There are so many exciting things to consider while anticipating a trip to Italy. In today’s world, we are consumed with where we can capture the perfect photo of the most exquisite view. There are an overwhelming amount of incredible overlooks and points of interest in Italy that it’s hard to know where to catch the best view. We’re wondering where those photographers get stunning postcard-worthy pictures of the Bel Paese but wonder no more. Italy is full of spectacular views, whether you are atop an active volcano or looking out from the bell tower of a gorgeous sun-bleached church. The best part about these views is that you don’t need to be a professional photographer to fill your camera roll. Head to these vantage points on your next “Vacanza Italiana”. Whether you wander early in the morning or at dusk, bring your camera with you or take a moment to soak in the beauty. Here is a short list of suggestions for you!
Piazzale Michelangelo, Florence
Piazzale Michelangelo is the quintessential site in Florence for sweeping panoramic views of the beautiful city and rolling hills. The square is dedicated to Renaissance sculptor Michelangelo and has bronze copies of some of his marble works found elsewhere in Florence: the David and the four allegories of the Medici Chapel of San Lorenzo. There’s a reason why this destination is so popular. There truly is no better place to enjoy the grand vista of Florence.
Janiculum Hill, Rome
(Photo Credit: journeystoitaly.com)
Janiculum Hill or known by Romans as “Gianicolo” is one of the only places in the Eternal City where your eyes can feast on the entire city of Rome in one spot. This panoramic view towers above the city directly above the Trastevere district on the west side of the Tiber River. You’ll see the Pantheon, Spanish Steps and St. Peter’s Basilica among other sites. It is the second tallest hill in the contemporary city of Rome and a famous spot where locals hang out, play with their children and enjoy the best views of Rome in its entirety.
Terrace of Infinity, Ravello
(Photo Credit: Liberty - Fotolia)
The historic Villa Cimbrone in the town of Ravello is home to one of the most spectacular views of the entire Amalfi Coast. The villa was once a noble residence and today it’s a five-star hotel, Hotel Villa Cimbrone. While the villa is private property, its beautiful gardens are open to the public. The main path on the property is called ‘Viale dell’Immenso’ and leads through the beautiful park and gardens, where you can admire small temples, a wisteria covered pergola and historic statues. At the end of the path, you will reach the famous viewpoint called the ‘Terrace of Infinity’, where you will get lost in the blue waters of the Mediterranean below.
Lago di Braies, Dolomites
Lago di Braies is one of the most beautiful natural settings on the planet. It’s arguably the most iconic sight in the Dolomites and famous around the world over for its emerald waters, picturesque boat house, gorgeous spruce pines forests and towering limestone peaks. Even more stunning than the photos, plan a sunrise visit to avoid the crowds and savor the epic beauty.
Alberobello, Puglia
Located in the scenic Valle d’Itria, Alberobello is known to be the trulli capital of Puglia. Alberobello is a UNESCO World Heritage site because of its “trulli” which are remarkable examples of drywall (mortarless) construction, a prehistoric building technique used in Puglia. Trulli are made of roughly worked limestone boulders collected from neighboring fields. They feature pyramidal, domed or conical roofs built up of corbelled limestone slabs. Your first stop on your visit to this unique town should be Rione Monti. Up a slight hill, this area is where you’ll find the highest concentration of trulli in Alberobello, containing over 1000 trulli and almost no other type of building. It’s the best spot to observe and admire the particular architecture.
Arianna DiCicco
Arianna DiCicco is an educator and writer from California, born into an Italian American restaurant family with strong ties to her grandparents’ home in Abruzzo, Italy. She has lived in San Francisco, Rome and New York City where she’s made deep connections within the Italian communities and gained new perspectives about her own culture. With a Masters in International Education, Arianna has a love and passion for learning and educating others about Italian history & culture.