15 Best Places to Visit in Italy for a Luxury Villa Holiday : Where to Stay and Explore in Style

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From the dramatic cliffs of the Amalfi Coast to the rolling vineyards of Tuscany, Italy is a country of infinite variety. Each region has its own personality, flavours, and landscapes, making it a dream for travellers who want more than just a quick sightseeing tour.

And if you really want to soak it all in? Renting a luxury villa lets you live like a local while enjoying comfort and privacy that no hotel can match. Picture yourself waking up to sea views in Capri, sipping Chianti in your Tuscan garden, or having a poolside aperitivo in Puglia. With space for family or friends, and the freedom to explore at your own pace, a villa becomes your personal slice of Italy.

This guide is all about the best places to visit in Italy where you can enjoy both world-class attractions and exceptional villa stays. Whether you’re drawn to the glamour of Lake Como, the cultural treasures of Sicily, or the pristine beaches of Sardinia, you’ll find inspiration here to match your travel style. Let’s start exploring.

How to Choose Your Italian Destination

North vs. South: Which Region Suits You Best?

Ah, the big question: North or South Italy? It’s a bit like choosing between a rich red wine and an ice-cold limoncello… both are wonderful, but the experience is completely different.

• Northern Italy offers a mix of spectacular scenery: majestic lakes like Lake Como, the dramatic Dolomites, and elegant cities such as Milan, Turin, and Venice. The climate is more temperate, winters can be chilly (perfect for skiing), and summers pleasantly warm. Here, you’ll also feel the cultural influence of Austria, France, and Switzerland in the architecture, cuisine, and traditions.
  
• Southern Italy, on the other hand, is all about sunshine and dolce vita: dreamy beaches in Sardinia, colourful cliff-top villages on the Amalfi Coast, ancient temples in Sicily… The sea is never far away, the food bursts with olive oil and sun-ripened tomatoes, and life feels warmer, slower, and more laid-back.

So, where is the best place to visit in Italy? If you want a blend of culture, food, and nature in a cooler climate, head north. If you’re after beaches, charming villages, and heat, the south will be your paradise. Of course, nothing stops you from combining both if you have the time.

Pairing Attractions with Your Stay

You’ve probably seen dreamy photos of Tuscany at sunset or Venice at dawn. But before picking a destination, ask yourself: what do I want to do in Italy?

• For art and history: Florence, Rome, Venice, and Milan are unbeatable.
• For nature: the Dolomites, Lake Garda, Ligurian coast, Sardinia, and Sicily are top choices.
• For wine and gastronomy: Tuscany, Piedmont, and Sicily are culinary heaven.

Here’s a little trick: choose a city or region where you can enjoy a villa stay while still having easy access to attractions. For example, a villa in the Chianti hills lets you spend the morning exploring Florence, then return for an afternoon by your private pool.

Villas and Holiday Homes in Italy

If you want to experience Italy in a more authentic, intimate way, renting a villa or holiday home is a game-changer.

Imagine waking up to a view over Tuscan vineyards, making your morning espresso in a kitchen that opens onto the Sardinian sea, or enjoying dinner under lemon trees on the Amalfi Coast.

You’ll find all kinds of options:

• Coastal villas with direct beach access
• Country homes hidden among olive groves
• Elegant city apartments for an urban Italian lifestyle
• Alpine chalets with spas for winter escapes

The perks? Total privacy, more space than most hotels, and that wonderful feeling of being “at home” in Italy. And if you want inspiration for finding the perfect place, take a look at Villanovo’s collection of luxury villas, with handpicked properties in many of the destinations we’ll cover below.

Tip: think about proximity to attractions, amenities (pool, air-conditioning, fully equipped kitchen), and style (rustic, modern, sea-view…). Sometimes it’s those little details that make your trip unforgettable.

Season and Travel Style

The time of year you visit will shape your experience:

• Spring (April–June): pleasant weather, fewer crowds, perfect for both cities and countryside.
• Summer (July–August): ideal for the beach, but some tourist areas get busy and prices peak.
• Autumn (September–October): harvest season, local festivals, mild temperatures.
• Winter (November–March): great for skiing in the north or exploring Rome and Florence without the crowds.

And think about your travel style too: do you want to move around every few days, or settle in one villa and explore from there? If you choose the second option, pick a region with plenty of day-trip possibilities within an hour’s drive.

15 Best Places to Visit in Italy for a Luxury Villa Stay

Italy is full of picture-perfect destinations, but some places are simply made for a luxury villa holiday. Here’s my handpicked list of the best places in Italy to visit if you dream of sipping wine on your terrace, waking up to postcard views, and living la dolce vita in style.

1. Amalfi Coast – Clifftop Villas with Sea Views

The Amalfi Coast is the kind of place that makes your Instagram feed explode. Picture pastel-coloured houses clinging to dramatic cliffs, tiny fishing boats bobbing in turquoise waters, and lemon groves perfuming the air. Staying here in a villa means you get the views all to yourself. No tourist crowds, just you, the sea, and the sound of church bells in the distance.

Choose a home in Positano for iconic scenery, Ravello for peace and elegance, or Amalfi for a balance of charm and accessibility. Many villas come with infinity pools that seem to merge with the Mediterranean, outdoor dining areas for lazy evenings, and private chefs who can whip up fresh seafood pasta.

From your base, you can explore hidden coves by boat, visit nearby Capri, or drive along the famous Amalfi Drive (just don’t look down if you’re afraid of heights). It’s romantic, glamorous, and unforgettable. A true answer to the question “where is the best place to visit in Italy?”.

• Location: Southern Italy, Campania region
• Best time to visit: Late spring and early autumn for sunshine without summer crowds
• Atmosphere: Glamorous, romantic, dramatic coastal beauty

2. Tuscany – Rolling Hills and Vineyard Retreats

If your idea of paradise is a glass of Chianti in hand, the sun setting over golden hills, and the smell of fresh rosemary in the air, then Tuscany will steal your heart. This region is one of the best places to visit in Italy for the first time, especially if you want the full countryside-villa experience.

Picture waking up in a stone farmhouse surrounded by olive groves and vineyards. Many villas here have rustic charm mixed with modern comforts. Think terracotta floors, exposed beams, and an inviting pool with panoramic views. Staying in Tuscany also means you’re never far from medieval towns like San Gimignano, Siena, or Montepulciano, each packed with history, artisan shops, and trattorias serving hearty local dishes.

Wine lovers can tour world-famous wineries, while art lovers can make day trips to Florence to admire masterpieces by Michelangelo and Botticelli. And for foodies? There’s fresh pasta, pecorino cheese, and the best gelato you’ll ever taste.

A Tuscan villa holiday is about slowing down, long lunches on the terrace, evening strolls under starry skies, and the luxury of feeling completely at home in the heart of Italy.

• Location: Central Italy
• Best time to visit: May to October, with September being perfect for wine harvest festivals
• Atmosphere: Relaxed, scenic, wine and food-focused

3. Lake Como – Glamour and Alpine Beauty

Lake Como is where elegance meets natural drama. Surrounded by the foothills of the Alps, its deep blue waters reflect grand villas, lush gardens, and charming lakeside towns. It’s long been a favourite escape for celebrities and royals, but you don’t need to be George Clooney to enjoy it. Just rent your own luxury villa and soak up the atmosphere.

A stay here often means waking up to serene lake views, enjoying breakfast on a terrace draped in wisteria, and maybe even arriving at your front door by boat. Many villas have private docks, infinity pools overlooking the water, and chef services so you can taste regional delicacies without leaving home.

The towns of Bellagio, Varenna, and Menaggio are the jewels of the lake, each with cobbled streets, colourful facades, and flower-filled promenades. You can take boat trips to explore hidden villas and gardens, hike in the nearby mountains, or simply enjoy aperitivo by the water as the sun dips behind the peaks.

If you’re wondering “what are the best places to visit in northern Italy?”, Lake Como is a timeless answer. Romantic, refined, and unforgettable.

• Location: Northern Italy, Lombardy region
• Best time to visit: May to September for warm weather and boating season
• Atmosphere: Elegant, serene, upscale

4. Sicily – Coastal Charm and Cultural Riches

Sicily feels like a world within a world. It’s the largest island in the Mediterranean and offers a mix of stunning coastlines, ancient ruins, vibrant cities and mouth-watering cuisine. Renting a villa here lets you immerse yourself in the island’s rhythm while enjoying all the comfort and privacy you need.

Imagine staying in a restored farmhouse surrounded by citrus groves, or a sleek modern villa with direct beach access. Many properties come with outdoor kitchens, infinity pools and terraces where you can watch the fiery Sicilian sunsets. Whether you’re in the north near Palermo, the east close to Taormina and Mount Etna, or the south by the Baroque towns of Noto and Ragusa, each part of Sicily offers its own magic.

During your stay, you can explore ancient Greek theatres, wander through colourful markets, or take a boat to the Aeolian Islands. Food is a big part of the experience too, from fresh seafood pasta to the famous cannoli.

If you’re searching for the best places to visit in southern Italy, Sicily delivers with its warm hospitality (but don’t forget to leave tips in Italy), diverse landscapes and deep cultural roots.

• Location: Southernmost region of Italy, just off the tip of the mainland
• Best time to visit: April to June or September to October for pleasant weather and fewer crowds
• Atmosphere: A mix of ancient history, vibrant markets, and dramatic coastal landscapes

5. Sardinia – Caribbean-Style Beaches in Europe

Sardinia is where you realise you don’t need to fly to the Caribbean for crystal-clear waters and powdery white sand. This island is a paradise for beach lovers, but it also hides rugged mountains, prehistoric sites and charming villages. Staying in a Sardinian villa gives you the best of both worlds: total seclusion and easy access to some of the most beautiful beaches in Europe.

Along the famous Costa Smeralda, villas often come with private pools, panoramic sea views and direct paths down to hidden coves. In the south near Cagliari, you’ll find more laid-back, family-friendly spots, while the west offers wilder, less crowded shores. Many villas are designed for outdoor living, with shady pergolas, barbecue areas and gardens filled with fragrant Mediterranean plants.

Your days here could start with a swim before breakfast, continue with exploring coastal towns like Alghero or Bosa, and end with fresh seafood on your terrace as the waves crash in the distance.

• Location: Mediterranean island west of mainland Italy
• Best time to visit: June to September for warm seas and sunny beach days
• Atmosphere: Laid-back, coastal, nature-rich

For anyone wondering where is the best place to visit in Italy for pristine beaches, Sardinia is hard to beat. It’s the perfect spot to slow down, disconnect and soak up the Mediterranean lifestyle.

6. Puglia – Whitewashed Villages and Olive Groves

Puglia sits in the heel of Italy’s boot and offers a more relaxed, authentic vibe compared to the country’s busier tourist spots. Here, whitewashed hill towns, centuries-old olive groves and turquoise waters set the scene. Renting a villa in Puglia is perfect if you’re looking for space, privacy and a slower pace of life.

In the Valle d’Itria, you’ll find traditional trulli houses with conical roofs, many of which have been converted into charming holiday homes. Along the coastline, villas often come with private pools, shaded terraces and gardens filled with fig and almond trees. Some are even just steps from the beach, making it easy to enjoy a morning swim before breakfast.

Days in Puglia might include exploring the baroque city of Lecce, wandering the narrow lanes of Ostuni, or visiting seaside towns like Polignano a Mare and Monopoli. And of course, the food here is exceptional — think orecchiette pasta, burrata cheese and fresh seafood straight from the Adriatic.

For those wondering what are the best places to visit in southern Italy, Puglia offers an irresistible mix of culture, cuisine and coastal beauty without the heavy crowds of more famous destinations.

• Location: Southern Italy, Apulia region
• Best time to visit: May to October for warm weather and vibrant town life
• Atmosphere: Authentic, slow-paced, sun-drenched

7. Umbria – The Green Heart of Italy

If you’re dreaming of Italy’s charm but without the tourist bustle of more famous regions, Umbria might just steal your heart. Known as “Italy’s green heart,” this landlocked region is all rolling hills, medieval hill towns and postcard-perfect vineyards. Staying in a villa here means opening your shutters to soft morning light over olive groves and sipping your coffee with a soundtrack of birdsong.

Umbria’s towns are packed with history and charm. Perugia offers a lively cultural scene and delicious chocolate (don’t miss the annual Eurochocolate festival). Assisi is a UNESCO World Heritage gem, with the stunning Basilica of St. Francis and sweeping valley views. Orvieto, perched on a volcanic rock, hides a fascinating underground network of caves and tunnels.

Villas in Umbria often come with rustic stone walls, terracotta floors, and infinity pools overlooking the countryside. Many are near vineyards, so wine tasting can be part of your daily routine. The pace here is slower, inviting you to enjoy long lunches, explore tiny villages, and take scenic drives through sunflower fields.

If Tuscany is the A-list celebrity of central Italy, Umbria is its equally beautiful but more laid-back cousin.

• Location: Central Italy, between Tuscany and Le Marche
• Best time to visit: May to October for sunny days and festivals
• Atmosphere: Peaceful, rustic, authentically Italian

8. Venice Lagoon & Veneto Countryside

The Venice Lagoon isn’t just about gondolas and canals (though, let’s be honest, they are magical). Staying in the wider Veneto region lets you combine the romance of Venice with the relaxed charm of the countryside. Imagine mornings exploring St. Mark’s Square, then afternoons sipping Prosecco on the terrace of your villa surrounded by vineyards.

Base yourself within easy reach of Venice so you can enjoy the city’s art, architecture, and quiet backstreets before retreating from the crowds. For a touch of Shakespearean drama, head to Verona, where Juliet’s balcony still draws lovers from around the world. Wine enthusiasts will love the Prosecco Hills, a UNESCO-listed area where bubbly flows generously, and panoramic views go on for miles.

Villas here range from grand historical residences with frescoed ceilings to modern countryside homes with private pools. Many have lush gardens, making them perfect for evening aperitivos (check Italy drinking age first) after a day of sightseeing. The location is ideal for mixing culture, gastronomy, and nature in one trip.

And yes, you can still take that iconic gondola ride… just make sure you also explore the quieter canals where Venice feels like a hidden village.

• Location: Northeastern Italy, around Venice and the Veneto hills
• Best time to visit: April to June, September to October for mild weather
• Atmosphere: Romantic, cultural, with a touch of rural luxury

9. Liguria & Cinque Terre – Colorful Coastal Villages

If you’ve ever seen photos of rainbow-colored houses clinging to cliffs above a sparkling blue sea, chances are it was the Cinque Terre. This string of five fishing villages on the Ligurian coast is a postcard come to life. Staying in a villa here means waking up to sea views that look like a painting and spending your days wandering cobbled streets or hiking along dramatic coastal paths.

In Portofino, luxury yachts bob in the harbor, and pastel facades reflect in the water. It’s a place where elegance meets seaside charm, perfect if you want fine dining and boutique shopping within walking distance of your villa. Santa Margherita Ligure offers a slightly more laid-back vibe, while Monterosso, the largest of the Cinque Terre villages, has the best beaches for lazy afternoons.

Villas in Liguria often perch on hillsides, offering panoramic terraces, infinity pools, and gardens scented with lemon and olive trees. They make a fantastic base for exploring both the glamorous coast and the wild beauty of the inland hills. Whether you’re after fresh seafood, scenic boat trips, or sunset aperitivos, Liguria delivers in style.

• Location: Northwestern Italy, Ligurian coast
• Best time to visit: May to June or September for warm weather without peak crowds
• Atmosphere: Picturesque, vibrant, and effortlessly chic

10. Rome Countryside – Eternal City with a Countryside Retreat

Visiting Rome is a dream for many travellers, but what if you could enjoy all the city’s wonders while staying in a peaceful countryside villa? The Rome countryside offers the best of both worlds. Picture spending your mornings exploring the Colosseum, Vatican, and Trevi Fountain, then retreating in the afternoon to a garden-filled villa surrounded by olive groves.

Frascati, just 30 minutes from central Rome, is famous for its white wines and charming historic centre. Here, villas often come with shaded terraces, swimming pools, and sweeping views over the city skyline in the distance. Tivoli is another gem, home to the spectacular Villa d’Este and Hadrian’s Villa, both UNESCO World Heritage sites. Staying nearby means you can explore them at a leisurely pace, without the crowds.

This area is ideal if you love Rome’s culture and history but crave a slower pace after sightseeing. It’s also perfect for multi-generational trips: the city keeps everyone entertained, while the villa offers space for family dinners under the stars.

• Location: Lazio region, surrounding Rome
• Best time to visit: Spring and autumn for pleasant weather and fewer tourists
• Atmosphere: Tranquil, historic, and just a short hop from the Eternal City

11. Milan & Lombardy Lakes – Fashion, Culture, and Lakeside Luxury

If you’re wondering where is the best place to visit in Italy for a mix of cosmopolitan energy and natural beauty, the Milan and Lombardy Lakes region is hard to beat. Milan, Italy’s fashion capital, is brimming with designer boutiques, cutting-edge restaurants, and cultural treasures like the Duomo and Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper. Staying in a stylish Milanese penthouse puts you right in the heart of the action.

But just a short drive north using the train, you’ll find the serene beauty of Lake Maggiore and Lake Garda. Here, luxury villas often have private docks, infinity pools, and panoramic terraces over the water. Lake Garda offers a more active vibe with sailing, windsurfing, and hiking trails, while Lake Maggiore charms with its Borromean Islands and lush botanical gardens.

This combination makes Lombardy ideal for travellers who want a few days of urban sophistication before retreating to a peaceful lakeside hideaway. Whether you’re sipping espresso in Milan or wine on a terrace overlooking the water, you’ll be enjoying the best of both worlds.

• Location: Northern Italy, Lombardy region
• Best time to visit: Late spring to early autumn for lake activities and city exploring
• Atmosphere: Chic, diverse, and effortlessly stylish

12. Campania Beyond Amalfi – Authentic Southern Charm

If you’ve already experienced the Amalfi Coast or want something more off the beaten path, head further south into Campania Beyond Amalfi. This region offers an authentic taste of southern Italy, where life moves slower and the crowds thin out. The Cilento Coast is a UNESCO-listed treasure, with rugged cliffs, quiet beaches, and fishing villages like Acciaroli that inspired Ernest Hemingway.

For island lovers, Ischia is a wellness paradise, famous for its thermal baths and lush gardens. It’s the laid-back alternative to glamorous Capri, yet still offers beautiful beaches, boutique shopping, and excellent seafood. Speaking of Capri, if you do decide to pop over, its Blue Grotto and chic Piazzetta are a short boat ride away.

Luxury villas here often come with private gardens, large terraces for sunset dinners, and views that stretch across the Tyrrhenian Sea. It’s a part of Italy where you can immerse yourself in genuine local traditions, from making limoncello with your villa host to joining fishermen at dawn for the day’s catch.

• Location: Southern Italy, Campania region
• Best time to visit: May to October for warm weather and swimming
• Atmosphere: Relaxed, authentic, and full of coastal charm

13. Piedmont – Wine Country and Alpine Backdrop

Piedmont is where rolling vineyards meet snow-capped mountains, making it a dream for both wine lovers and nature enthusiasts. Known for its world-class reds like Barolo and Barbaresco, this region is a paradise if you enjoy long vineyard lunches, historic cellars, and gourmet cuisine (yes, we’re talking white truffles from Alba in the autumn).

The Langhe hills are dotted with medieval villages where time seems to stand still. Towns like Barolo and Alba are perfect for leisurely strolls between wine tastings. If you’re here in winter, the nearby Alps offer ski resorts that are less crowded than those in the Dolomites but just as spectacular.

Villas in Piedmont often sit right among the vineyards, with panoramic terraces and infinity pools that seem to spill into the hills. Many are restored farmhouses blending rustic charm with modern comforts, giving you a taste of authentic Italian countryside life without sacrificing luxury.

• Location: Northwestern Italy, near the French and Swiss borders
• Best time to visit: September to November for truffle season and wine harvest
• Atmosphere: Refined, gourmet, and peaceful with an alpine touch

14. Dolomites – Mountain Retreats in Style

If you’re dreaming of dramatic peaks, crisp alpine air, and luxury chalets that feel like a cosy hug, the Dolomites will sweep you off your feet. This UNESCO World Heritage site is one of the most spectacular mountain ranges in the world, with landscapes that change colour throughout the day, from soft pink at dawn to fiery orange at sunset.

In winter, glamorous ski towns like Cortina d’Ampezzo and Val Gardena offer world-class slopes, stylish après-ski spots, and Michelin-starred dining. Come summer, the same slopes turn into lush meadows, perfect for hiking, cycling, or just relaxing with a glass of wine while soaking up the view.

Luxury villas and chalets here often feature spa facilities, indoor pools, and fireplaces you’ll want to curl up beside after a day outdoors. It’s the ultimate combination of adventure and indulgence, whether you’re here for skiing, hiking, or simply unwinding in style.

• Location: Northeastern Italy, South Tyrol region
• Best time to visit: December to March for skiing, June to September for hiking
• Atmosphere: Chic alpine retreat with a blend of adventure and relaxation

15. Elba Island & Tuscan Archipelago – Seaside Serenity and Island Charm

If your idea of paradise is waking up steps from a sandy beach, coffee in hand, with the sound of waves as your morning soundtrack, then Elba Island and the Tuscan Archipelago are calling. Known for their crystal-clear waters, colourful harbours, and laid-back vibe, these islands are a dream for anyone seeking peace without sacrificing style.

Elba, the largest island in the group, has a fascinating history. Napoleon himself was exiled here in 1814, and his residences are now open to visitors. The coastal towns of Portoferraio and Marciana Marina charm with pastel buildings, fresh seafood restaurants, and artisan shops. Beyond Elba, smaller islands like Giglio and Capraia offer untouched landscapes and some of the clearest snorkelling waters in Italy.

Luxury villas here range from modern beachfront homes with infinity pools to restored historic estates surrounded by Mediterranean gardens. Many are within walking distance of the beach, so you can swap your shoes for flip-flops as soon as you arrive.

• Location: Off the coast of Tuscany in the Tyrrhenian Sea
• Best time to visit: May to September for warm weather and swimming
• Atmosphere: Relaxed island living with a touch of history and elegance

Final word on the best places to visit in Italy

From north to south, Italy offers an extraordinary range of destinations for a villa holiday. You can go from snow-capped mountains in the Dolomites to Mediterranean sunsets in Sicily, all while enjoying the comfort and privacy of your own home away from home.

The magic lies in finding a location that matches your travel style. Love food and wine? Tuscany, Piedmont, and Umbria will spoil you. Craving sea and sun? Sardinia, Puglia, or the Amalfi Coast are calling your name. Dreaming of history and art? Rome, Florence, and Venice never disappoint.

Wherever you choose, a villa gives you the space to slow down, savour every moment, and explore Italy at your own pace. So go ahead—pick your dream spot, unpack once, and let your Italian adventure begin.