Italy in 2026 is a breathtaking blend of ancient legacy and futuristic energy. While the "Eternal City" of Rome continues to draw millions to its stone-carved history, the northern regions are buzzing with the excitement of the Milano-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics. Whether you are a first-time visitor wondering what there is to do in Italy or a seasoned traveler looking for cool things to do in Italy, this year offers more variety than ever before.
From the sun-drenched lemon groves of the Amalfi Coast to the high-fashion districts of Milan, planning your itinerary requires a balance of iconic landmarks and hidden local gems. This guide explores the must-do things in Italy, providing you with actionable insights to navigate the country like a pro—all while staying connected with high-speed 5G using a travel eSIM.
Quick Overview: 15 Best Things to Do in Italy
If you are looking for the best thing to do in Italy, you will quickly realize there isn't just one. Italy is a "slow travel" paradise where the journey is as important as the destination. However, keep in mind the time difference in Italy, depending on the country from which you will be traveling.
Here are the 10 things to do in Italy (and five bonus places) that define the 2026 experience:
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1. Rome: Traverse the Colosseum and the Roman Forum.
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2. Vatican City: Marvel at the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica.
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3. Florence: View Michelangelo’s David and climb the Duomo.
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4. Venice: Experience a gondola ride through the Grand Canal.
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5. Milan: Explore the Duomo rooftops and the 2026 Olympic Fan Villages.
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6. Amalfi Coast: Hike the "Path of the Gods" for panoramic ocean views.
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7. Cinque Terre: Trek between the five colorful UNESCO villages.
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8. Tuscany: Indulge in wine tasting in the Val d’Orcia.
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9. Pompeii: Step back in time at the world’s most famous archaeological site.
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10. Dolomites: Ski or hike in the Italian Alps (host of the 2026 Games).
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11. Lake Como: Visit the luxury villas of Bellagio and Varenna.
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12. Sicily: Discover the ancient Greek "Valley of the Temples."
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13. Naples: Taste the original Neapolitan pizza in the historic center.
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14. Verona: Watch an opera in the ancient Roman Arena.
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15. Puglia: Explore the unique Trulli houses of Alberobello.
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#1 Rome: Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill
If you are searching for things to do in Rome, Italy, this is the classic starting point. The Colosseum area is best done as a combined block with the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill because they share the same historical core and are close together.
How to plan it
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Aim for an early time slot to reduce waiting and heat (especially late spring through early fall).
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Keep at least 3 to 5 hours if you want to see the Forum properly, rather than rushing through for photos.
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Bring water and wear comfortable walking shoes—this is uneven ground, steps, and open areas.
Why it is a must-see Italy experience: Rome’s ancient sites are among the most recognizable landmarks in Europe, and they anchor most first itineraries.
#2 Rome: Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica
For many travelers, this is the best thing to do in Italy if you want world-famous art and architecture in one place.
What to know
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Expect security checks and crowds at peak times.
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If you can, choose an early entry time for museums and visit the basilica in a quieter block (often later afternoon can be calmer than midday, depending on the season).
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Plan breaks: even fast walkers can feel “museum fatigue” here.
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The capital of Vatican City is Vatican City itself.
Tip for trip flow: Pair the Vatican day with a slower evening (Trastevere or riverside walk) so you do not stack too many intensive sights back-to-back.
#3 Rome: Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, and a classic piazza walk
This is one of the most photographed routes in Italy, and it is ideal for travelers who want to see things in Italy without committing to a full museum day.
How to enjoy this area
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Go early morning for photos or later evening for a calmer experience.
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Combine with the Pantheon and nearby piazzas for a high-value walking route that does not require heavy planning.
Important: Starting February 2, 2026, Rome introduced a €2 access fee for tourists who want to go down to the close-up viewing area/steps at the Trevi Fountain during set hours (the broader piazza view remains possible without that close-up access).
#4 Florence: Duomo complex (Cathedral, Dome, Bell Tower, Baptistery)
Florence is the heart of Renaissance-era Italy, and the Duomo area is where most visits begin.
Best approach
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If you plan to climb (dome or bell tower), do it earlier in the day.
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Keep your schedule realistic: Florence is compact, but lines can still add up.
This is one of the most consistent answers to what to do in Italy for first-timers who want architecture and city views in one stop.
#5 Florence: Uffizi Gallery (Renaissance masterpieces)
If you are selecting one major art museum in Italy, the Uffizi is a top contender.
Planning tips
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Book ahead during busy seasons to protect your schedule.
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If you’re not a heavy museum person, set a “top highlights” plan and do not try to see everything.
Also Read:
#6 Florence: Accademia Gallery (Michelangelo’s David)
Accademia is typically a shorter visit than Uffizi but delivers a major “bucket list” moment.
Make it work well
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Go at a quieter time slot if possible.
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Pair it with a simple neighborhood walk and a relaxed meal, so your Florence day is not only queues and tickets.
#7 Tuscany day trip: Siena and San Gimignano (or a vineyard stop)
If you want a break from the big cities, Tuscany is a clean add-on to Florence.
What you get
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Hill towns, regional food, and a slower pace.
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Great fit for couples, families, and travelers who want variety beyond museums.
#8 Venice: St. Mark’s Square and Doge’s Palace
Venice is a must for first visits, but it works best when you mix “iconic sights” with quieter exploration.
What to prioritize
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St. Mark’s Square for the classic Venice feel
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Doge’s Palace, if you want the political and cultural history side of the city
#9 Venice: Ride the vaporetto for canals without the premium price
A vaporetto ride is one of the most practical (and scenic) cool things to do in Italy because it doubles as transportation.
Why it matters for planning
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It helps you move efficiently and gives you canal views without needing multiple private rides.
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It is an easy “Venice win” for first-timers.
#10 Venice islands: Murano and Burano
These islands add variety and help you avoid spending your entire Venice stay in the busiest lanes.
What to expect
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Murano is the better pick for glass heritage.
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Burano is perfect for photography, slow wandering, and a lighter half-day pace.
#11 Milan: The Brera District
For things to do in Italy for young adults, the Brera district is the place to be. It combines high-end art galleries with trendy cafes. It is also the best spot to experience Aperitivo—the Italian tradition of pre-dinner drinks and snacks.
Milan Italy Attractions: Fashion, Faith, and the Olympics
In early 2026, Milan, Italy, will be the global focus during the Winter Olympics. The city has transformed into a sports and culture hub, with "Fan Villages" set up in Piazza del Cannone.
Duomo di Milano and The Last Supper
The Duomo is a Gothic masterpiece that took six centuries to finish. Walking on its roof among 3,400 statues is one of the most must-do things in Italy. Nearby, at Santa Maria delle Grazie, is Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper.
#12 Milan: The Last Supper (timed-entry priority)
If you can get tickets, this is a high-impact stop and one of the most time-sensitive bookings in Italy.
Planning advice
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Treat this as a “schedule anchor” and plan the rest of your Milan day around it.
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If tickets are not available, keep Milan in your itinerary for the Duomo area and neighborhoods—do not scrap the city entirely.
#13 Lake Como (day trip from Milan)
Lake Como is one of the easiest scenic add-ons from Milan and a strong “relaxation counterbalance” to city touring.
How to do it well
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Choose one or two lakeside towns rather than trying to do everything.
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Keep your plan simple: ferry ride + lakeside walk + meal + one viewpoint.
#14 Cinque Terre: villages + coastal trail segments (when open)
Cinque Terre is a top answer for travelers searching for 10 things to do in Italy because it has iconic scenery and is fairly easy without a car. Italy's things to do are not complete without a visit to Liguria. The five villages—Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore—are linked by a scenic train line and ancient hiking paths.
Smart way to plan it
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Use trains between villages and choose short walking segments rather than trying to hike everything.
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Check for trail conditions before you commit—access can change due to maintenance.
#15 Amalfi Coast: Positano + a hike (Path of the Gods) OR a viewpoint town (Ravello)
The Amalfi Coast can be a highlight, but it is not the best place to “over-schedule.” Choose one main base and keep daily plans realistic.
Two strong options (choose based on your style)
Option A: Active day
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Path of the Gods hike (start early)
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Positano viewpoint stop and beach time
Option B: Relaxed day
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Ravello viewpoints + gardens
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Slow lunch with a view
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Easy coastal walk
#Bonus: Best Things to Do in Italy for Young Adults
When focusing on things to do in Italy for young adults, nightlife, social hostels, and active day trips become more important. Key social areas include Trastevere and San Lorenzo in Rome, Santa Croce and the university area in Florence, Navigli in Milan, and Campo Santa Margherita in Venice.
Popular must-dos in Italy for this age group include group tours on the Amalfi Coast, Aperol spritz evenings in Florence or Milan, cooking classes, Vespa rides, and sunset boat trips in Cinque Terre or on the lakes. Multi‑day young‑adult tours often combine several cities with shared accommodation and ready‑made itineraries.
Essential 2026 Italy Travel Tips
To maximize your time and budget, keep these logistical tips in mind while traveling to Italy:
| Feature | Travel Tips |
| Connectivity | Use an Italy eSIM for instant 4G/5G data without roaming fees. |
| Transport | Book Italo or Frecciarossa high-speed trains 3-4 weeks early for 50% savings. |
| Dining | Look for the "Coperto" (service charge) on menus; it is standard and covers bread/service. |
| Entry | Check if you need an ETIAS authorization (required for many non-EU citizens starting late 2026). |
| Hydration | Carry a reusable bottle; Rome alone has over 2,500 nasoni (free water fountains). |
Stay Connected in Italy with SimCorner
Staying online helps with train bookings, museum tickets, and last‑minute changes while you move between the best things to do in Italy. A dedicated SimCorner eSIM for Italy or an Italy SIM card lets you use maps, translation apps, and digital boarding passes without relying on public Wi‑Fi.
Travel smoothly from Rome to Venice, Florence, Milan, and the Amalfi Coast with SimCorner’s trusted services that activate as soon as you land. Check live train times, confirm skip‑the‑line tickets, and share photos from your favorite Italy things to do without roaming fees.
