12 Instagrammable Spots in Italy That Will Make Your Followers Swoon

You cannot travel to Italy and miss some of its most instagrammable spots. Italy’s beauty was meant to be shared with the world, as you will quickly realize by visiting the photogenic locations we recommend in this article. These spots are not just photogenic but also very enriching to visit. If you are not posing for photos, you will be admiring buildings that hold centuries of history or unwinding in some of the country’s most serene landscapes.

Ready to glamorize your Instagram feed with the beauty of Italy? Read on, we’ve got you covered. We not only guide you to the most Instagrammable spots but also help you capture the essence of these destinations in the best possible way.

Table of Contents

Colosseum, Rome

European Cities with the Most Stunning Architecture Rome, Italy — © Frédéric Prochasson / Adobe Stock

The Colosseum, a memory you want to capture and cherish forever, is not just a photogenic spot. Built in 70-80 AD, it stands as proof of the power the Roman Empire held. At its peak, the amphitheater could hold up to 80,000 spectators during gladiatorial contests, public spectacles, and executions. It is one of the best-preserved architectural marvels of its era, a living history that you can capture in your photos.

Beyond the rich history it holds, the Colosseum is quite a sight. Its grandeur, intricate architectural details, the massive structure with tiered seating, the network of underground tunnels (hypogeum), and the partially ruined state add a dramatic quality to photos you can take. Whether you are inside or outside, in summer or winter, The Colosseum will always be a timeless subject for photography.

Trevi Fountain

The Trevi Fountain is the largest Baroque fountain in Rome and one of the most famous fountains in the world. Designed by Nicola Salvi and completed by Giuseppe Pannini in 1762, it is renowned for its stunning sculptures and intricate design that keeps attracting large crowds every other day.

The Trevi Fountain’s dramatic Baroque design, with its dynamic sculptures and the shimmering waters, is captivating. A classic shot is capturing yourself or someone tossing a coin into the fountain, a tradition that is said to ensure a return to Rome. If you plan to visit the fountain, do it early in the morning or late at night to avoid the crowds.

Venice Canals

The highlight of visiting Venice is usually taking a gondola ride through its canals. These rides offer an enchanting blend of historic architecture and picturesque water reflections. The charming gondolas, arched bridges, and narrow, winding waterways create an endlessly photogenic and romantic atmosphere. The Grand Canal, which winds through the city and is lined with magnificent buildings and historic palaces, is the most photogenic.

Taking gondola rides offers a unique perspective of Venice and opportunities to admire and focus on unmissable details. On your ride, you can capture unique views of the Rialto Bridge, the Bridge of Sighs, and even the gondoliers skillfully performing their art.

Piazza San Marco, Venice

Piazza San Marco (St. Mark’s Square) is one of the most remarkable landmarks in Italy. It is the heart of Venice and one of the most renowned public squares in the world. While there are so many things to like about this public square, you cannot ignore that it is home to some of Venice’s notable historic buildings, such as St. Mark’s Basilica, the Doge’s Palace, and the Campanile (bell tower). The square is also home to the Procuratie Vecchie and Procuratie Nuove, which house shops, cafes, and offices.

Piazza San Marco’s blend of stunning architecture, rich history, and vibrant atmosphere makes it a photographer’s dream. While it is buzzing during the day, ensure you also capture its view illuminated at night. When you are in Venice, and it rains, ensure you head out to capture mirror-like images of the buildings surrounding the square—they are irresistibly magical. You can also climb the Campanile for panoramic views of the square and the surrounding cityscape. The aerial perspective adds depth to your photos.

Cinque Terre

If you are into picturesque villages, Cinque Terre is a destination you should not miss when exploring Italy. This stunning coastal destination comprises five villages: Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. Known for its colorful houses, terraced vineyards, dramatic cliffs, and stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea, Cinque Terre is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Italy’s most beautiful destinations.

Cinque Terre’s unique charm and photogenic character lie in its vibrant, multicolored houses perched on cliffs overlooking the sea, narrow winding streets, scenic hiking trails, and breathtaking coastal views. It is a picture-perfect destination at every turn you take; you will like it, and so will your Instagram. Each village offers its distinctive character and stunning photo opportunities, so make sure you go beyond Monterosso al Mare, which is the most popular among tourists.

Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, Florence

How To Plan Your Dream Italian Escape Book Attractions, Tours, and Activities Ahead of Time (Florence) — © Orpheus26 / Adobe Stock

The Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore (Florence Duomo) is a Renaissance masterpiece whose iconic dome still dominates Florence’s skyline centuries after it was built. Construction of the cathedral began in 1296 and was completed in 1436. The dome was a groundbreaking architectural feat at the time, as it is today.

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This cathedral has so many things to like, but you certainly cannot overlook its massive dome and stunning interiors. The combination of white, green, and pink marble, detailed sculptures, and frescoes is exceptionally visually appealing. When visiting, climb to the top of the dome or Giotto’s Campanile for panoramic views of Florence and the cathedral itself. The views from these points offer a unique perspective and stunning photo opportunities.

Leaning Tower of Pisa, Pisa

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Why would you complete your Italian trip without playfully “holding up” the Leaning Tower of Pisa? Visiting Pisa and posing while holding up the unintentionally slanting tower has become a trend. If you are the kind that likes to jump on trends, the Leaning Tower of a Pisa is a destination you cannot afford to miss.

Beyond capturing its distinctive tilt, you can also explore its beautiful Romanesque architecture, learn about its rich history involving its construction and attempts to stabilize it, climb the tower, and take photos from the top for a unique aerial perspective of the Piazza dei Miracoli and the city of Pisa

Amalfi Coast

If you love a dreamy coastal destination, the Amalfi Coast is a destination you do not want to miss in Italy. Stretching along the southern edge of Italy’s Sorrentine Peninsula, this UNESCO World Heritage site is known for its dramatic cliffs, picturesque villages, vibrant towns, lush landscapes, and stunning Mediterranean views.

It is a coastal destination with so much to offer all kinds of travelers. While the entire Amalfi Coast is stunning, its most photogenic towns are Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello. Other photogenic moments you do not want to miss include Positano sunsets, the colorful villages cascading down the cliffs, and Path of the Gods (Sentiero degli Dei), a stunning hiking trail that offers some of the most spectacular views of the Amalfi Coast.

Lake Como

Lake Como is renowned for its dramatic scenery, crystal-clear waters, luxurious villas, and views of the Italian Alps surrounding it. The charming lakeside villages, lush gardens, and elegant architecture make it one of the most picturesque and romantic destinations in Italy.

The contrast between the blue lake, green hills, and elegant architecture is a scenery made for a glamorous Instagram feed. For the best shots, do not miss the charming lakeside villages of Bellagio and Varenna, the architecturally pleasing Villa del Balbianello and Villa Carlota, and the town of Como, known for its historic cathedral, lively piazzas, and the funicular to Brunate. There is no doubt that Lake Como is one of the places you can best capture the beauty of the Italian landscape.

Milan Cathedral (Duomo di Milano)

There are so many reasons to visit Milan, but seeing the Milan Cathedral is a good enough reason to book that trip. This Gothic masterpiece is known for being one of the world’s largest cathedrals, with a rich history and elaborate architecture.

Its imposing facade, adorned with thousands of marble statues, intricate spires, and stunning stained glass windows, never fails to impress tourists. While visiting, marvel at its grandeur, intricate details, Gothic spires, and the numerous sculptures depicting biblical scenes and saints’ lives. While posing at the square in front of the cathedral, you may want to snap photos with the pigeons that fly around; they add some dramatic touch to your photos.

Alberobello

Alberobello is one of the most charming villages in Italy. Its traditional Apulian architecture, featuring unique trulli houses, creates a fairytale that belongs on a fancy Instagram feed. Many of the trulli houses date back to the 14th century, adding a historic flair to the village.

When visiting, snap photos on the streets lined with whitewashed trulli houses, each featuring a unique conical roof. The uniformity of the architecture, combined with narrow winding streets and flower-filled courtyards, creates a photogenic setting perfect for memorable shots.

Before visiting, know that Alberobello is divided into Rione Monti and Rione Aia Piccola. Both offer unique trulli architecture, but Rione Aia Piccola is quieter and less crowded, while Rione Monti is more touristy with densely packed trulli houses. If you do not have time to explore both, choose what best suits your Instagram aesthetic.

Capri

Capri, located in the Tyrrhenian Sea, is one of the most picturesque islands in Europe. Its enchanting landscapes, from its iconic Faraglioni rock formations to the azure waters of the Blue Grotto, provide endless photo opportunities. The island’s picturesque streets, lush gardens, and elegant architecture also contribute to its photogenic appeal.

During your trip, ensure to hop on a boat and photograph the island from the water to get unique perspectives of the cliffs, caves, and Faraglioni. You can also go hiking on Capri’s trails and find vantage points that offer panoramic views of the island and sea.

Do not miss Anacapri, the island’s quieter, less touristy part. Anacapri is also home to Monte Solaro, the highest point on the island, which can be reached by chairlift.

Another unmissable highlight of Capri is Marina Piccola, a small harbor on the island’s southern side, known for its beautiful beaches and views of the Faraglioni. Whether you are into beaches, stunning and dramatic landscapes, or luxurious vacations, you will find your slice of paradise in Capri.