Top must-visit attractions in Italy include iconic landmarks, world-famous museums, and unforgettable cultural experiences spread across Rome, Florence, and Vatican City. Whether you’re exploring ancient ruins in Rome, admiring the art in Florence, or enjoying the canals of Venice, there’s something for every traveler.
Here are the top must-visit attractions in Italy, along with the best ways to book your tours in advance with trusted platforms like Viator, GetYourGuide, and Tiqets to avoid long queues and sold-out experiences.” This guide covers the top must-visit attractions in Italy for 2026, helping travelers plan sightseeing, hotels, and experiences around Italy’s most iconic destinations.
🏛 Pantheon Entrance Ticket (Rome)
🕘 Best Time to Visit: Early morning to avoid crowds
⭐ Rating: 3.8/5 (49 reviews)
💰 Price: €5 for adults, €2 for EU citizens (18–25), free for under 18
The Pantheon is one of Rome’s most remarkably preserved ancient landmarks. Built nearly 2,000 years ago, this former Roman temple is famous for its massive concrete dome and open oculus, which still amazes visitors today.
✔ Book Your Ticket:
→ Skip-the-Line Pantheon Tickets on Viator
👻 Rome Ghost Walking Tour
🕯️ Best Time to Visit: Evening for the best experience
⭐ Rating: 5.0/5 (20 reviews)
💰 Price: Approx. €25 per adult
Discover a darker, more mysterious side of Rome on this guided night walking tour. Stroll through hidden alleys and historic streets while learning about the city’s haunted legends, ancient mysteries, and eerie past from a knowledgeable local guide.
✔ Book Your Tour:
→ Night Ghost Walking Tour on GetYourGuide
🖼 Florence Museum Entrance (Uffizi Gallery, Accademia, etc.)
🕘 Best Time to Visit: Weekdays to avoid long lines
⭐ Rating: 4.4/5 (11 reviews)
💰 Price: Varies depending on the museum
Florence is home to some of the world’s most celebrated art museums, including the Uffizi Gallery—famous for Botticelli’s The Birth of Venus—and the Accademia Gallery, where Michelangelo’s David is displayed. Visiting these museums offers a deep dive into Renaissance art and history.
✔ Book Your Museum Pass:
→ Uffizi & Florence Museum Tickets on Viator
⛪ St. Peter’s Basilica Walking Tour (Vatican City, Rome)
⛪ St. Peter’s Basilica Walking Tour (Vatican City, Rome)
🕘 Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon
⭐ Rating: 4.7/5 (11 reviews)
💰 Price: Varies by tour package
St. Peter’s Basilica is one of the most important religious landmarks in the world and a must-visit in Vatican City. Inside, admire Michelangelo’s Pietà, explore the richly decorated interiors, and climb to the dome for panoramic views over Rome.
✔ Book Your Tour:
→ Guided St. Peter’s Basilica Walking Tour on GetYourGuide
These top Italy attractions in 2026 are ideal for first-time visitors, couples, and travelers planning trips during major global events.
🏨 Where to Stay in Italy?
Choosing the right place to stay can make a huge difference when exploring Italy’s top cities and attractions. Whether you prefer a centrally located hotel or a spacious vacation rental, staying close to major landmarks can save time and make sightseeing more convenient.
✔ Find Your Stay:
– Browse top-rated hotels in Rome, Florence, and Venice on Expedia
– Discover unique apartments and villas across Italy on VRBO
Travel Tips for Visiting Italy
Italy’s most popular attractions can get extremely busy, especially during peak travel seasons from May to September. To make the most of your trip, consider booking tickets and tours in advance to avoid long queues and last-minute price increases. Early morning or late afternoon visits usually offer a better experience at major landmarks like the Colosseum, Vatican Museums, and Florence’s top galleries. If you are planning your first trip, these top must-visit attractions in Italy help you experience the country’s highlights efficiently.
If you’re short on time, skip-the-line tours are often worth the extra cost, allowing you to explore more in a single day. Comfortable walking shoes are essential, as many historic areas are best explored on foot. Lastly, staying centrally in cities like Rome or Florence can save travel time and make sightseeing more convenient.
🏨 Where to Stay in Italy for 2026 (Best Hotels Near Top Attractions)
Planning a trip to Italy in 2026 — including Rome, Florence, Venice, Milan, and Tuscany?
To save time, avoid sold-out stays, and access exclusive member discounts, explore this curated Expedia collection featuring top-rated hotels and apartments near Italy’s most iconic attractions.
👉 View Top Italy Hotels & Stays for 2026 on Expedia
Why book through this Expedia collection:
- ✔ Handpicked hotels near major attractions & Olympic host cities
- ✔ Verified guest reviews & flexible cancellation options
- ✔ Member-only discounts during peak travel seasons
- ✔ Ideal for couples, families, and first-time Italy visitors
Tip: With Italy hosting major global events in 2026, booking early helps secure better prices and prime locations.