Italy is one of the most popular backpacking destinations in Europe and no wonder with so many great cities to visit. Unlike many of its European neighbours, Ital doesn’t just have one or two cities worth visiting, but several. Here are five of the best; the ones you must try to stop off at.
Milan
Milan is probably Italy’s most glamorous city. The most northern of the main cities, it is the fashion capital of the country and window shopping on the Quadrilatero d’Oro is a must.
The city also has a big football fan base and two of the best teams in the country: AC Milan and Internazionale. When these two square off at the San Siro, the stadium they both share, it makes for a passionate and fiery atmosphere. If you happen to be in the city on match day, then try to get a ticket for the game. You’ll never forget it!
Venice
A little further south and on the east is Venice, the city of canals. You don’t need to read this article to know that Venice should be on your list of Italian cities to visit as it is one of the most popular tourist cities in the whole of Europe.
With 118 little islands making up the city, there are canals everywhere and there is no better way to explore them than by taking a gondola ride. This romantic means of transport lets you see Venice in a different light and from down low in the boat you’ll think you are in a different world as you sail through the canals.
Florence
Further south again, but more in the centre, Florence is the perfect city for all history and architecture buffs.
From Brunelleschi’s Dome (the city’s highest point) to some of the masterpieces from Michelangelo, there is plenty in Florence to wow at.
And if looking for somewhere to stay in the historic city, take a look at Oh-Florence.com’s cheap Florence apartments to find somewhere comfortable, but not too pricy, to go back to at the end of a long day of sightseeing.
Rome
Like Venice, the capital Rome is of course a must-visit destination in Italy. There is so much to do in the city even away from the tourist hotspots by the Colosseum and The Vatican.
With so many little side streets and hidden corners to the city, nobody can ever see all of Rome. The cafés and pizzerias tucked down the quieter streets are often actually the best ones and you’ll have a great time exploring the parts of Rome that aren’t in the guide books.
Naples
The fifth city to round off the list is Naples, which is again further south – about 190 km away from the capital. Right on the sea there is a lot to do in the water and beaches, but the highlight has to be the pizza.
The city is the birthplace of the pizza and therefore offers the most authentic pizza in the world. After dining at a true Napoli pizzeria, though, you’ll remember that delicious meal for the rest of your pizza-eating life!