Discover all of Italy's 20 regions, each with their own unique blend of natural beauty, culinary delights, and cultural treasures. From the majestic Alps to the sun-kissed beaches of Sicily, explore must-see sights, famous towns and cities, and insider tips for an unforgettable Italian adventure.
If you're planning a trip around Italy's 20 regions, be sure to read my Italy travel tips and What to Wear in Italy guides so you know exactly how to plan and pack before you go.
Italy is a country of extraordinary beauty, rich history, and diverse cultural traditions. From the snow-capped peaks of the Alps to the sun-kissed beaches of Sicily, Italy's 20 regions each offer a unique blend of natural landscapes, culinary delights, and architectural wonders.
Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, a nature lover, or a culture vulture, Italy has something to offer everyone. In this blog post, we'll take you on a tour of Italy's 20 regions, highlighting the must-see sights, famous towns and cities, and tips to help you make the most of your trip.
So grab a cup of espresso and join us on this journey through one of the world's most beloved countries.
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How many regions are in Italy?
There are 20 regions in Italy, each with their own unique attributes.
What are the regions of Italy?
Italy is made up of 20 different regions, each with its own unique culture and attractions. Starting in the north, the regions are:
1. Valle d'Aosta
2. Piedmont
3. Lombardy
4. Trentino-Alto Adige
5. Veneto
6. Friuli Venezia Giulia
7. Liguria
9. Tuscany
10. Umbria
11. Marche
12. Lazio
13. Abruzzo
14. Molise
15. Campania
16. Puglia
17. Basilicata
18. Calabria
19. Sicily
20. Sardinia.
| Region | Capital | Popular Cities | Popular Food |
| Valle d'Aosta | Aosta | Aosta, Courmayeur, Cogne, Le Pont, Arpy, Quart, Nus, Saint-Vincent, Sarre, Pila, Ollomont, Rhêmes-Notre-Dame, Introd, La Thuile, Valsavarenche | Polenta concia, fondue, Vapelenentse soup, tegole |
| Piedmont | Turin (Torino) | Torino (Turin), Novara, Alessandria, Asti, Moncalieri, Cuneo, Collegno, Rivoli | vitello tonnato, bollito misto, truffles, bagna cauda, tajarin |
| Lombardy | Milan | Milan, Bergamo, Como, Brescia, Pavia, Mantua, Monza Cremona | Bresaola, risotto alla Milanese, ossobucco, veal Milanese, cassöeula |
| Trentino-Alto Adige | Trento | Trento, Bolzano, Riva del Garda, Merano, Rovereto, Brixen | Canederli, barley soup, Speck, Schüttelbrot, casunziei, Surfleisch (salt meat), apple strudel, spinatknädel |
| Veneto | Venice | Venice, Vicenza, Treviso, Padua, Rovigo, Verona, Chioggia, Belluno | bigoli in salsa, baccalà mantecato, risi e bisi, sarde in saór, polenta e baccalà, fegato alla Veneziana |
| Friuli Venezia Giulia | Trieste | Trieste, Pordenone, Udine, Monfalcone, Gorizia, Grado, Aquileia, Muggia, Cividale del Friuli | pitina, frico with polenta, Salam tal aset, jota, brovada e muset, gnocchi di prugne, tiramisù |
| Liguria | Genova | Genova, Camogli, La Spezia, Sanremo, Portofino, Porto Venere, Imperia, Lerici, Rapallo, Riomaggiore, Manarola | Frittelle di baccalà, Trofie with pesto, focaccia di recco, chickpea farinata, pansotti |
| Emilia Romagna | Bologna | Bologna, Modena, Rimini, Ravenna, Reggio Emilia, Forli’, Ferrara, Piacenza, Parma, Cesena, Faenza, Imola | tortellini in brodo, piadina, pinzimonio, Bolognese ragù, erbazzone, passatelli in brodo, gnocco fritto |
| Tuscany | Florence | Florence, San Gimignano, Siena, Lucca, Pisa, Cortona, Arezzo, Montepulciano, Pienza, Pistoia, Grosseto, Montalcino | panzanella, bistecca alla Fiorentina, lampredotto, ribollita , acquacotta, pappa al pomodoro, fettunta · torta di ceci |
| Umbria | Perugia | Perugia, Assisi, Orvieto, Todi, Gubbio, Spoleto, Spello, Foligno, Montefalco, Norcia | Fettuccine con la ricotta, pampepato di terni, torta al testo, ragù d'agnello, rocciata, frittata al tartufo, scafata · panino con la porchetta |
| Marche | Ancona | Ancona, Pesaro, Urbino, Ascoli Piceno, Macerato, Fano. Fermo, Sirolo, Numana, Loro Piceno, Fiuminata | ciauscolo, ascolane olives, moscioli, vincisgrassi, crescia, brodetto, maccheroncini di campofilone |
| Lazio | Rome | Rome, Viterbo, Tivoli, Rieti, Latina, Fiumicino, Gaeta, Civitavecchia, Aprilia, Pomezia | bucatini all'Amatriciana, cacio e pepe, spaghetti alla carbonara, pasta alla gricia, saltimbocca, porchetta, suppli’, gnocchi alla Romana, maritozzo |
| Abruzzo | L'Aquila | L'Aquila, Pescara, Sulmona, Chieti, Vasto, Teramo, Montesilvano, Giulianova, Roseto degli Abruzzi | arrosticini, porchetta abruzzese, ferratelle, sagne e fagioli, spaghetti al cartoccio, parrozzo, panonta, pizzelle |
| Molise | Campobasso | Campbobasso, Isernia, Venafro, Termoli, Campomarino, Agnone, Larino, Pietrabbondante | Composta Molisana, pampanella, caciocavallo di Agnone, pezzata, torcinelli, baccala arracanato, scarpelle, Signora di Conca Casale, cauciuni |
| Campania | Naples | Naples, Avellino, Benevento, Caserta, Salerno, Battipaglia, Giffoni Sei Casale, Giffoni Valle Piana | Scarpariello, spaghetti alla Nerano, praianese squid and potatoes, panzerotti, Neapolitan ragù, Delizia al Limone |
| Puglia | Bari | Alberobello, Polignano a Mare, Ostuni, Monopoli, Bari, Trani, Lecce, Vieste, Calimera, Carpignano Salentino, Castrignano dei Greci, Corigliano d'Otranto, Cutrofiano, Martano | orecchiette, focaccia Barese, fave e cicoria, Polpette di ricotta, taralli, Melanzane ripiene, panzerotti, burrata, tiella, fritto misto, cartellate, pettole, Pasticciotti |
| Basilicata | Potenza | Matera, Pietrapertosa, Pietrapertosa Viggianello, Pisticci Lavello Salandra, Melfi, San Chirico Nuovo, San Chirico Raparo | Canestrato di Moliterno IGP, Casieddu, Caciocavallo Podolico, calzone di verdura, strazzata · cavatelli e fagiol, pollo alla potentina, ciaudedda |
| Calabria | Reggio Calabria | Reggio Calabria, Cosenza, Catanzaro, Crotone, Vibo Valentia, Lamezia Terme, Rende, Corigliano-Rossano, Soverato, Petrizzi | Nduja, frittole, peperonata, melanzene ripiene, pasta alla jonica, maccheroni col ferretto, licurdia, lagane e cicciari, rigatoni alla silana, torrone, Mostaccioli |
| Sicily | Palermo | Palermo, Agrigento, Selinunte, Catania, Bronte, Cefalù, Enna, Erice, Noto, Siracusa, Taormina, Trapani, Ragusa, Acireale, Monreale | arancini, caponata, pane con la milza, parmigiana di melanzane, pasta alla Norma, pasta con le sarde, sfincione, pane con panelle, cannoli, gelato, cassata |
| Sardegna | Cagliari | Cagliari, Alghero, Carloforte, Sassari, Quartu Sant'Elena, Olbia , Alghero, Nuoro, Oristano, Selargius | su porcheddu, culurgiones, malloreddus, pane carasau, pane frattau, seadas, fregula, suppa cuata |
Map of Italy with regions
Valle d'Aosta
We start our journey in Valle d'Aosta, a region located in the northwestern corner of Italy, bordering Switzerland and France. This region is known for its stunning alpine scenery, delicious cuisine, and rich cultural heritage.
Make sure to visit the town of Aosta, a city with a rich history and a stunning Roman amphitheater.
You must try the famous fontina cheese, a semi-soft cheese that is perfect for melting. Another must-visit attraction in the region is the Gran Paradiso National Park, a stunning natural reserve with stunning hiking trails and breathtaking vistas.
Piemonte
Next up, we have Piemonte, a region located in the northwest of Italy, known for its delicious cuisine, stunning vineyards, and picturesque towns. The capital of Piemonte, Turin, is a city of great historical significance, with stunning palaces, museums, and art galleries.
You need to try the famous risotto alla milanese, a creamy rice dish that is flavored with saffron. Another town worth visiting in the region is Alba, known for its truffles and delicious wines.
Lombardia
Moving down to northern Italy, we come to Lombardia, a region renowned for its stunning lakes, charming villages, and iconic cities. The capital of Lombardia, Milan, is a city of great cultural significance, with stunning museums, art galleries, and cathedrals.
Make sure to try the famous ossobuco alla milanese, a tender veal dish that is flavored with lemon and parsley. Another town worth visiting in the region is Bergamo, known for its stunning medieval architecture, beautiful piazzas, and delicious cuisine.
Let's not forget the breathtaking Lago di Como/Lake Como, one of the most beautiful lakes in all of Europe. With its stunning villas and crystal-clear waters, it's no wonder why this lake is so popular with tourists from all over the world. Make sure to take a boat tour around the lake for the full experience!
Trentino-Alto Adige
Our next stop is Trentino-Alto Adige, a region located in the northeastern corner of Italy, bordering Austria and Switzerland. This region is known for its stunning alpine scenery, charming towns, and delicious cuisine.
The capital of Trentino-Alto Adige, Trento, is a city of great cultural significance, with stunning museums, art galleries, and cathedrals.
Try the famous canederli, a hearty dumpling made with bread and speck. Another town worth visiting in the region is Bolzano, known for its stunning medieval architecture and the famous Ötzi the Iceman museum.
While you are here you MUST visit the Dolomites. It is one of the most beautiful mountain ranges in Europe and a Unesco World Heritage Site. The Dolomites are filled with incredible views, picturesque villages and stunningly unique geological features like the Three Peaks of Lavaredo. Hiking is popular here as you can find trails for all abilities and skill levels, from leisurely walks to challenging climbs.
Veneto
Our next destination is Veneto, a region located in northeastern Italy, known for its stunning architecture, charming villages, and delicious cuisine. The capital of Veneto, Venice, is a city of great historical significance, with stunning canals, palaces, and museums.
You have to try the famous risi e bisi, a delicious rice and pea soup that is flavored with pancetta. Another town worth visiting in the region is Verona, known for its stunning Roman amphitheater and the tragic love story of Romeo and Juliet. Be sure to stop by Juliet's house.
You should also visit Lake Garda- it is a stunning destination in the Lombardia region of northern Italy that is definitely worth a visit. It is the largest lake in Italy and is situated between the regions of Lombardia, Trentino-Alto Adige, and Veneto. The lake is known for its crystal-clear waters, picturesque towns, and stunning mountain scenery.
One of the most popular towns to visit on Lake Garda is Sirmione, located on a narrow peninsula jutting out into the lake. The town is known for its charming old town, medieval castle, and natural hot springs.
The Scaligero Castle is a must-visit attraction, as it is one of the most well-preserved castles in Italy. Another popular town on Lake Garda is Desenzano del Garda, which is known for its beautiful beaches, lively nightlife, and excellent restaurants.
Friuli-Venezia Giulia
Moving to the northeast of Italy, we come to Friuli-Venezia Giulia, a region located bordering Austria and Slovenia. This region is known for its unique blend of cultures, stunning landscapes, and delicious cuisine. Make sure to visit the town of Trieste, a city with a rich history and a vibrant cultural scene.
Don't forget to try the famous San Daniele prosciutto, a cured ham that is known for its delicate flavor and tender texture. Another must-visit attraction in the region is the Castello di Miramare, a stunning castle located on the Gulf of Trieste.
Liguria
Next on our list is Liguria, a region located on the northwest coast of Italy, known for its stunning coastline, charming towns, and delicious cuisine. The capital of Liguria, Genoa, is a city of great historical significance, with stunning palaces, museums, and art galleries.
Make sure to indulge in the famous pesto alla genovese, a delicious sauce made with basil, pine nuts, garlic, and olive oil. Another town worth visiting in the region is Portofino, known for its picturesque harbor, colorful buildings, and stunning views of the Mediterranean.
Another stunning place to visit while you are here is the Cinque Terre villages, five beautiful fishing towns perched on the cliffs of the Italian Riviera. These villages are known for their stunning views of the Mediterranean and delicious seafood dishes. Their local specialty is focaccia al formaggio di Recco, a thin bread loaded with creamy cheese.
Emilia-Romagna
Moving down to central Italy, we come to Emilia-Romagna, a region known for its delicious cuisine, stunning architecture, and rich cultural heritage. The capital of Emilia-Romagna, Bologna, is a city of great cultural significance, with stunning cathedrals, museums, and palaces.
You must try the famous tagliatelle alla bolognese, a delicious pasta dish that is flavored with a rich meat sauce. Another town worth visiting in the region is Parma, known for its stunning Romanesque architecture, delicious prosciutto, and Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese.
While you are here, make sure to check out Rimini, a beautiful beach resort town with stunning views of the Adriatic Sea. Rimini is known for its lively nightlife and delicious seafood dishes. Their local specialty is the piadina romagnola, a flatbread filled with cured meats and vegetables.
Toscana
Next on our journey is Toscana, a region located in central Italy, known for its stunning landscapes, charming towns, and delicious cuisine. The capital of Toscana, Florence, is a city of great historical significance, with stunning cathedrals, museums, and art galleries.
Please try the famous bistecca alla fiorentina, a delicious steak that is grilled over an open flame. Another town worth visiting in the region is Siena, known for its stunning medieval architecture and the famous Palio horse race.
Umbria
Moving south, we come to Umbria, a region known for its stunning countryside, charming towns, and delicious cuisine. The capital of Umbria, Perugia, is a city of great historical significance, with stunning cathedrals, museums, and palaces.
Try the famous porchetta, a delicious roasted pork dish that is flavored with herbs and spices. Another town worth visiting in the region is Assisi, known for its stunning medieval architecture and the famous Basilica of Saint Francis.
Marche
Our next destination is Marche, a region located on the east coast of Italy, known for its stunning beaches, charming towns, and delicious cuisine. The capital of Marche, Ancona, is a city of great historical significance, with stunning cathedrals, museums, and palaces.
You have to try the famous brodetto alla marchigiana, a delicious seafood stew that is flavored with tomatoes and herbs. Another town worth visiting in the region is Urbino, known for its stunning Renaissance architecture and the famous Palazzo Ducale.
Lazio
Moving down to central Italy, we come to Lazio, a region known for its stunning historical sites, charming towns, and delicious cuisine. The capital of Lazio, Rome, is a city of great historical significance, with stunning ancient ruins, museums, and cathedrals.
You MUST try the famous cacio e pepe, a delicious pasta dish that is flavored with pecorino cheese and black pepper. Another town worth visiting in the region is Tivoli, known for its stunning Renaissance villas and gardens, including the famous Villa d'Este.
Abruzzo
Our next destination is Abruzzo, a region located in central Italy, known for its stunning mountain landscapes, charming towns, and delicious cuisine. The capital of Abruzzo, L'Aquila, is a city of great historical significance, with stunning medieval architecture, museums, and palaces.
They are famous for the arrosticini, a delicious skewered lamb dish that is grilled over an open flame. Another town worth visiting in the region is Pescara, known for its stunning beaches and lively nightlife.
Molise
Moving further south, we come to Molise, a region known for its stunning countryside, charming towns, and delicious cuisine. The capital of Molise, Campobasso, is a city of great historical significance, with stunning cathedrals, museums, and palaces.
Don't miss out on trying the renowned calcioni, a mouthwatering fried or baked delicacy packed with cheese, potatoes and onions! There's also Termoli - explore its stunning beaches while you savor the delectable seafood.
Campania
Next on our journey is Campania, a region located in southern Italy, known for its stunning coastline, charming towns, and delicious cuisine. The capital of Campania, Naples, is a city of great historical significance, with stunning cathedrals, museums, and palaces.
Don't miss out on the famous pizza napoletana, a delicious pizza that is topped with tomatoes, mozzarella, and fresh basil. Another town worth visiting in the region is Sorrento, known for its stunning views of the Mediterranean and delicious limoncello liqueur.
Basilicata
Moving further south, we come to Basilicata, a region known for its stunning landscapes, charming towns, and delicious cuisine. The capital of Basilicata, Potenza, is a city of great historical significance, with stunning cathedrals, museums, and palaces.
You need to try the famous lucanica sausage, a delicious sausage that is flavored with fennel and black pepper. Another town worth visiting in the region is Matera, known for its stunning ancient cave dwellings, or Sassi, which are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Calabria
Next on our journey is Calabria, a region located in southern Italy, known for its stunning coastline, charming towns, and delicious cuisine. The capital of Calabria, Catanzaro, is a city of great historical significance, with stunning cathedrals, museums, and palaces.
Try the famous 'nduja, a spicy spreadable salami that is delicious on bread or pasta.
Another town worth visiting in the region is Tropea, known for its stunning beaches and delicious red onions.
Puglia
Moving further south, we come to Puglia, a region known for its stunning coastline, charming towns, and delicious cuisine. The capital of Puglia, Bari, is a city of great historical significance, with stunning cathedrals, museums, and palaces. Make sure to try the famous orecchiette con le cime di rapa, a delicious pasta dish that is flavored with broccoli rabe and garlic.
Another town worth visiting in the region is Alberobello, known for its stunning trulli houses, which are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Sicilia
Our next destination is Sicilia, an island located off the southern coast of Italy, known for its stunning landscapes, charming towns, and delicious cuisine. The capital of Sicilia, Palermo, is a city of great historical significance, with stunning cathedrals, museums, and palaces. They are famous for the arancini, delicious fried rice balls filled with meat, cheese, and tomato sauce.
Another town worth visiting in the region is Taormina, known for its stunning views of Mount Etna and the Mediterranean, as well as its ancient Greek theater.
Sardegna
Last but not least, we come to Sardegna, an island located off the western coast of Italy, known for its stunning beaches, charming towns, and delicious cuisine. The capital of Sardegna, Cagliari, is a city of great historical significance, with stunning cathedrals, museums, and palaces.
A must-try is the famous porceddu, a delicious roasted suckling pig dish that is popular throughout the island. Another town worth visiting in the region is Alghero, known for its stunning Catalan architecture and delicious seafood.
Italy is truly a wonderland of stunning landscapes, charming towns, and delicious cuisine. From the stunning coastline of Liguria to the ancient ruins of Sicilia, there is something for everyone in this beautiful country.
So grab your passport and get ready for an unforgettable journey through the 20 regions of Italy. Whether you're a foodie, history buff, or beach lover, there is no shortage of things to see and do in this amazing country.
