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Italy is a stunning destination on its own, but for the curious traveller, there are plenty of fascinating places to visit near Italy that promise equally unforgettable adventures. From the snow-covered Alps to sun-drenched Mediterranean islands, the countries bordering Italy—like Switzerland, Slovenia, Austria, and France—offer distinct cultures, landscapes, and histories just a short journey away. Whether you’re in the north or the south, stepping across the border opens up a world of new experiences. Exploring places to visit near Italy adds even more depth and excitement to your European travels.
10 Places To Visit Near Italy
Discover unique cultures, landscapes, and histories through incredible places to visit near Italy across Europe.
1. Switzerland
Photo: Pascal Debrunmer / Unsplash
Just north of Italy, Switzerland offers a scenic escape with bucolic lakes, alpine towns, and snow-capped peaks. Easily accessible by train or bus from Milan or Lake Como, it’s a favourite destination for both skiers and luxury travellers. Ride the Glacier Express, explore Lucerne and Bern, or admire Lake Geneva’s charm. Ticino, the Italian-speaking region, shares Italy’s love for fine food. With clean cities, efficient transport, and breathtaking views, Switzerland is one of the finest places to see near Italy for those seeking nature, elegance, and a refined alpine retreat.
Top Highlights: Scenic train rides, alpine retreats, Glacier Express, Lake Geneva
How To Get There: Direct train from Milan or drive from Lake Como
2. France
Photo: Dorian Mongel / Unsplash
France, the stylish western neighbor of Italy, continues the charm with its glamour, culture, and natural beauty. Just beyond the border, you’ll find sun-drenched beaches on the French Riviera, the fragrant lavender fields of Provence, and elegant cities like Nice, Cannes, and Marseille—easily accessible from northern Italy and the Ligurian coast. Explore hilltop medieval towns, indulge in French cuisine, or wander through art-filled museums, all set in a Mediterranean atmosphere. With its rich history and refined lifestyle, France is a perfect cross-border escape that offers both rejuvenation and unforgettable experiences.
Top Highlights: Food, Riviera vibes, Provence and Marseille
How To Get There: Drive from the Ligurian coast or take a train from Turin
3. Austria
Photo: Diego Delso / Wikimedia Commons
Austria, northeast of Italy, is a land of imperial cities, alpine charm, and rich musical heritage. Just a few hours from Venice, it welcomes visitors with Baroque architecture, grand palaces, and snow-covered peaks. Vienna dazzles with classical music and museums, while Salzburg enchants with Mozart’s legacy and Sound of Music landscapes. The Austrian Alps invite hiking, skiing, or peaceful retreats. With excellent train links and deep cultural roots in central Europe, Austria offers one of the most refined tourist attractions near Italy—a perfect blend of history, nature, and timeless European elegance.
Top Highlights: Classical music, imperial architecture, Vienna, Salzburg, Hallstatt
How To Get There: Train from Venice or Udine
4. Slovenia
Photo: Michal Klajban / Wikimedia Commons
Slovenia is a small, land-locked country sandwiched between Italy and the Balkans, a country that is full of nature and antique splendor. It is only two hours away from Venice and feels like a different planet. The fairytale-actually little church on Lake Bled shows up like a postcard, and cosmopolitan Ljubljana has a thumb-sized capital intertwining coffee culture and Baroque semblance. People interested in nature can visit Triglav National Park, and those who enjoy eating will appreciate the wine areas and the local and fresh food. Slovenia has clean cities, a hospitable atmosphere, and value, which makes it the best place to take a relaxing and educational break.
Top Highlights: Green escapes, serene lakes, Lake Bled, Ljubljana and Postojna Cave
How To Get There: Drive or take a train from Trieste
5. Croatia
Photo: Berthold Werner / Wikimedia Commons
Croatia, which sits across the Adriatic Sea from Italy, is a remarkable combination of seaside beauty, medieval towns, and Mediterranean flair. It is easily accessible by ferry to Ancona or by land, through Slovenia, and a nice place to spend time. Stroll along the ancient walls of Dubrovnik, walk amongst the ruins of Roman Split or hop islands across the Dalmatian Coast. With the turquoise-like waters, seafood as well and laid-back surroundings, this is what every beach lover and culture hunter would dream of. Although this country is becoming increasingly popular, it is not as expensive or overcrowded as Western European destinations.
Top Highlights: Coastal towns, Adriatic beaches, Dubrovnik, Split and Plitvice Lakes
How To Get There: Ferry from Ancona or drive via Slovenia
6. San Marino
Photo: Max_Ryazanov / Wikimedia Commons
San Marino is ideally located in northern Italy as one of the oldest republics in the world. It is one of the smallest landlocked countries and is only a short drive from Rimini or Bologna. On this hilltop, you will find medieval architecture, beautiful vistas, and a tranquil environment. The capital of the country is also called San Marino, and the entire city has cobbled streets, teeny-time shops, and towers dating back hundreds of years. With no borders to cross and the often-used euro, it makes visiting so easy. San Marino is one of the more unusual places to visit near Italy.
Top Highlights: hilltop views, Guaita Tower and Palazzo Pubblico
How To Get There: 30-minute drive from Rimini
7. Vatican City
Photo: Diliff / Wikimedia Commons
Vatican City, the world’s smallest independent country, lies entirely within the city of Rome and has spiritual and cultural prominence. The place, minute as it is, occupies a lot of importance as the seat of the Roman Catholic Church and the residence of the Pope. People come here to see the majestic St. Peter’s Basilica, amazing artworks of the Vatican Museums, and Michelangelo’s painting on the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel. Access is easy from anywhere in Rome, visiting a must for art, history, and faith. Considered among the most iconic places to visit near Italy, Vatican City promises an intense experience in a very compact space.
Top Highlights: Spiritual significance, iconic art, St. Peter’s Basilica and Vatican Museums
How To Get There: Walkable from central Rome
8. Germany
North of Italy, Germany presents an exciting combination of historic cities, fairy-tale castles, and alpine scenery. Southern Germany, especially Bavaria, is well connected by railway or road through Austria or Switzerland. Munich poses a promise of enjoyment, with its beer gardens and museums, while Neuschwanstein’s castle stands there majestically, ready to ignite the fairytale dreams of any traveller. Nature-loving souls will be drawn to the Bavarian Alps, while the city-lovers will vanish into Berlin’s spirited culture and history. For those looking for places to visit near Italy, it offers a fine mix of contemporary edge with old-world charm.
Top Highlights: History, beer culture, castles, Munich, Neuschwanstein and Berlin
How To Get There: Via Austria or Switzerland by train
9. Monaco
Photo: Diego Delso / Wikimedia Commons
Monaco is a beautiful little microstate on the French Riviera. It’s only a short drive away from the Ligurian coastline of Italy. Famous for luxury yachts, the Monte Carlo Casino, and the yearly Formula 1 Grand Prix, Monaco is an example of European coolness and charm. Small but full of expensive shops, boardwalks by the sea, and wonderful views of the Mediterranean make Monaco special. As one of the most elite travel spots near Italy, Monaco captures the spirit of luxury, seaside, and prestige, ideal for those looking for a fashionable escape with elegance and distinction.
Top Highlights: Glitz, casinos, coastal drives, Monte Carlo and Prince’s Palace
How To Get There: Short drive from Ventimiglia or Nice
10. Malta
Photo: Bengt Nyman / Wikimedia Commons
A small island nation located south of Italy, Malta offers a blend of sun, history, and culture with sparkling waters for its patrons. A short flight or ferry ride away from Sicily makes for a lucrative extension to your Italian itinerary. Walk down the Baroque architecture-laden streets of Valletta, visit temples older than pyramids, or soak in the beauty of the Blue Lagoon of Comino. This interesting amalgam of North African, Arab, and European cultures offers Malta the exact kind of character it needs to mark its presence in the list of places to visit near Italy, alongside warm island hospitality, making it a worthy retreat for culture buffs and beachgoers.
Top Highlights: Island culture, historic cities, Valletta, Mdina and Blue Lagoon
How To Get There: 1-hour flight from Sicily
Traveling beyond Italy offers unforgettable experiences—from France’s charming towns to Slovenia’s serene lakes and Croatia’s stunning coastline. Each neighboring country has its own unique appeal and is easily accessible, making your journey rich in culture, nature, and adventure. If you love Italy, you’ll be thrilled to explore even more. Discover the best places to visit near Italy with TripXL and make your European escape truly complete.
Cover Photo: Magda Ehlers / Pexels
