It’s no secret that Italy is one of the most romantic travel destinations in the world. Perhaps this is part of the reason why, in 2017 alone, over 420 million people visited the country.
If you’re headed to Italy for a honeymoon or for a romantic getaway, you’re probably wondering where to go.
Standing in line for a museum elbow to elbow with tourists isn’t exactly romantic, so where should you head in Italy for a romantic, intimate vacation? With so many different tour options, like the popular Colosseum tours, what are the must see areas?
Check out this guide to learn where to go in Italy for a romantic vacation.
1. Venice
We can’t talk about romantic places in Italy without talking about Venice. Famed for its gondola-filled canals, Venice is a city unlike any other on earth.
While this city is certainly bustling with tourists, there are plenty of romantic nooks and crannies for you and your partner to discover. Plus, the whole city itself is just oozing with love and romance, which somehow makes the crowds of tourists a bit more bearable.
Obviously, taking a ride down a canal in a gondola is the most romantic thing to do in Venice. However, there are other less cheesy romantic adventures to partake in while in Venice.
We suggest catching the sunset at St. Mark’s Square, checking out some Venetian art at the Church of the Frari, exploring the Dorsoduro district, or enjoying lunch on Torcello Island.
2. Verona
Verona is the setting of the world’s most famous play, Romeo and Juliet, so it’s no wonder that this city makes the list.
In addition to taking a picture near the famous balcony from the play, there’s a lot to do here for romantic partners.
We suggest first heading to the Galleria d’Arte Moderna Achille Forti, where you can view stunning collections of artwork. If you’re looking to enjoy some time in nature, then you must also head to the Giardino Giusti. This is a magnificent garden that’s filled with well-manicured plants and stunning statues.
The city is also home to some beautiful basilicas, namely, the Basilica di San Zeno Maggiore and the Basilica di Sant’Anastasia.
3. Pienza
Located amongst the rolling foothills of Tuscany, Pienza is often a site that gets looked over by many tourists.
However, if you and your partner are looking to escape the crowded cities, this is great news.
Named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996, Pienza is home to some of the most magnificent Renaissance buildings in all of Italy.
In addition to Renaissance architecture, the town offers beautiful views of Tuscany. And, if you go here during the month of September, you’ll get to experience the town’s annual cheese festival, in which they celebrate one of the town’s main products- pecorino cheese.
In fact, even if you aren’t here during the month of September, we suggest getting your hands on this delicious cheese, as Pienza is considered the “capital” of pecorino.
4. Chianti
No trip to Italy is complete without a visit to Chianti.
This town encompasses pretty much everything you’d imagine about a picture-perfect Tuscan town- cozy farmhouses, vineyards galore, rolling hills, and of course, plenty of wine and cheese.
Obviously, the thing to do here is to go wine tasting in the vineyards. However, we also suggest taking a couple’s cooking class in one of the farmhouses.
5. Florence
Considered the birthplace of the Rennaissance, Florence is also one of the most romantic cities in all of Italy.
Even if you’re not an art buff, you’ll be sure to be impressed by magnificent treasures like Michaelangelo’s Donatello at the Museo Del Bargello, his La Pieta at the Grande Museo del Duomo, and Ghiberti’s Porta del Paradiso, along with many other famous works.
For an especially romantic sunset, we suggest heading to Michelangelo’s Piazza.
And, in addition to museums and artwork, Florence is also home to many beautiful palaces, churches, and restaurants.
You can also check out this guide to learn about how to see the sights in Florence.
6. Genoa
For your trip to Italy to be complete, you must visit at least one port city, and for that, we recommend heading to Genoa.
Located on the coast of the Ligurian Sea, Genoa is now home to one of the largest historic centers in all of Europe.
Here you’ll find cobblestone streets, magnificent 16th and 17th-century palaces, and beautiful cathedrals.
Plus, for something a little different, you can head to the Genoa Aquarium, which is Europe’s largest aquarium.
7. Capri
For a relaxing seaside escape, we suggest heading to the island of Capri. Capri is an island in the bay of Naples, and it’s known for its world-class shopping, luxury hotels, and rugged landscape.
One of the best-known sites in Capri that is definitely worth exploring is the Blue Grotto. This is a dark cavern, and as the sunlight passes through the cave, you can see the sea glowing an electric blue.
In the summer, the Capri coastline is dotted with yachts.
While you may not be able to afford a luxury yacht just yet, there are plenty of ferry rides and boat tours that allow you to enjoy this beautiful island.
8. Siena
Last but not least we have Siena. Siena is another city that often gets looked over by tourists, but it is without a doubt one of the most beautiful cities in all of Italy.
Home to magnificent medieval brick buildings, Siena is home to some of the world’s most-renowned Gothic artwork, as well as one of the most beautiful churches in the world- the Siena Cathedral.
Where to Go in Italy: Are You Ready for a Romantic Vacation?
Now that you know where to go in Italy for a romantic vacation, it’s time to start planning your trip.
Before you know it, you’ll be sharing a gondola ride with your loved one in the canals of Venice or sipping wine amongst the hills of Tuscany. Also, if you liked this post, be sure to check back in for more travel-related tips and tricks.
