Things to Do in Venice, Rome, and Florence in Italy

A visit to Italy will 100% be worth your time, energy, and money! Italy is worth a visit at least once in your lifetime, as it is home to world-famous cities, art galleries, and dramatic landscapes. Below you will find things to do in Venice, Rome, and Florence in Italy!

Facts About Italy:

Located in the south, central Europe
Shaped like a boot
The highest number of Roman Catholic churches per capita
Slightly larger than Arizona
People have lived in Italy for over 200,000 years
The longest river is the Po
The ice cream cone, the typewriter, and eyeglasses are Italian inventions
Over 75% is mountainous or hilly

My Experience:

I went to Venice, Italy, and it was the time of my life. Venice is a unique place surrounded by water. I highly recommend taking a gondola or boat ride through the city, as you will see the city from a different perspective. I would love to go to Italy again because there is so much more to explore. Rome and Florence are at the top of my list!

About Florence, Italy:

Florence, the capital city of the Tuscany region, is home to art, history, and architecture. The charming place has beautiful attractions to explore.

Facts About Florence:

Purchase a Firenze Card to skip the lines at most museums
Birthplace of the Italian Renaissance
More than 15 million visitors explore Florence each year.
The Ponte Vecchio bridge is a famous landmark of Florence.
Leonardo da Vinci, one of the most famous artists of the Renaissance, was born in Florence.

Things to Do in Florence Italy:

1. The Best Tours to Book:

Adventurous Tours:

–Hot Air Balloon Tour over Florence– What better way to see Florence than a hot air balloon ride above it?

–Uffizi + David Accademia Tour Exclusive– Sometimes it is better to see museums and art galleries with a guide in that you will learn so much more in return!

–David and Duomo Tour– Who does not want to skip the line? This tour takes you to the Florence Duomo and Accademia Gallery without waiting.

Food/ Drink Tours:

–Florence Sunset Food Tour– Set off as the sun dips over the horizon and spend an unforgettable 3.5 hours eating, drinking, and walking around the hippest neighborhood in Florence.

–The 10 Tastings of Florence with Locals: Private Food Tour– Sample signature dishes that are local favorites on this tour with guides from Florence!

–Pasta Making Class- Learn how to make homemade pasta in Florence as the tour guide promises to provide the secret to making the best pasta dough!

Trip from Florence Tours:

–Tuscany in One Day Sightseeing Tour from Florence– This day trip will stop at some of the most iconic places in Tuscany. This tour covers Siena, wine tasting in the Chianti region, visiting medieval San Gimignano, and snapping photos in front of the Leaning Tower of Pisa.

–Tuscany Wine Tour– Enjoy a stress-free day trip to the Chianti wine region. You will try different types of wine without worrying about transportation on this fun day trip from Florence!

–Cinque Terre and Pisa Leaning Tour from Florence– This tour takes you to swim at the Cinque Terre and gives you free time to admire the Leaning Tower of Piazza Dei Miracoli.

2. Cathedrals and Religious Buildings:

Cathedral of Santa Maria Del Fiore- The Cathedral of Santa Maria Del Fiore took 140 years to complete. Address: Piazza del Duomo, 50122 Firenze

San Miniato al Monte- The San Miniato al Monte church is one of the oldest in Florence and has Romanesque architecture. Views from this church are nothing short of incredible, as you will be able to see the surrounding countryside of Florence. It is also a great spot to witness the sunset.

Siena Cathedral- Siena Cathedral is a stunning gothic church. The church has elements of Romanesque and Florentine Gothic styles. Inside you will find a black and white color theme and artistic masterpieces. Address: Piazza del Duomo, 8, 53100 Siena SI, Italy

Basilica di Santa Croce- This Franciscan Church, built in the 19th century, has the earliest Renaissance paintings. This church also has tombs that you can go and see of some of the most famous people, including Michelangelo. Address: Piazza di Santa Croce, 16, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy

The Baptistery of St. John– This religious building is one you will not want to miss. Did you know? The eight lower panels of the south doors depict the virtues of hope, faith, charity, humility, fortitude, temperance, justice, and prudence. Address: Piazza San Giovanni, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy

3. The Heart of the City

Piazza Del Duomo– Piazza Del Duomo is in the heart of the historic center of Florence. The square is home to various monuments and churches. Address: Piazza Del Duomo, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy

4. Museums:

Uffizi Galleries- The Uffizi Galleries is the best museum in the world. If you love art and architecture, visiting this art gallery is most definitely for you. Get there early, at around 8:15 am, as this museum tends to be overcrowded.
Bargello National Museum- The Bargello National Museum in Florence has stunning sculptures inside a historical building that dates back to 1225. The sculptures were created during the Renaissance by the artists Michelangelo and Donatello.
Galleria Dell Accademia- This art museum is breathtaking. Address: Via Ricasoli, 58/60, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy

5. The Best Views:

Watch the Sunset at Ponte Vecchio- This medieval stone bridge does get packed with tourists; however, it is fun to experience walking along it at least once in your lifetime because it is super historic. Ponte Vecchio, built in 1345, has small, historic shops that sell jewelry or gold.

The Boboli Gardens- This beautiful park has sculptures that date back to the 16th to 18th centuries.

Piazzale Michelangelo- Find the best panoramic view of Florence from Piazzale Michelangelo! Address: Piazzale Michelangelo, 50125 Firenze FI, Italy
Piazza della Signoria- The L-Shaped square in front of the Palazzo Vecchio is unforgetable. Address: Piazza della Signoria, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy

Palazzo Vecchio- Do not forget to visit the town hall in Florence. Address: Piazza della Signoria, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy
Pitti Palace – This royal residence is gorgeous and should be added to your Florence Bucket List. Address: Piazza de’ Pitti, 1, 50125 Firenze FI, Italy

About Rome:

Rome, the capital of Italy, is located in the region of Lazio. It truly is a cultural experience because there is history, archeology, art, religion, and delicious food to try.

Facts About Rome:

-Population: 4.3 million

-Tourism: Most visited city in Italy

-Languages: Greek and Latin were the official languages of the Roman Empire

Best Things to Do in Rome

Tours:

Historical Sites:

Colosseum- The Colosseum is an oval amphitheater in the center of the city of Rome. The Colosseum is the largest amphitheater ever built and still standing today. Construction to hold 50,000 spectators began in 69 AD. This place is known as an arena where many gladiatorial fights took place.

Trevi Fountain- Visiting this fountain is a must-see spot to add to your bucket list. The Trevi is a powerful example of Baroque design with a distinctly mythological character.

Roman Forum- The Roman Forum has Ancient Rome’s most important structures, from shrines to government houses and monuments. Ancient ruins at the Roman Forum include the Temple of Saturn, the Arch of Titus, and the House of the Vestal Virgins.

Baths of Caracalla- The Baths of Caracalla, built between 211 and 224, is the city’s second-largest public bath in Rome. They are an example of imperial spas in Rome.

Churches/Religious Buildings:

St Peter’s Basilica- St. Peter’s Basilica is free to visit, and you can climb the 551 steps to the summit for a fee of $10.00. This panorama view of Rome’s spectacular landscape is stunning.

Pantheon- The Pantheon is a former Roman temple and now a church. You can also pay respects to the Italian kings buried inside the Pantheon.

Basilica di San Clemente- This church is free to enter; however, there is a small fee to go down to the lower levels, which is worth the price. If you are into archeology, visiting this church should be at the top of your to-do list.

Neighborhoods/ Public Areas:

Trastevere- Trastevere is one of the most adorable neighborhoods in Rome because it is home to restaurants, bars, and cobblestone streets. This neighborhood is one that you do not want to miss!

Piazza Navona- Piazza Navona is of the best-known public squares in Rome because street performers and artists are present. Cafes, shops, and restaurants abound.

Spanish Steps- The Spanish Steps, also known as Piazza di Spagna, is where visitors can tread the same stairs that writers Balzac and Byron climbed for inspiration. They are only steps; however, it is stunning during the spring, as blooming azaleas are flourishing and stunning.

St Peter’s Square- St. Peter’s Square, designed by architect Bernini, is one of the most elegant areas in the world. There are over 140 statues and a few fountains in the area.

The Jewish Ghetto- The Jewish Ghetto is one of the most beautiful hidden treasures of the city. It shows the religious, social, and cultural life of the Jews in Rome. Visiting this small neighborhood should be on your Rome Bucket List!

Museums:

The Vatican Museum + The Sistine Chapel- Reserve your ticket to the Vatican Museum in advance to save yourself time. The best way to see the museum is with a guided tour in that they offer a host of knowledge about the place. The Sistine Chapel, spiral staircase, and Raphael Rooms are treasures within the museum.

Galleria Borghese- This museum has a massive art collection. The collection has famous works of popular sculptures.

National Museum of Rome- This is a group of museums scattered in several places in the city. The museums showcase antiques preserving the ancient culture of Rome.

Castel Sant’Angelo- This former castle, now a museum, has a terrace offering stunning views of the city.

Capuchin Crypt- This place contains the skeletal remains of 3,700 bodies.

Shopping:

Porta Portese- Porta Portese is a Sunday morning market you do not want to miss, as vendors sell everything from books to antiques. The main focus is clothes.

Campo de’ Fiori- Campo de’ Fiori is a free market bustling with numerous pizzerias, cafes, and gelaterias that line the periphery.

Hiking:

Giancola Hill- Giancola Hill has a panoramic view of the Eternal City. At the top, you can see some of the most famous buildings in Rome. One building you can see is St. Peter’s Basilica. It is not one of the seven hills of Rome because it sits right outside the ancient city.

Parks:

Villa Borghese Gardens- This park is a landscape garden in Rome containing several buildings and museums surrounding it. It is the third largest park in Rome after the Villa Doria Pamphile and Villa Ada.

Food/Deserts:

Try Gelato- The best place to enjoy gelato in Rome is at Fatamorgana. Also, I heard that Neve di Latte is in a class by itself.

Make Pasta– Take a cooking class in Rome and make pasta.

About Venice:

Venice is the most picturesque city in Italy. It is a city surrounded by canals and over 400 bridges. Below are the best things to do in Venice.

Best Things to Do in Venice:

Tours to Book:

–Venice Private Food Walking Tour with Locals– What better way to experience the taste of Venice than by getting advice from the locals who live there?

–Wine Tasting Tour in Venice– The wine in Venice is delicious. This tour will enable you to try various types of wine in a fun environment!

–Murano and Burano Islands Fully Guided Small Group Tour by Private Boat- These islands are nothing short of stunning, and what better way to go see them than with a professional, friendly guide who will take you there on a private boat?

–Real Venetian Kayak- Venice Tour– Kayaking through Venice sounds like SO much fun!

–Legendary Venice St. Mark’s Basilica with Terrace Access & Doge’s Palace- The best way to visit a museum or church in another country is to see it with a professional guide in that they will have the answers to all of your questions.

–Dolomite Mountains and Cortina Semi-Private Day Trip from Venice– This tour from Venice will enable you to see incredible mountains and places that you never thought you would otherwise!

–Musici Veneziani Concert: Vilvaldi Four Seasons- Looking for a concert to keep you entertained? This one will do just that!

Boat Ride:

Gondola Ride- The best way to see the city is to go on a boat or a Gondola ride. A friendly, knowledgeable tour guide who sings is an experience you do not want to miss.

Views:

Catch a Venetian Sunset- The sunsets in Venice are stunning, as the sky turns pink, yellow, purple, and orange.

If you are looking for a hidden attraction in Venice, then look no further than to climb up this spiral staircase and get a beautiful view of Venice from above. You will see the domes and Campanile of San Marco from up above.

St. Mark’s Square- St Mark’s Square is a public square home to the Clock Tower, St. Mark’s Basilica, Doges’ Palace, and the Winged Lion of Venice. There are a ton of public events held in this space.

Ponte Di Rialto Bridge- The Ponte Di Rialto Bridge is one of the most famous in Venice due to its architecture.

Go to the Top of Marco Companile- The view at the top of this landmark has a stunning observatory deck and view of Venice. Did you know? Drones are banned in Venice. This will be the best view you’ll get!

The Grand Canal- The Grand Canal is a channel running through the city. The sight of spectacular buildings from the water is incredible. As you pass, you will see private water taxis, locally owned motorboats, and police boats.

Cross the Bridge o Sighs- The Bridge o Sighs is a famous bridge made of white limestone that spans the Rio di Palazzo in Venice. It once led to a Venetian prison. It was a convict’s last sight before losing their freedom. Hence the “sighs” as they passed.

Cannaregio District- Stroll along the narrow streets in northern Venice, featuring six historic districts. The Cannaregio district is also known as the former Jewish Ghetto of Venice.

Churches:

St. Mark’s Basilica- This is the most famous church in Venice to visit. The church is unique, as it has a mix of influences. The beautiful domed ceilings and gold-leaf mosaics stand out the most.

Basilica Di Santa Maria Della Salute- Venice suffered the bubonic plague in the 17th century. Post-plague, Venetians built this basilica to honor Virgin Mary, who they believe saved them from much worse. The result was a beautiful baroque-style structure with a dome. This building has become an iconic part of the Venetian skyline.

Famous Buildings:

This Doge’s Palace- Did you know? The Doge was also known as a chief magistrate elected for life by Venetian nobles. This Palace is where the Doge lived. The Palace is home to a museum today. The museum happens to be one of the most famous landmarks in Venice to date.

Stores:

Libreria Acqua Alta Book Store- This is perhaps the most picturesque library known to man in that there are quirky backdrops for photos around the store. All of their books are in bathtubs that have waterproof containers. There is even a full-sized gondola!

Day Trips from Venice:

Glass Making Museum- Stop into Museo del Vetro and learn about the history and how to make Murano glass. The Museum of Glass is in Murano, a city outside of Venice.

Day Trip to Burano- Burano is a smaller city also on water and is reached by a 40-minute taxi from St. Mark’s Square. The area has many bars and outdoor restaurants.

Carnivals/ Cultural Events:

Festival: What better way to experience Venice than to attend a carnival? The carnivals are where citizens dress up in anonymous costumes making fun of the aristocracy without fear. The festival backfired, and criminals got away with crimes behind their masks.

Buy a Venetian Carnival Mask: Even if you are not visiting Venice during an annual festival, the masks are spectacular and super unique to Venice. The people wear masks to hide their true identities. The upper class and peasants would socialize together.

Food/Drinks:

Hotel Danieli- Grab a drink at this 14th-century palace hotel and grab a drink at Bar Dandolo. This 5-star hotel lobby bar is in 3 James Bond films.

Have you been to Italy? Comment down below your favorite places to visit in Italy!

Most Recent Posts: