Introduction

From the imperial grandeur of Rome to the fashion capital Milan, and the charming coastal city of Naples, Italy offers a diverse and immersive experience.

In this article, we take a deep dive into the top 10 largest cities in Italy, exploring their history, geography, must-see attractions, and local cuisine.

1. Rome – The Eternal City

Population: ~2.8 million

History and Geography

Rome, the capital and largest city of Italy, is one of the most historically significant cities in the world. Founded in 753 BC, Rome grew from a small settlement along the Tiber River into the heart of the Roman Empire, which ruled vast territories from Britain to Egypt.

After the fall of the empire in 476 AD, Rome remained an important religious center, becoming the seat of the Papal States. Today, Vatican City, home of the Pope, lies within Rome, making it an important pilgrimage destination for Catholics.

Rome is characterized by its seven hills, numerous ancient ruins, and baroque fountains that define its landscape.

Top Attractions

• Colosseum – The largest ancient amphitheater, known for its gladiatorial battles.
• Pantheon – A well-preserved Roman temple dedicated to all gods.
• Trevi Fountain – A stunning Baroque masterpiece where visitors toss coins for good luck.
• Vatican City – Home to St. Peter’s Basilica and Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel.

What to Eat

• Carbonara – A rich pasta dish made with eggs, pancetta, and pecorino cheese.
• Cacio e Pepe – Simple pasta with pecorino cheese and black pepper.
• Supplì – Deep-fried rice balls filled with mozzarella.

2. Milan – The Fashion Capital

Population: ~1.4 million

History and Geography

Milan is located in northern Italy in the Lombardy region, making it a crucial economic and financial center. Originally founded by the Celts, Milan was conquered by the Romans in 222 BC, becoming one of the empire’s most important cities.

During the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, Milan thrived under the rule of the Visconti and Sforza families, becoming a center of art and innovation. Leonardo da Vinci spent years in Milan, leaving behind his masterpiece, The Last Supper. Today, Milan is a global capital of fashion and design.

Top Attractions

• Duomo di Milano – Italy’s largest Gothic cathedral.
• Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II – A historic luxury shopping arcade.
• La Scala Opera House – One of the world’s most prestigious opera venues.

What to Eat

• Risotto alla Milanese – Saffron-flavored creamy risotto.
• Ossobuco – Braised veal shank with gremolata.
• Panettone – A traditional Christmas sweet bread.

3. Naples – The Birthplace of Pizza

Population: ~950,000

History and Geography

Naples, located on the Bay of Naples, was founded by the Greeks in 600 BC. It later became a significant Roman city and was a crucial cultural center during the Kingdom of Naples.

Naples is known for its historic city center, one of the oldest in Europe, and for being the birthplace of pizza. It sits near Mount Vesuvius, which famously erupted in 79 AD, burying Pompeii and Herculaneum.

Top Attractions

• Pompeii and Herculaneum – Ancient Roman cities preserved by volcanic ash.
• Castel dell’Ovo – A fortress with stunning sea views.
• Spaccanapoli – A historic street filled with vibrant markets and cafes.

What to Eat

• Pizza Margherita – The original Neapolitan pizza.
• Sfogliatella – A crispy, ricotta-filled pastry.
• Pasta alla Genovese – A slow-cooked onion and meat sauce.

4. Turin – The City of Chocolate

Population: ~850,000

History and Geography

Located in northwestern Italy, Turin was the first capital of unified Italy (1861-1865). The House of Savoy, Italy’s royal family, ruled from here, leaving behind magnificent palaces and baroque architecture.

Turin played a vital role in Italy’s industrial revolution and is home to Fiat, making it a major automotive hub. It’s also famous for chocolate, having introduced solid chocolate bars to Europe.

Top Attractions

• Mole Antonelliana – The symbol of Turin, home to the National Cinema Museum.
• Egyptian Museum – One of the most extensive collections of Egyptian artifacts in the world.
• Piazza Castello – A historic square with royal palaces.

What to Eat

• Bicerin – A hot chocolate and espresso drink.
• Bagna Cauda – A warm anchovy and garlic dip.
• Gianduja – A hazelnut chocolate treat, the inspiration for Nutella.

5. Palermo – The Capital of Sicily

Population: ~670,000

History and Geography

Palermo, located on the northern coast of Sicily, has been a crossroads of civilizations. Over the centuries, it has been ruled by the Phoenicians, Greeks, Romans, Arabs, Normans, and Spaniards, each leaving a distinct mark.

The city is a fascinating blend of Arab-Norman architecture, bustling markets, and Mediterranean landscapes. Palermo was once a cultural capital of the Islamic world during the Arab rule (9th–11th century).

Top Attractions

• Palermo Cathedral – A mix of architectural styles from different eras.
• Teatro Massimo – Italy’s largest opera house.
• Ballarò Market – A lively street market with fresh produce and street food.

What to Eat

• Arancini – Fried rice balls stuffed with meat or cheese.
• Cannoli – A crispy pastry filled with sweet ricotta.
• Pasta con le Sarde – Pasta with sardines, wild fennel, and raisins.

6. Genoa – The Maritime Powerhouse

Population: ~570,000

History and Geography

Genoa, located in northwestern Italy along the Ligurian Sea, has long been one of Italy’s most important port cities. The city’s maritime history dates back to ancient times, but it became a dominant force during the Middle Ages as a powerful maritime republic alongside Venice, Pisa, and Amalfi.

During the Age of Exploration, Genoa was home to Christopher Columbus, and its merchants played a crucial role in European trade. The city’s historic center, one of the largest in Europe, features a labyrinth of narrow medieval streets and elegant palaces.

Top Attractions

• Porto Antico – The city’s historic harbor, now a lively waterfront area with museums and restaurants.
• Palazzi dei Rolli – A collection of aristocratic residences, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Boccadasse – A charming fishing village within the city.
• Lanterna di Genova – The city’s iconic lighthouse, dating back to the 12th century.

What to Eat

• Pesto alla Genovese – Fresh basil sauce made with pine nuts, Parmesan, and olive oil, served with trofie pasta.
• Focaccia – Soft, olive oil-infused bread, often topped with salt or rosemary.
• Farinata – A crispy, chickpea-flour pancake, a popular street food.

7. Bologna – The Culinary Heart of Italy

Population: ~390,000

History and Geography

Bologna, the capital of Emilia-Romagna, is famous for its universities, medieval towers, and exceptional cuisine. It is home to Europe’s oldest university, the University of Bologna, founded in 1088.

During the Middle Ages, Bologna was a center of education, politics, and commerce. The city is known for its terracotta-colored buildings, long porticoes, and well-preserved medieval architecture.

Top Attractions

• Piazza Maggiore – The main square, surrounded by historic buildings.
• Le Due Torri – Two leaning towers, landmarks of medieval Bologna.
• Archiginnasio of Bologna – The original seat of the University of Bologna.
• San Petronio Basilica – One of the largest churches in the world.

What to Eat

• Tagliatelle al Ragù – The original Bolognese pasta, served with a rich meat sauce.
• Lasagna alla Bolognese – Layers of pasta, ragù, and creamy béchamel sauce.
• Tortellini in Brodo – Small pasta dumplings filled with meat, served in a warm broth.
• Mortadella – A finely ground, flavorful pork sausage, known worldwide.

8. Florence – The Birthplace of the Renaissance

Population: ~370,000

History and Geography

Florence, located in central Italy along the Arno River, is considered the birthplace of the Renaissance. The city flourished during the 15th and 16th centuries, producing legendary artists like Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Botticelli.

The Medici family, one of the most powerful banking families in Europe, ruled Florence and sponsored many of its artistic masterpieces. Today, Florence remains a UNESCO World Heritage Site, filled with museums, historic buildings, and artistic treasures.

Top Attractions

• Uffizi Gallery – Home to works by Botticelli, Michelangelo, and Caravaggio.
• Ponte Vecchio – A medieval bridge lined with goldsmith shops.
• Piazza del Duomo – Featuring Florence Cathedral (Santa Maria del Fiore), with its famous Brunelleschi’s Dome.
• Palazzo Pitti & Boboli Gardens – A Renaissance palace with stunning gardens.

What to Eat

• Bistecca alla Fiorentina – A thick T-bone steak, grilled to perfection.
• Pappa al Pomodoro – A tomato and bread soup.
• Ribollita – A hearty vegetable and bread soup.
• Cantucci e Vin Santo – Almond biscuits served with sweet Tuscan wine.

9. Bari – The Gateway to the Adriatic

Population: ~320,000

History and Geography

Bari, the capital of Apulia (Puglia) in southern Italy, is an important port city along the Adriatic Sea. Its history dates back to the ancient Greeks, and it later became a vital city in the Roman Empire.

During the Middle Ages, Bari was a major maritime hub and was ruled by the Byzantines, Normans, and Spanish. Today, it remains a lively seaside city with a strong fishing and trade industry.

Top Attractions

• Basilica di San Nicola – A major pilgrimage site, home to the relics of Saint Nicholas (Santa Claus).
• Castello Svevo – A Norman fortress overlooking the sea.
• Lungomare Nazario Sauro – A scenic waterfront promenade.
• Bari Vecchia – The city’s charming old town, filled with narrow streets and local bakeries.

What to Eat

• Orecchiette con Cime di Rapa – Small ear-shaped pasta with turnip greens.
• Focaccia Barese – A soft, olive oil-rich bread, topped with tomatoes and olives.
• Sgagliozze – Fried polenta squares, a common street food.

10. Catania – At the Foot of Mount Etna

Population: ~300,000

History and Geography

Catania, located on the east coast of Sicily, sits near Mount Etna, Europe’s most active volcano. Founded by the Greeks in 729 BC, it later became an essential part of the Roman Empire.

The city has been destroyed and rebuilt several times due to earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. Despite this, Catania thrives as a cultural and economic center, known for its baroque architecture and lively markets.

Top Attractions

• Piazza del Duomo – The heart of the city, featuring the Elephant Fountain.
• Teatro Romano – Ancient Roman ruins.
• Via Etnea – A lively shopping street with views of Mount Etna.
• Castello Ursino – A medieval castle built by Emperor Frederick II.

What to Eat

• Pasta alla Norma – Pasta with eggplant, ricotta, and tomato sauce.
• Granita e Brioche – A refreshing semi-frozen dessert served with soft bread.
• Scacciata – A stuffed bread filled with vegetables and cheese.

Conclusion

Italy’s largest cities offer a diverse mix of history, culture, and culinary traditions. Whether you’re exploring the ancient streets of Rome, indulging in Bolognese pasta, or relaxing by the coast in Bari, each city has something special to offer.