charm and rich in beautiful views of meadows, fields and, of course, mountains. The wide pedestrian zone has numerous shops and luxury hotels.

Orta San Giulio (Piedmont)

The municipality of Orta San Giulio, with a population of almost 1,200, is located on an island south of Lake Orta in the Piedmont region of northern Italy. Unlike neighboring cities next to the lake, this village is much quieter, more peaceful, and with beautiful scenery.

Brugnato (Liguria)

Brugnato is a village full of bright cheerful colors. It is located in northern Italy and attracts tourists with its architectural heritage.

Apricale (Liguria)

Apricale is located near the border with France. Here you will find a fascinating labyrinth of medieval streets that invite you to an unforgettable walk. Chestnut and olive trees complement the landscape with green colors and scents.

Castellaro Lagusello (Lombardy)

Close to Lake Garda nature park Mincio is a small medieval town overlooking a heart-shaped pond. Castellaro Lagusello offers its guests good restaurants and excellent local cuisine.

Portobuffole (Veneto)

This village has long benefited from the Venetian influence that is etched into its architectural style. Portobuffol has only 800 inhabitants, which, coupled with the architecture, makes this place elegant, quiet and very attractive for tourists.

Castell'Arquato (Emilia-Romagna)

The village, located 100 km south of Milan, is a real gem medieval architecture and art. Here you can visit the Visconti Castle, the Palazzo del Podesta, the monastery church of Santa Maria.

Castiglione di Garfagnana (Tuscany)

Commune in Tuscany, in the province of Lucca. The main attraction and face of the commune is a massive and almost intact medieval wall.

Calcata (Lazio)

Calcata is located near Rome. This village at first glance seems impregnable fortress. It was very popular in the 60s and 70s with hippies and anarchist communities. Today, many artists exhibit their work here for tourists.

Civita di Bagnoregio (Lazio)

Civita di Bagnoregio is a unique place because the village is located on the top of a hill and is connected to the mainland by a long narrow bridge, which can only be walked on foot. Unfortunately, despite the best efforts to protect the Global Monuments Fund, due to erosion, the condition of the houses and the hill itself is constantly deteriorating. Local buildings are several thousand years old, and the panoramic view is worth it to climb the hill.

Pacentro (Abruzzo)

Pacentro is in the heart national park Majella. Here you can walk through the narrow streets that keep the spirit of the Middle Ages and see three towers from the same era.

Scanno (Abruzzo)

There is no doubt that Scanno is one of the most beautiful villages in Italy. It is located on the border of the Natural Park of Abruzzo, in an area that combines a mountainous landscape with lush vegetation. From here opens great view to the lake of the same name.

Locorotondo (Apulia)

Locorotondo - Pretty big village, it is home to 14,000 people. It is called Citta Bianca ("White City") because of its white walls. The village is also known own production white wine.

Alberobello (Puglia)

This town of 11,000 inhabitants is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List and is known throughout the world. It is located in the province of Bari and is notable for its trulli houses, stone buildings with gabled conical roofs.

Castelmola (Sicily)

Castelmola - tourist place, and all because of the stunning view of Mount Etna and your own interesting location. Here you will find winding streets, charming shops and outdoor terraces.

Sperlonga (Sicily)

The village is famous for its castle built into the rock. The local architectural style is a mixture of prehistoric caves and medieval structures. A unique and amazing place that is definitely worth seeing with your own eyes.

It would seem that there are almost no places left in Italy that seasoned travelers would not know about. And yet the most popular destinations for trips traditionally remain Rome, Milan, Venice, as well as mediterranean resort Rimini. But there are other places that you can go to in Italy and not be disappointed.

Why go

The Cinque Terre National Park brings together five small settlements, which together are considered one of the most picturesque hiking trails in western Italy. Monterosso, Manarola, Riomaggiore, Vernazza and Corniglia were once fishing villages and today are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

These cities are located on rocky sheer terraces and consist of colored houses and vineyards. They are an amazing monument, interconnected by the Road of Love.

You can explore the park both by land and by water - many sightseeing boats run along the coast. Admiring the architectural monuments, churches, towers, fortifications, do not forget to look at the small secluded beach in Monterosso. The water here is amazingly clear, the shore is gentle and sandy, and the beach itself is great for swimming.

How to get there

Getting to the Cinque Terre is not at all difficult - direct trains run regularly from Milan and Genoa. Travel time varies from 1 to 3.5 hours.

Or you can rent and ride along the picturesque highway No. A12 / E80, and in the summer you can also take a boat ride from Genoa.

2. Stresa and the Borromean Islands

Why go

Stresa is considered one of the most beautiful small towns in Italy, largely due to its location. Sandwiched between mountains and Lake Maggiore, Stresa boasts amazing natural scenery. In addition, there are many things for tourists to do here. You can take the funicular to the top of Mount Mottarone, go to the local Alpine Botanical Garden, take a boat ride to the Borromean Islands, or visit one of the many villas in the area.

You should definitely visit the monastery of Santa Catarina, as well as the villas of Pallavicino and Taranto with their exotic landscaped gardens.

The Borromean Islands, located on Lake Maggiore off the coast of Stresa, deserve special mention. These islands are interconnected by water excursion route. Here you will see luxurious palaces, parks, peacocks walking peacefully on the lawn, hanging gardens, sculptures, statues and other art objects.

How to get there

High-speed trains from Milan go directly to Stresa. Travel time is about an hour.

If you wish, you can spend only one day on a trip to Stresa without spending the night. However, there are so many attractions here that you should definitely stay in the city for at least a couple of days.

Why go

Turin is a luxurious baroque city with many architectural sights and unique museums. Here are the Royal Palace, which is the seat of the Savoy dynasty and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Turin Cathedral and Art Gallery, which stores the work of Italian and Dutch masters.

It is also worth visiting the Valentino Castle, Antonelliana Tower, Superga Basilica, Madama Palace. Turin also has numerous museums. Some of them are very original, such as the martini museum.

How to get there

There are direct flights to Turin from Moscow. If you flew to Milan, getting to Turin is not difficult - both cities are connected by direct rail links.

If you plan to travel by car, you should follow the A4 highway.

Why go

Bergamo is a mix of man-made and natural attractions. Located in the foothills of the Alps, Bergamo is surrounded by picturesque landscapes. And the castle of La Rocca, the Cathedral of Bergamo, the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, medieval towers and lavishly decorated palazzos create a unique atmosphere inside the city.

Bergamo's location makes it a convenient starting point for further travels across northern Italy. From here you can go to lakes Como or Maggiore, as well as visit the historic city of Brescia and explore mountain routes Dolomites.

How to get there

Bergamo has direct flights from Russia and trains from Milan. You can also get there by car - Milan and Bergamo are connected by highway No. A4 / E64.

Approximate travel time is about 50 minutes by car and about an hour by train.

Why go

The picturesque town of Limone sul Garda is located on northwest coast Lake Garda. Getting here is not easy, but it's worth it.

Overhanging huge rocks, the blue of the lake, houses decorated with the symbol of the city - lemons - all this distinguishes this small but atmospheric town from others.

In Limone, be sure to visit the Palazzo Casa della Finanza and the Palazzo Gepardi, the Church of San Rocco and the Cathedral of San Benedetto. It is worth taking a walk through the Limone greenhouse, where lemon and olive trees grow.

It is also convenient to take boat trips from the town. You can, for example, go to a small but extremely picturesque town Malcesine, which is located on the opposite bank of the Garda, or get to the very northern point lakes - the town of Riva del Garda.

How to get there

There is no direct rail link to major Italian cities in Limone. You can get here only by bus from the south side of the lake. Bus stop located in Desenzano del Garda, with trains from Milan, Verona and Bergamo.

Be sure to check the schedule so you don't have to spend the night in an unfamiliar city!

The total travel time is about 3-3.5 hours one way.

Why go

Cervinia is a famous Italian ski resort located on the border with Switzerland in northern Italy. Despite the winter orientation, it is interesting to visit it at any time of the year due to the most beautiful alpine landscapes.

In Cervinia, you can not only ride. There is also a karting track, paragliding, skiing dog sledding, flights to hot-air balloon, glacier riding, as well as numerous hiking trails around the Aosta Valley.

All conditions have been created for skiers here: 150 kilometers of slopes of varying difficulty, a snowboard park, freeride opportunities, skiing on a glacier.

How to get there

You can get to Cervinia from Turin or Milan. These are the nearest large cities with international airports.

In winter, a bus transfer is organized between the cities and the resort, in summer it is better to travel by car. Orientation is on the highway number A4 / E64 from Milan and the highway number A5 from Turin.

Why go

When beach season ends in Italy, Montecatini Terme continues to receive tourists, because you can swim in the healing waters of thermal springs all year round.

In Montecatini, you can not only relax in the local baths. It is also worth visiting the old part of the city, which has many historical monuments. In addition, from Montecatini you can easily go for a few days to neighboring Pisa, Lucca and Florence.

How to get there

The closest airports to Montecatini Terme are Pisa and Florence. Travel time by train from both cities will be no more than an hour. This is the most convenient way to get to the thermal spa.

Taxi and car rentals are also available. The second option is especially relevant if you plan to travel all over Tuscany.

Why go

About it beach resort few people have heard outside of Italy, but the Italians themselves simply adore Orbetello.

The town boasts several truly valuable historical monuments, but its nature is considered the main decoration of the resort. Here lies the Orbetello lagoon, from which three sandbars towards the peninsula of Monte Argentario. All this creates a unique natural composition.

The place is considered ideal for, and you can go on an excursion to the peninsula to see its fortresses and villages.

How to get there

The most convenient way to get there is from Pisa - there are direct flights from Russia. By train from Pisa to Orbetello can be reached in just 2 hours, by car along the route number E80 - a little faster. Or you can come to Orbetello from Rome. There are rail and road links between the cities.

Why go

Tivoli is located just 35 km from Rome and has a lot of interesting sights. excursion program Tivoli is a visit to Villa d'Este, Villa Hadrian and Villa Gregorian. Here you can also swim in the local thermal complex and wander through the picturesque mountainous surroundings.

How to get there

You can get there in just 40 minutes by a regional train that runs 2-3 times an hour. Or take a regular bus, but the time will be longer. If you are traveling by car, follow the A24 highway.

Why go

Amalfi is the heart and soul of the Amalfi Coast, just south of Naples. Rocky shores here give way to secluded sandy beaches, and most of the houses are hidden on stone terraces where mountain vineyards grow.

Among the sights, the Cathedral of St. Andrew the First-Called and the Emerald Grotto off the coast of Amalfi make an impression.

Amalfi is one of the few towns on the coast with sandy beaches. Although they are quite small, it will still be possible to combine sightseeing vacation with beach. True, it is worth considering that in the midst of summer season it gets pretty crowded here.

How to get there

Getting to Amalfi follows from Rome or Naples. Both cities have international arrival airports, where planes from Russia also arrive. You can get to Amalfi by regular bus. Travel time will be about an hour from Naples and about 3 hours from Rome.

It is most convenient to move around the country by train or by car. The current train schedule can always be checked on the official website of the Italian railways Trenitalia. But the bus service is less developed.

In Italy you can find many nooks and crannies which are known to a small circle of travelers and local residents. This country is able to impress both with its natural beauties and man-made monuments.

Rich history, developed tourist infrastructure, abundance of attractions, comfortable hotels, plenty of entertainment, tasty food and the hospitality of the locals - all of these "charms" are directly related to Italy. The country has a large number of cities, each of which has its own unique features. We will talk about the 10 most popular Italian cities for tourists in today's article.

1. Rome. The capital of Italy dates back to 753 BC. In the past, the Roman Empire was considered one of the most powerful not only on the continent, but throughout the world. Today, Rome is a real find for tourists. Here guests of the city can get acquainted with his ancient history with the help of the preserved ancient Roman Forums, the Pantheon, thermae, triumphal arches. No trip to Rome is complete without a visit to the legendary Colosseum. The Middle Ages presented the Italian capital with many architectural monuments: the Trastevere quarter, the Lateran Palace, Villa Madama, Aragon Gonzaga Palace, Alicorni Palace, Villa del Priorato di Malta, Piazza Navona, etc. Travelers will be introduced to the cultural side of the city and the state by the National Roman Museum, National Gallery contemporary art, the Capitoline, the Vatican Museums, the Lateran and Borghese galleries. An integral part of Rome are its religious buildings: the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, the Cathedral of St. Petra, the Sistine Chapel, the Church of Santa Maria della Vittoria, the Church of Santa Maria della Concecione, the Basilica of Sant'Ambrogio e Carlo al Corso, the Church of San Giovanni in Laterano, etc. No less interesting Italian capital for nature lovers. In the city you can visit the Avetinsky Hill, Pincho Park, Janiculum Hill, City Botanical Garden, Palatine Hill, palace and park complex"House of Nero"
   Do not forget about the Vatican - a small independent state which is located on the right bank of the Tiber. Here you can see many medieval churches built famous architects and decorated with the best Italian sculptors and artists.
2. Florence. This city is located in Italian region Tuscany on the Arno. Florence acquired the status of a city around the middle of the 3rd century, and a century later it turned into the residence of the local bishop. Today this city is called the "Cradle of the Renaissance". Many prominent personalities were born here: Leonardo da Vinci, Amerigo Vespucci, Dante, Nicolo Machiavelli, Galileo, Michelangelo, Donatello, etc. Today, Florence is in the top five most popular Italian cities. Guests of the city will have to get acquainted with many religious attractions: the Cathedral (Duomo), the Basilica of Santo Spirito, the Church of Santissima Annunziata, the Temple of San Lorenzo, the Basilica of Santa Maria Novella, the Church of Santa Croce, the Basilica of San Marco, etc. Get new knowledge about art is possible with the help of the cultural heritage of the city, located in the following institutions: the Accademia Gallery, the Pitti Palace Museum, the National Museum in the Bargello Palace, the Uffizi Gallery, the Opera di Santa Maria del Fiore Museum, etc. The Vecchio and Medici palaces are recognized as architectural masterpieces of the city -Riccardi, Strozzi, Rucellai and numerous squares: Republic, St. Mark, St. Trinity, Senoria, Liberty, Santissima Annunziata, All Saints. Of particular note is the statue of David, located in the Academy of Fine Arts in Florence. No less popular are the natural sites of the city: Torrigiani Garden, Boboli Gardens, Cascine Park, etc.
3. Milan. This northern metropolis is the second in the list of major Italian cities. The first founders of Milan are the Celts who lived in northern Italy in 600 BC. In 222 BC. The Romans conquered the city and made it part of their Empire. Today Milan has the status of the financial and economic capital of Italy. It is also known as the most "fashionable" Italian city. Tourists who come to Milan should definitely visit gothic cathedral Santa Maria Nashente and other religious buildings of the city: the churches of Santa Maria del Grazie, Sant Ambrogio, Sant Cristoforo sul Naviglio, San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore, the abbey of Santa Maria di Rovegnano, the basilicas of Sant Eustorgio and San Lorenzo Maggiore. The following objects will help you get acquainted with the outstanding architecture of the metropolis: the Sforza Castle, the palace of the commercial bank, legal advisers, the Palatine, Borommeo, Senate schools, as well as the unique Royal Palace. It would be an unforgivable omission to refuse to visit the Milanese squares: Duomo, dei Mercanti, San Fedele, Cordusio, La Scala, Royal, etc. Do not forget about museum institutions and galleries: the archaeological museum, the Brera and Ambrosiana Pinacoteca, the Da Vinci Museum, the Risorgimento Museum , museum of science and arts, etc. Milan provides the following facilities for lovers of walks: the park to them. John Paul II, Indro Montanelli City Garden, Sempione Park, Lake Maggiore. Shopping is a must when visiting Milan. To this end, we recommend visiting the Galleria Vittorio Emmanuele II, designer shops in Duomo Square, Corso Buenos Aires Avenue, Brera district, Serravalle Scrivia, FoxTown, Franciacorta Outlet Village, etc.
4. Venice. The world famous "city on the water" is located in northern Italy in the province of Venice. The name of this area is closely related to the first settlers - the Veneti tribe, who named the area Venetia. Urban settlements began to be created in the Venetian Lagoon in the 6th century. Most of the pompous architecture of the city was formed in the XIV-XVI centuries. Venice is big today tourist center which is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It hosts world film festivals and art exhibitions, performances by famous theater groups and other events. Distinctive feature Venice is its specific transport - River tram. Also in the city there is an opportunity to ride a gondola, or use the services river taxi. Arriving in Venice, tourists tend to visit the maximum possible number of attractions. Particularly attractive is the architecture of the city, represented by the following objects: the Doge's Palace, Cathedral Santa Maria Assuanta, Palace of Ca' Vendramin Calergi, Basilica of San Pietro di Castello, Palace of Ca' Dario, Arsenal, Palace of Fondaco dei Turchi, Church of Santa Maria dei Frari, Palace of Contarini del Bovolo, Cathedral of St. Mark, Church of Santa Maria del Giglio, St. Stamp, Rialto Bridge, Constitutions, Sighs. You can get acquainted with works of art in the palaces of CaʼPesaro, Doge, Fortuny, the Accademia Gallery, the Correr Museums and the Palazzo Mocenigo. You can relax from the bustle of the city in the Venetian Gardens, the Rimembranze, Giardinetti Realii and Giardini Pubblizi parks. Do not forget about the numerous islands of the city, as well as river walks along the Grand Canal, which stretches through the whole city.
5. Pisa. The popular cities of Italy cannot do without the presence of Pisa on this list. The famous city is located in the Tuscany region, 10 km from the Ligurian Sea. From 180 BC Pisa is a colony of the Roman Empire. In those days, it served as a naval base. Despite its small size, the city is literally "teeming" with a variety of attractions. Of course, the first in the list of notable Leaning objects is the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa, located on the Square of Miracles. Next to it are the Baptistery and Pisa Cathedral, as well as the Campo Santo cemetery. In addition, you can see many beautiful architectural monuments and sites in the city: the Church of Santa Maria dela Spina, the Knights' Square, the palaces of Carovana dela and al Borgo di Corliano, the basilicas of San Nicola, San Paolo a Ripa d'Arno, San Sistoyu, San Frediano, Santo Sepolcro , the whole historic quarter of San Martino. A visit to Pisa is not complete without a visit to the following places: Museum San Matteo, galleries of Borgo Stretto, the botanical garden, the university of the city, etc.
6. Verona. A northeastern city located in the region of Venice. Verona became part of the Roman Empire in 80 BC. Every year, the city hosts a summer opera festival, which attracts people from all over the world. Verona is also known as the Italian city of romance and love. Arriving here, tourists admire the extraordinary beauty of the city, its development and abundance of attractions. TO architectural monuments The Italian city includes the ancient Roman amphitheater Arena di Verona, Juliet's house, the Castelvecchio castle, the Basilica of San Zeno Maggiore, the Erbe case, the Lamberti tower, the Palace of Reason, the Ponte Pietra, Scaliger bridges, the house of merchants, the Maffei Palace, the city's cathedral. In Verona, there is an opportunity to visit interesting museums: in the Castellvecchio castle, a gallery of modern art, archaeological, canonical museums, a museum of frescoes, an episcopal library, etc. For nature lovers, the Giusti garden and park complex, Francescatti Garden, Sigurta Park are open in the city.
7. Genoa. This Italian city is located on the coast of the Ligurian Sea in scenic area Liguria. Genoa became a famous port in the 10th century, and in the 12th century it acquired the status of an independent state. Today, the capital of Liguria offers its guests a lot of entertainment and excursions, during which tourists will get acquainted with architectural masterpieces (the Cathedral of San Lorenzo, the Porta Soprano gate, the Basilica of Santissima Annunziata del Vastato, Villa Durazzo Pallavicini, the Staglieno cemetery, the Lanterna lighthouse, the palaces of the Roli, Ducale, Bianco, Rosso, Church of Sant'Agostino), walk along the beautiful Garibaldi Street and Piazza Ferrari, visit the Oriental Museum, the Ethnographic Museum, the gallery of the Rosso Palace and Modern Art, the Paper Museum, the Maritime Museum, the Garibaldi, Iginiano museums, etc. No less the nature of Genoa is beautiful, which you can appreciate in the natural park "Aveto".
8. Rimini. This beautiful resort town is located in the Emilia-Romagna region on the coast Adriatic Sea. In 268 BC. Rimini became a colony of the Roman Empire. In addition to a full beach holiday guests of the resort will see many interesting sights: Castel Sismondo Castle, Surgeon's House, Briolli Palace, Malatesta Temple, Cavour Square, clock tower, the bridge of Tiberius, the arch of Augustus, the park "Italy in miniature", the exhibition complex "Rimini Fiera", the city and ethnographic museums, Marechia Park, etc.
9. Pompeii. Near Naples is the world-famous Italian city of Pompeii, which is associated with a terrible tragedy that occurred in 79. The volcano Vesuvius buried the prosperous city under a layer of ash. Today Pompeii is a famous museum under open sky which is on the UNESCO heritage list. Visitors to the city will see a large number of ancient buildings: the amphitheater, the Porta Marina gate, the Odeon, the Lupanarium, the basilica, the forum, the temples of Vespasian, Venus, Isis, Jupiter and Apollo, the Stabius Baths, the house of the Faun, the Perfumer, the Vettii and the Tragic Poet, the Villa Oplontis, The Bolshoi and Maly theatres, an exhibition of plaster casts, etc. Tourists can buy memorable souvenirs on Plenty Street.
10. Naples. In the bay of the Gulf of Naples in the Campania region, the 3rd largest Italian city, Naples, is located. The city was founded by the Greeks in the 18th century BC. Later it became a colony of the Roman Empire. Tourists visiting Naples will have to get acquainted with a large number of local attractions: the Cathedral of St. Januarius, the castle of Maschio Angioino and Sant Elmo, royal palace, Archaeological Museum, Umberto I Gallery, Napoli Sotteranea Catacombs, Piazza Municipality, Palace and national museum di Capodimonte, the church of St. Clara, the Fontanelle Cemetery, the Museum of the Arts of Health, the majestic Vesuvius and other architectural and cultural monuments.

Note: There are 448 churches in Naples. The most famous are the chapels of San Lorenzo Maggiore, San Gennaro, Sangro di San Severo, Jesu Novo, etc.

What is Italy famous for? our readers will ask. You will find the answer to this question in the material described above. Fashionable Milan, stunning Venice, majestic Rome, welcoming Rimini, unique Pisa, cultural Florence, historic Pompeii - the list is endless. Each city pleases its guests with an abundance of sights, after viewing which tourists go home with an updated baggage of knowledge, a lot of vivid photographs and inexpressible emotions.