I've traveled all over Italy. There are 4 places I can't wait to return to — and 2 I'd leave off my itinerary next time.

Italy holds a special place in my heart, which is why I'm always finding excuses to return.

I've visited three times since 2016, including a four-month stay in Florence during college. Thanks to Italy's well-connected transit systems, I've had the chance to visit 21 cities and villages, most often by rail.

Some of the destinations I've been to have blown me away, while others left me wanting more. Here are four Italian cities I'd happily return to — and two I'd leave off my itinerary next time.

Cinque Terre is a string of five seaside villages on the northwestern coast of Italy.

Although all five villages are accessible by train, hiking between them is a popular activity. I'd recommend starting in the southernmost town, Riomaggiore, and hiking north for stunning views.

Cinque Terre is perfect for anyone looking to relax in a vibrant environment, enjoy traditional Italian culture, or explore five seaside villages in one day.

I immediately fell in love with how enchanting, quaint, and walkable Verona felt during my first visit in 2016.

Home to Shakespeare's beloved "Romeo and Juliet," visitors commonly visit Juliet's house, calling down to those below from the balcony.

During my time in Verona, I stumbled upon Club di Giulietta, a volunteer group that calls themselves the secretaries of Juliet. They receive thousands of letters addressed to Juliet from around the world, and volunteers sort letters by language before handwriting a response.

I got to spend a few hours reading and writing replies myself, which became the highlight of my trip to Verona.

Overall, the city's walkability, history, and quaint feel make it perfect for a day trip for time-restricted itineraries.

Since living in Florence in 2016, I've been back to visit twice. There's so much to love about the city, which is the capital of the Tuscany region.