Wondering where the best places to visit in Italy are?
Here’s a list of our favourite locations along the Giro d’Italia route for you to visit after you’ve visited the popular Italian hotspots of Rome, Venice, Florence, Cinque Terra, Pisa, Siena, Portifino & Milano.
1. Sardinia, Maddalena Archipelago
The Maddalena Archipelago is located on the north-western coast of Sardinia. Consisting of 7 major islands (Caprera, La Maddalena, Budelli, Santo Stefano, Santa Maria, Razzoli, Spargi) and other smaller islands, this stunning landscape is surrounded by clear, beautiful sea.
The Maddalena Archipelago Declared a National Park in 1994, the Maddalena Archipelago is one of the most beautiful, pristine areas of Sardinia.
The beaches and coves are famous for the transparency of its waters and are treasured by locals and tourists alike. and are very appreciated by tourists and foreigners.
2. Alberobello in Puglia
Alberobello, a small town in southern Italy, is famous for its unique trullo buildings (small, historical houses). It has pleasant weather and a slow, peaceful way of life.
When you arrive, the small houses with conical roofs might make you feel like you are suddenly in the midst of a fantasy book. Throughout the area you will find trulli-restaurants, trulli-bars, a trulli museum, and trulli-shops to browse and enjoy.
Unique trullo buildings in Alberobello.
A visit to the Museum of Olive Oil, the Museum of Wine, or the Museum of Handicrafts are all great stops and an excellent chance to get insight on local life and customs.
3. Lake Como – Bellagio
Bellagio, located on Lake Como, is known worldwide for its beautiful villas overlooking the gorgeous waters. This stunning area features parks, gardens, and many old patrician houses. This smaller yet beautiful upcoming tourist destination features many hidden destinations and unique treasures to appreciate.
The stunning Lake Como in Bellagio.
The Town Center features local foods, boutiques, traditions, and shops offering clothing, perfumes, leather goods, and so much more. You can also admire the surrounding architectures such as the Basilica of San Giacomo, a Romanesque church built around the 11th and 12th centuries.
You’ll also want to be sure to walk some of the many acres of parks and gardens that surround the area.
4. Covara, Dolomites
Are you a lover of the outdoors? Then Covara is must-see stop to add to your list. A paradise both in summer and winter, Covara — located in the beautiful Dolomites — enchants visitors and locals with its stunning beauty.
With countless hiking trails, gorgeous natural landscapes including meadows and forests, this area has been called “breathtaking” and “magical”.
Whether you are a mountain biker, mountaineer, or hiker, outdoor enthusiasts can get their fill of adventure in countless ways in Covara.
Explore the great outdoors in Corvara.
A visit to Corvara wouldn’t be complete without a stop to the ultimate mix of nature, relaxation, and luxury: the biotope lake in Corvara. Open from June to September, this lovely swimming pond practically begs you to come in and relax. Beloved by children and adults alike, this pond/children’s pool is surrounding by nature, biologically cleaned (no chlorine is used) and features an adjoining snack bar.
5. Bassano del Grappa
Bassano del Grappa is a medium-sized town located in the Veneto region of northern Italy.
The Ponte degli Alpini (bridge) in Bassano del Grappa.
This lovely area is best known for:
- The Ponte degli Alpini – a covered wooden bridge over the Brenta river
- Grappa – the strong grappa liqueur locally produced (made from leftovers of the winemaking process)
- Its military history
- Its locally-produced ceramics
- Excellent meseums such as the town museium (the Museo Civico) and the Museo della Ceramica at Palazzo Sturm
- the Torre Civica, a fourteenth century tower
- Attractive streets, shops selling local specialities such as ceramics and grappa, churches, bars, cafes, restaurants, botanic gardens
- The Castello degli Ezzelini, a castle complex
6. Valley of the Temples Sicily
Are history and architecture in your top interests? Then be sure to make a stop to the Valley of the Temples.
This enchanted valley features immense artistic and archaeological heritage and is one of the most impressive groups of monuments in all of Magna Greece and perhaps the entire world. The charming blend of natural landscape and cultural environment makes the Valley of the Temples an absolute must-see stop in Italy.
Experience the Valley of the Temples in Sicily.
7. Bormio, Lombardi
Bormio is a renowned spa and resort town, especially in winter. Surrounded by beautiful mountains, it is known for its relaxing spa experiences, skiing, cycling, hiking, mountaineering, and horse-riding opportunities.
Along with beautiful hotels, some areas feature cobbled stresses passing between medieval palazzos, several small churches, a traditional market hall with stone pillars, and a lovely clocktower.
Aerial view of beautiful Bormio.
Be sure to visit the Stelvio National Park and the walks in the surrounding Alto Valtellina area to enjoy waterfalls and beautiful lakes.
8. Montaione, Tuscany
Montaione is a beautiful medieval village surrounded by beautiful vineyards, forests, and olive trees. With a rich history, Montaione is famous for its glass making, along with its notoriously prestigious wine and food (the white truffles are a must-try!).
Options for outdoor activities in Montaione include:
- Horeseback riding
- Hiking
- Moutain biking or cycling
- Strolling through lovely old villages
Montaione is a medieval village surrounded by beautiful vineyards.
9. Stresa – Laggo Maggiore
Stresa is situated along Lake Maggiore in the Gulf of Borromeo overlooking the Borromean Islands, the region’s main attraction. With beautiful countrysides, a comfortable climate, and architectural treasures, Stresa is one of Italy’s most popular tourist destinations.
Stresa is situated along the incredible Lake Maggiore.
Ornamental gardens and absolutely stunning palaces make the Borromean Islands are an essential part of any visit to Stresa. Whether you want to take a tranquil stroll, soak in the sophisticated atmosphere, marvel at the views, or walk the elegant lakeside, Stresa completes our list of the top places to see in Italy.
Want To Join Us Seeing These Beautiful Places?
If these Italian destinations sound like must-see-stops to you, we invite you to join us on our Tour Ultimate Giro d’Italia 2021!
Having spent much of the last ten years in Italy, it is like our second home. We would love to show you around and introduce you to the beauty, delicious food, great cycling, and stunning sights of Italy.
