Italy is a fascinating country full of culture, history, natural beauty, and much more. There are plenty of bucket list experiences in Italy, and these 24 are the best ones if you want to explore the country as a whole and experience a little bit of everything that makes Italy unique.
This Italy bucket list includes many popular spots, but also highlights some more unique things to do at popular destinations or less commonly known places. This way, you can plan the trip of your dreams without being constantly surrounded by crowds, but without missing out on the things Italy is famous for.
If there is one thing that my previous trips to Italy have taught me, it is, that the key to experiencing the true ‘Dolce Vita’ is to combine the popular spots with off-the-beaten-track adventures. I hope that this list of bucket-list-worthy experiences will help you plan a trip that does the above.
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Italy Bucket List: Rome
1. explore the Colosseum
The Colosseum is one of the New Wonders of the World and is a staple of nearly every Italy itinerary for first-time visitors. Constructed between AD 72 and AD 80 under Emperor Vespasian, it is the largest amphitheater ever built and had a capacity between 50 and 80 thousand spectators.
As such, it is one of the most imposing buildings of Imperial Rome. While it is partially ruined, it is still easy to imagine what a spectacle the gladiator fights, re-enactments, and at one point even mock sea battles were.
Most people only tour the main area, but there are also tours that take you to the underground areas. The entrance ticket includes entrance to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill.
2. see the Pantheon
Rome has many impressive buildings, but the Pantheon is special as it is the best-preserved Ancient Roman building. Built as a Roman temple in AD 126, it now serves as a Christian church.
To this day, its coffered concrete dome with an oculus that lets in daylight is the largest unreinforced concrete dome in the world. It was only recently understood how the dome was able to whether the hands of time.
Nowadays, you have to pay an entrance fee of 5€ to visit it. If you want to avoid waiting in line, it is best to book your ticket in advance.
If you are a photographer and want to take photos of a rather empty building, I recommend visiting it just before it closes for the day. As the crowds start to leave, you will have 1 to 2 minutes to capture the marvelous building in all its might. Keep walking towards the exit while taking photos.
3. throw a Coin into the Trevi Fountain
Those wishing to return to Rome – be it as a city trip or as part of a longer Italy adventure – should not forget to throw a coin into the Trevi Fountain. After all, it is said that those throwing a coin with their right hand over their left should while standing with their back to the fountain are guaranteed to return to Rome.
It is a fun thing to do in Rome and a must on any Italy bucket list, as it is an activity that helps a charity organization. The money is collected and used to help the less fortunate.
Of course, you should also marvel at the 18th-century Baroque fountain itself. The carvings of Oceanus in the center and the other decorative elements are incredible. To make the most of your visit, it is best to head to the fountain just after sunrise so you can avoid the crowds.
4. spend a day at the Vatican
Italy is the home of the Catholic Church and even for non-Catholics, a day trip to the Vatican and seeing all its treasures should definitely be high on anyone’s Italy bucket list. Located within the city of Rome, this special city-state features the famous Vatican Museums which are full of treasures and priceless art.
One of the most spectacular sights in the Museums is Michelangelo’s artwork adorning the incredible Sistine Chapel; it is the definition of breathtaking. The Vatican Museum entrance fee is 20€ and it is wise to pre-book your tickets as the lines often stretch many streets back.
After taking in the sights of the Vatican Museums, the next stop on your itinerary should be St Peter’s Basilica. This stop requires some patience as the line can also be very long and there is no shade. Bring a hat and some water if you are visiting in summer.
Once inside, though, you will be amazed by the sights inside. They include St Peter’s tomb, Michelangelo’s famous sculpture, Pietà, and Pope John Paul’s grave. There is no entrance fee to visit, making it a great value stop if you can brave the lines.
Culture & History in Italy
5. see Milan’s art and architecture
Milan might be best known as Italy’s fashion capital, but it is the architecture and art that earn the city a spot on any Italy bucket list.
Hereby, one of the most impressive buildings is the Duomo di Milano. With its white facade and spires, it is an iconic architectural masterpiece that combines Gothic and Renaissance elements. Be sure to go on a tour that includes the terraces on its roof to get a closer look at the intricated details.
Other interesting buildings not to be missed are Galleria Vittorio Emanuelle II and the Pinacoteci di Brera, an art gallery that features masterpieces of Italian art from the 13th to 20th century.
Of course, you should also visit Santa Maria delle Grazie church to see Da Vinci’s The Last Supper mural.
How to get there: The easiest way to get to Milan from abroad is to fly there. The city has three airports, with Linate (LIN) being the closest to the city center. It is also well connected to other destinations in Italy by train.
Where to stay: If you are looking for a unique, luxurious experience, you should stay at the Galleria Vik Milano. This 5-star hotel has windows that are inside Galleria Vittorio Emanuelle.
6. explore the Medieval Town of Bergamo
While it has become more popular in recent years, Bergamo is still one of Italy’s hidden gems. Located close to Milan in Lombardy, this medieval town will charm you with its winding cobblestone roads, scenic vistas, and piazzas.
Bergamo is split into the upper Citta Alta and the lower Citta Bassa, and the best way to travel from one part to the other is to catch a ride on the historic funicular. Both parts are home to buildings of different architectural periods that blend into each other.
One of the buildings not to be missed are the 12th century Campanone Tower at Piazza Vecchia – be sure to climb the tower for a great view!
Another fantastic thing to do in Bergamo is to catch another funicular up Rocco di San Vigilio hill. It is where you will find a lookout point that offers a panoramic view of the entire city and the surrounding area. The ruins of Torre Castella San Vigilio are also located on the hill.
How to get there: If you want to get to Bergamo, you can take the train or the bus from Milan. The train ride takes 48 minutes to 1:12 h.
Where to stay: If you are spending the night in Bergamo, Hotel Excelsior San Marco is a great option.
7. catch a Gondola Ride in Venice
A gondola ride through the canals of Venice with a backdrop of some of the best historical landmarks of the city has become synonymous with experiencing Italy. Therefore, seeing some of the 150 canals in Venice is a must. Of these canals, the Grand Canal, Rio della Misericordia, and Rio del Palazzo have become more popular.
Thanks to medieval bridges, architectural marvels, and heritage buildings, taking a gondola ride through these canals is like taking a tour through a floating museum, where the whole city is on display.
Riding through Rio della Toletta will allow you to explore the less-crowded part of Venice. Meanwhile, Canale di Cannaregio, albeit busy, will show you a gorgeous area of the city. You will also love the view of Basilica di San Pietro di Castello as you ride through Canale di San Pietro.
The cost of a gondola ride in Venice is around 80€, and increases in the evening. If you do not want to ride in a gondola, consider opting for a water taxi or a boat ride – after all, no Venice itinerary would be complete without spending some time on the city’s canals.
8. visit the Palaces of Turin
Turin is a gem you must add to your Italian itinerary. As Italy’s first capital, Turin boasts a rich culture, stunning architecture, and ten palaces that are UNESCO World Heritage sites.
The “Residences of the Royal House of Savoy” UNESCO sites are located in Turin’s city and region. These buildings showcase stunning Baroque architecture, opulent interiors, and rich historical significance.
Visiting them is like going on a journey through centuries of royal grandeur, with access to lavish rooms, art collections, and beautifully maintained gardens.
The best royal palaces in Turin are Palazzo Reale, Palazzo Madama, Palazzo Carignano, and Venaria Reale which can be reached by public transportation.
For those planning to visit multiple royal residences, the Torino+Piemonte Card or the Royal Card gives cost-effective access to many UNESCO sites and attractions in the region.
Not sure about adding Turin to your Italy bucket list? If so, it is good to know that Turin is the birthplace of Italian chocolate, home to exceptional coffee, and produces world-famous Barolo wine. And unlike Rome or Florence, Turin remains relatively free from tourist crowds, making it an authentic Italian destination.
9. explore Como in a Fiat 500
For a fun but vintage bucket list experience in Italy, consider renting a classic Fiat 500 for a day in Como. The beautiful, iconic Italian car has a special place in the hearts of locals and tourists alike, and driving one around the charming streets of Como and around Lake Como is sure to be an unforgettable experience.
The local company called Macchinagialla Rent allows you to rent a Fiat 500 in Como – you can choose from their current selection of either a black Fiat or a mustard yellow Fiat. The company calls their cars Gina and Berta.
You can book this experience online in advance – doing so is recommended during the Summer months. For just under 200 EUR you can book a Fiat for a total of 4 hours, which is the perfect amount of time to drive from Como, up to Cadenabbia. Then you can take the boat to Bellagio before driving back south to Como. The route along Lake Como is very picturesque.
Keep in mind that the Fiat 500 has a manual transmission. If you only have experience with automatic cars, this might not be the best experience for you.
How to get there: Como is easily reachable with a direct train from Milan or from Lugano in Switzerland. If visiting by car, there are plenty of parking garages to choose from in the city center.
Where to stay: If you wish to stay in the city of Como, enjoy a bit of luxury at the Palace Hotel. It’s a 4-star hotel that is right on the lakeside and central to the city.
10. explore the Old Towns of Puglia
International tourists have long flocked to Italy to explore the sights of its many ancient cities and picture-postcard coastal towns. Yet despite being a popular destination with domestic tourists, the region of Puglia has remained fairly under the radar.
However in recent years, the beautiful Southern province is finally getting the attention it deserves, thanks to rich local culture and cuisine, a plethora of accommodation options with relatively affordable prices, and a number of charming historical towns.
These towns are what makes the region such a bucket list experience in Italy. There is Alberobello, known for its traditional conical “Trulli” houses, or the striking whitewashed buildings of Old Town Ostuni.
If a day by the sea is more your holiday vibe, head to the coastal towns of Monopoli and Polignano a Mare for their picturesque beaches and harbors.
How to get there: It is the ideal destination for a road trip, with car hire from either of the two main airports, Bari and Brindisi. Many of the towns are within a short drive from each other and can be combined within a short trip.
Where to stay: For a truly unique stay experience, consider a night or two in a traditional Trulli house. AirB&B also has plenty of affordable options, or splurge on a luxury stay at a converted Masseria such as Le Carrube or Il Frantoio.
11. do a Tuk-Tuk Tour through Genoa
A tuk-tuk tour in Genoa is a must-do bucket list activity that offers a unique perspective of this underrated Italian city. With its narrow, winding streets and vibrant alleyways, Genoa is a place that begs to be explored up close, and a tuk-tuk, or rickshaw, provides the perfect vehicle for that adventure.
TreeCycle, a local company, offers guided tours on electric rickshaws that allow you to glide through the historic streets while soaking up the city’s sights, sounds, and stories. Led by passionate guides who bring their knowledge and love for Genoa to life, you will enjoy an amazing tour of historic Genoa, covering even more than you would manage in a walking tour.
Starting at the bustling Porto Antico, or Old Port, you’ll learn about Genoa’s rich maritime history. The tour winds past the elegant Palazzo San Giorgio, one of the 162 palaces in the city, before heading into the heart of the historic town center.
Here, you will meander through streets as you visit churches, palaces, and piazzas, all from the comfort of a tuk-tuk. A tuk-tuk tour is a fun, eco-friendly, and memorable way to experience Genoa, making it an essential addition to any Italy bucket list.
The tours have various options, with one-hour, two-hour, or even four-hour tours! The two-hour is ideal for in-depth exploration while giving you the freedom to explore more of the city by yourself later on, especially if you only have one day in Genoa.
The tours start at €54 per group (max. two people) for the one-hour tour. If you get unlucky with the weather, there is even a rain covering ensuring you can explore Genoa whether it is rain or shine!
How to get there: Getting to Genoa is easy by plane and train. The best airports for getting to Genoa are Genoa airport, as well as Milan’s airports. Milan is a 1h44 journey away by ICE train, making it easy to combine the two cities on one trip.
Where to stay: Genoa has many amazing accommodation options, so you will be sure to find something you love regardless of your budget. For an affordable getaway, stay at the 3* Hotel Cairoli, located on one of the historic streets that make up part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Le Strade Nuove and Palazzi dei Rolli. For a more luxurious escape, the 5* Grand Savoia Hotel will make you feel like royalty!
12. marvel at the Baroque Architecture of Palermo
Sicily, the largest island in the Mediterranean, is located right at the tip of the famous “Italian Boot”. With its rich history, warm hospitality, and a plethora of baroque architecture, Sicily is a haven for adventurers seeking culture, mouthwatering street food, and the most intricate baroque architecture in the country.
The very best places to see baroque architecture in full display are Noto, Ortigia, and the capital of the region, Palermo.
Spend one to two days in Palermo flitting between gelateria, markets, and the various churches including Chiesa del Gesu di Casa Professa, Palermo Cathedral, Church of St. Mary of the Admiral, and the Chiesa di Santa Caterina d ‘Alessandria.
The latter has the most spectacular view over the city of Palermo as well as a small confectionary shop where you can munch on some tasty cannoli, a regional delicacy. The aforementioned churches are all located in the historical center of Palermo and can easily be reached on foot.
How to get there: Sicily has two main airports, the largest being in Catania (located a couple hours drive from Palermo) and the second in Palermo itself. A select number of international carriers fly directly into Palermo.
Where to stay: Base yourself in the I Mori di Porta Nuova Suite & Terrace in the heart of Palermo. It is centrally located, has great value for money, and is within walking distance from the various baroque churches.
13. tour the Carrara Marble Quarries
On the northwestern coast of Italy, not far from Cinque Terre National Park, you will find an amazing location that besides being featured in ‘007 Quantum of Solace’, is also the place home to one of the most precious materials in the world: Carrara marble.
This marble is the material of many important buildings and sculptures, like the Pantheon and Michelangelo’s David. Therefore, visiting the Carrara marble quarries is not to be missed if you are interested in the country’s art and architectural history.
There are guided tours that take visitors inside the excavating sites. The experience is incredible as you get to admire dramatic landscapes and learn more about the extraction process. One of the most surprising things about this experience is the ride on a 4WD along narrow and uphill roads.
Prices for the one-hour tour start at €54 per group (max. two people). If you get unlucky with the weather, there is a rain covering ensuring you can explore Genoa whether it is rain or shine!
How to get there: To get to Carrara, you have two options: Rent a car so you can drive there from Pisa or Genoa, or catch a train to Cararaa train station where many guided tours depart.
Where to stay: Visitors can also enjoy the small village of Colonnata, where the quarrymen lived. It is also the home of one of the most delicious Italian cured meats: lardo di colonnata. Colonnata is also the best place to stay when visiting the quarries, as it’s close to the many trails that start in the area. L’ Canton Bed&Breakfast has several rustic but comfortable rooms.
14. explore Matera
With a history that goes back thousands of years, Matera, in southern Italy’s Basilicata region, is one of the world’s oldest cities. Its special charm derives from the ancient cave dwellings called “Sassi”, which have earned it a spot on the UNESCO World Heritage list. As such, visiting Matera is truly a bucket list experience for history lovers.
The cave dwellings are built into the cliffs, and the white stone buildings look amazing against the rugged landscape. Many of these caves have been turned into cozy boutique hotels, restaurants, and shops, so visitors can enjoy Matera’s unique atmosphere up close.
Other things to do include exploring the Sassi di Matera, where you can wander through its ancient streets and enjoy fantastic views, relaxing at Piazza Vittorio Veneto, a lively square perfect for coffee and people watching, and visiting the Church of Saint Mary of Idris, which offers stunning views from its terrace.
Matera’s blend of history, unique architecture, and picturesque scenery make it a must-visit. It is a hidden gem that should be on every traveler’s list.
How to get there: Matera can be reached by car or bus from Bari or Naples. The nearest airport is in Bari about 65 km away.
Where to stay: For a memorable experience, you should stay in one of the boutique hotels located in the historic cave dwellings.
15. roam the streets of Pompeii
it’s well worth taking the 30-40-minute train journey to the ancient city of Pompeii.
If you are interested in history, visiting this UNESCO World Heritage Site is another extraordinary bucket list experience in Italy. Buried under the ash from Mount Vesuvius’s eruption in AD 79, the remarkably preserved ruins of this Roman city offer a rare window into the past and the dramatic events of that day.
At the archeological site, you can stroll along the anciet streets, through the ancient Forum, step into the amphitheater, and admire the House of the Vettii.
If you have a little extra time, it’s well worth taking the 30-40-minute train journey to the ancient city of Pompeii. Visiting this UNESCO World Heritage Site is an extraordinary experience, giving you the chance to explore another chapter of Italy’s rich history. Buried under the ash from Mount Vesuvius’s eruption in 79 AD, the remarkably preserved ruins of this Roman city offer a rare window into the past and the dramatic events of that day. You can stroll through the ancient Forum, step into the amphitheater, and admire the House of the Vettii.
How to get there: Located 30 to 40 minutes away from Naples, Pompeii can easily be visited as a day trip. You can get there by train or do a guided half-day tour.
Italy Foodie Bucket List
16. eat Pizza in Naples
Naples is the birthplace of pizza and a perfect addition to your Italy bucket list. The city’s pizzerias showcase a long tradition of artisanship, crafting pizzas that are simple yet remarkable.
Do not miss the chance to eat a Pizza Margherita, a classic made with just tomato sauce, mozzarella, and basil, highlighting the quality of the ingredients.
Among the most iconic spots is L’antica Pizzeria da Michele, known for its incredible pies and cameo in the movie ‘Eat, Pray, Love’. Starita and Sorbillo are also deservedly famous. Despite the fame of Naples’ pizza, most pizzas cost less than 10€.
How to get there: Naples is a major city in Italy and reasonably easy to access. Fly into Naples International Airport or take a train to Napoli Centrale for easy access to the heart of the city.
Where to stay: Despite being a fabulous place to visit, Naples isn’t a particularly safe city. Stay in the historic Centro Storico for easy access to the city’s nightlife, or opt for the quieter Vomero neighborhood. The Chiaia neighborhood is also a great choice.
17. attend a Pasta Making Class
Just like pizza, pasta is a staple of Italian cuisine, and as such, learning how to make pasta from scratch is one of the best things to do in Italy for foodies. Once you have returned home, this activity will allow you to ‘travel back to Italy’ in your own kitchen.
There are classes all over Italy, so it will not be hard to find one regardless of which area of Italy you are exploring. Some classes focus on pasta, while others include other Italian specialties such as desserts.
18. do a Wine Tasting in Tuscany
A wine tasting in Tuscany is an experience worth a spot on everyone’s Italy bucket list – especially in fall when the vineyards buzz with harvest energy, or late spring when the weather is perfect.
You can try the iconic reds like Brunello and Chianti paired with stunning views. Or, for a unique twist, opt for the Montecarlo whites or explore the lesser-known Carmignano region.
Tastings generally cost €20-€50 and include snacks. Several special experiences can cost upwards of €150 if you are in the market for something more decadent.
If your group is not as wine-happy as you, day tours with lunch breaks are a perfect compromise. After all, who would not be tempted by delicious Italian food?
How to get there: The easiest way to get to Tuscany from Florence (or Siena) is by car. There are many tours that can take you to Tuscany and back including those with sommelier tour guides. Consider combining your time in Tuscany with Florence by following this 4-day Florence and Tuscany itinerary.
Where to stay: Stay in charming agriturismos or gorgeous castles-turn-boutique hotels for a unique experience, with some even offering their own tastings. Borgo Vescine, Villa le Prata, and Torre a Cona are worth a look!
19. visit Bologna, Italy’s Foodie Capital
Bologna, known as the foodie capital of Italy, is a paradise for those who love to eat. For this reason, visiting Bologna is definitely a bucket list experience in Italy!
Nestled in the Emilia-Romagna region, this city is the birthplace of iconic dishes like tagliatelle al ragù (Bolognese sauce) and tortellini. Bologna’s vibrant food scene is deeply rooted in tradition, with its bustling markets, local trattorias, and family-owned shops offering some of the finest produce and artisanal goods. You know Bologna is the place to visit when Italians flock here for the food!
Immerse yourself in the flavors of the region by exploring Mercato di Mezzo (the Middle Market) or Mercato delle Erbe, both bustling indoor or covered markets where you can find fresh fruit, vegetables, meat, cheese, wine, fish, pasta, and so much more.
Don’t skip out on visiting the oldest food market in Bologna – the Quadrilateral, and wander down ancient streets. To truly savor Bologna’s culinary heritage, a food tour or cooking class is highly recommended.
How to get there: Guglielmo Marconi Airport is just a short 20-minute taxi ride from the historic city center and is well-connected to major European cities. If arriving by train, Bologna is a key hub, with high-speed rail services linking it to cities like Rome, Florence, Milan, and Venice.
Where to stay: Staying in the historic city center is the best way to immerse yourself in everything Bologna offers. Attico di Via D’Azeglio is a short walk from Piazza Maggiore and features plush accommodations within walking distance of all the major things to do in Bologna.
Italy Bucket List: Nature
20. relax in the Saturnia Hot Springs
Saturnia Hot Springs in Tuscany is a must-visit for its serene and picturesque terraced pools of light blue water set amidst rolling hills and lush greenery. It is a truly relaxing experience for those who love a warm soak surrounded by nature.
The hot spring is free to visit and open 24/7, so it can get crowded during the day. The best time to visit is early morning when the sun is low, the weather is cool (even in the summer), mist is rising from the waters and people are still asleep.
Since the site is free, there are no facilities. It is best to shower at your hotel but if you are on a day trip, there is a cafe at the entrance with shower facilities at a minimal cost.
How to get there: The best way to get there is by renting a car and driving 154 km from Rome or 184 km from Florence. Ensure you enter ‘Cascate del Mulino‘ on Google Maps, or else you’ll reach a thermal spa hotel nearby.
Where to stay: There are a few Airbnbs and hotels close to the springs. Casale Terre Rosse, located just 3.6 km from the hot springs, is an excellent place to stay with a superb breakfast.
21. do Natural Wellness in Trentino
Home to the famous Dolomite mountains, Trentino is a region located in the northern part of Italy. It is a stunning area with extraordinary landscapes and a wide range of outdoor activities on offer, such as trekking the 100 km-long San Vili path or enjoying a spa day at Terme di Comano.
For more unique experiences, you can get the benefits of practicing yoga in nature in Malga Brenta Bassa, a natural amphitheater surrounded by forests and snow-capped mountains.
If you are feeling adventurous, sign up for a natural Kneipp session to get a foot massage and improve your circulation by walking barefoot on a pebbly stream with icy melted snow water.
In San Lorenzo in Banale, perception walks offer a different kind of touristic experience. You will be invited to put on a blindfold, engage your other senses, and embark on an adventure around town to discover the area through its textures, smells, and sounds.
How to get there: Getting to Trentino is very easy. There are regular train services connecting Verona to its capital, Trento, in under an hour.
22. visit Capri
The island of Capri rose to fame as it is a favorite of celebrities and the jet-setting crowd. It makes for a great getaway whether you plan a day trip to Capri from the Amalfi Coast or stay on the island for a couple of days.
Take a boat tour around the island, see the spectacle that is Blue Grotto, and swim in the refreshing sea. Those who enjoy fascinating views will not be disappointed with taking a chairlift to the highest point on the island.
Anacapri is the quiet part of the island, while Capri town is the fashionable place to be seen. It has plenty of restaurants and cafes to enjoy a sunny day and indulge in people watching.
How to get there: Capri is easy to reach the island via a ferry from Amalfi town, Positano, Sorrento, and Naples. There are more ferry routes in the summer months than in the other seasons, so check the timetable.
Where to stay: If you are staying in Capri, do note that this destination is not cheap. You are likely to find mid-range budget options in Anacapri.
23. road trip through Aosta Valley
Those who love underrated destinations should add an Aosta Valley road trip to their Italy bucket list. It’s the country’s smallest and least populated region, usually known for its ski areas, but in other seasons, it rewards travelers with unspoiled natural scenery, adorable Alpine towns, and beautiful castles and fortresses. It is also an undiscovered wine region and a great place to indulge in hearty dishes like polenta and risotto with local fontina cheese.
One of the best things to do in Aosta Valley is to book a ride on the Skyway Monte Bianco cable car near the famous town of Courmayeur, with two stations that offer jaw-dropping views of the valley and the Mont Blanc.
Travelers who love being active should go hiking in the infamous Gran Paradiso National Park, with Cogne being a great base.
If that is not enough, towns like Avise and Gressoney-Saint-Jean, castles like Fort of Bard and Castello di Fénis, and lakes like Brusson and Arpy are also well worth visiting, as well as the region’s natural thermal springs, which are open year-round.
How to get there: The two nearest airports are Milan and Turin, from which it is easy to drive to Aosta Valley. If you want to properly discover its nooks and crannies, Aosta Valley is best explored by car.
Where to stay: To explore different areas of the region, stay in a central town near the main road. Le Petit Coq in Saint-Pierre, for example, is a great holiday apartment with amazing balcony views.
24. kayak or hike in Cinque Terre
While the five colorful villages overlooking the Ligurian Sea are beautiful in their own right, it is the off-the-beaten-track outdoor adventures in Cinque Terre that make it a bucket list destination.
Hiking the many trails lacing the hillsides between the towns will let you see this UNESCO World Heritage Site up close. The most famous trail in Cinque Terre is between Vernazza and Monteresso. To avoid the crowds, hike some of the lesser-known trails and start early. There is a nominal charge to hike on the trails.
Meanwhile, kayaking along the coastline will bring you to quiet beaches, sea caves, and panoramic views of the villages. Single and double sit-upon sea kayak rentals are available in the several towns of Cinque Terre.
Head down to the waterfront in Riomaggiore to find a kayak rental agency. Lifejackets, a paddle, and a dry bag come with the boats as well as expert advice about where to see the sea caves.
Other guided sea kayak trips depart from Monterosso and paddle beside the cliffs in search of dolphins.
How to get there: The best way to get to Cinque Terre is by train from La Spezia. Train travel between the villages is quite convenient.
Where to stay: Arpaiu is a hotel in Manrola with an unbelievable coastal view. Enjoy the spacious terrace for the stunning sunsets.
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Roundup: Italy Bucket List
While this list includes amazing places and activities, there are many more experiences in Italy that are more than bucket-list-worthy. After all, it is a country full of history, culture, marvelous sights, natural beauty, delicious food and wine. Therefore, you should by no means just stick to the experiences listed herein when you visit Italy.
This list serves as a great starting point to plan your trip as it shows you the multitude of things to do in Italy, but there are even more adventures and sights awaiting you. So add the things you do not want to miss out on to your own Italy bucket list and start planning your Italy itinerary around them.
More about Italy
If you want to have an amazing time in Italy, you might also be interested in these travel guides about Italy:
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