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Italy is a country that I definitely want to explore more of when I get the time. Not only do I love the mouth-watering Mediterranean cuisine dished up here, but the destination is home to some fantastic attractions that can’t be missed – and five in particular stand out.

Of course, there are dozens more things to see and do in Italy, but the below tourist hotspots are iconic. To find out more, keep reading.

1. Leaning Tower of Pisa

If you’re looking to book a hotel and  car hire in Pisa, its Leaning Tower will no doubt be at the top of your list of sites to visit. According to records, the structure got its famous tilt after the foundations of the bell tower that were laid in 1173 collapsed in 1185.

Nearly 100 years passed before work started on the Leaning Tower of Pisa and it was led by architect Giovanni di Simone. He managed to continue with the construction despite the angle and the attraction is now perhaps the most well known in the city.

2. The Last Supper

I love pieces of art that tell a story and have an air of mystery about them, and The Last Supper does just that. Located in Milan’s Santa Maria delle Grazie’s refectory, the Leonardo da Vinci painting depicts Jesus and his disciples enjoying a final meal before his crucifixion.

There are loads of theories flying around about this masterpiece, including that the artist painted a self-portrait of himself when he created Judas Thaddeus. Whatever you think about this stunning piece of work, it’s definitely one not to miss.

3. Milan Cathedral

While in Milan, you should also visit the breathtaking cathedral – not that you can miss this giant structure in the city centre! As you walk up the stairs of the subway station opposite Milan Cathedral, you will really get an idea of its size.

Once you reach the top of the steps, one of the first things to jump out at you will probably be the statue of the Madonnina. This gilded sculpture stands on a 108-m post, while other features that will catch your eye include its stained-glass windows, majestic doorways and pink-hued marble.

4. Amalfi Coast

The Amalfi Coast is a stunning corner of Italy that has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and I can definitely understand why. This stretch of the country is next to the dazzling Tyrrhenian Sea and if you decide to take a roadtrip along the coast, you will pass through places such as Amalfi, Ravello and Positano.

5. Basilica of St Peter

I could have listed dozens more top attractions in Italy, with the city of Rome itself home to its fair share. However, I picked the most iconic and that to me is the Basilica of St Peter in the Vatican. This is one of the world’s largest churches and is filled with amazing artwork from the likes of Michelangelo.

It is allegedly the burial place of St Peter, one of Jesus’ disciples, and with its vast dome filling the Vatican skyline, you will easily find your way to this iconic building. I advise you to make the effort to climb the steps up to the top, as you will be rewarded with fantastic panoramic views and the cupola’s beautiful decor.