15 Best Italy UNESCO Sites to Visit in 2023

This guest article was written by Josh Band from A Backpacker’s World. Josh loves to write about travelling all around the world. From Southeast Asia to Europe, and everything in between, Josh loves to explore and write about his travels.

Introduction

If you’re planning a trip to Italy, get ready to be swept off your feet by the abundance of incredible UNESCO World Heritage sites this country has to offer.

From breathtaking ancient ruins to jaw-dropping art and architecture, Italy is a treasure trove of cultural and historical gems that will leave you in awe. In fact, there are 58 Italy UNESCO sites across the whole country!

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This post will guide you through the best of the best Italy UNESCO sites that will make your Italian adventure truly unforgettable. You won’t want to miss these bucket-list-worthy destinations!

15 Best Italy UNESCO Sites

#1 Historic Centre of Rome

Get ready to step back in time as you explore the heart of the Eternal City! Rome is so worth visiting for the iconic landmarks like the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Pantheon. But did you know that all of these famous sights fall under the “Historic Centre of Rome”, a UNESCO World Heritage site? It truly is a living museum! with There are so many things to do in this first Italy UNESCO Site, such as take a tour of the Colosseum, wander through the cobblestone streets, indulge in some authentic gelato, or simply marvel at the ancient ruins that tell the stories of emperors, gladiators, and the birth of Western civilization. When visiting Rome, you are more or less visiting the UNESCO-protected area. 

#2 Cinque Terre

Prepare to be enchanted by the breathtaking coastal beauty of Cinque Terre, some of the most picturesque villages in all of Italy! These five colourful villages nestled along the rugged Italian Riviera are a UNESCO World Heritage site that will leave you in awe. Cinque Terre is so popular to visit and is one of the most Instagrammed places in the country. Aside from taking stunning pictures, you can hike along scenic trails, soak up the sun on pebbled beaches, and savour fresh seafood in charming local restaurants. Each village has its own unique charm, so make sure to check out all 5. Cinque Terre is a true paradise that will captivate your senses and leave you with memories to treasure forever.

#3 Pompeii

Italy’s 58 UNESCO Sites are made up of 53 cultural, and 5 natural. This means that most of the sites will offer an insight into civilisations in the past. And there’s no better place to step into a time capsule than Pompeii. Pompeii is a UNESCO World Heritage site frozen in time by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD, nearly 2000 years ago. It’s so popular and there are tours from all across the country to visit. Pompeii tours from Rome are particularly popular as you get to experience two incredible insights into the past ways of life, through the Colosseum (and more, of course.) and Pompeii. There is a unique feeling in Pompeii as you imagine the bustling life that once thrived here and the tragic events that forever changed its fate. Nonetheless, it’s extraordinary how well-preserved the buildings are. 

#4 Venice and its Lagoon

Ah, Venice, the city of canals, gondolas, and romantic escapades! Everyone knows about the canals of Venice, they are truly iconic. But few know that they are actually an Italy UNESCO Site! The city’s rich history and unique traditions make it a truly unforgettable destination that will sweep you off your feet. Venice is really popular to visit and for good reason, aside from the canals, the city has so much to offer…especially if you are a foodie!

#5 Florence Historic Centre

Italy is famous for its Renaissance art and architecture, so get ready to fall in love with the birthplace of the Renaissance! The historic centre of Florence is a UNESCO World Heritage site that will dazzle you with its art, architecture, and everything in between. Add the cultural heritage and Florence is hard to skip. There are so many iconic landmarks making up the UNESCO Site like the Duomo, Ponte Vecchio, and Uffizi Gallery. Florence is a city that celebrates creativity, innovation, and beauty, making it one of the most admired World Heritage Sites in the world.

#6 Piazza del Duomo, Pisa

You’ve heard about it in countless stories, and seen it in endless photos, but there’s nothing like standing in front of the Leaning Tower of Pisa in person! The Piazza del Duomo in Pisa, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a stunning architectural ensemble that takes you back in time to the 11th century. The square is made up of the Duomo’s intricate façade, the grandeur of the Baptistry, and of course, the infamous Leaning Tower that has defied gravity for centuries. Similar to the Centre of Rome site, this UNESCO Site encompasses the Leaning Tower of Pisa and the surrounding area. It’s one that’s not to be missed for sure!

#7 Historic Centre of Naples

Get ready to experience the soul of the Mediterranean as you explore the historic centre of Naples, an Italy UNESCO World Heritage site that showcases the city’s rich cultural heritage. Wander through the narrow streets, indulge in some of the best pizzas in the world (pizza originates in Naples after all), and discover ancient ruins that tell the stories of Naples’ complex past. From the grandeur of Piazza del Plebiscito to the catacombs of San Gennaro, Naples is a city that will steal your heart and leave you with a profound appreciation for its enduring legacy.

#8 Mount Etna

If you’re looking for a unique and unforgettable adventure in Italy, look no further than Mount Etna, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the world’s most active volcanoes. It’s one of the 5 natural Italy UNESCO Sites. You can hike through lush forests, explore lava caves, and witness the awe-inspiring power of nature as you stand in the shadow of this majestic mountain. It’s a mountain you won’t forget. Mount Etna is a symbol of Italy’s natural beauty and the fascinating geological forces that shape our world.

#9 The Trulli of Alberobello

Italy’s UNESCO Sites are incredible, but get ready to step into a fairy tale as you explore the enchanting Trulli of Alberobello, a UNESCO World Heritage site that is straight out of a storybook. These unique cone-shaped dwellings are made of local limestone and date back to the 14th century. A trip to the site will provide the opportunity to wander through the narrow alleys, admire the intricate stonework, and immerse yourself in the traditional way of life that has endured for centuries. The Trulli of Alberobello is a true testament to human creativity and resilience, and yet another must-see destination in Italy.

#10 Su Nuraxi di Barumini

Continuing the theme of sites that are out of this world, prepare to discover the mysterious and fascinating world of the Nuragic civilization at Su Nuraxi di Barumini, a UNESCO World Heritage site that showcases some of Italy’s most impressive archaeological treasures. It’s hard to imagine this was created by humans in generations past. This complex of stone towers and walls dates back to the 16th century BC and is shrouded in mystery and legend. While at the UNESCO site, you can explore the intricate mazes and secret passages or learn about the culture and beliefs of the Nuragic people. Su Nuraxi di Barumini is extraordinary.

#11 Villa d’Este, Tivoli

The opulence and grandeur of Villa d’Este will be sure to swipe you off your feet. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site that is a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture and landscaping. This stunning villa and its magnificent gardens were built in the 16th century by Cardinal Ippolito II d’Este, who spared no expense in creating a veritable paradise on earth. The villa makes for a wonderful visit and is one of the common day trips from Rome, as it isn’t too far away from the Italian capital and is a great place to escape the crowds. The intricate fountains and water features and the sumptuous frescoes and ornate decorations that you find at the villa are spectacular. 

#12 Historic Centre of Urbino

The Italy UNESCO Sites offer countless opportunities to step back in time, none more so than in the Historic Centre of Urbino, where you can immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the UNESCO World Heritage site which is another jewel of Renaissance art and architecture. This historic centre was the birthplace of many great artists and thinkers, including Raphael, and its palaces, churches, and public buildings are a testament to the city’s golden age. 

#13 Syracuse and the Rocky Necropolis of Pantalica

The ancient wonders of Syracuse and the Rocky Necropolis of Pantalica, a UNESCO World Heritage site that showcases the incredible legacy of Greek and Roman civilization in Italy, will leave you amazed. It’s breathtaking. The city of Syracuse was one of the most important centres of ancient Greek culture, and its archaeological sites, including the Ear of Dionysius and the Temple of Apollo, are a perfect representation of its impressiveness. It’s one of the finest Italy UNESCO Sites without a doubt. 

#14 Val d’Orcia

If you are seeking a land of breathtaking beauty and timeless charm, look no further than Val d’Orcia. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site that is a paradise for nature lovers and photographers. It’s the definition of postcard-worthy. This idyllic valley in Tuscany is a patchwork of rolling hills, picturesque villages, and vineyards, with views that will take your breath away. A trip to Italy would not be complete without visiting this world heritage site. 

#15 The Sassi and the Park of the Rupestrian Churches of Matera

Last but not least of these Italy UNESCO Sites is the Saddi and the Park of the Rupestrian Churches of Matera. It’s one of the most unique and fascinating UNESCO World Heritage sites in the country. This city in southern Italy is built into a ravine and is famous for its ancient cave dwellings, known as the Sassi, which were inhabited until the 1950s. Today, these caves have been restored and transformed into stunning hotels, restaurants, and museums. The Park of the Rupestrian Churches, located nearby, is a collection of ancient churches carved into the rock, dating back to the 8th century. Combine the two and you have the perfect combo for a UNESCO Site. 

Italy UNESCO Sites: Conclusion

And there you have it, 15 of the best Italy UNESCO Sites. Italy is lucky to be home to so many incredible World Heritage Sites.

No matter which one you choose, you are guaranteed to be starstruck and have your breath taken away.

Italy is a beautiful place and the beauty is summed up perfectly by the UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

It’s a wonderful place to explore, so make sure to get your flights booked and check out some of these Italy UNESCO Sites for yourself!