RTL Logo
LISTEN NOW: RTL 102.5
0:00 / LIVE
Change Season:
RAI 1
RADIO ITALY
Follow Italianism

Hello, what do you want to look for?

Italianism – News about ItalyItalianism – News about Italy

Destinations

It's not just Venice: the Italy of canal cities

cities canals italy
The Italy of canal cities: Navigli, in Milan

With your incredible charm, Veneza conquered the entire world, but did you know that Italy is full of other cities with beautiful canals?

Portuguese Nationality
Portuguese nationality
You may be entitled to it. We'll show you which path makes the most sense for your situation. Grandchild or great-grandchild. We'll check if you're eligible.

Millions of visitors flock to the Venice lagoon every year to admire its fairytale panorama. But many are unaware of other pearls, which will certainly move you.

There are dozens of cities – not to mention small villages – crossed by canals that give them a truly suggestive appearance

Shall we discover the pearls of Italy together?

Colorful Burano, just a few steps from Venice

Burano | Photo: iStock

Since we're talking about Venice, we can't help but start our trip through the “cities cut by canals in Italy” with Burano.

The small town, characterized by charming colorful houses, was built on four islands, and its waters reflect a landscape that seems to come out of a postcard.

Comacchio and its splendid bridges

Comacchio | Photo: iStock

It's in Po Delta, where the river flows into the Adriatic Sea, where we find the city of Comacchio

It was built on thirteen islets linked together by splendid bridges. True architectural masterpieces that still represent one of the most beautiful and popular attractions among tourists today.

Mantua, the city surrounded by lakes

Mantua | Photo: iStock

Mantua is a city that has a deep connection with water: it was born as a small island surrounded by four lakes. Which in turn originated from the winding path of the Mincio river.

It grew exponentially, but did not lose its oldest roots. And in the canals that cut through the historic center of Mantova (in Italian) you can find its most fascinating soul.

The charm of Navigli, in Milan

Navigli, Milan | Photo: iStock

Up to Milan  It has its canals, which give the city a magical aspect. We are of course talking about the Navigli, a complex system that aims to connect the region's main waterways and lakes. 

Strolling through Navigli, an important center of Milanese nightlife, is without a doubt a splendid emotion.

Treviso, a jewel of rare beauty

Treviso | Photo: iStock

Some call it the “little Venice of the continent”, and to understand why, just take a look at some photos.

Treviso it is crossed by some channels that branch off the Botteniga River until it enters the Sile. Old historic buildings and splendid lush parks overlook its emerald waters. A perfect combination of nature and man's work.

Sacile, the garden of the Serenissima

Sacile | Photo: iStock

Sacile, in the Friuli-Venezia Giulia region, has an atmosphere that is very reminiscent of Venetian. So much so that he earned the nickname “garden of the Serenissima". 

Its historic center is located on two islands located in the heart of the Livenza River. In the past, prosperous commerce generated wealth, as evidenced by the presence of charming buildings reflected in the water.

Livorno and its old neighborhood of Nova Veneza

Livorno | Photo: iStock

Immersed in the evocative Tuscan landscape, the city of Livorno It has a district with a very exemplary name: Venice Nuova. It is located in an area crossed by several channels, which are in direct communication with the port and are therefore navigable. 

In summer there is Venice effect, an event that livens up the neighborhood and attracts thousands of tourists, ready to admire a wonderful landscape.

Valeggio sul Mincio, between fascinating canals

Valeggio sul Mincio | Photo: iStock

Perched over the waters of the river of the same name, the city of Valeggio It is a true gem to discover. 

In its oldest core there are several small canals that give the city a fascinating atmosphere.

The Virgilio canal, for example, crosses the town of Borghetto and the charming Visconti bridge, one of the most beautiful attractions in the place, are the highlights.

Rasiglia, the land of streams

Rasiglia, Folino | Photo: iStock

To end our trip through the “canal cities of Italy”, we arrived in Rasiglia. A village in Foligno, in the province of Perugia.

A small Umbrian village, known as the “village of streams”. It is crossed by several impetuous watercourses, in a landscape that seems to come out of a fairy tale. 

Over the centuries, important plumbing work gave life to a beautiful intertwining of canals and waterfalls, which made the village a popular tourist destination.


Since you've come this far, we want to ask you for help. Like and share with your friends this article you just read. Italianism can grow even more with you on our side. Your share or like will take us even further.

Also check out:

Destinations

Do you suffer from 'Tourist Syndrome'? Understand why we become more rude far from home.

Citizenship

Attorney Montone explains what is at stake in the Constitutional Court regarding Italian citizenship.

Destinations

Planning a trip to Italy? Check out the best mobile phone plans for tourists in 2026.

Destinations

Yes, it's possible to have a Spritz in Venice and dinner at a Trattoria in Tuscany without exceeding your credit card limit.