No matter where you are in Italy, there are interesting things to see and do. However, there are some attractions that are particularly appealing to visitors. In fact, it is these landmarks or attractions that bring tourists to Italy. Here are the top ten most visited attractions in Italy.
1. The Colosseum
This is the largest Amphitheater built by the Romans and it is a spectacular sight. It was used as a venue for shows, sports, and even weddings. Anyone traveling to Rome should definitely include a trip to the Colosseum in their vacation itinerary.
2. The Venice Canals
Venice is often considered one of the most romantic cities in the world and the canals are often the first place tourists head for a romantic ride in a gondola.
3. Pompeii
Pompeii lies at the foot of Mount Vesuvius. An eruption in A.D. 79 devastated the town. Historians and archaeologists have discovered the remains of theaters, houses, baths, streets, and temples. People who visit Pompeii can walk around the site.
4. The Leaning Tower of Pisa
There are few mistakes as famous as the Leaning Tower of Pisa. The tower leans due to shallow foundations and the type of soil where the structure was built.
5. Lake Como
Lake Como is one of the most stunning natural features in Italy. It is an area that often attracts the wealthy and many famous people have bought lakeside homes. The lake is lined with pretty villages and town and the mountains provide a stunning backdrop to the lake.
6. Florence Duomo Santa Maria del Fiore
Many people consider this the finest cathedral in the world and it is the most outstanding feature of the Florence skyline. The cathedral was built between the 13th and 15th centuries. Climbing the 414 steps of the Belfry gives panoramic views over the city.
7. Amalfi Coast
A UNESCO heritage site, the Amalfi coast is located on the Sorrentine Peninsula. The most striking characteristic of this region is the brightly colored hillside houses.
8. Vatican City
There are many significant buildings that attract tourists to Vatican City. These include St Peter’s Basilica, the Sistine Chapel and St Mark’s Square. The Vatican City also boasts some of the most priceless art collections in the world.
9. Roman Forum
The Roman Forum is one of the most historically significant places in Italy. The site once consisted of markets, courts, temples and public buildings. However, it does take a little imagination to envisage this scene from the ruins that remain.
10. Cinque Terre
This is one of the most picturesque regions in Italy. Cinque Terre translates as five villages. These are Corniglia, Manarola, Monterosso al Mare, Riomaggiore, and Vernazza. The surrounding landscape steep hills and oceanside cliffs.
11. Pantheon
A remnant from the Roman Empire, the Pantheon is a perfect architectural example of the achievements of the Romans. The Pantheon is also the resting place for many Italian Kings and other significant figures.
12. St. Mark’s Basilica
Located in Venice, St Mark’s Basilica is one of the most famous features of the Piazza San Marco. In addition to the wonderful architecture and rich history of this building, tourists also come to see the vast collection of artwork the cathedral houses.
Sources
- Main Image: Colosseo [Pixabay]
- Images 1, 3: Colosseo, Pompei [Pixabay]
- Images 2, 4, 5, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12: Venice, Tower of Pisa, Lake Como, Amalfi Coast, Vatican City, Roman Forums, Cinque Terre, Pantheon, Basilica [Pexels]
- Image 6: Santa Maria [Wikimedia Commons]
