Italy is a marvelous country rich in history, culture, art, and nature. Each region possesses its charm and traditions, offering visitors unique and unforgettable experiences.

But what are the best things to see in Italy for foreign tourists? In this article, I share my selection of 10 must-visit places, from art cities to enchanting villages, breathtaking landscapes, and hidden treasures.

Join me on this journey to discover the wonders of the Bel Paese!

1. Pesaro, Capital of Culture 2024

Pesaro is a splendid city in the Marche region overlooking the Adriatic Sea. Famous as the birthplace of the great composer Gioachino Rossini, it hosts the prestigious Rossini Festival annually. In 2024, Pesaro will be the Italian capital of culture, opening its doors to art and history through events and celebrations.

Don’t miss attractions like the Cathedral, Ducal Palace, Rossini Theater, Constanza Fortress, and Rossini Museum. Pesaro, a lively and modern city, is the ideal destination for those who love music, culture, and the sea.

2. Val d’Orcia, UNESCO World Heritage

Val d’Orcia, is one of the most beautiful and evocative areas in Tuscany and all of Italy. Situated between the provinces of Siena and Grosseto, it features gentle hills, wheat fields, cypress trees, medieval villages, and castles.

Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2004 for its harmonious landscape and historical-artistic value, must-visit places include Pienza, Montalcino, Montepulciano, Bagno Vignoni, and San Quirico d’Orcia. Val d’Orcia is the perfect destination for relaxation, nature, and art enthusiasts.

3. La Scarzuola, Architect’s Dream

La Scarzuola, a magical and mysterious place located in Montegabbione, Umbria. An architectural complex built from 1956 to 1978 by architect Tomaso Buzzi on the ruins of an ancient Franciscan convent. La Scarzuola represents Buzzi’s dream of creating an ideal, symbolic, and fantastic city inspired by philosophy, history, mythology, and alchemy.

Comprising seven theaters, each with its function and meaning, La Scarzuola is a unique and original work that captivates and fascinates visitors. Accessible by appointment with an authorized guide.

4. Lago di Braies, Pearl of the Dolomites

Lago di Braies, one of Italy’s most beautiful and famous lakes, is situated in the Fanes-Sennes-Braies Nature Park in South Tyrol. Surrounded by the imposing peaks of the Dolomites, reflecting in its crystal-clear waters, creating a fairytale-like setting. With an area of about 31 hectares and a maximum depth of 36 meters, the lake is accessible by car or bus, offering ample parking.

It serves as the starting point for various hikes, including the famous lake circuit, a 4 km trail providing different perspectives. Known for its rowboats available for a romantic lake tour, Lago di Braies is a must-visit for mountain and nature lovers.

5. Matera, City of Stones

Matera, an extraordinary city in the Basilicata region, Southern Italy. Renowned for its “Sassi,” ancient dwellings carved into the rock, constitute one of the world’s oldest human settlements. Divided into two districts, Sasso Barisano and Sasso Caveoso, connected by alleyways, stairs, arches, and rock churches. Inhabited until the 1950s, Matera’s Sassi were declared an emergency zone, leading to the relocation of its residents.

In subsequent years, the Sassi were restored and enhanced, now hosting museums, hotels, restaurants, and shops. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1993 and the European Capital of Culture in 2019, Matera is a unique and fascinating city telling the story and culture of a people.

6. Amalfi Coast, Paradise on Earth

The Amalfi Coast, one of Italy’s most beautiful and renowned regions, located in Campania along the Tyrrhenian coast. Comprising 13 municipalities with colorful houses, lemon groves, gardens, and churches overlooking the sea. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1997 for its exceptional landscape and historical-cultural value.

Must-visit municipalities include Amalfi, Positano, Ravello, and Sorrento, offering a perfect blend of history, culture, and beauty. The Amalfi Coast is the ideal destination for those seeking sun, sea, and beauty.

7. Aeolian Islands, Pearls of the Mediterranean

The Aeolian Islands, an archipelago of seven volcanic islands off the northeastern coast of Sicily. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2000 for their geological and biological diversity and historical-cultural importance.

The islands include Lipari, the largest and most populated; Vulcano, the closest to the mainland with black beaches, fumaroles, and a crater; Salina, the greenest and most fertile; Stromboli, the farthest and most active with a continuously erupting volcano; Panarea, the smallest and most chic.

8. Alberobello, City of Trulli

Alberobello, a city in the Puglia region situated in the Itria Valley, renowned for its trulli, traditional rural dwellings with cone-shaped roofs. Built by farmers between the 17th and 19th centuries using dry stone construction without mortar or cement.

Trulli are adorned with geometric, symbolic, or religious decorations painted with white lime on the domes. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1996, Alberobello has become one of Puglia’s most visited attractions. Notable trulli include Trullo Sovrano, the largest and oldest; Trullo Siamese, with twin domes; and Trullo della Chiesa, crowned with a cross. Alberobello is a charming city preserving the charm and tradition of a bygone era.