Rome, Florence, Venice: Which Italian City Should You Visit First?

Rome, France, and Venice are all located in Italy. Rome is the capital city and is situated in the central-western part of the Italian Peninsula, within the Lazio region, on the shores of the Tiber River. Florence is the capital of Tuscany and is located in central Italy. Venice is the capital of the Veneto region and is in northeastern Italy. It is built on a group of 126 islands in a lagoon. Therefore, if you are planning your visit to Italy further, it is recommended that you visit Rome, as it is the best starting point due to its rich history, iconic landmarks and vibrant atmosphere. However, Florence and Venice also offer compelling reasons to be your first Italian destination, which further depends on your interests and travel plans. Thus, to learn about the following destination, you can go through the details as mentioned below, learn about the following destinations, respectively, and choose your preferred Italian destination. Amongst the following, proceed ahead accordingly. 

About Rome:

Rome, Italy, is a great place to begin an Italian adventure due to its rich history, iconic landmarks, and vibrant atmosphere. As the Eternal City, Rome offers a captivating journey through millennia of history, art, and culture. Starting here allows you to explore ancient ruins like the Colosseum and Roman Forum, marvel at architectural wonders such as the Pantheon, and immerse yourself in the beauty of Vatican City. 

Reason to explore Rome first

• Iconic Landmarks: Rome has many iconic landmarks. You can explore the Colosseum, Roman Forum, Pantheon, and Vatican City, which includes St. Peter's Basilica, the Vatican Museum, and many other world-renowned sites.

• Architectural Marvels: You can visit Rome first and discover the stunning buildings and structures, from ancient Roman aqueducts and baths to Baroque masterpieces like the Trevi Fountain and Piazza Navona. 
• Central Location: Rome's central location makes it an excellent base for exploring the other parts of Italy. It is easily accessible to Florence and Pompeii and is a coastal destination. 

About Florence:

Florence, Italy, is a great first stop for those visiting Italy, especially for the first time. The place has a rich history, vibrant art scenes, and a compact, walkable layout. The city's status is further termed as the birthplace of the Renaissance, which makes it a treasure trove of art and architecture with iconic sites. The features that make Florence a great first Italian city to visit are as mentioned. Go through and make a decision accordingly. 

Reason to visit Florence first:

• Art and History: Florence is a place rich in art and history. There are world-class museums where you can see the works of Botticelli and Leonardo da Vinci in the Uffizi Gallery, among others. Also, the place has a walkable historic center, a compact nature of Florence that allows for easy exploration on foot, and allows you to be in the atmosphere and discover hidden gems. 

• Beautiful Scenery: The city's layout makes it easy for first-time visitors to get around, and you can enjoy stunning views of the city from various vantage points, including the Ponte Vecchio. 
• Food and Culture: Experience Florentine cuisine and the charming atmosphere. From picturesque squares to lovely cafes, Florence offers a delightful experience for visitors. Wander through the city streets to discover local crafts and traditions. 

About Venice:

Venice should be considered a first destination in Italy due to its unique atmosphere, stunning architecture, and romantic ambience. The city's distinctive waterways, iconic landmarks like St. Mark's Square, and rich history make it a captivating introduction to Italy. Thus, Venice offers more immediate and unforgettable wow and aesthetic moments for first-time visitors. As mentioned, here are the features that make you visit Venice first. 

Reason to visit Venice first:

• Iconic Landmarks: Venice offers an unparalleled experience with its canals and a lack of cars, which create a magical atmosphere. You can also witness the iconic landmarks, including St. Mark's Basilica, Doge's Palace, and the famous Rialto Bridge. Venice boasts numerous must-see areas. 

• Romantic Ambience: The city is perfect for romantic scenes. If you are heading to Italy for your honeymoon, then Venice should be your first stop. The city has a romantic vibe with its winding canals and charming bridges. Everything is perfect to create a romantic ambience. The destination is a perfect place for couples who are seeking a romantic getaway. 
• Art and Culture: Venice is a hub for art and culture, with institutions like the Peggy Guggenheim Collection and the Gallerie dell'Accademia offering a taste of Venetian and Italian masterpieces. There, you can explore the respective collections and experience the art and culture of Venice. 

Therefore, ultimately, the best city to visit depends on your preferences and what you hope to get out of your Italian experience. Further, you can consider what aspects of Italy are the most appealing to you and choose accordingly. Also, go through the details as mentioned above and briefly know about the respective cities.