Famous cities in Italy list. The best cities in Italy - map of Italy with cities in Russian, the most beautiful, large Italian cities

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10th place - Catania

• Population: 315 052
• Region: Sicily
• Square: 180.88 km 2

Atanaia has been the trophy of many empires throughout its history: from the Greeks to the Romans, from the Arabs to the Normans and the Spaniards. However, the locals' worst enemy is right next door - Mount Etna, the largest and most active volcano in Europe, which destroyed the city in a series of earthquakes and a lava flow in 1693. Catania also has a second name - the city is usually called Black: this is due to the fact that it is entirely built of volcanic stone of a specific black color. The color of the city's houses contrasts well with the bright color of the sea and sky (by the way, sunny for 2,500 hours a year). Thus, Catania is the sunniest city in the country.

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9th place - Bari

• Population: 321 687
• Region: Apulia
• Square: 116 km 2

Bari, the capital of the Apulia region, is located at the very bottom of the heel of the Italian boot. “If Paris had a sea, it would be little Bari”, - local residents say with the arrogance of true southerners, and this opinion is very similar to the truth: the air here is filled with the charm of medieval European cities, and the abundance of attractions can easily compete with the historical center of the French capital. In a word, Bari is a kind of miniature cultural capital of the Italian south.

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8th place - Florence

• Population: 379 102
• Region: Tuscany
• Square: 102.41 km 2

Florence is located in the Tuscany region, on the Arno River, at the foot of the Northern Apennines. The city was founded in 59 BC. e. Julius Caesar. Although the Etruscans lived here long before that. In 570, the city was captured by the Lombards, and two hundred years later by the Franks. Florence flourished in the 15th-16th centuries, when the city became a major cultural center. At this time, the great Leonardo da Vinci, Raphael, Michelangelo, Petrarch, and Dante lived and worked here.

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7th place - Bologna

• Population: 379 102
• Region: Emilia-Romagna
• Square: 140.73 km 2

Bologna is a city in central Italy, the administrative center of the province of Bologna, as well as the region of Emilia-Romagna. The oldest university center in Europe. It is considered one of the first cities in Italy in terms of living standards due to both its highly developed industrial traditions and its location at the intersection of important transport routes. In the Middle Ages, Bologna had about 180 towers, which gave the city a special appearance. They were built by rich families, among whom there was a competition: whoever erects the tower higher than others is worthy of the highest honor. Now there are about 12 towers left.

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6th place - Genoa

• Population: 594 254
• Region: Liguria
• Square: 243.56 km 2

Genoa is the capital of the province of the same name and the region of Liguria. This port city is located on the Ligurian Sea and its entire history is connected with navigation and trade. The local harbor is still one of the most important in Italy, as well as one of the largest in Europe. The main attraction of the Genoese port is its lighthouse, known as "la Lanterna". In addition, Genoa is a center of heavy industry and shipbuilding, and is part of Italy's main industrial triangle, which also includes Milan and Turin. Today, Genoa is a city of universities, as well as a tourist and scientific center. In 2004 it was declared the European Capital of Culture.

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5th place - Palermo

• Population: 676 527
• Region: Sicily
• Square: 160.59 km 2

Palermo is located on the shores of the Tyrrhenian Sea, but the city is a heavily used port, so locals and tourists prefer to go to beaches in the surrounding area, where the water is cleaner. However, if you walk along Vittorio Manuele Street to the city gate of Happiness, you can admire a very beautiful view of the sea surface and just sit on the shore, enjoying the light breeze. In addition, Palermo has many gardens and parks, among the most famous are the Botanical Garden with a collection of 12 thousand species of plants, Garibaldi Park with ancient fig trees that amaze with their powerful roots and Villa Giulia, decorated with fountains and lush flower beds.

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4th place - Turin

• Population: 899 291
• Region: Piedmont
• Square: 130.01 km 2

Turin is a large city in northwestern Italy, the business and cultural center of the Piedmont region and the entire north of Italy. The city is located on the Padan Plain at the foot of the Western Alps. Turin is an important transport hub, the second industrial center of the country after Milan. Heavy industry is especially developed here, in particular, automobile manufacturing, ship engine production, aircraft manufacturing, etc. The traditional sectors of the Turin economy - textiles, food, clothing, etc. - also retain their importance. Turin is one of the most famous European cities, it is often called "the capital of European Baroque", "capital of the Alps", "the automotive capital of Italy" And "the cradle of Italian independence".

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3rd place - Naples

• Population: 989 598
• Region: Campaign
• Square: 117.27 km 2

Naples has always been and remains a controversial city - in the capital of the Campania region there is a place of outright poverty and fabulous wealth, rubbish heaps and priceless historical monuments included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. Naples is the largest industrial center in Italy. Metallurgy, mechanical engineering, shipbuilding, oil refining and petrochemical, light and food industries are developed here. This is a large port (cargo turnover over 10 million tons per year).

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2nd place - Milan

• Population: 1 331 586
• Region: Lombardy
• Square: 181.76 km 2

Milan is the second largest city in Italy, the country's largest industrial, financial, trade and transport hub, an important cultural center, as well as a trendsetter in European fashion. The city is famous for its museums, art galleries, theaters, architectural monuments, educational institutions (university, conservatory, Academy of Arts, etc.). Milan, along with Rome, is one of the oldest cities in Italy. In its place was a Celtic settlement. Almost all the conquerors in European history - the Gauls, Romans, Goths, Lombards and Franks, as well as a whole series of rulers from France, Spain and Austria, took part in the governance of Milan at one time.

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1st place - Rome

• Population: 2 870 493
• Region: Lazio
• Square: 1287.36 km 2

Rome is the capital of Italy and the Lazio region, the largest in the country and one of the most visited cities in the world. The city stands on 12 hills, and its center - the old city - on seven hills. The Tiber River flows through the city from north to south. For hundreds of years, Rome was a small settlement in the center of the Apennine Peninsula. However, its advantageous location and aggressive policy, together with a number of innovations in military affairs, gradually brought it to a leading position, first in the region, and then in the region. The Roman state reached its peak under Emperor Hadrian in the 2nd century AD. e., when military and economic power was combined with peace within the empire. The population of Rome exceeded 1 million people.

Rome is a unique city; within its borders there is an entire independent state - the Vatican. It is the main center of Catholicism with an abundance of Catholic churches created by the best Italian architects and decorated with the works of great Italian painters and sculptors. Masterpieces of Italian painting and sculpture are collected in the Vatican and Capitoline Museums, in the Borghese Gallery, and Lateran. Many archaeological finds are presented in the National Museum of Rome, the Villa Giulia Museum. Works of art of the 20th century. collected in the National Gallery of Modern Art and the National Printmaking Cabinet.

Today, as a symbol of the ancient empire and the modern republic of Italy, Rome combines the grandeur of past millennia and the romance of modern times. This is a city of chic restaurants in spacious squares and shady summer cafes in the cramped, narrow streets of old quarters.

All cities and resorts in Italy for travel. List of the most famous regions, regions, cities and resorts in Italy: population, codes, distances, best descriptions and reviews from tourists.

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Cities, resorts and regions of Italy on the map and alphabetically

The first thing you should know is that Italy is very big and very different. The South is completely different from the North, and the mainland is completely different from the islands. Therefore, read useful and brief reviews about all provinces and regions of Italy: regions and islands, South, Center and North of Italy.

Cities of history

The “Eternal City” and the absolute center of Italian history, Rome is a must-see for all lovers of bygone times. The number of Roman attractions is so great that in order to somehow facilitate perception, they are usually divided into broad groups of different historical periods: ancient, Byzantine, medieval, etc. The Vatican with its St. Peter's Basilica and the residence of the Pope makes a significant contribution.

An abundance of ancient ruins is located in the vicinity of southern Salerno - there are three famous archaeological parks here: Pompeii, Paestum and Positano. You can walk along the ancient streets and get acquainted in detail with the structure of ancient cities - from the capitol and forum to the brothel and public toilets. Bonus - the most beautiful mosaics, which to this day have not lost their vivid colors.

Known even from school history textbooks, Syracuse is a significant center of the ancient Greek world and the associated variety of architectural monuments. Visit numerous ancient fortified palaces and admire the greatness of the ancient Greeks in the Neapolis Archaeological Park.

Sweet Naples, soaring measuredly in a trembling haze of heat, leisureliness and contentment with life, is the birthplace of no less sweet Neapolitan songs, as well as the now pan-Italian pizza.

Beaches of Italy

There are almost equal numbers of picturesque rocky and gentle sandy beaches in Italy, and any sun worshiper can find a place to their liking here. Italian beaches are for the most part well (and in some cases simply wonderful) well maintained, equipped with umbrellas, sun loungers and other accessories necessary for a comfortable stay at the water's edge. As a rule, these very amenities are paid, but this is only beneficial for the beaches (and the tourists themselves): this way the number of splashing people is limited - if all the umbrellas and sunbeds are occupied, you need to look for another beach. In addition, the beaches of each region of the country have their own pleasant characteristics. For example, the Venetian Riviera is famous for its wonderful fine dolomite sand, in Sorrento you can dive into a marine reserve and travel through underwater caves, on the Ligurian coast there is a picturesque rugged coastline, and the beaches of the Tuscan Riviera, in addition to the ideal sea and a high level of relaxation, offer stormy nights entertainment, often without going far from the surf line. And of course, the proximity of historical monuments, architecture and art pleasantly dilutes the idle lying on the shore.

Thermal resorts in Italy- 5 different springs with water temperatures up to +34 °C, suitable for drinking, mineral baths and mud therapy.

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This is one of the most popular holiday destinations among tourists from all over the world. The rich history of Italy, its colorful architecture, warm sea and beautiful beaches will appeal to everyone. This is a country of celebration, entertainment, sparkling wine and famous Italian cuisine.

Popular tourist cities in Italy are the majestic Rome, romantic Venice, fashionable Milan, inspiring Florence, amazing Verona and the pearl of the south Naples. Each of them is unique and unique in its own way, and once you visit them, you will definitely want to return there.

City of Rome

The capital of Italy and the most populous city of this country is the majestic. The visiting card of the city, the Colosseum, is the ancient Arena, built back in 72 AD. The Roman Forum, Pantheon, Sistine Chapel, and many other attractions amaze with their splendor.

In the vicinity of the city is located the small state of the Vatican, the main Catholic center of the whole world. Every year it is visited by a huge number of tourists. Rome is a striking combination of modern buildings and ancient structures.

Venice city

Have a nice holiday in the best cities of Italy!

During the Middle Ages, Venice, Florence, Milan, Genoa and other large Italian cities were independent communes with their own army, treasury and legislation. It is not surprising that these "states", which are part of modern Italy, have retained many unique features that make them different from each other. What is known about them?

Italian cities: Rome

The "Eternal City" was built on seven hills in 753 BC. According to legend, its founders were the brothers Romulus and Remus, whose distant ancestor is the brave man who became famous thanks to the Trojan War. Archaeologists insist that the first settlements here were formed much earlier. All Italian cities are beautiful, but none of them compares to Rome in beauty. The capital of modern Italy is a visual aid for those interested in ancient architecture.

Once a small village, it covers 1,285 square kilometers. The number of inhabitants of the capital exceeds 3 million. The city's territory contains many examples of ancient architecture, for example the Pantheon, built before our era and perfectly preserved, the Colosseum amphitheater - a huge stadium where gladiatorial battles once took place. Today it provides space for 50 thousand people. The capital is home to the Vatican City State and its colossal museum complex, which includes over 1000 objects. St. Peter's Basilica is also located in Rome - a temple that is considered the largest in the world.

Interesting legends and traditions are associated with many places in the capital of Italy. For example, custom tells visitors to throw a coin into the Trevi Fountain if they want to return to Rome.

What is known about Venice

If any settlement can compete with Rome in terms of the number of ancient attractions, it is Venice. Like other Italian cities, the “bridge” that unites West and East has its own flavor. Venice is located on an island archipelago, dotted with its famous canals. The length of the water artery as a whole is about 4 km, in certain places the depth reaches 5 m. The city is located on the coast of the Adriatic Sea.

The area of ​​the city is 412 square kilometers. Over 300 thousand people live in Venice. Also, the city is always full of tourists who are attracted not only by the opportunity to swim on a gondola. It is in Venice that the majestic Doge's Palace is located - a 15th-century building built in the Gothic style. Modern architecture is also interesting, for example, the buildings of Burano. Burano is a small island, the houses of the inhabitants of which are colored in all shades of the rainbow. The city owes its famous Venetian Gardens to Napoleon.

Facts about Florence

The flowering of Italian cities, which began in the 11th century, turned Florence into one of the most powerful communities of the time. However, the history of this place began before our era with a small settlement founded by the Romans. Now it is a large settlement, on the territory of which about 350 thousand people live. The city's area is 103 square kilometers and is located on the Arno River. Florence is almost officially recognized as the birthplace of the Renaissance. It is not for nothing that it is called a museum city, open 24 hours a day.

Florence gave the world many geniuses, including Galileo and Dante. It is the birthplace of some famous artists, for example, Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo. The pride of the city now houses paintings by Titian, Raphael, and da Vinci. The city architecture is also interesting, for example, the temple of Santa Maria del Fiore, whose construction took place over 140 years. It is curious that Michelangelo was entirely responsible for the interior decoration of the cathedral, while the equally famous Giotto worked on the exterior.

What is known about Naples

Which Italian city is considered the most energetic? Of course, Naples, comfortably located on the southern coast of the country. The streets of this locality are filled with cars, scooters and pedestrians, but no one bothers each other. Neapolitans give the impression of being the busiest people in the world, but will always find a few minutes and smiles for foreigners. It is believed that it was the inhabitants of Naples who were the first to come up with carnivals.

Among Italian cities, Naples is the third largest. Currently it is home to about a million people. The settlement is located in a seismic zone, as there is an active volcano Vesuvius on its territory. The last eruption took place in 1944.

Milan's past and present

In the Middle Ages, Milan was included in the list of the most powerful Italian city-states. Apart from Rome, it is the largest populated area in the country. Milan's area is about 2 thousand square kilometers and over 1.3 million people live on its territory.

Today, Milan is the financial and economic capital of Italy, and the city is also one of the world's fashion capitals.

Where did Romeo and Juliet live?

When listing medieval Italian cities that played an important role in the history of the country, Verona cannot be missed. This small settlement owes its fame primarily to the great Shakespeare, who “settled” here the most famous literary characters in the world - Romeo and Juliet. Juliet's House was built back in the 13th century; on its territory there is a statue of this young girl, whose story turned out to be so tragic. The famous balcony also attracts tourists.

The city is located in the northeast of the country, located on the Adige River. It is home to approximately 260 thousand people. Interestingly, the small city attracts about 3 million tourists every year, probably due to its romantic history. Medieval buildings have also been preserved on its territory, among which the most famous is the Verona Cathedral - a complex, part of which was built in the 12th century. Also here is the Roman Arena - one of the oldest stadiums in the country.

When naming famous Italian cities, one cannot ignore Bologna. The city is famous primarily for its developed industry, thanks to which it has maintained a high standard of living for several decades. Currently, the number of its inhabitants is approaching 400 thousand. The settlement also has its own patron, Saint Petronius.

Interestingly, it is in Bologna that it is located. According to historical documents, this institution has been accepting students since 1088. Of interest to connoisseurs of medieval architecture is Maggiore, on whose territory you can see palaces built in the 13th century. The city is also rightfully proud of its “leaning towers”, preserved from 1109.

The unofficial name of Bologna is "Fatty". This is due to the fact that they serve amazing dishes, the recipes of which are kept secret by the locals.

Of course, Perugia is far from the most famous Italian city, but it is one of the most ancient settlements in the world. It is first described in chronicles created in the 9th century BC. The city, which has survived many buildings, is famous for its history, full of colorful events that can be studied in any of the local museums.

Modern Perugia is a “fortress” located on a ridge of hills. Students who want to master the Italian language should stop at the University for Foreigners, which is located in this city, which is the birthplace of many famous artists of the Middle Ages, including Raphael.

The Greatness of Genoa

In ancient times, Genoa retained its status as an important port hub for centuries, being located on the northwestern Italian coast. Trade flourished in this city, and the standard of living of its inhabitants almost always remained high.

Genoa has managed not to get lost even today. Proof of this is the title of European Capital of Culture, awarded to the locality in 2004. The city is interesting for its magnificent palace complexes in the Baroque style, ruins preserved from the times of Ancient Rome, and cozy ancient churches. The historical center is literally strewn with interesting sights.

What is known about Turin

The names of Italian cities that played a role in the centuries-old history of the state are not yet complete. It is impossible not to talk about Turin, which served as the capital of the country for four years after its unification in 1861.

Today's Turin is full of museums that never end, luxury boutiques cozily adjacent to souvenir shops, excellent restaurants where tourists can comfortably experience the delights of local cuisine. This city will appeal to those interested in Baroque architecture, as many palaces are created in this lavish style. By the way, it was here that the Winter Olympic Games took place in 2006.

Other cities in Italy

Siena is a city that has been located on three hills for many centuries. Many buildings of this settlement are under the protection of UNESCO, as they are of great historical value. Only the approximate date of the founding of Siena is known - 9-5 centuries BC. Legend attributes the construction of the city to the sons of Remus, the founder of Rome. made in the shape of a shell.

Pisa is a place that almost everyone has heard of thanks to the famous Leaning Tower, which has become its unofficial symbol.

These are the most interesting cities for which Italy is famous.

During the holiday period, many of our compatriots choose beautiful Italy as a holiday destination. For those who are no longer surprised by the bustle of the eternal city of Rome and the shopping of Milan, our selection of the most cozy Italian cities on the seashore.

Probably, each of us has ever dreamed of spending, if not life, then at least a vacation in a quiet village on the seashore, drinking coffee and tasting wine in local restaurants, listening to the voices of seagulls and the sound of the surf.

Let's choose!

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Vernazza is considered the most organic, beautiful and picturesque town of the Italian “five lands” (Cinque Terre) of Liguria. Today, just over a thousand people live here, so Vernazza is also one of the quietest towns, and only calm Manarola can compete with it. Against the background of multi-colored multi-story tower houses, the older medieval walls of galleries, palaces, a monastery and, of course, the castle, whose low walls once protected the peace of local residents from pirate raids, catch your eye. On the narrow streets of Vernazza, going down to the sea at steep angles, at almost every step you can see boats “parked” near houses as natural as the cars parked in our courtyards at the entrances look.

Portofino is a resort on the Ligurian coast. It is surrounded by hills covered with olive trees. From the windows of the observation cable car, the entire town is visible at a glance. Guy De Maupassant loved to be here, who wrote about Portofino: “This green bay in the kingdom of harmony and peace contrasts so much with all the vain worries of our life.” It has everything: untouched nature and magnificent beaches, architectural monuments and expensive shops. The former fishing village has turned into an amazing resort that world celebrities love to visit.

Atrani is a small town on the west coast of Italy, in the Campania region, province of Salerno. Atrani carefully preserves its medieval origins and, with its picturesque alleys, arches, courtyards, squares and stairs, looks like a festive Christmas decoration washed by the sea. During the Amalfi Republic, the most noble families lived in this town. The coronation and burial of the doges took place here. Atrani is located just 700 meters from Amalfi, in a natural amphitheater surrounded by huge, soaring cliffs. The center of Atrani is located away from the noisy roads of the coast, as only local residents are allowed to enter the city: this helps to maintain a pleasant and relaxing atmosphere in the city.

Positano is one of the most famous resorts in southern Italy, located on the shores of the Gulf of Salerno, on the Amalfi Coast. The beauty of the local landscapes made Positano a Mecca for artists back in the 19th century. The town is scattered across three small valleys, sandwiched between the mountains and the sea. Characteristic colorful houses climb the steep mountain slopes. From almost anywhere in the town there is a magnificent view of the sea. Positano has been known since Roman times. According to legend, it was founded by the god of the sea himself, Neptune (Poseidon). The Galli islets off the coast of Positano are mentioned in the Odyssey - according to Homer, this is where the Sirens lived. Since the Middle Ages, the town has preserved watchtowers built to protect against Saracen pirates.

Ravello is a city of music with romantic gardens, cool alleys and medieval architecture. In the 11th – 13th centuries, at the invitation of wealthy merchants, Arab architects came to Ravello and erected luxurious palaces here. To this day, Ravello has retained the charm of an ancient village. Ravello's rich culture is closely linked to its musical heritage. Wagner often vacationed here, in love with this place, which inspired him to write many of his famous works. Every year in the summer a symphonic music festival named after him is held here. From the slopes of the terrace on which Ravello is located, magnificent views of the Amalfi Coast open up.

Manarola is a small fishing town in Liguria, northern Italy. The city is located on a cliff overlooking the wild coastline of the Ligurian Sea. It is also one of the five towns that make up the Cinque Terre. Manarola is the oldest and one of the smallest cities of the famous five. In the center of the town is the Church of San Lorenzo, built in 1338. In the western part there is a small harbor, and in the east there is a square where local residents often gather to discuss any important issues. Although there is no beach, it is a good place for snorkeling and exploring caves and rock crevices. A special staircase was built to descend to the water. The main industry here is traditionally fishing and winemaking. Even during the Roman Empire, the local wine was valued for its excellent taste.

Sorrento has always been known as a prestigious holiday destination: Roman patricians built villas in the vicinity of the city, and Emperor Tiberius himself settled on the nearby island of Capri. Sorrento is located on steep cliffs of volcanic tuff, plunging into the Gulf of Naples. Piazza Tasso can be called the heart of Sorrento. It is from here that the main shopping street, Via Corso, begins, famous for its restaurants, shops and clubs. Sorrento has two ports - Marina Piccola and Marina Grande. Every morning, sea rockets depart from Marina Grande to the islands of Capri, Ischia, Procida and the neighboring cities of Positano and Amalfi.

40 kilometers from Genoa is the small town of Rapallo. There are many historical monuments here - ancient cathedrals and churches, the oldest is considered to be the church of St. Gervasio and Protasio, which is mentioned in ancient manuscripts of the 6th century. Rapallo is a very clean, noble and cozy city. Hemingway liked to stay in one of the best hotels of the 19th century, located on a high bank near the port. Every day snow-white yachts moor to the shores of Rapallo.

Lerici is a bizarre mixture of buildings, small coves and rocky cliffs that jut into the sparkling sea. This is a favorite holiday destination for residents of the northern part of Italy, as here you can enjoy a quiet, comfortable holiday away from the crowds of foreign tourists. The main attraction of the town is the ancient medieval castle.

10. Castigliocello

Castiglioncello is a small town in the province of Livorno, located on a cape washed by the Tyrrhenian Sea. The city is surrounded by pine and oak forests, as well as picturesque hills that literally break off and fall down, forming cliffs, small bays and cozy coves with charming beaches. The ancient Romans and Etruscans, and later the Medici during the Renaissance, could not pass by the beauty of these lands. Recently, Castiglioncello has become famous as a resort town, where Marcello Mastroianni and Luchino Visconti once built their villas. The town allows you to lead a calm and measured lifestyle, eliminating unnecessary fuss and noise. Castiglioncello is a secluded resort for the elite. Mass tourism is an unwritten taboo here. Therefore, Castiglioncello attracts many creative people, including artists who founded a commune here.