6 best Italian cities for art lovers (that are not Florence)

The best Italian cities for art lovers (that aren't  Florence) are many; we are spoiled for choice. Why? Because Italy is the only country in the world capable of offering a rich and varied artistic and cultural heritage, where even away from crowded tourist paths, there are cities that host some of the best art museums in Italy and priceless works.

Visiting lesser-known destinations today is preferable, as it allows you to discover different artistic styles, from the Renaissance to Baroque, from medieval art to contemporary art, but also to explore traditional festivals, artisanal workshops, and typical dishes.But then, what are the best Italian art cities besides Florence? We suggest 6 other extraordinary art cities for you, let's discover them together in this article. 

Ferrara, with its cultural vibrancy, undoubtedly deserves a place among the best Italian cities for art lovers. Located in the Po Valley, its historic center is one of the best-preserved in Italy and is indeed part of the UNESCO World Heritage. The symbol of the city is the Estense Castle, built by the Dukes of Este, a fortress with moats and towers that today hosts cultural events and art exhibitions. The Diamond Palace is also a must-see, famous for its facade made of diamond-shaped stones and for its art exhibitions. While strolling through the Renaissance streets, one can still discover the Cathedral of San Giorgio, with its Romanesque-Gothic facade, the evocative Jewish Quarter, and museums rich in artworks.

Urbino, the birthplace of Raphael, rich in charm and history thanks to the noble Renaissance family of the Montefeltro, has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1998. If you are asking the question: "Can I see Renaissance art outside of Tuscany?" Urbino is the answer, as it is particularly representative of the Renaissance both in its architectural features and in the works preserved in the majestic Ducal Palace, which houses the National Gallery of the Marche with its exceptional collection of artworks, including masterpieces by Raphael. The streets of Urbino also retain the charm of the past, providing visitors with an evocative atmosphere, but the beauty of this city also lies in the surrounding hilly landscape, offering breathtaking views, perfect for those who love to combine culture and nature.

Mantua, cradle of the Gonzaga, a noble family among the most powerful in the Renaissance, can certainly be ranked among the best Italian cities for art lovers (not counting Florence). But which museums are unmissable in Italy outside Florence? Two of them that we suggest are right in Mantua, namely the Ducal Palace and the Palazzo Te, which contain immense collections. The magnificent Ducal Palace is also famous for the frescoes by Giulio Romano that tell stories of power and legend, and it is home to the precious Camera degli Sposi by Andrea Mantegna. Another interesting place is the Museo Palazzo San Sebastiano, dedicated to the history and art of the Renaissance in Mantua, which offers a deeper insight into the city and its important figures. Finally, by walking along Lake Mezzo, you can enjoy picturesque views and spend hours in a timeless atmosphere.

Famous worldwide as the birthplace of the violin, Cremona combines a rich artistic heritage with centuries of tradition in violin making. You can explore the wonderful Violin Museum, which exhibits exceptional masterpieces by Stradivari and Guarneri, and stroll through the historic streets rich in fascinating architecture. You can visit the majestic Romanesque-Gothic Cathedral with stunning frescoes, alongside the Baptistery and the Torrazzo, the tallest brick bell tower in Europe, symbol of the city. There is also the Ponchielli Theatre, one of the most elegant Italian theaters, hosting concerts and performances, and the Civic Museum Ala Ponzone which displays a youthful canvas by Caravaggio, along with collections of decorative arts and musical instruments.

Situated in the heart of Salento, in Puglia, Lecce surprises with its Baroque style, visible in every corner of its squares, churches, and palaces. Including it among the best Italian cities for art lovers is therefore a must. In fact, while strolling through the historic center, one can admire masterpieces such as the Basilica of Santa Croce and Piazza Duomo, true symbols of Lecce Baroque, this refined and theatrical art executed by sculpting a local stone, the Lecce stone, precisely, a light and compact limestone that makes the monuments bright and warm. This is a rich, imaginative Baroque that is unique in the world, made of facades sculpted with floral motifs, mythological figures, animals, and surprising details. However, Lecce also offers events, local craftsmanship, and a delicious traditional cuisine that completes the experience.

Palermo, crossroads of cultures and ancient art, is one of the 6 best Italian cities for art lovers, alongside Florence, because it tells centuries of Arab, Norman, Byzantine, and Baroque influences through its monuments, churches, and markets. Unique in its own way, it offers extraordinary places to explore such as the Cathedral of Palermo, the Norman Palace with the Palatine Chapel, and many other masterpieces of art. Visiting Palermo means immersing yourself in a truly unique experience where beauty merges with millennia-old traditions and an  extraordinary cuisine. It is a fundamental stop for those who, like you, seek unforgettable places and emotions on a journey that embraces history, colors, and Mediterranean flavors.

Visiting the best Italian cities for art lovers (that aren't Florence) means embarking on an exciting journey to discover often underrated treasures. Cities like Ferrara, Urbino, Mantova, Cremona, Lecce, and Palermo hold absolute masterpieces, authentic atmospheres, and millennia-old traditions that rival the more famous destinations. These locations offer high-quality tourism, perfect for those who enjoy slow travel, filled with culture, art, and local flavors. If you want to enrich your experience in Italy with surprising and less crowded stops, these art cities are must-visit choices. All that's left is to set off and be enchanted!