Choose from 645 Fun Things to Do in Italy
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Chiesa di San Carlo ai Catinari
The 17th-century San Carlo ai Catinari Church (Chiesa di San Carlo ai Catinari) is dedicated to Saint Carlo Borromeo and known for its sumptuous baroque interiors. The church features stucco decorations, three-dimensional depictions of the cardinal virtues, and Antonio Gherardi's Chapel of St. Cecilia, which features a dome illuminated by hidden windows.
The Basics
Guided tours of the Jewish Ghetto and Trastevere often include a stop at San Carlo ai Catinari (Santi Biagio e Carlo ai Catinari), along with the nearby Turtle Fountain (Fontana delle Tartarughe) and the Chiesa di Santa Maria in Trastevere. You can easily pair a visit to this neighborhood with a tour of Rome's most famous sights, including Piazza Navona, the Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon, and Campo de' Fiori.
The church was designed by Rosato Rosati and has an elegant marble facade by Giovanni Battista Soria. Inside, the elaborate stucco ceiling decorations and paintings of the cardinal virtues around the base of the dome pop out of their frames, making them appear three-dimensional. These are attributed to Domenichino, while other important works by Pietro da Cortona, Giovanni Lanfranco, and Guido Reni decorate the altar and chapels.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Visitors must wear clothing that covers the shoulders and knees to enter the church.
- Walking tours of Trastevere and the Jewish Ghetto offer little shade, so bring a hat and sunscreen if visiting in summer.
- There are stairs at the entrance to the church, so it is not accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
- Photography without a flash is allowed inside the church.
How to Get There
Set about halfway between the church of Sant’Andrea della Valle and the Tiber river near the former Jewish Ghetto, Chiesa di San Carlo ai Catinari is located at Piazza Benedetto Cairoli 117. Take bus 40 or 64 from the Termini train station.
When to Get There
Rome's churches offer a cool respite during the heat of the day, so if visiting in summer, time your visit for midday when the temperatures outside soar.
Basin-makers’ Lane
The phrase “ai Catinari” refers to the workshops on a nearby street that once specialized in making clay basins, or “catini.” A small street across from the facade of the church is still called the Vicolo de’ Catinari, or Basin-makers’ Lane.
Address: Piazza Benedetto Cairoli 117, Rome, Puglia, Italy
From $ 83
Chiesa di Santa Maria della Spina
Pisa’s exquisite Chiesa di Santa Maria della Spina is covered in intricate and fanciful stonework, a hallmark of the 14th-century Pisan Gothic style. With its fairytale exterior and magnificent Madonna of the Rose by Andrea and Nino Pisano inside, this church is a tiny gem and the perfect foil to the grandeur of the city’s Duomo.
The Basics
Built in 1230 to house a thorn from the Crown of Thorns (now displayed in the city’s Church of Santa Chiara), this small, striped marble church is considered one of the most important Gothic churches in Europe and is a highlight of Pisa. The original church was enlarged in the mid-1300s; in 1871, just as waters of the Arno River began to rise, it was moved from a location along the riverbanks to its present site, on the riverside walkway. The richly decorated exterior features a number of statues by Giovanni and Nino Pisano and other important 14th-century artists from Pisa.
The Chiesa di Santa Maria della Spina is one of the top sights in Pisa, along with the Piazza dei Miracoli, where the Duomo and Leaning Tower is located. Walking and Segway tours often include a visit to Santa Maria della Spina along with skip-the-line tickets to the Duomo, tower, and baptistery. If you have time for a full-day tour, you can easily combine a Pisa visit with nearby Lucca, Siena, or San Gimignano.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Visitors must wear modest attire covering shoulders and knees to enter the church.
- If you’re taking a walking tour of Pisa, choose comfortable shoes and wear a hat and sunscreen in summer.
- The church is located on Pisa’s river walk, a delightful route that hugs the Arno River as it winds through the historic city center.
- The Church of Santa Maria della Spina isn’t accessible to wheelchair users.
How to Get There
The Chiesa di Santa Maria della Spina is built into the promenade wall lining the Arno across the river from the Piazza dei Miracoli. It’s an easy walk from the main train station.
When to Get There
Pisa’s Duomo complex is most crowded from late morning through the afternoon, so try to schedule your tour in the early morning and then move on to Santa Maria della Spina when the throngs of daily visitors arrive.
Pisa’s Iconic Piazza dei Miracoli
The Piazza dei Miracoli, home to Pisa’s Gothic Duomo and baptistery and iconic Leaning Tower, is one of the most popular sights in Tuscany. In addition, you can tour the Monumental Cemetery and Sinopie Museum, which has a collection of preparatory sketches for the cathedral’s frescoes. Finally, the Duomo Opera Museum houses art that’s been removed from the Duomo and baptistery over the centuries.
Address: Lugarno Gambacorti, Pisa 56125, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 145
Gulf of Cagliari (Golfo degli Angeli)
The capital of Sardinia, Cagliari, sits on the island’s southern coast in the middle of the large bay created by the Gulf of Cagliari - also known as the Golfo degli Angeli, or Gulf of Angels.
The gulf is often busy with ships and ferries - Cagliari is an important port city - but it’s also a recreation hub. Many of the beaches surrounding the gulf are beautiful sandy beaches next to clear water. Sardinia is a haven for outdoor sports, including horseback riding, hiking, and a multitude of water sports.
One of the most recognizable features of the Gulf of Cagliari is the St. Elia Promontory in the middle of the bay near the city of Cagliari itself. It’s known as the Devil’s Saddle for its distinctive carved-out shape, and it’s a popular hiking location. There are some ancient ruins on the promontory, too, including the remains of a huge Punic water tank and Roman cistern.
Other historic sites ring the gulf, including the ancient Roman and pre-Roman ruins at Nora on the western end of the gulf. The ancient theater at the archaeological site is still in use for performances during the summer.
Practical Info
Poetto Beach on one side of the St. Elia Promontory is one of the most popular in Cagliari, and also has a bustling nightlife during the summer months. Visitors can go to dance parties or even sing karaoke on the beach.
Address: Gulf of Cagliari, Cagliari, Sardinia, Italy
From $ 57
Chiesa di San Domenico
One of the most historically important churches in Siena, the Basilica of San Domenico is famous for another saint: the city’s own Saint Catherine. It was here that Catherine took her vows in 1363 at the age of 15, and the church holds a number of her relics, including her head, thumb, and whip used for self-flagellation.
The Basics
Join a guided tour that takes in the Basilica of San Domenico and other city highlights, including Piazza del Campo, Palazzo Pubblico, and Torre del Mangia. Many Siena walking and Segway tours also include skip-the-line entrance tickets to Siena’s cathedral (Duomo), along with the adjacent Piccolomini Library—frescoed by Pinturicchio—and the Museo dell'Opera. Siena is a popular day trip from Florence, and tours often include stops in Pisa and San Gimignano, as well.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Modest attire is required to enter the church, so be sure to cover your shoulders and knees.
- Walking tours of the Basilica of San Domenico and the city of Siena cover quite a bit of ground; comfortable shoes are recommended.
- The church is accessible to wheelchair users, but the downstairs crypt is not.
- Photography without flash is allowed inside the basilica.
How to Get There
The Basilica di San Domenico is on Piazza Domenico on the very edge of Siena’s pedestrian historic center, an easy walk from most other top attractions and the train station.
When to Get There
The Basilica di San Domenico is usually less crowded than Siena’s cathedral, and can be a quiet and cool respite during the peak hours of midday.
Highlights of Siena’s Basilica di San Domenico
The Gothic church was built in 1226 on the Camporegio hill and contains a number of important works of art by the Sienese school in addition to St. Catherine’s relics. Of note are a magnificent Majesty (Maestà) by Guido da Siena, frescoes by Francesco Vanni and Pietro Lorenzetti, and the sumptuously decorated chapel dedicated to St. Catherine, where her head and thumb are displayed. The Chapel of the Vaults (Cappella delle Volte) holds a pretty portrait of the saint.
Address: Via Camporegio, 2, Siena, Tuscany 53100, Italy
From $ 35
Hadrian's Temple
The ancient facade of Hadrian’s Temple, fronted by 11 carved stone Corinthian columns—each looming almost 50 feet (15 meters) high—serves as the dramatic focal point of Rome’s Piazza di Pietra. One of the city’s most pleasant squares, the piazza is lined with fashionable cafés overlooking the ancient Roman columns.
The Basics
Built by Emperor Antoninus Pius, Emperor Hadrian’s adopted son, the Temple of Hadrian (Tempio di Adriano) dates back to AD 145 and once overlooked the Field of Mars (Campus Martius). Today, all that’s left of the magnificent temple’s original 38 columns are the 11 that form part of Rome’s 17th-century papal palace—now the Borsa building, housing the stock exchange. Italian architect Carlo Fontana integrated the ancient columns into the palace’s north wall, where they remain a striking reminder of Rome’s glorious past.
Many walking tours of Rome’s ancient sites include Hadrian’s Temple along with attractions like the Pantheon and the Church of Santa Maria on Via del Corso (Santa Maria in Via Lata, or Basilica di Santa Maria in Via Lata). Joining a Rome highlights Segway tour is a fun way to explore these and other attractions, including the Trevi Fountain and Trajan’s Column; consider an evening Segway tour to see the monuments beautifully lit.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Temple of Hadrian tour is especially interesting for history buffs.
- Small-group Pantheon, Santa Maria, and Hadrian’s Temple tours require some walking, so opt for comfortable shoes and sun protection.
- Piazza di Pietra, where you can view the columns of Hadrian’s Temple, is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
- The columns are particularly picturesque at night, so be sure to bring your camera if joining a Rome night Segway tour.
How to Get There
Hadrian’s Temple is located on Piazza di Pietra in Rome’s historic center, between the Pantheon and Trevi Fountain. A number of city buses stop on Via del Corso, just steps from the square.
When to Get There
In the evening, Piazza di Pietra is particularly lively, filled with café tables and lined by the columns of Hadrian’s Temple dramatically lit.
The Other Temple of Hadrian
Italy is not the only country that is home to an ancient temple dedicated to Hadrian. In Ephesus, Turkey, another temple was built around AD 138 to honor Emperor Hadrian, who visited the ancient city while in Athens a decade earlier.
Address: Piazza di Pietra, Rome, Italy
From $ 3
Guglielmo Marconi Museum
Step into the world of Nobel Prize winner and radio pioneer Guglielmo Marconi at Bologna’s fascinating Guglielmo Marconi Museum. Housed in the imposing Villa Griffone, Marconi’s former home and the site of many of his scientific experiments and discoveries, the museum is devoted to Marconi’s life and works.
Inside the museum, a series of interactive, multi-media exhibitions allow visitors to discover the physicist’s groundbreaking work in electricity and radio communication, which included early experiments in wireless telegraphy and the first transmission of radio signals across the Atlantic Ocean. Highlights include film clips, a notable collection of historic equipment and scientific instruments (including a working spark gap transmitter), and a recreation of Marconi’s laboratory. Visitors can also stroll the villa grounds and beautiful gardens, where Marconi’s tomb and memorial can be seen.
Practical Info
The Guglielmo Marconi Museum is located in Villa Griffone in Pontecchio Marconi, around 15km south of Bologna and is open daily except Saturdays by reservation only. Tours of the museum cost €5.
Address: Via Celestini, 1, Pontecchio Marconi BO, Italy
Hours: Mon-Fri and Sun by reservation
Admission: €5
From $ 162
Greek Theater
Syracuse’s Greek Theater (Teatro Greco) was one of the largest in the world when it was constructed, able to seat up the 16,000 spectators. Hewn directly from the side of the Temenite Hill overlooking the Sicilian countryside, the stone theater is a highlight of the UNESCO-listed Neapolis Archaeological Park.
The Basics
Originally dating from the fifth century BC, the Greek Theater was rebuilt several times, including during the Roman era. The original theater had 67 rows for audience members, though subsequent modifications over the centuries decreased the theater’s size somewhat. The site was excavated in the 19th century, and has been used for summer musical and theatrical performances for the past 100 years. A must for ancient history buffs, the Greek Theater is part of the Parco Archeologico della Neapolis complex just outside the city of Syracuse, along with a third-century-BC sacrificial altar, second-century Roman amphitheater, and ancient limestone quarry.
Because of its archaeological importance and history spanning centuries, it's best to visit the Green Theater with a guide as part of a Neapolis Archaeological Park walking tour from Syracuse, Taormina, or Catania. You can also combine a tour of the park with day trips to the nearby towns of Ortigia and Noto.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Tours of the Greek Theater require walking over uneven terrain, so wear sturdy shoes; a hat and sunscreen are useful as well.
- Because of the rough terrain, the Neapolis Archaeological Park is not accessible to wheelchairs.
- In late spring, the Greek Theater begins its annual season of classical theater performances, and may be partially covered by wooden seating and stage structures.
- A tour of the theater is particularly interesting for fans of archaeology.
How to Get There
The Neapolis Archaeological Park is located just outside the center of Syracuse, an easy walk from the town or train station.
When to Get There
The open-air theater can get uncomfortably hot under the Sicilian sun in the summer, so plan to visit first thing in the morning or in the late afternoon. The Teatro Greco may close earlier than usual on days when performances are scheduled.
Other Highlights of the Neapolis Archaeological Park
In addition to the Teatro Greco, visitors to Neapolis can tour the Teatro Romano that once hosted gladiatorial combats and horse races, the Ara di Gerone II monolithic altar dedicated to Heron II, and the labyrinthine Latomia del Paradiso quarry complex.
Address: Via del Teatro Greco, Syracuse 96100, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 28
Enzo Ferrari Museum (Museo Casa Enzo Ferrari)
In the center of Modena, a historical brick factory building is dwarfed by the adjacent contemporary glass-and-steel hangar topped with a bright yellow car hood–shaped roof. Together, these two structures and their contents tell the story of Enzo Ferrari, race car driver and founder of one of the most famous car brands in the world.
The Basics
Visitors to the Enzo Ferrari Museum complex can trace the timeline of events that brought the "prancing horse" to be. The beautifully renovated former factory—where Enzo Ferrari’s father once worked—now houses the Museum of Ferrari Engines (Museo dei Motori). This display showcases various race car models as well as their powerful engines and gives context to how the unique cars were developed. Just next door, the strikingly futuristic automotive design gallery houses temporary exhibitions of Ferrari’s classic road cars and racers.
You can book tours that include tickets to both these structures, to these two structures in combination with the Ferrari Museum in Maranello, or combine a visit to the Enzo Ferrari Museum complex with a gourmet tour featuring some of Modena's most famous products, such as balsamic vinegar and fresh pasta. True aficionados can book a tour that includes a test drive.
Things to Know Before You Go
- A visit to this museum complex is a must for car and racing enthusiasts.
- There are two Ferrari museums: The Enzo Ferrari Museum in Modena and the Ferrari Museum (Museo Ferrari) and Ferrari factory in nearby Maranello. The two are linked by a shuttle bus that runs every 90 minutes.
- The Enzo Ferrari Museum is wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
The Enzo Ferrari Museum is located at Via Paolo Ferrari 85 in Modena, just a 5-minute walk from the Modena train station. The same shuttle that runs between the two Ferrari museums also brings visitors here from the train station; it departs from gate 4.
When to Get There
Open daily all year, the museum is the perfect indoor activity on wet days or hot summer afternoons. Not often overrun with visitors, it’s a good bet for a middle-of-the-day visit.
Emilia-Romagna's Automotive Museums
Due to the concentration of iconic Italian car manufacturers based here, the area of Emilia-Romagna between Bologna and Modena is known as "Motor Valley." In addition to Ferrari’s two museums, a number of other manufacturers have museums that can be visited here, including Maserati, Lamborghini, and Pagani, as well as motorcycle company Ducati.
Address: Via Paolo Ferrari, 85, Modena, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 290
Chiesa di Santa Maria in Cosmedin
Like most of the many churches throughout Rome, Chiesa di Santa Maria in Comedian has an ancient past and a fascinating story. Built on an ancient worship site that was once a great temple of Hercules, it became under care of the Byzantine Papacy. Its name “Cosmedin” is the Greek word for “beautiful decoration.”
The beautiful decorations remain — with its unique characteristics including a pre-Roman crypt, a massive bell tower, marble inlaid floors, architecture and designed by the Cosmati brothers, a beautiful altar with a rare 8th century mosaic, and frescoed walls.
The famous ‘Mouth of Truth’ or Bocca della Verità can be found in the portico of the church. The face of an unknown man or god is believed to be part of an ancient Roman temple, and is said to have once functioned as a lie detector — as it would bite off the hand of a man who did not speak the truth.
Practical Info
The church is open daily from 10 am to 5 pm and can be found at Piazza della Bocca della Verità 18. While there can be a line to see the Mouth of Truth, it is often possible to walk around this crowd to enter the church.
Address: Piazza della Bocca della Verità, 18, Rome 00186, Italy
From $ 81
Etruscan Necropolises of Cerveteri and Tarquinia
When we think of ancient civilizations, more often than not we think of Rome. Yet before the Romans, there were the Etruscans who lived in west Italy from the 9th century onward. Their necropolises, or burial grounds, represent much of what we know about not only Etruscan culture but also burial practices from that ancient time.
Depictions of daily life can be found on frescoed walls, and many of the necropolises resemble Etruscan homes. The necropolis of Cerveteri alone has thousands of tomb structures which are arranged as if a small city. It can be navigated in largely the same manner, with paths, city squares, and even distinct neighborhoods.
The nearby Tarquinia necropolis has more than 6,000 tombs carved into rock. Interestingly, these tombs built for death are one of the greatest keys we have to understand how the Etruscans lived. Many of them are the only existing structure of their kind.
Practical Info
Cerveteri is located in northern Lazio, about 28 miles from Rome. Open from 8:30 am daily, it costs 6 Euros to enter either tomb (Cerveteri and Tarquinia.) The National Museum of Cerverteri of Etruscan artifacts is nearby to the necropolis, and is also worth checking out. The Cerveteri necropolis is located at Via della Necropoli 43/45, whereas Tarquinia is at Strada provinciale Monterozzi Marina. You can get there by driving, or take Rome’s Metro Line A the Cornelia stop; from the Cornelia stop, you can catch a CoTral bus to Cerveteri. It’s about 45 minutes to then travel to Tarquinia.
Address: Via della Necropoli, Cerveteri, Italy
Hours: 8:30 am to sunset
Admission: 6€
From $ 116
Chiesa di Santa Maria del Giglio (Santa Maria Zobenigo)
A showstopper of a church, Santa Maria del Giglio (known locally as Santa Maria Zobenigo after the Venetian family who founded the original chapel) has one of the most ornate baroque facades in Venice. The church also houses works by Peter Paul Rubens and Tintoretto and boasts an ornate, cherub-covered baptistery.
The Basics
Founded in the 9th century, Santa Maria del Giglio (Saint Mary of the Lily) was rebuilt in the 17th century by Italian architect Giuseppe Sardi for Antonio Barbaro, a renowned military leader and scion of a wealthy Venetian dynasty. The sumptuous marble facade is unusual in that it includes largely secular imagery. The interior contains Tintoretto’s The Evangelists and, in the Molin chapel, Rubens’ Virgin and Child with the Young St. John, the only painting by the Flemish master in Venice.
Santa Maria del Giglio is a stop on some private walking tours of the San Marco neighborhood, which may also include nearby highlights such as St. Mark's Basilica (Basilica San Marco), the Doge's Palace (Palazzo Ducale), and the Rialto Bridge (Ponte di Rialto). You can easily pair a visit to the church, set just off the Grand Canal, with a gondola ride and serenade.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Venice is largely a walking town, so it’s a good idea to wear comfortable shoes and a sun hat.
- With a short flight of steps at the entrance, Santa Maria del Giglio is inaccessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
- If you plan to visit the church’s interior, choose modest clothing that covers your shoulders and knees.
How to Get There
The Chiesa di Santa Maria del Giglio is located at Campo Santa Maria del Giglio in the San Marco neighborhood, just a short walk from Piazza San Marco. It’s also possible to reach via vaporetto (water bus); take line 1 to the Santa Maria del Giglio stop along the Grand Canal.
When to Get There
Venice is one of the most crowded tourist destinations in Italy, especially in summer. Visit in late fall or early spring to enjoy the city with fewer crowds. As the church isn’t one of the city’s blockbuster sights, it’s a good choice during the busiest part of the day.
A Worldly Facade
The unusually secular facade of this church features prominent statues of the Barbaro family, who financed the church’s 17th-century rebuilding. Also depicted are maps of the regions where Antonio Barbaro served on his military campaigns, battle scenes, and the family coat of arms. Flemish sculptor Josse Le Court, who also worked on Venice’s Santa Maria della Salute church, contributed figures of the Four Virtues.
Address: Campo Santa Maria del Giglio, San Marco, Venice, Veneto 30125, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 47
Chiesa di San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore
Milan’s best-preserved 16th-century church, the Chiesa di San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore features frescoes by Bernardino Luini as well as the oldest pipe organ in the city. It is also home to the Archaeological Museum of Milan (Museo Archeologico di Milano), which displays artifacts from the Etruscans, Greeks, and Romans.
The Basics
Built in the early 1500s, San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore is one of the oldest surviving structures in Milan. The church is attached to a Benedictine convent—the oldest convent in the city—which today houses the archaeological museum. The church is often featured on Milan history and art tours, which typically include a visit to da Vinci’s famous The Last Supper with skip-the-line admission. For a personalized experience, book a private tour to explore the ancient structures of Milan and the city’s hidden gems.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Chiesa di San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore is a must-see for art and architecture lovers.
- Entrance to the church is free.
- Visitors with limited mobility can access the church through the archaeological museum.
- Groups of more than 10 must book at least two weeks in advance, and only two groups are allowed in the church at any given time.
How to Get There
San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore is located at Corso Magenta 15. To get there by public transit, take the M1 metro line to Cadorna or Cairoli. Alternatively, take tram 16 to Corso Magenta via Nirone or Via Meravigli.
When to Get There
The church is open Tuesday to Sunday from 9:30am to 7:30pm. Milan gets very busy during the summer season, so it’s a good idea visit the church during the shoulder seasons due to its small size.
The “Sistine Chapel of Milan”
The opulent Chiesa di San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore is one of the most revered churches in the city, along with the famous Milan Cathedral (Duomo di Milano). It was rebuilt during the Renaissance era, and many artists from the school of Leonardo were commissioned to paint its frescoes. Restored over 30 years into the 2010s, the church’s more than 40,000 square feet (4,000 square meters) of frescoes earned it the nickname the “Sistine Chapel of Milan.”
Address: Chiesa di San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore, Milan, Italy
From $ 53
Faito Mountain (Monte Faito)
Towering over the countryside of Campania in southern Italy, Faito Mountain (Monte Faito)—in the Lattari mountain range—overlooks the whole of the Sorrento Peninsula. Faito is a popular destination in summer, when its scenic trails offer a respite from the heat and crowds along the coastline.
The Basics
Faito Mountain, named for the beech trees that blanket its slopes, offers some of the best hiking trails in the area. From its highest point, you can set off along a number of routes that lead past churches and ancient cisterns, and through spectacular beech and black pine forests, where it’s often possible to spot birds, butterflies, and small mammals in the wild. A road and cable car run up 3,711 feet (1,131 meters) to one of the highest peaks on the Sorrentine Peninsula, where the views of the Amalfi Coast—from the Gulf of Salerno to the Bay of Naples—are stellar; most hiking trails set off from near the cable car station here. Faito’s trails are of varying length and difficulty, so the best way to explore is on a private walking or hiking tour led by a professional nature guide.
Things to Know Before You Go
- If hiking Faito’s trails, be sure to wear appropriate shoes, a hat, and sunblock, and carry ample water.
- You’ll want to capture the sweeping views, so don’t forget your camera.
- There are a few restaurants and cafés on the peak of Faito Mountain, as well as a playground and swimming pool.
- Outdoor activities are often a welcome break from days of sightseeing for kids, so consider a guided hike with a family-friendly guide.
- The cable car is not accessible to wheelchair users.
How to Get There
The easiest way to reach Faito Mountain is by taking the cable car from the Circumvesuviana train station in Castellammare di Stabia. You can also take the bus from the Circumvesuviana train station in Vico Equense, or drive to the top. To reach the Circumvesuviana line from Positano, Ravello, or Amalfi, take the bus to Sorrento and board the train there.
When to Get There
The cable car runs only in summer, when the lion’s share of hikers hit the trails on Faito Mountain. If hiking in summer, plan to set off early in the morning to avoid the heat of the day; or opt to visit in spring or fall when the temperatures are milder.
Faito and Pompeii in a Day
The archaeological ruins of Pompeii at the base of Mount Vesuvius are also located along the Circumvesuviana rail line between Sorrento and Naples, so easy to reach before or after your cable car excursion to the top of Faito.
Address: Sorrento, Italy
From $ 232
Great Synagogue of Florence
With its massive dome patterned in colorful designs, the Great Synagogue is an architectural marvel and significant synagogue of Italy. Historically Florence has always had a small Jewish community, with the first synagogue dating back to the 13th century. The Great Synagogue, however, was constructed from 1874 to 1882 financed by a local Jewish citizen who sought out to create a synagogue with beauty that would rival the other structures of Florence. Today it is still one of the largest in Europe. There is also a small Jewish museum with relics on display.
The synagogue features influences from both Italian and Islamic traditions. Its oxidized bright green copper roof makes the dome stand out in the city skyline. The interior features striking alternating layers of granite and travertine, with three large arches framing the entrance. Many draw comparisons in style to the Hagia Sofia of Istanbul. Its marble floors, mosaics, hand painted walls, and stained glass windows make this a beautiful space to behold.
Practical Info
You can find the Great Synagogue of Florence at Via Luigi Carlo Farini 6. With an admission price of €5, it is open Sunday to Thursday from 10 am to 3 pm. Cameras are not permitted inside.
Address: Via Luigi Carlo Farini 6, Florence 50121, Italy
Admission: €5
From $ 41
Bell Tower and Astronomical Clock (Orologio Astronomico)
Each day at noon, a crowd gathers beneath the bell tower of Messina’s Cathedral to watch as the gilded statues on the astronomical clock seem to come to life. As the bells chime, the lion roars, the rooster crows, statues strike the hour, and mechanical figures replay biblical and allegorical scenes. It's a spectacle no tourist should miss.
The Basics
The Cathedral’s original 200-foot (61-meter) bell tower was built in the late 16th century, but after being destroyed by an earthquake, it was rebuilt and, in 1933, an astronomical clock was added. Designed by the firm Ungerer of Strasbourg, it is said to be the largest and most complex mechanical and astronomical clock in the world.
One of the biggest draws in Messina, the 12-minute show is a highlight of any Messina city tour. In addition to watching the midday spectacle, you can also visit the inside of the bell tower, climbing the staircase to see the bronze statues up close and the complex internal mechanism of weights and gears behind their movements. At the top, take in the beautiful view over the city of Messina and the strait between the island of Sicily and Italy’s mainland.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The bell tower is closed to visitors inside when it rains.
- Due to small spaces and steep stairs, the clock tower is not accessible to wheelchair users; the square below is accessible to watch to the noon show.
- Walking tours of Messina involve a significant amount of time on your feet, so choose comfortable shoes and clothing.
How to Get There
The bell tower and astronomical clock are located adjacent Messina’s Cathedral (Duomo di Messina) in Piazza del Duomo in the historic center of the city, an easy walk from the ferry terminal or train station.
When to Get There
The opening hours of the bell tower are very complex and change almost weekly. Check times carefully if you want to climb to the top to avoid disappointment.
The Clock Tower Features
At the top of the tower, there are mechanical clock faces on all four sides. Down one side are the perpetual calendar, mechanisms to track the phases of the moon, and the planetary movements; down the front are the numerous gilded statues that move each day as the clock strikes midday.
Address: Piazza Duomo, Messina, Sicily, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 22
Greek Theatre (Teatro Greco)
One of Taormina’s most spectacular sights is its 2nd-century Greek Theatre (Teatro Greco), which, despite its name, is actually an ancient Roman amphitheater built in the Greek style. Sitting high above the coast, the theater has beautiful views over Taormina, the Sicilian coastline, and Mount Etna.
The Basics
The original structure of Taormina’s Greek Theater dates from the 3rd century BC—though it was renovated in brick by the Romans based on the Greek Corinthian design 500 years later—and could once seat over 5,000 spectators. The theater is the second-largest in Sicily (after the Greek Theater in Syracuse), and the stage’s original rear wall and wings are miraculously intact. The theater, which is still used as a venue for concerts and performances, has impeccable acoustics and memorable views.
Because of its archaeological and historical importance, it's best to visit the Greek Theater with a guide as part of a Taormina sightseeing tour. Many day trips and shore excursions to Taormina depart from Syracuse, Messina, or Catania. You can also combine a tour of Taormina and the Greek Theater with visits to the nearby town of Castelmola and the peak of Mount Etna.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Greek Theater is not accessible to wheelchairs.
- On concert and performance nights in summer, the theater may close early.
- A theater tour is particularly interesting for archaeology buffs.
- The theater is outdoors, so be sure to wear a hat and sunscreen.
How to Get There
The Greek Theater, located just outside the center of Taormina, is an easy walk from the town. Taormina is a popular day trip from the larger Sicilian towns of Messina, Syracuse, and Catania.
When to Get There
The open-air theater can get uncomfortably hot under the Sicilian sun in summer, so plan to visit first thing in the morning or in the late afternoon. The Teatro Greco may close earlier than usual on days when performances are scheduled.
Isola Bella, The Beautiful Island
One of Taormina’s other popular attractions is Isola Bella, a tiny rocky outcrop off the Lido Mazzaro beach that’s connected to the mainland by a narrow strip of sand. This picturesque point, which was gifted to Taormina in 1806 by the King of Sicily, is now a nature reserve.
Address: Teatro Greco, Taormina, Sicily, Italy
From $ 80
Green Grotto (Grotta Verde)
One of several natural sea caves along Capri's rugged coastline, the Green Grotto (Grotta Verde) is known for the unique green light that filters through the water and reflects onto the walls, creating a striking, dreamy atmosphere inside.
The Basics
The Green Grotto was used by pirates during the 1500s to launch surprise attacks against passing ships and was known for centuries as the Cave of the Turks. It was dubbed the Green Grotto only after becoming a popular attraction with 19th-century travelers on boat excursions around Capri Island, along with the Blue Grotto (Grotta Azzurra) and the Faraglioni sea stacks.
The cave is only accessible by water. Capri boat tours depart from numerous mainland towns, including Positano and Amalfi on the Amalfi Coast, Sorrento, and Naples. These full- or half-day boat tours generally include all the sights along the island's coastline, including the Punta Carena Lighthouse, the Natural Arch, and the White Grotto (Grotta Bianca). In lieu of a private boat tour, you can also opt for simple water taxi service from Marina Grande, the main port on Capri.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Only a few small boats are able to go into the cave at once, so you may end up waiting at peak times.
- On a private boat tour, your skipper may allow you to dive off to swim through the grotto.
- Only those able to get in and out of the boat can join a tour, so check in advance for information about wheelchair access and limited mobility.
How to Get There
The Green Grotto is located on the southern coast of Capri just opposite Naples, and can only be reached by sea either as part of a boat tour to Capri or by water taxi from Marina Grande.
When to Get There
The green light inside the grotto is strongest at midday, but this is also when the grotto is most crowded, especially in summer. Boat tours only run from spring through fall, as the waters off Capri are too choppy for a small boat to navigate for much of the winter.
Capri by Land
The Mediterranean island of Capri is quite dramatic by sea, but there are also a number of beautiful places to visit on land. Among the most famous are the glamorous Piazzetta and Via Camerelle, the Gardens of Augustus, Villa San Michele, the town of Anacapri, and the charming Marina Piccola.
Address: Capri, Italy
From $ 80
Guinigi Tower
The red-brick Guinigi Tower pierces the sky above Lucca’s medieval center, and is particularly notable for its impressive rooftop garden shaded by several ancient holm oaks that date from the early 17th century. Climb the 230 steps inside the tower for views across the historic rooftops of Lucca.
The Basics
During the Middle Ages, Lucca had more than 200 tower houses inside the city walls, defensive residences where the wealthy families could live and work in safety. Today, only nine remain and the most famous is the Guinigi Tower (Torre Guinigi), built in the 14th century by the powerful family of silk merchants who once ruled the city. This rooftop garden was renovated in the 1980s and can be visited via the internal staircase. From its ramparts, you can make out Lucca’s three concentric rings of historic city walls and other remaining towers, and the green Tuscan hills beyond.
Lucca is about 90 minutes from Florence, and a popular day trip together with Pisa. You can explore the town center with a walking tour or by bike, hitting on other highlights like Lucca Cathedral, San Michele in Foro church, and Piazza dell’Anfiteatro.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Kids especially enjoy climbing to the rooftop garden, both for the bird’s-eye view and the novelty of full-size trees growing on a tower.
- Because of the many steps to the top of the tower, the climb is only recommended for those in good physical condition.
- Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and dress for the weather if planning on exploring the center of Lucca on foot or by bike.
How to Get There
The Guinigi Tower is located in the center of Lucca’s old town, an easy walk from the train station. To reach Lucca, you can take a train or drive from Florence or Pisa.
When to Get There
Lucca holds a popular music festival each summer featuring Italian and international rock and pop artists, and the city has a particularly vibrant atmosphere during the months of July, August, and September.
Lucca’s Walls
The historic center of Lucca is encircled by what many consider to be the most beautiful medieval city walls in Italy. The wide top of the walls has been landscaped with shade trees, benches, and biking and walking paths, and is a popular area to stroll and relax for visitors and locals alike.
Address: Via S. Andrea, Lucca, Tuscany 55100, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 75
Emerald Grotto (Grotta dello Smeraldo)
Tucked beneath the famous highway that skirts Italy's Amalfi Coast, the Emerald Grotto (Grotta dello Smeraldo) is one of the most popular attractions on this iconic stretch of coastline. Discovered in 1932 by a local fisherman, this marine cave is known for the turquoise water that fills the cavern with an emerald-green light when the sun’s rays filter up through a fissure beneath its surface. It’s covered with limestone stalagmites and stalactites more commonly associated with inland karstic caves and is popular among travelers to Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast.
The Basics
The Emerald Grotto can only be entered with official grotto rowboats, and lines to enter can be long during summer as these rowboats only seat about 20 passengers at a time. To avoid the long wait by land, book a tour with a private boat and arrive by sea. Visits to the Emerald Cave are often included on half- and full-day Amalfi Coast tours from Sorrento and Naples, as well as on boat excursions to the islands of Capri and Ischia.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Visitors can only enter the cave by small rowboat, which may be uncomfortable for those prone to seasickness.
- The Emerald Grotto shouldn't be confused with the Blue Grotto, another popular marine cave located on the nearby island of Capri.
- Entering and exiting the small rowboats may be a challenge for those with limited mobility.
- Many private boat tours include stops at the Emerald Grotto and the nearby Fiordo di Furore, a picturesque fjord along the coast to the west.
How to Get There
The Emerald Grotto (Grotta dello Smeraldo) is located in Conca dei Marini between Positano and Amalfi. You can reach the grotto by land along the SS 163 coastal highway and take the elevator down to the cave entrance where rowboats await. Otherwise, you can arrive by sea with a private tour from Amalfi, Positano, or Sorrento and transfer to a rowboat to enter the cave.
When to Get There
The sea cave is only open from May through September and is best visited between noon and 3pm, when the color of the water is most vivid.
The Nativity Scene at the Emerald Grotto
An underwater Nativity scene was created in the cave in 1956, and divers place flowers around the manger each Christmas.
Address: Conca dei Marini, Italy
Hours: Open May–Sept daily 9.30am–4pm
Admission: €5
From $ 138
Great Synagogue of Rome
The Great Synagogue of Rome has a storied past, with the city housing one of the oldest Jewish communities in the world. The first set arrived in the city in the second century BC, and by the mid-16th century, the area of Trastevere on the west banks of the River Tiber became a Jewish ghetto, which lasted for three centuries until it was disbanded by King Victor Emmanuel II. The Great Synagogue was built across the river from Trastevere shortly afterwards in memory of the dark days of the ghetto; the Art Nouveau structure is stopped with a distinctive square dome and ornamented with floral reliefs.
On April 13, 1986, Pope John Paul II visited the synagogue, making him the first pope since early Christianity to do so. The synagogue celebrated its centenary in 2004 and serves as a hub for the Jewish community of Rome, as well as housing for the offices of the Chief Rabbi. The city's Jewish Museum is also on the premises, which opened in 1960 and displays precious textiles, manuscripts and silverware documenting centuries of Jewish life in Rome.
Practical Info
Located at Lungotevere de' Cenci in Trastevere, the synagogue is open in June through September, Sunday to Thursday, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and on Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. From October to May, the site is open Sunday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Friday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Admission includes entrance to the Jewish Museum of Rome. Bus No. 8 and No. 10 run regularly along Lungotevere de' Cenci.
Address: Lungotevere de’ Cenci, Trastevere, Rome, Lazio 00186, Italy
Hours: Varies
Admission: Varies
From $ 115