Solo in Italy: The Cities I Loved Most

Solo in Italy: The Cities I Loved Most

Italy is one of those places that somehow lives up to the hype every 👏 single 👏 time.

I’ve traveled it solo, with friends, slowly, and chaotically and every city has its own personality. That said… I do have my favorites.

This ranking is based on vibes, beauty, food, walkability, safety, and how much I’d realistically want to linger there just a little longer with a spritz in hand. Here’s my personal ranking of Italian cities, starting with my number one.

1. Florence

Ugh, Florence is perfect. It’s artsy without trying too hard, stunning without being overwhelming, and somehow feels both grand and cozy at the same time.

The architecture is unreal and every street looks like a painting. Also, the wine culture alone could keep me here indefinitely. It’s one of the cities where I felt the safest walking around solo, even at night, which matters a lot to me when traveling alone.

Key Reasons:

• Renaissance art everywhere

• Amazing wine bars and aperitivo culture

• Walkable, beautiful, and calm

• Safe, chill, and effortlessly romantic

Vibe Check: Get a glass of wine, wander without a plan, and let the city take you where it wants.

2. Venice

There is truly nowhere else like Venice. It feels like stepping into another world. The canals, the bridges, no cars, and a spritz on every corner.

I love the culture around cicchetti (little bar snacks) and hopping from place to place for a drink. It’s not just about seeing Venice, it’s about living it slowly. Once I hop off the train, I just start walking (away from a lot of the main tourist spots) and get lost in the little hidden alleys and neighborhoods on the island.

Key Reasons:

• No other city like it in the world

• Spritz & cicchetti around every corner

• Interesting history and architecture

• Best enjoyed without an agenda

Vibe Check: Book a canal tour like this one https://www.instagram.com/vvtours.it?igsh=em5nNXZzOWNkbXd1 and explore the lagoons while sipping prosecco!

3. Rome

Rome is… a lot. But in the best way! The food is unreal, the history is unmatched, and you’ll casually walk past ruins that are thousands of years old like it’s no big deal.

It can feel overwhelming at times, but once you accept the chaos, Rome becomes top tier.

Key Reasons:

• Some of the best food in Italy

• History literally everywhere

• Lively energy day and night

• Never boring, ever

Vibe Check: If you don’t love crowds…order more wine.

4. Milan

Milan feels very different from the rest of Italy, in my opinion and that’s why I love it. It’s sleek, fashionable, and gives major city girl vibes.

If you’re into fashion, design, and people watching, Milan is such a fun stop. It’s less about sightseeing and more about energy.

Key Reasons

• Fashion and style everywhere

• Cool, modern city feel

• Amazing aperitivo scene

• Feels very grown and chic

Vibe Check: Dress well, sit at a café, and observe.

5. Bari

Bari surprised me in the best way. It’s got beach vibes, lively energy, and some really beautiful spots that don’t feel overly polished or touristy.

It’s fun, a little gritty, and full of life! Hit up Bari if you’re craving sun and something different from the classic Italian itinerary.

Key Reasons:

• Beachy but still cultural

• Fun nightlife and local energy

• Beautiful old town areas

• Feels authentic and lived-in

Vibe Check: Let the itinerary be loose…beach, food, repeat.

6. Verona

Verona is extremely charming. It’s quaint, walkable, and undeniably romantic without feeling overdone.

It’s not a city I’d stay in forever, but it’s perfect for a slower stop where you just enjoy being present. I’ve done quick day trips and overnight stays in Verona which is the perfect amount of time for me here.

Key Reasons:

• Cute and picturesque

• Romantic energy

• Easy to explore

Vibe Check: Slow mornings, long walks, and cozy dinners.

Italy has a city for every mood…whether you’re feeling artsy, romantic, or beachy. This list is purely based on my experiences and the energy I look for when traveling solo. I never met an Italian city I didn’t love! Each one is so different from the other and I think that’s the beauty of it.