Choose from 645 Fun Things to Do in Italy
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Castelmola
The town of Taormina sits high above the Mediterranean Sea, so it already boasts some of the loveliest views in Sicily. But the tiny town of Castelmola, which sits above Taormina, can argue its views are even better.
Little Castelmola is just over 1,700 feet above sea level - for comparison, Taormina sits at just under 670 feet - and is a great hiking destination from Taormina. It’s a challenging hike, as you’re going uphill and up staircases almost from the time you leave Taormina until you arrive in Castelmola, but the views and town are worth it.
It’s true that you can see Taormina’s beaches and the Mt. Etna volcano from the Teatre Greco in Taormina, but from Castelmola you can see all of that plus the views on the other side of the mountain. From Castelmola, you’ve got a 360-degree view - and that’s hard to beat. The town itself invites you to stop and stay awhile as you recover from your uphill hike, with places to eat and get a drink, as well as just relax and take in the view.
Sights in Castelmola include a cathedral and several small churches, as well as the 13th century castle that gives the town its name. Many visitors partake in the local “vino di mandorla” - almond wine - as part of their hike recovery, as it’s refreshing when served cold.
Little Castelmola is just over 1,700 feet above sea level - for comparison, Taormina sits at just under 670 feet - and is a great hiking destination from Taormina. It’s a challenging hike, as you’re going uphill and up staircases almost from the time you leave Taormina until you arrive in Castelmola, but the views and town are worth it.
It’s true that you can see Taormina’s beaches and the Mt. Etna volcano from the Teatre Greco in Taormina, but from Castelmola you can see all of that plus the views on the other side of the mountain. From Castelmola, you’ve got a 360-degree view - and that’s hard to beat. The town itself invites you to stop and stay awhile as you recover from your uphill hike, with places to eat and get a drink, as well as just relax and take in the view.
Sights in Castelmola include a cathedral and several small churches, as well as the 13th century castle that gives the town its name. Many visitors partake in the local “vino di mandorla” - almond wine - as part of their hike recovery, as it’s refreshing when served cold.
Address: Castelmola, Sicily, Italy
From $ 70
Capitoline Hill & Museums
One of the most elegant public spaces in Rome, Capitoline Hill is the site of Piazza del Campidoglio, designed by Michelangelo in 1536. This piazza overlooking the Roman Forum includes an open square, three Renaissance palace museums—Palazzo dei Conservatori, Palazzo Senatorio, and Palazzo Nuovo—and Cordonata, a monumental staircase. The square’s three palazzi house the Capitoline Museums (Musei Capitolini), considered the world’s first public museum. The vast collections include classical sculpture, Renaissance paintings, and archaeological finds.
The Basics
The Capitoline Museums, established in 1471 by Pope Sixtus IV and opened to the public in 1734, house collections spread between the three palazzi linked by an underground gallery and Palazzo Caffarelli-Clementino, just off the piazza. The scope of the collection is comparable to that of the Vatican Museums, so a private tour led by an expert guide who concentrates on the highlights is the best way to visit. This is one of Rome’s most important museum sites, so expect long lines to enter; joining a group tour in advance will allow you to skip the line.
Things to Know Before You Go
- There are two separate entrances for visitors with limited mobility, available on request.
- Book a private tour guide to avoid the long lines during the museum’s frequent special exhibitions.
- Strollers are allowed in the museum, but large bags and backpacks must be checked in the free cloakroom.
- The museum has a rooftop cafe with a beautiful view over Rome.
How to Get to There
The main entrance to the Capitoline Museums is through Palazzo dei Conservatori in Piazza del Campidoglio, which is located behind the famous Vittoriano monument in Piazza Venezia. There are a number of bus and tram lines that stop in Piazza Venezia, or you can take the metro to the Colosseo stop and walk about 10 minutes to Piazza del Campidoglio.
When to Get There
The Capitoline Museums are open daily from 9:30am to 7:30pm, with last admission one hour before closing. Like most of Rome's most famous repositories of art, the site is crowded year-round, though numbers peak in summer and during special exhibitions. The best time to visit is first thing in the morning, or during the quieter winter months.
Capitoline Museum Highlights
A number of important works of art are housed in the Capitoline Museums' collections, including the “Capitoline Wolf,” a bronze statue of Romulus and Remus suckling a she-wolf, and “The Dying Gaul,” an ancient Roman sculpture of a dying soldier. There are also masterpieces by Caravaggio, Titian, Pietro da Cortona, and Guercino.
Address: Piazza del Campidoglio, 1, 00186, Italy
Hours: Open daily 9:30am-7:30pm
Admission: € 15 for adults
From $ 22
Campo Santa Maria Formosa
In the Castello neighborhood of Venice is Campo Santa Maria Formosa, a lively piazza named after the 15th-century church that sits in the area. The structure has two facades, each representing two different architectural styles, with its more ornate Baroque façade opening up onto the square.
Campo Santa Maria Formosa also includes the 13th-century Palazzo Vitturi and the 17th-century Palazzo Ruzzini, both of which are now hotels that have largely kept many of their original elements. Visitors are likely to see locals shopping in the area, as well as children playing in the square.
Practical Info
Campo Santa Maria Formosa is located in the Castello district and sits to the northeast of St Mark's Basilica and only minutes from the Rialto Bridge.
Address: Castello District, Venice, Italy
From $ 29
Capuchin Crypt
The hauntingly beautiful chapels beneath Rome’s church of Santa Maria della Concezione dei Cappuccini served as the burial chambers for Capuchin friars for centuries. As there were more bodies than space, older graves were dug up, and bones of the dead were used to create intricate designs decorating the chapel walls and ceilings.
The Basics
The Capuchin Crypt, a series of six small chapels used to bury Capuchin monks who died between 1528 and 1870, ultimately held around 3,700 bodies interred in the crypt’s sacred soil brought directly from Jerusalem. You can walk through the bone chapels to admire the unique decorations created by the skeletal remains of the deceased, said to be a reminder of the fleeting nature of mortality.
The best way to understand the historical and religious context of this remarkable site is to join a small-group crypts and catacombs tour. These tours typically visit the Capuchin Crypt and accompanying museum along with the ancient Roman catacombs under the Basilica of San Clemente with a tour guide. To avoid the daytime crowds, you can also opt for an private tour with exclusive after-hours access to the crypt.
Things to Know Before You Go
- This is a slightly macabre stop, so is not recommended for children or anyone who is claustrophobic or squeamish about human bones.
- Book a skip-the-line tour to avoid long waits, especially in the summer months.
- The crypt is not a haunted house, but a sacred burial space. Wear modest clothing, covering shoulders and knees, and maintain a respectful decorum.
- Photography is not allowed.
- The crypt is not accessible to wheelchairs or strollers.
How to Get There
The Santa Maria della Concezione church is on Via Veneto, not far from the Piazza Barberini metro stop on line A. The Capuchin Crypt is underneath the church and has its own designated entrance.
When to Get There
The Capuchin Crypt is open year-round; check the website for hours. The underground site is a cool reprieve from the summer heat, yet can be very crowded during this time.
Underground Rome
Modern Rome sits on top of thousands of years of history, which is why the capital of Italy is known as the Eternal City. One of the best ways to explore the city’s remarkable past is by taking guided tours through Rome’s many underground sights, including remains of villas and monuments from ancient Rome as well as medieval crypts and catacombs.
Address: Via Vittorio Veneto 27, Rome, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 27
Castel Nuovo (Maschio Angioino)
Castel Nuovo, known locally as Maschio Angioino, has the imposing stone walls, soaring turrets, and crenellated ramparts of a storybook medieval castle. Built as the new royal residence between 1279 and 1282 by Charles I of Anjou, it is one of Naples' most striking buildings and home of the city’s Civic Museum.
The Basics
Most of the current "New Castle" dates from the 15th century, when the Aragonese monarch Alfonso V carried out a number of renovations to the original building, including its white marble triumphal arch. At the end of the 1600s, Naples was annexed by Spain and the castle was downgraded to military fortress, but Charles III moved back in as king of Naples in 1734 and restored it to its former glory. Today, visitors can tour the castle's halls and courtyard, 14th-century Palatine Chapel decorated with fragments of frescoes from the Giotto school, and Museo Civico.
This castle is best visited with a tour guide as part of a Naples Segway tour or walking tour that includes visits to other landmarks such as the Castel dell'Ovo and Royal Palace. Alternatively, a visit to Castel Nuovo can be combined with a Neapolitan food tour or an archaeological tour of sites in Naples and nearby Pompeii.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Museo Civico is closed on Sundays, but the other areas of the castle remain open to visitors.
- The castle and museum are completely accessible to wheelchairs via elevators and ramps.
- Exploring the historic halls and towers of Castel Nuovo is especially fun for kids.
- There are great views from the castle over the Bay of Naples and city center, so be sure to bring your camera.
How to Get There
Castel Nuovo is located in the center of Naples (Napoli) near the port; metro line 1 and bus line R2 both have Piazza Municipio stops near the castle. Naples is the largest city in Southern Italy and a main transport hub, so an easy day trip from Rome or Sorrento.
When to Get There
The castle is open free of charge each Sunday, which means that it can be very crowded. Better to plan a visit on the other days of the week, when opening hours are from 9am to 7pm. Visit at night to see the castle illuminated.
The Museo Civico
The art collection in the castle's Civic Museum includes 14th- and 15th-century frescoes and sculptures, as well as paintings by Neapolitan artists from the 17th to 20th century.
Address: Piazza Munipio, Naples, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 35
Casa Milan
Opened in 2014, the striking Casa Milan is the headquarters of Milan’s leading football team, A.C. Milan, located just 10 minutes from the famous San Siro Stadium. Housed in a futuristic glass-fronted façade, embossed with the team’s red and black logo, the Casa Milan is the ultimate destination for AC Milan fans, home to a museum, a well-stocked souvenir shop and the Cucino Milanello restaurant.
The highlight for football enthusiasts is the Mondo Milan Museum, where interactive exhibitions and multi-media presentations take visitors on a journey through the triumphs and trials of the popular football club. The huge collection of memorabilia on display includes some rare and much-coveted items, and there’s also a Hall of Fame, Trophies Room and Ballon d'Or Winners Room to marvel over.
Practical Info
Casa Milan is located in the Portello district in northwest Milan and is open daily from 10am- 8pm (shop), 8am-8.30pm (restaurant) and 10am-7pm (museum). Adult admission to the museum at the time of writing is €18.
Address: Via Aldo Rossi, 8, Milano 20149, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 68
Campo San Luca
A bustling square at the heart of Venice’s historic center, Campo San Luca has long been a popular meeting point for locals, and its constant stream of visitors make it a lively hub both day and night.
Home to a cluster of shops, cafés and restaurants, Campo San Luca makes a good spot for people-watching, but it’s also an important navigational landmark, just a short stroll from the Grand Canal and the Rialto Bridge, en route to Piazza San Marco.
Practical Info
Campo San Luca is located in central Venice, close to the Grand Canal and the Rialto Bridge.
Address: San Marco District, Venice, Italy
From $ 23
Capuchin Catacombs (Catacombe dei Cappuccini)
One of the most famous sights in Palermo—albeit a rather macabre one—is the extensive network of catacombs under the city’s historic Capuchin Monastery. The subterranean Capuchin Catacombs (Catacombe dei Cappuccini) are home to thousands of mummified remains in varying states of preservation dating from the 16th to 20th centuries.
The Basics
A small entrance fee is required to visit the Capuchin Catacombs. A stop here is included on some Palermo sightseeing tours, with the sight sometimes paired with a visit to the Monreale Cathedral. Visiting with a tour guide is the best way to understand the catacombs’ historical and religious significance.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The catacombs are dark and often slightly humid, and may not be a suitable attraction for everyone—especially children or anyone who is claustrophobic.
- Taking photographs inside and touching the remains is prohibited—iron grills have been installed to protect the mummies.
- The underground catacombs are not accessible to wheelchairs.
How to Get There
The Capuchin Catacombs are located beneath the Capuchin Monastery on Piazza Cappuccini in central Palermo. It’s about a 15-minute walk to the monastery from the city’s historic center.
When to Get There
The Capuchin crypts are open daily but closed on Sunday afternoons in winter. As one of the most important catacombs in Italy, the sight can get crowded in summer, so plan to visit in the early morning or late afternoon to experience the eerie atmosphere in peace and quiet.
History of the Capuchin Catacombs
The Capuchin friars began burying the deceased in crypts beneath the monastery in the 16th century. They soon discovered that the unique conditions in the catacombs combined with their own burial rituals preserved the bodies extremely well, and it wasn’t long before being buried in the Capuchin Catacombs of Palermo—and therefore being preserved after death—was a status symbol and Sicilians began requesting this in their wills. Today, 1,252 mummified bodies remain divided among chambers dedicated to Capuchin monks, priests, virgins, professionals, women, men, and children, all encased in coffins or propped in poses. One of the last bodies to be placed in the catacombs is also the most famous: 2-year-old Rosalia Lombardo, who looks today as if she was just put down for a nap—though she’s been dead since 1920.
Address: Piazza Cappuccini, 1, Palermo, Italy
From $ 87
Campo Santa Margherita
The most famous square in Venice is that of St Mark, but if you're in the Dorsoduro sestiere, you should head for the Campo Santa Margherita—one of Venice's largest public squares.
The Campo was named for a church on the square, although that building is now used as a university lecture theater. It’s still worth a visit, though, and so is the “scuola” of Santa Maria dei Carmini. There is a regular outdoor market held in the square, as well as a supermarket that opens for visitors to wander through. But the Campo Santa Margherita is primarily known as a lovely place to relax during the day and as a hub of Venetian nightlife after the sun sets. There are several bars and cafes lining the streets.
Practical Info
The Campo Santa Margherita is in the Dorsoduro sestiere, a 10- to 15-minute walk from both the Piazzale Rome and the train station. To see the square at its most lively, visit in the evening for a pre-dinner drink.
Address: Dorsoduro, Venice, Italy
From $ 22
Castello Bevilacqua
The town of Bevilacqua, about 31 miles from Verona, developed around (and is now mainly known for) the Castello Bevilacqua, a fortified castle dating from the 14th century.
A 6th-century fortified settlement was expanded and turned into Castello Bevilacqua (Bevilacqua Castle) by a Venetian count, Guglielmo Bevilacqua. The castle was beautified and turned into a more liveable villa in the 16th century, severely damaged by fire in the late 19th century, and later used as both a school and a home for the elderly. Finally in the 1990s, the castle was acquired by a family that restored it to its 16th-century splendor.
Today, the Castello Bevilacqua is a hotel and a venue for special events - it’s very popular for weddings - including concerts and other performances. There is a beautiful rooftop garden (which dates from the 16th-century design), an on-site restaurant in one of the oldest parts of the castle, and a well-stocked wine cellar.
In addition to the hotel and event spaces, the castle is also home to an armory museum in what was once likely part of the old kitchens, a collection of antique furniture, 18th-century Murano glass chandeliers, some tools like the ones used by scribes in the Middle Ages, and there are many beautiful frescoes on the walls that have been restored.
Practical Info
There are classes for children held at the Castello Bevilacqua that include leatherwork, paper making, archery, and the art of using pen and ink as scribes once did.
Address: Via Roma 50, Bevilacqua, Veneto 37040, Italy
Hours: 9:30am-6:30pm
From $ 22
Cannaregio
Cannaregio is the largest and most populated of Venice’s six central districts (sestieri). Home to the Jewish ghetto, the art-filled Chiesa della Madonna dell'Orto, the Renaissance Chiesa di Santa Maria dei Miracoli, and the restaurant-lined Fondamenta de la Misericordia, Cannaregio offers something for everyone.
The Basics
Cannaregio, bookended by the Santa Lucia train station and the Rialto Bridge, lines most of Venice’s Grand Canal. Strada Nuova, the district’s busy main street, teems with souvenir shops and tourists; however, meander off into the side streets and canals and you'll soon find peaceful squares (piazzas) and churches.
The best way to explore Cannaregio is by linking up with a walking tour led by a professional guide—someone who knows both the famous monuments and the hidden gems. The biggest attraction here is the Jewish ghetto; tours will also include the area's key churches, Ca' d'Oro Palace, Campo San Leonardo and Campo dei Mori squares, and Ponte delle Guglie (a historic bridge). You can pair small-group and private tours with a gondola ride or a tour of Venice highlights, such as St. Mark's Basilica, the Doge's Palace, and the Rialto Bridge.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Tours of Cannaregio include a fair amount of walking, so wear comfortable shoes and a sun hat.
- The quiet backstreets of the Cannaregio are easier to manage with kids than the crowded areas around Piazza San Marco.
- Ponte delle Guglie has recently added ramps, making it one of the few Venetian bridges that’s wheelchair accessible.
- Venice has six districts: Castello, Cannaregio, Dorsoduro, San Marco, Santa Croce, and San Polo. Cannaregio borders Castello and a tiny corner of San Marco; it’s situated across the Grand Canal from Santa Croce and San Polo.
How to Get There
To get to Cannaregio, take a Grand Canal water bus—vaporetto line 1 to the Ponte di Rialto stop—or walk from Santa Lucia train station across the Ponte delle Guglie bridge.
When to Get There
The December Hanukkah celebrations in Cannaregio’s historic Jewish ghetto are particularly beautiful, with live music, celebrations, and a traditional menorah-lighting.
Venice’s Jewish Ghetto
Venice is home to the world's oldest Jewish ghetto, established in 1516. Today, the area is still filled with historic synagogues, Jewish-run businesses, and Kosher restaurants.
Address: Venice, Italy
From $ 27
Castel Gandolfo
Considered by many to be one of Italy’s most scenic towns, the quiet hamlet of Castel Gandolfo is located in the Alban Hills overlooking Lake Albano. With fewer than 10,000 people calling this quaint village home, Castel Gandolfo offers travelers a picturesque escape from some of the country’s larger, more urban destinations. The place is so popular among locals in search of the serene that even the pope vacations in this beautiful resort town.
Travelers will find idyllic summer villas and cottages—some dating back to the 17th century—in addition to some remarkable religious architecture, like the iconic Church of Our Lady of the Lake. It’s possible to visit the Apostolic Palace of Castel Gandolfo, where the pope spends his summers, as well as the Vatican Observatory. Castel Gandolfo is also home to ancient religious ruins, a former castle and a stunning hidden natural bath inside a darkened cave.
Practical Info
The town of Castel Gandolfo is located about 15 miles southeast from Rome in Italy’s Lazio region. It’s best to visit in summer and spring when weather is dry and pleasant.
Address: Castel Gandolfo, Italy
From $ 69
Castel dell'Ovo
Castel dell’Ovo, the imposing fortified castle on the island of Megaride in the Bay of Naples, is one of Naples’ most famous monuments. Connected to the mainland by a causeway, the castle—home to the Museum of Ethno-Prehistory—offers sweeping views over the city and Mount Vesuvius in the distance.
The Basics
The site on which Naples’ (Napoli’s) iconic castle now stands has a long history, beginning as a settlement for Greek colonists before hosting a monastery and then a 12th-century Norman fortress. The current castle was built during the Aragonese dynasty in the 15th century, and today, the 19th-century fishing village of Borgo Marinari, known for its excellent seafood restaurants and marina, sits at the base of the castle.
Castel dell'Ovo, one of the city’s most important sights, is included on most Naples walking, bike, and Segway tours along with other landmarks like Piazza del Plebiscito and Castel Nuovo, also known as the Maschio Angioino, the city’s inland fortress. As the largest city on the coast of Campania, Naples is a transportation hub and a popular day trip from nearby destinations like the Amalfi Coast and Capri.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Castel dell’Ovo is a must-see for history and architecture buffs.
- Admission to the castle and the museum is free.
- The inner halls of the castle are open to the public only during special events and exhibitions; the ramparts and towers are always open.
- There is an elevator from the ground floor to the ramparts, making the castle mostly accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
How to Get There
Castel dell’Ovo is located in the Bay of Naples (also called the Gulf of Naples) just off the lungomare (coastal road) between the San Ferdinando and Chiaia neighborhoods. Bus 151 from the train station and 140 from the port stop at Castel dell’Ovo.
When to Get There
The castle is open Monday through Saturday from 8:30am to 7pm, and Sundays and holidays from 8:30am to 1:30pm. The Prehistoric Museum is open only on weekends from 10am to 1pm. As Naples is one of Italy’s most visited cities, its sights can be very crowded in the high-season summer months. Visit in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds and to take advantage of the best light for snapping photos from the castle’s towers.
The Egg Castle
The origins of the castle’s name comes from a legend about the Roman poet Virgil, who is said to have placed a magical egg in the foundations beneath where the castle now stands. As long as the egg stays intact, Castel dell’Ovo will remain standing.
Address: via Caracciolo, Naples, 80133, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 39
Castello Estense
This iconic castle located in the heart of Ferrara dates back to the 1300s and stands as an homage to an ancient era that still attracts travelers and history lovers to its towering gates. Visitors who want to explore this scenic destination will find restored prisons, barracks and weapon stores, in addition to gardens, a council hall, and dozens of other restored and renovated rooms that showcase what life here was like thousands of years ago.
Travelers say the idyllic drawbridge, Giants’ Room and the old school dungeon are some of the spots in this massive castle that are not to be missed. And while the castle’s interior is still covered with frescos, visitors say some are badly in need of restoration to return them to their original beauty.
Practical Info
Castello Estense is located in the center of Ferrara near the intersection of Viale Cavour and Corso Ercole I d’Este. It is open daily except Mondays and hours vary according to the season. Entrance is 8 euros for adults. Guided tours are available for 4 euros.
Address: Largo Castello, 1, Ferrara, Italy
Hours: Open Tues-Sun and hours vary according to the season
Admission: Adults: 8 euros
From $ 57
Castel Romano Designer Outlet
Italy is known for its fashion and design: Some of the world’s most recognized luxury clothing and home decor labels are proudly “made in Italy.” If you love elegant Italian style, head to Castel Romano Designer Outlet to shop for famous designer brands such as Valentino and Versace at a deep discount.
The Basics
With almost 150 stores offering discounts of up to 70% off of retail prices, this outlet center is popular with bargain hunters. The collection of branded boutiques and factory outlet shops is laid out in an open-air plan with architecture vaguely inspired by the Roman forum. There are also restaurants and cafés, an on-site tax refund service office, and special events held throughout the year.
Consider joining a guided tour including transportation so you can shop 'til you drop without having to worry about getting back and forth between the outlets and Rome's city center. Small-group tours often include pickup and drop-off at Rome hotels, or you can opt for a private tour that includes a shopping assistant for the day.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The shopping center has a number of stores for children, an outdoor play area, and frequently entertainment, so this is a fun excursion for the entire family.
- All the stores in the outlet center accept credit cards or cash in euros.
- Castel Romano Designer Outlet is in a beautiful setting mostly outdoors, so be sure to dress for the weather. Also wear comfortable shoes, as there is a lot of ground to cover.
- The outlet center is entirely accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
How to Get There
Castel Romano is located on Via del Ponte di Piscina Cupa in Agro Pontino, about 20 minutes outside of Rome in Lazio. Shuttle bus service runs multiple times daily from the Via Marsala side of Rome's Termini Station, and free parking is available on-site.
When to Get There
The shopping center can be very crowded on weekends and holidays, so it's best to visit on a weekday. Italy has two main sale seasons that each last for about a month—beginning after January 1st and beginning after July 1st—when you can find even better bargains.
Brands at Castel Romano Designer Outlet
Shops at the outlet center include Italian brands like Roberto Cavalli, Salvatore Ferragamo, Moschino, and Versace, and international designers such as Hugo Boss, Calvin Klein, Jimmy Choo, Nike, and Tommy Hilfiger.
Address: Via del Ponte di Piscina Cupa, 64, Rome 00128, Italy
From $ 87
Castello Sforzesco
Il Castello Sforzesco (Sforza Castle) is a medieval fortress built by the Visconti dynasty that became home to Milan’s ruling Sforza family in 1450. Stark and domineering, the historic brick castle has massive round battlements, an imposing tower overlooking the central courtyard and surrounding Parco Sempione gardens, and defensive walls designed by Leonardo da Vinci. Today the castle houses a number of world-class museums and galleries.
The Basics
The castle is among the most important cultural sights in Milan, together with the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie—where Leonardo Da Vinci’s Last Supper is located—and the Cathedral. Lines can be long to enter its museums, so book a skip-the-line tour of this vast complex to avoid a delay at the entrance or join a walking tour of the city that includes stops at some of its most famous monuments and a visit to the castle. Certain parts of the castle, including the crenellated ramparts and the covered "Ghirlanda" passage, are only accessible by private tour.
Things to Know Before You Go
- If traveling with kids, consider taking a family-friendly tour of the castle and its museums. Kids especially enjoy the Museum of Musical Instruments and surrounding gardens.
- Il Castello Sforzesco is open every day of the week, but the museums inside are closed on Mondays.
- The castle is accessible to visitors with limited mobility.
- Large bags and backpacks must be checked in the cloakroom at the entrance.
How to Get to There
Castello Sforzesco is in Piazza Castello on the edge of central Milano, which can be reached from Piazza del Duomo and Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II by following Via Dante. The three nearest underground metro stops are Cairoli, Lanza, and Cadorna FN.
When to Get There
The museums offer free admission every Tuesday afternoon and the first Sunday of each month, so they’re very busy during those times. Avoid the hassle of the crowds by visiting on weekdays or Saturday.
Artistic Highlights in the Castello Sforzesco Museums
The Museum of Ancient Art holds a number of statues by Michelangelo, including the famous Pieta Rondanini. Upstairs, the Pinacoteca is home to a collection of paintings by masters including Titian and Bellini, while the adjacent Museum of Applied Arts and Museum of Musical Instruments are also worth a visit. In addition, there are excellent Egyptian and Prehistoric collections in this large museum complex.
Address: Piazza Castello, Milan 20121, Italy
Hours: Castle open daily from 7am - 7:30pm. Castle museums open Tues-Sun from 9am - 5:30pm.
Admission: Free. Admission to museums: € 5
From $ 25
Castel Sant'Angelo National Museum
Don’t be fooled by the name—Rome's Castel Sant'Angelo was built as a tomb, not a castle. Commissioned by emperor Hadrian in AD 139, this imposing cylindrical mausoleum held the ashes of Hadrian and subsequent Roman emperors until becoming a fortress in AD 401. In the 14th century, a fortified corridor between the castle and St. Peter’s Basilica was built, and it became a papal residence. Today, it’s home to the Castel Sant'Angelo National Museum and its collection of art, archaeological finds, and weaponry.
The Basics
Castel Sant’Angelo is located just outside the walls of Vatican City, and many visitors combine a walking tour of St. Peter’s Basilica with a museum visit and a stroll across the picturesque Ponte Sant’Angelo bridge into central Rome. There can be a wait to enter if you don’t book skip-the-line museum tickets in advance, especially during summer. Castel Sant'Angelo and the Colosseum are two of Rome's most stunning sights to visit after sunset, so consider a Rome night tour to see both the castle and amphitheater beautifully illuminated.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The five floors inside Castel Sant'Angelo are a maze of rooms and corridors, so wear comfortable shoes.
- The large terrace, where Puccini's heroine jumped to her death in his opera Tosca, has spectacular views over the Eternal City.
- Kids enjoy the large collection of historic weapons and armor displayed in the museum.
- The sumptuous Pope Paul III Papal Apartments are decorated with perfectly preserved Renaissance frescoes, a highlight for art aficionados.
- There is an elevator to the fifth floor, but most of the museum is not accessible to wheelchairs.
How to Get There
Castel Sant'Angelo is located along Lungotevere Castello on the banks of the Tiber River, a short walk from St. Peter's Square. The Ottaviano station on Line A of the city’s underground metro system is about a five-minute walk away.
When to Get There
Like all of Rome's most famous historic sites, Castel Sant'Angelo is most crowded during the middle of the day and in summer. To avoid crowds, visit in winter, shortly after opening, or before closing.
Sant’Angelo and the Plague
The name Castel Sant'Angelo dates to AD 590, when the archangel Michael is said to have appeared on top of the fortress to mark the end of the plague that had ripped through Rome.
Address: Lungotevere Castello, 50, Rome 00186, Italy
Hours: Tues - Sun: 9am - 7pm
Admission: Adults: € 10.50
From $ 3
Case Romane del Celio
It's awe-inspiring to walk through the ruins of ancient Roman temples and amphitheaters, but to bring history to a human level you've got see where those ancient people lived. You can do that at the Case Romane del Celio.
Underneath the Basilica of Santi Givanni e Paolo, the Case Romane del Celio is a network of ancient Roman houses. There are homes from different periods – one from the 2nd century, another from the 3rd century – and for different levels of society. There are beautiful frescoed walls and a small museum displaying some of the artifacts unearthed during the excavation of the site.
Practical Info
The Case Romane del Celio is open Thursday-Monday from 10am-1pm and 3pm-6pm, closed Tuesday-Wednesday. Tickets cost €8 for adults, €6 for children ages 12-18, and children under 12 are admitted for free.
Address: Clivo di Scauro, snc, Rome, Italy
Hours: Thursday-Monday from 10am-1pm and 3pm-6pm, closed Tuesday-Wednesday.
Admission: Adults €8; Children 12-18 €6; Children under 12 free
From $ 35
Castel del Monte
The UNESCO World Heritage-listed Castel del Monte was built in the latter half of the 12th century by Holy Roman Emperor Frederick II. At this time his realm stretched across much of southern Italy, and he was also responsible for the Castello Normanno-Svevo in Bari, the region’s biggest city, as well as a series of hunting lodges across his domain.
Sitting on a remote hillock among endless undulating plains, Castel del Monte is regarded as a masterpiece of medieval architecture, taking its influences from both Classical and Islamic building styles. Perfectly octagonal in shape, it is constructed around a courtyard and boasts a series of octagonal towers. Internally, it comprises two stories containing eight rooms in each, and although the rich furnishings and much of the decoration are long gone, the marble moldings around the great entrance doorway and the lack of fortifications suggest that the castle may have been a private residence rather than for military purposes. With the demise of the Sicilian empire, the castle was abandoned, and by the 16th century had fallen into disrepair; over the centuries it has been used variously as a prison, a refuge from plague and a hang out for bandits. Today it stands empty and proud, a monument to the political and cultural flowering that saw southern Italy come to prominence in the Middle Ages.
Practical Info
The castle is located in Andria, near Bari. From here, follow the SS170 for 11 miles (18 km). The site is open daily. From April through September, it is open from 10:15 a.m. to 7:45 p.m., and from October through March it is open from 9 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Admission costs €5 for adults, €2.50 for students and is free for those under 18.
Address: Andria, Italy
Hours: Daily Apr–Sept 10:15am–7:45pm;
Oct–March 9am–6.30pm
Admission: Adult: €5, Students: €2.50, Under 18 free
From $ 68
Capodimonte Museum
Naples’ Capodimonte Museum contains masterpieces from the Neapolitan and other Italian schools, as well as furniture and decorative arts, and ancient Roman sculptures. With works by Raphael, Titian, and Caravaggio, this museum is a must for art lovers and a popular stop on many private and group tours.
The Basics
Capodimonte Museum is located inside Capodimonte Palace, which was built by the Bourbon King Charles VII of Naples and Sicily to house the Farnese art collection he had inherited. The first and second floors are home to the National Gallery, with more than 100 paintings by Raphael, Titian, Caravaggio, Masaccio, Giorgio Vasari, and El Greco, as well as works from the Neapolitan school. The ground floor holds classical sculpture, and the royal apartments display 18th-century furniture. Surrounding the palace, the 331-acre (134-hectare) Capodimonte Park is one of Naples’ most beautiful estates.
The Capodimonte Museum is one of the largest in Italy, and is best visited with a guided tour to appreciate the collections and grounds without being overwhelmed. To avoid a long wait, book a tour with skip-the-line tickets. Many private Naples tours or hop-on hop-off bus tours include a stop at the museum.
Things to Know Before You Go
- A visit to the museum is particularly interesting for art enthusiasts who are interested in the Neapolitan school.
- The Capodimonte Museum is completely wheelchair accessible.
- Large bags, backpacks, and umbrellas must be checked at the entrance.
- The museum houses a small bookshop and café.
- Photography without flash is allowed in the museum.
How to Get There
The Capodimonte Museum is located just outside the center of Naples, accessible via a number of city bus lines or the convenient museum shuttle bus (Shuttle Capodimonte) that departs hourly from Piazza Trieste e Trento (opposite Teatro San Carlo) and stops at Piazza Dante and the National Archaeological Museum en route. Tickets can be purchased directly on the bus.
When to Get There
This popular museum and surrounding park can be very crowded on weekends, so it’s best visited on a weekday. The museum is closed on Wednesdays.
Highlights of the Capodimonte Museum Collection
Some of the collection’s highlights include the Portrait of Cardinal Alessandro Farnese and the Baronci Altarpiece by Raphael, the Antea by Parmigianino, the Transfiguration by Giovanni Bellini, the Annunciation and the Mary Magdalene by Titian, Masaccio’s Crucifixion, Botticelli's Madonna with Child and Angels, and, most important, Caravaggio’s Flagellation of Christ.
Address: Via Miano, 2, Naples 80137, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 18