Italy Vacation: 6 Must-See Cities Of Italy

The evening lights of Rome reflect off the river

1. Rome

Rome is the largest city in Italy, and it's also the capital of the country. It has countless ancient monuments, such as the world-famous Colosseum, where thousands of years ago, gladiators fought here to the death. In those days, Rome was the center of a vast empire, and the Roman Forum was a major power center of the ancient world. You can walk today in the very places frequented by Julius Caesar and Roman emperors like Caesar Augustus.

The city also has a wealth of more modern art and fountains. At the famous Trevi Fountain, it's said you will return to Rome if you toss a coin in. But not only does Rome feature ancient wonders and many centuries of art. It is also a vibrant citywith an inimitable zest for life. You'll also enjoy wonderful Roman regional cuisine, with dishes like Saltimbocca and Pasta Carbonara.

2. Florence

Known for its art, Florence is a gorgeous city brimming with palaces and Renaissance architecture. This was the birthplace of the Italian Rennaisance, and leading artists like Leonardo Da Vinci and Michelangelo worked here. You can see Michelangelo's famous masterpiece, The David here - the original is in the Academia Gallery, while a reproduction stands outside in the elements in one of the city's main squares.

The Duomo towers over the red roofs of Florence, giving the city its unique skyline. The Ponte Vecchio is another unique landmark - it's a bridge over the Arno River, that has shops hanging off the sides of the bridge. These have served many purposes over the centuries, but today you'll find some spectacular jewelry shops there - just browsing is amazing. And while you might want to avoid summertime (see When to go to Florence), if you're there when it's hot outside, there are many gelaterias to tempt you with their cool gelato offerings.

Gondolas in Venice

4. Venice

Linked by a series of canals, Venice is a feast for the eyes. It's a truly a unique experience. As there are no cars or trucks in the city, you can enjoy being a pedestrian in Italy. There are many narrow, winding, cobbled streets to stroll, with small courtyards tucked away here and there, and frequent bridges over the canals. The other way to get around is by boat - either on a vaporetto (like a boat bus), or on one of the traditional and romantic gondolas.

St Mark's Square is world famous, with its cathedral of golden mosaics dominating the scene. It's a large square, and you can sit and relax, enjoying a real cappuccino as you watch the people go by. You can also visit the smaller outer islands, and watch glass blowers at Murano, or lace making on Burano.

5. Verona

If you would like to see Juliet's house, made famous in Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet, then Verona is the city to visit. Juliet's house is a medieval house and its name in Italian is Casa di Guilietta. Thousands of people from all over the world flock to visit it each year, and you can imagine the forlorn lovers and their tragic story.

But that's not all Verona has to offer. Verona dates back to Roman times, and there's a Roman amphitheater here that dates from 290AD. It can easily house 20,000 spectators today - the Romans did things big! There is also a summer open air opera festival featuring night-time performances.