Italy’s beauty is legendary, but with 20 distinct regions to choose from, planning the perfect Italian adventure can feel overwhelming. Which destinations truly deserve a spot on your bucket list? After extensive research and firsthand experience, we’ve ranked Italy’s top 10 regions from absolute best to simply wonderful – because let’s be honest, even Italy’s “worst” is still pretty spectacular.
Our Methodology
This comprehensive ranking comes from a balanced perspective, combining expert travel insights with practical considerations. Each region was evaluated on factors including natural beauty, cultural significance, accessibility, food scene, and overall traveler experience.
Top 10 Italian Regions You Must Visit
1. Veneto (Rating: 9.8/10) – The Crown Jewel
Why it’s #1: Veneto offers the perfect Italian experience in one incredible package. Venice alone would secure this region’s top ranking – those legendary canals, the breathtaking Piazza San Marco, and the magical moment when you first step off the train into this floating masterpiece.
Beyond Venice: The region delivers incredible diversity with the wine regions of Valpolicella and Prosecco, romantic Verona with its Roman amphitheater, the stunning shores of Lake Garda, and the dramatic peaks of the Dolomites. Charming towns like Soave and Asolo add intimate moments to your journey.
The Reality Check: Yes, Venice can be crowded and expensive, especially during peak season. But experiencing this UNESCO World Heritage marvel is worth navigating the tourist masses.
Pro Tip: Visit Venice in winter for a more intimate experience, or explore the region’s lesser-known gems for authentic Italian moments away from the crowds.
2. Tuscany (Rating: 9.7/10) – The Romantic Heart
The Magic: Those rolling cypress-lined hills aren’t just Instagram-worthy – they represent everything we dream about when we think of Italy. Florence serves as the Renaissance capital, while medieval gems like Siena, Lucca, and San Gimignano transport you back centuries.
Hidden Treasures: Beyond the famous hill towns, Tuscany surprises with beautiful beaches and islands like Giglio and Elba. The wine regions of Chianti and Brunello di Montalcino offer world-class tastings with stunning vineyard backdrops.
The Downside: Popularity comes with a price. Florence can feel more like a theme park than an authentic Italian city during summer months, and prices reflect the international demand.
Best For: First-time visitors to Italy who want the complete package of art, history, food, wine, and landscape.
3. Piedmont (Rating: 9.5/10) – The Sophisticated Choice
Why Food Lovers Adore It: This is Italy’s culinary crown jewel, home to white truffles, exceptional chocolates, and world-renowned wines like Barolo and Barbaresco. Turin, the elegant former royal capital, rivals any European city for sophistication.
Natural Beauty: From Alpine foothills to vineyard valleys, Piedmont offers refined landscapes without the tourist chaos. Lake Orta provides a peaceful alternative to the famous Italian lakes.
The Trade-off: It’s quieter and less touristy, which can be perfect for travelers seeking authentic experiences but might disappoint those wanting bustling Italian energy.
Perfect For: Wine enthusiasts, foodies, and travelers who prefer discovering hidden gems over checking off famous landmarks.
4. Campania (Rating: 9.1/10) – Drama and Beauty
The Spectacular: The Amalfi Coast’s dramatic cliffs meeting turquoise waters create some of the world’s most photographed scenery. Add the ancient ruins of Pompeii, glamorous Capri, and the birthplace of pizza in Naples.
Cultural Richness: This region offers layers of history from Greek temples in Paestum to the vibrant street life of Naples. The lesser-known Cilento region provides authentic experiences away from tourist crowds.
Challenges: Naples can feel chaotic and overwhelming, while the Amalfi Coast’s narrow roads and summer crowds can test your patience. Prices reflect the international luxury market.
Don’t Miss: The authentic pizza in Naples – it really is the world’s best, and the dramatic coastal drives despite the traffic challenges.
5. Umbria (Rating: 9.0/10) – Tuscany’s Peaceful Sister
The Appeal: All of Tuscany’s charm with fewer crowds and lower prices. Medieval hilltop towns like Spello, Assisi, and Orvieto offer incredible architecture and authentic Italian atmosphere.
Special Experiences: Perugia’s underground Etruscan city is one of Italy’s most mind-blowing historical sites. The rolling countryside provides perfect backdrops for peaceful exploration.
Limitations: Less developed tourism infrastructure and fewer international flight connections. The peaceful atmosphere might feel too quiet for some travelers.
Ideal For: Travelers seeking authentic Italian countryside experiences without the tourist circus.
The Next Tier: Exceptional Regions Worth Your Time
6. Sicily (Rating: 8.8/10) – Ancient Crossroads
Sicily offers incredible diversity with Mount Etna’s volcanic landscapes, stunning Greek temples in Agrigento, and charming coastal towns like Cefalù and Taormina. The food scene represents centuries of cultural fusion.
Challenges: Infrastructure can be unpredictable, and some urban areas show signs of economic struggles.
7. Lazio (Rating: 8.5/10) – The Eternal City and Beyond
Home to Rome, the ultimate open-air museum. Beyond the capital, discover hidden gems like the medieval village of Civita di Bagnoregio and pleasant beach towns.
Rome Reality: Expect crowds, chaos, and incredible history. The graffiti and urban grit can be off-putting, but the historical significance is unmatched.
8. Friuli-Venezia Giulia (Rating: 8.4/10) – The Hidden Gem
This underrated region offers Austrian-Italian cultural fusion, excellent wines, and charming cities like Trieste and Udine. Perfect for travelers seeking authentic experiences off the tourist trail.
9. Sardinia (Rating: 8.3/10) – Mediterranean Paradise
Pristine beaches with turquoise waters rival the Caribbean. The Costa Smeralda attracts international jet-setters, while inland areas offer rugged, authentic experiences.
Cost Factor: Expect premium prices, especially in summer and along the famous coastlines.
10. Puglia (Rating: 8.1/10) – Rising Star
The heel of Italy’s boot offers whitewashed towns, olive groves, and distinctive trulli houses in Alberobello. The Salento peninsula provides stunning beaches and authentic Southern Italian culture.
Planning Your Italian Adventure
First-Time Visitors: Start with Veneto and Tuscany for the classic Italian experience.
Food and Wine Focus: Choose Piedmont, Emilia-Romagna, or Tuscany.
Beach Lovers: Head to Sardinia, the Amalfi Coast, or Puglia.
Off-the-Beaten-Path: Explore Umbria, Le Marche, or Friuli-Venezia Giulia.
Cultural Immersion: Sicily, Lazio (Rome), and Campania offer layers of history.
The Bottom Line
Every Italian region offers unique treasures, from the dramatic coastlines of Liguria to the mountain adventures of Trentino-Alto Adige. Even lower-ranked regions like Molise and Basilicata provide authentic experiences for adventurous travelers seeking Italy beyond the tourist trail
The key to the perfect Italian journey isn’t just choosing the “best” region – it’s selecting destinations that match your travel style, interests, and dreams. Whether you’re sipping wine in Tuscan vineyards, navigating Venice’s romantic canals, or discovering ancient cave dwellings in Matera, Italy promises memories that last a lifetime.
Ready to Plan? Consider visiting multiple regions in one trip to experience Italy’s incredible diversity. Start with one or two top-rated destinations, then venture into lesser-known areas for authentic discoveries that will make your Italian adventure truly unforgettable. To book find out more about Italy contact us today and we can introduce you you to one of our favourite tour operators Typically Holidays, a wonderful family run business.
