Throughout history Italy has been home to some of the world’s most renowned artists. Today Italian art is one of the many things that draws travelers to visit Italy. Many cities are go to destination for art lovers, from renaissance paintings to ancient archeological sites and architecture, one does not need to travel far in Italy to be captivated by beauty and history. 

In 2023, Italy’s renowned art cities marked a significant recovery in tourism, achieving a remarkable rebound to pre-COVID levels. According to the Centre for Tourism Studies in Florence, the year concluded with 445.3 million stays in accommodation facilities, reflecting an 8.1% increase compared to 2022. Notably, the hotel segment witnessed a 9.3% growth, while the non-hotel segment experienced a more gradual recovery. Here are the top art cities to visit this year and beyond. 

Milan

A vibrant fusion of fashion and history, Milan is home to the stunning Gothic spires of the Milan Cathedral and Leonardo da Vinci’s masterpiece, The Last Supper. The city seamlessly blends modernity with history making it a go to destination for travelers seeking Italian art. We recommend staying at the Four Seasons Milano for easy access to all the museums and attractions.

Pisa

Beyond its famous Leaning Tower, Pisa boasts the extraordinary Piazza dei Miracoli, featuring the Baptistery and Cathedral—exemplars of Romanesque architecture—a must see for Italian art lovers.. The city’s rich academic history continues to thrive as a bustling university town.

Verona

Famous as the setting for Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, Verona enchants with its medieval and Renaissance architecture. The iconic Arena di Verona continues to host world-class opera performances, drawing music lovers from far and wide.

Naples

A vibrant tapestry of art, history, and gastronomy, Naples is a crossroads of cultures with historical landmarks like the Castel dell’Ovo and the National Archaeological Museum, which houses significant ancient art collections.

Venice

Renowned for its picturesque canals and gondolas, Venice offers architectural wonders such as St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace, reflecting its rich history as a former maritime republic.

Genoa

Known for its labyrinthine alleyways and maritime heritage, Genoa’s historical center is one of Europe’s largest, featuring remarkable Renaissance architecture along the UNESCO-listed ‘Strade Nuove’.

Siena

Famed for its Palio horse race, Siena is celebrated for its medieval architecture, including the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta and the Palazzo Pubblico.

Florence

The birthplace of the Renaissance, Florence is essentially an open-air museum, showcasing masterpieces by Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, and Botticelli. The Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore and the Uffizi Gallery are must-see highlights.

Turin

The elegant capital of Piedmont, Turin is a blend of Baroque, Art Nouveau, and modern architecture. Home to the Egyptian Museum and the iconic Mole Antonelliana, the city reflects its historical significance.

Rome

Italy’s capital is a living museum, featuring ancient monuments like the Colosseum and Pantheon, Baroque squares, and the stunning art within the Vatican. Rome offers an unparalleled journey through Italian art from various historical time periods.