Find out the best attractions in the two must-see cities in Italy, where history, culture, a love of sports and fashion are sure to inspire you.
A diverse and beautiful country, Italy is one of the most fascinating countries you can visit and has something for every type of traveler.
The country is steeped in history and each region has its own charm for all to experience and enjoy. There are several must-see cities in Italy, which can make a trip to the country hard to plan if you’re short of time.
Filled with some of the most impressive sights and landmarks that can take your breath away, Rome is a place with so much history to tell it can be hard to know where to start.
The flowing scenery of Tuscany with its rolling hills and vineyards is a sight to behold, making the region one of the must-visit places in Italy.
The waterways of Venice provide lovers with an atmosphere of relaxation and beauty. The Amalfi coast is a glorious coastline with plenty of quaint towns to relax and unwind in.
Along with so many places to truly unwind and enjoy there are a number of big cities with some of Italy’s most recognizable sights and attractions.
If you don’t have much time in the country, you could easily visit the two largest cities in Italy, Rome and Milan.
Since most Italian’s don’t speak English, I would recommend reading this article on how to stay thank you in Italian which also has other important phrases you will need. It will help you communicate with locals or at least get their attention. As I always say, language unites people.
Must-See Cities in Italy: Rome
Rome is a vibrant city that boasts an incredibly rich history. Not surprisingly, it’s one of the top UNESCO Heritage Sites in Europe and the world.
It may sound obvious, but Rome has it all. For that reason, it’s visiting the Eternal City is a must for anyone visiting Italy.
The Rome Colosseum
The largest structure of Roman Empire history is the Colosseum in the center of Rome and is still the blueprint for most football stadiums around the world.
The Colosseum was a gift to the Roman people and seated around 50,000 spectators. When it opened in around 80 AD, it was mainly used for gladiatorial games.
For its opening, Emperor Titus celebrated with 100 days of games. As well as these gladiatorial games, the Colosseum hosted entertainment in dramas and re-enactments as well as the brutal public executions which were common at the time.
Spectators were shielded from the burning summer heat with a massive retractable awning, which required hundreds of Roman sailors to manipulate the rigging which extended and retracted it.
Eventually, the people of Rome began to lose interest in the games. Following earthquakes and time left untended, the Colosseum is not the best-preserved monument of the times of the Roman Empire in the city.
The Pantheon
The Pantheon has been intact for all of its 2000 years in the heart of Italy. It is the most influential building of ancient Rome, and the temple was built in honor of Rome’s pagan gods.
It has been preserved throughout its life and markings across the brickwork shows the incredible skill of the Roman builders.
The architecture of the building is exquisite and shows a series of intersecting arches that rest upon eight piers.
The dome atop the Pantheon is supported by a series of arches, which the Romans had perfected the use of in order to sustain the weight of their huge buildings.
Vatican City
Along with the cities and the sport and the landscape, travelers in Rome will also be able to visit the Vatican City. It’s the smallest independent state in the world, ruled by the Pope, the head of the Roman Catholic Church.
A site of religious significance, it is also the home of Michelangelo’s masterpiece, Pietà. Located in St Peter’s Basilica, Pietà is a marble sculpture depicting the body of Jesus on the lap of his mother after his crucifixion.
It is a site and a state that captures the attention of Roman Catholic believers and lovers of fine art and history.
The sights are unsurpassable and on Wednesdays, there is the opportunity to experience a Papal Audience. This is an audience with the Pope whenever he is in Rome and for all to see the Pope in action and receive his blessing.
Milan, Another of the Must-See Places in Italy
Along with Rome, Milan is one of the most exciting and must-see cities in Italy. Home to European fashion and some of the most impressive and exclusive restaurants in the world, it is a place that must be experienced.
Milan Cathedral
Taking a walk around Duomo Square and seeing the Milan Cathedral, the city has its fair share of historical sites.
Theaters and museums are open to all, especially those linked with Leonardo da Vinci the famous theorist, painter and scientist. It would not be a visit to Italy without learning more about one of its most famous sons.
San Siro Stadium
For the more modern and sporting tourists, there is no better place to visit than Milan, specifically the San Siro Stadium.
Home of AC Milan and Inter Milan, it’s one of the biggest stadiums in biggest in Europe. It was built in the 1920s and seats around 76,000 people.
The two sides have been two of the most recognizable European teams and regular challengers for the Serie A title, as well as a strong history in the European competitions.
AC Milan, with the enigmatic Zlatan Ibrahimovic up front, has current odds of 1.25/1 to win Serie A in 2021/22 which can be available on online sport betting site 888 Sport, for example. It would be their first scudetto since 2011, which was their 18th championship in their history.
Galleria Vittorio Emanuele
Another must-see place in Milan is the famous Galleria Victorio Emanuele, located in the heart of the city.
Built in 1860s, it’s a 4-story high, shopping gallery where you will find the most famous Italian brands, from Gucci to Prada and the kitsch-chic Versace. Even if shopping for luxury brands is not in your plans, it’s a must-visit place in Milan.
Castello Sforzesco
Another of the top Milan attractions and of the few remaining ancient landmarks is Castello Sforzesco.
This middle-age fortification was built in the 15th century by the Duke of Milan Francesco Sforzo.
Entry to the castle is not free, so you can buy your ticket in advance and explore the castle in your own time. There are several museums within the castle complex, including the Museum of the Rondanini Pietà, where you can see Michelangelo’s last sculpture.
Monza, An Easy Day Trip From Milan
From Milan, you can also go on short trips to the nearby city of Monza, located 17 miles (28 kilometers) away.
This charming city is better known as the home to the Italian Formula One Grand Prix. It’s also an important commercial and industrial place in northern Italy and has a beautiful historic district.
There you will see a cathedral that resembles that of Milan and many medieval buildings and monuments.
There are many other must-see places in Italy but its two largest cities shouldn’t stay out of your itinerary.
The country is an overwhelmingly enjoyable place to visit, with a rich history, fashion, great food, and fantastic people. No matter your travel style, you will find many incredible attractions in these must-see cities in Italy.
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