Choose from 645 Fun Things to Do in Italy
ShowingFilter 241-260 of 645 listings.
Riomaggiore
Riomaggiore is photogenic from every angle, thanks to its jumble of multicolored buildings cocooned between dramatic sea cliffs and fronted by an expanse of blue ocean. The largest and southernmost of northern Italy’s five Cinque Terre villages, Riomaggiore is the place for romantic promenades, sipping coffee in traditional cafés, and bird watching along the rocky shores.
The Basics
Riomaggiore makes a good base for sailing or kayaking along the Italian Riviera coast; wine-tasting tours to the Montenero vineyards; and hiking and mountain biking excursions in Cinque Terre National Park, which encompasses all five Cinque Terre towns. Day tours to Riomaggiore run from La Spezia, Siena, Florence, and Milan, and typically also visit the neighboring villages of Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, and Manarola, as well as nearby Portovenere.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Riomaggiore can get busy in peak summer season, so book tours and accommodations in advance.
- Bring comfortable, sturdy walking shoes, as the village roads are steep and often uneven.
- While many hotels and tourist attractions in Riomaggiore are wheelchair and stroller accessible, the village’s steep and narrow lanes can be challenging to navigate for those with mobility issues.
How to Get There
Located in Cinque Terre National Park, just south of Manarola along the Italian Riviera, Riomaggiore is a two-hour drive from Florence or a 30-minute drive from La Spezia. Parking is limited in Riomaggiore, so unless you are staying in town overnight, it’s best to join a tour or arrive by train from La Spezia (a five-minute ride). Alternatively, from mid-April through October, ferries connect Riomaggiore with La Spezia, Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, and Manarola.
When to Get There
Riomaggiore sees the most visitors and the highest temperatures—upwards of (100°F (40°C)—in summer. Hikers should aim to visit in May or September to avoid the peak heat, while budget-minded travelers should note that hotel prices rise in August. Visiting in winter is possible, but some hiking trails may be inaccessible in heavy rain or icy conditions.
Buon Appetito!
Home to some of Cinque Terre’s best restaurants and cafés, Riomaggiore is a great place to sample authentic Ligurian cuisine. Look out for signature dishes such as coniglio alla ligure (red wine–braised rabbit) and pesto alla Genovese (pasta with fresh pesto), street foods like pansotti (stuffed pasta) and farinata (chickpea pancakes), and the sweet dessert wine Sciacchetra.
Address: Riomaggiore, Italy
From $ 55
Ravello
Tiny Ravello, an idyllic village along the Amalfi Coast, has a long history and vibrant cultural life. Founded by Romans in the sixth century, this picturesque clifftop town is today a haven for travelers drawn to its views, villas, and gardens. Home to Villa Rufolo, which has hosted luminaries from Richard Wagner to Jacqueline Kennedy, and Villa Cimbrone, known for its panoramic views, Ravello is an elegant respite from the crowds along the coast.
The Basics
Ravello is one of the few towns along the Amalfi Coast not set at sea level, so it must be reached by climbing a steep road up the cliffside. Given the heavy traffic that plagues the Amalfi Coast in summer, consider booking a Ravello tour and leave the hassle of navigating to a professional driver. The town has a number of historic villas and churches that are best appreciated with a tour guide, so join an all-day Amalfi Coast tour or shore excursion from Naples, Sorrento, or Salerno that includes Ravello. You can also take private tours to Pompeii, Mt. Vesuvius (Mount Vesuvius), and other destinations in the surrounding region of Campania from here.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Unlike the other villages along the Amalfi Coast, Ravello is relatively flat and easier to explore for those with limited mobility.
- Bring a hat and sunblock, and wear comfortable clothing and footwear, as much of your time touring Ravello will be spent outdoors.
How to Get to There
Ravello sits on the clifftop above the historic maritime republic of Amalfi and can only be reached by car or bus. No train line runs along the Amalfi Coast, so you must take the coastal bus from Salerno or Sorrento; alternatively, you can take the train from Rome or Naples to Sorrento, and then transfer to the bus. Ferries also run from Sorrento to Amalfi, where you can catch the bus to Ravello. Guided tours usually include round-trip transportation.
When to Get There
The Amalfi Coast is crowded in summer, while during winter, smaller villages like Ravello close up shop. The best times of the year to visit are spring and fall, when sights and restaurants are open but the crowds are smaller. If visiting between March and November, check out the calendar for the Ravello Concert Society's annual season of chamber music concerts.
The Ravello Festival
The annual Ravello Festival is among Italy’s finest festivals and celebrates the music of one of Ravello’s greatest fans, German composer Richard Wagner. He was inspired by the architecture of Villa Rufolo when he stayed in Ravello in 1880.
Address: Campania 84010, Italy
From $ 42
Pietro Micca Museum
Pietro Micca was a soldier in the Savoy army in the early 18th century, and during the Siege on Turin he became a national hero. There is now a museum dedicated to him in Turin.
In 1706, the French and Spanish armies marched on Turin (then part of the Duchy of Savoy) during the War of Spanish Succession. Pietro Micca's job in the Savoy army involved tunneling in the mines underneath Turin's citadel. In late August of 1706, Micca heard French soldiers making their way up into the mines. He barred his door and exploded two barrels of gunpowder just as the soldiers broke through his barricade, killing most of them. Micca himself was severely injured and died later of his wounds, but by preventing the French from getting into the citadel he helped the Savoy army eventually defeat the French.
The Pietro Micca Museum was opened in 1961 to commemorate Micca's heroic act and the Savoy defeat of the French and Spanish armies, and the building stands over the tunnels in which Micca once worked. Visitors to the museum can descend into the tunnel network.
Practical Info
The Pietro Micca Museum (Museo Civico Pietro Micca a dell'Assedio di Torino del 1706) is located near the Porta Susa train station – it's a short walk from there or the Porta Susa metro stop. The museum is open Tuesday-Sunday from 10am-6pm, and closed Mondays and major holidays. Admission is €3. A museum visit including a 90-minute guided tour of the tunnels is available Tuesday-Saturday at 10:30am, 2:30pm, and 4:30pm, and on Sundays at 10:30am, 2:30pm, 3:30pm, and 4:30pm.
Address: Via Francesco Giuseppe Guicciardini, Torino 10121, Italy
Hours: Tue-Sun 10am-6pm
Admission: €3
From $ 32
Rialto Bridge (Ponte di Rialto)
The Rialto Bridge was the first to span Venice’s Grand Canal (Canal Grande) between its two highest points above sea level. The original 12th-century wooden bridge was replaced in 1592 by a stone structure resting on wooden pilings—a bold design by Antonio da Ponte featuring a single central arch over the water that allow ships to pass. Today, the bridge is among Italy’s most famous, carrying an endless stream of tourists and locals across the canal while countless gondolas and vaporetto water buses pass beneath.
The Basics
The Rialto is one of the most famous landmark bridges in Europe, and a popular and crowded Venice attraction connecting the San Marco district, home of St. Mark's Square, to the San Polo district, where Venice's famous fish market has stood for 700 years. The bridge is visited on nearly every walking tour through the "Floating City," along with other historic tourist attractions like the nearby Doge's Palace (Palazzo Ducale), Bridge of Sighs (Ponte dei Sospiri), and St. Mark's Basilica (Basilica di San Marco). For a unique view of the bridge far from the crowds, consider booking a Venice gondola ride or Venice Grand Canal evening boat tour to see the bridge from the water.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The bridge is lined with tiny shops and leads to the San Polo neighborhood, known for its market and gourmet stores; it’s an ideal spot for souvenir shopping.
- The Rialto is a pedestrian bridge but has stairs on each side, so it is not accessible for wheelchairs and strollers.
How to Get to There
The Rialto Bridge crosses the Grand Canal between the San Marco and San Polo districts, and can be reached by vaporetto water bus lines 1 and 2 via the Rialto stop. Along Venice's maze of tiny streets, there are signs and arrows painted on the walls at regular intervals pointing toward the Rialto.
When to Get There
The islands of Venice are crowded with tourists during the popular summer months, and it can be a challenge to navigate the crowds on the bridge. Take an early morning or late evening stroll if visiting between April and October, or book a private tour by boat along the Grand Canal.
The Grand Canal Bridges
The Rialto Bridge is one of four bridges that span the Grand Canal. The other three are the wood-and-steel Accademia Bridge (Ponte dell'Accademia), the modern Constitution Bridge (Ponte della Costituzione), and the marble ‘Bridge of the Barefoot’ (Ponte degli Scalzi).
Address: Ponte di Rialto, Venice 30125, Italy
Hours: Open every day, 24 hours a day.
Admission: Free
From $ 21
Pinacoteca di Brera
The Pinacoteca di Brera, one of Italy’s most important museums, is a highlight of Milan’s fashionable Brera neighborhood. This impressive collection of medieval and Renaissance paintings includes masterpieces by Botticelli, Raphael, Titian, Caravaggio, Tintoretto, Piero della Francesca, and Andrea Mantegna.
The Basics
Housed in the baroque 17th-century Palazzo di Brera, the Pinacoteca di Brera has grand interiors and a lovely neoclassical cloister, and a visit to its stellar collection is a must for any art enthusiast. The museum's headliner is The Lamentation of Christ by Andrea Mantegna, a Mannerist gem. The surrounding Brera district, a charming maze of narrow, cobblestone streets lined with boutiques and cafés near the Duomo in the city center, is one of the trendiest neighborhoods in Milan. Join a walking tour of Brera that includes skip-the-line tickets to the Pinacoteca di Brera to explore both the neighborhood and its most famous attraction. Brera is also a great place to experience Milan’s excellent food and wine scene, so consider joining a small-group food walking tour that has a gastronomic bent.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Flash photography isn’t allowed inside the Brera Pinacoteca, but the surround neighborhood is one of the most photogenic in the city, so bring your camera anyway.
- A visit of the museum and tour of Brera requires a bit of walking, so wear comfortable shoes and dress for the weather.
- The Pinacoteca is accessible to people with limited mobility via an entrance with an elevator, which is located at Via Fiori Oscuri, 2.
How to Get There
The Pinacoteca di Brera is right in the center of Milan, an easy walk north from the Duomo and Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. Otherwise, the nearest metro stops are Lanza (M2 line), Montenapoleone (M3 line), and Cairoli (M1 line).
When to Get There
Try to avoid visiting the first Sunday of the month, when the Pinacoteca is free to enter—and therefore very crowded. Better to visit on a weekday morning (Tuesday through Sunday; the gallery is closed on Mondays) and take the afternoon to explore the surrounding neighborhood.
Milan’s Food and Wine Scene
You may be surprised to discover that the cosmopolitan city of Milan is known for more than just fashion. This northern Italian capital also has a thriving food and wine scene that features both traditional dishes rooted in the area’s history and up-and-coming contemporary cuisine, especially in Brera. Take a food or wine walking tour through the neighborhood, and experience the city’s gourmet side for yourself.
Address: Via Brera 28, Milan 20121, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 19
Pietro Canonica Museum (Museo Pietro Canonica)
One of Rome’s hidden gems, the Pietro Canonica Museum is home to a stellar collection of works by the 19th-century sculptor and musician, all displayed against the backdrop of his luxurious fortress-style villa in the Villa Borghese gardens. Visitors will gain a unique glimpse into the artist's life a century ago.
The Basics
Canonica was a sculptor and academic born near Turin in 1869. Much feted by the aristocracy in Italy and Europe for his fine sculptural portraits of royalty and nobility, he was given this small but sumptuous "fortezzuola" villa by the city of Rome, and lived there until his death in 1959. The artist's house is now a museum dedicated to his life and work; visit as part of a Villa Borghese bike or Segway tour that also includes the Galleria Borghese, the Silvano Toti Globe Theatre, the Bioparco zoo, and the Pincio Gardens.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The museum’s collection consists primarily of sculptures, but there are other eclectic things to see as well, including Canonica’s smock and beret.
- Large bags and backpacks are not allowed in the museum.
- The museum is partially accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
- Flash photography is not allowed inside the museum.
How to Get There
The museum is located on Viale Pietro Canonica in Villa Borghese park. The nearest metro station is Flaminio; the nearest bus stop is at Piazzale Brasile.
When to Get There
Because of its location in Villa Borghese park, the museum makes for a great stop on a nice day. It’s closed on Mondays.
The Pietro Canonica Museum Collection
Visitors can see original models for Canonica’s bronze and marble statues, as well as sketches and drawings, in the artist’s ground-floor studio. Upstairs, you can explore private apartments furnished with antiques, Flemish tapestries, and paintings by 19th- and 20th-century Italian artists such as Giovanni Battista Quadrone and Vittorio Cavalleri.
Address: Viale Pietro Canonica, 2, Rome, Lazio 00197, Italy
From $ 45
Querini Stampalia Foundation (Fondazione Querini Stampalia)
Palazzo Querini Stampalia is one of Venice’s few noble palaces open to the public. Here you can tour the 18th-century ducal apartments as well as view the extensive collection of fine art—including works by Giovanni Bellini, Pietro Longhi, and Tiepolo—at the Fondazione Querini Stampalia (Querini Stampalia Foundation).
The Basics
La Fondazione Querini Stampalia was created by Count Giovanni—the last of the Venetian Querini Stampalia family—as a cultural center; today it houses a library and art collection, the original apartments, and exhibition areas for concerts and events. Architect Carlo Scarpa reworked the ground floor and garden in the 1960s, and Mario Botta completed a later renovation and expansion were completed in the 1990s. But the palazzo dates from the 16th century and the ornate stuccos, Meissen porcelain, and fine tapestries of the original noble apartments remain.
A stop at the Querini Stampalia Foundation is a highlight of any Venice walking tour that combines quieter, lesser-known sights with skip-the-line tickets to A-list attractions like St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The foundation’s 700-year-old library, considered the most beautiful in Venice, is open to the public.
- The foundation often holds contemporary art exhibits in the Carlo Scarpa Area during Venice’s Biennale.
- The complex’s ground floor houses a bookstore and café.
- The palazzo is accessible to wheelchair users via a secondary entrance with a bell to alert staff.
How to Get There
Entrance to Querini Stampalia Palace is on Campo Santa Maria Formosa, Castello 5252, a short walk from Piazza San Marco and the Rialto or San Zaccaria vaporetto (water bus) stops.
When to Get There
Venice is one of the most visited cities in Italy, so less famous sights like the Querini Stampalia Foundation are a welcome respite from the summer crowds. The foundation holds regular events, so check their program calendar to experience a workshop, classical concert, or temporary art exhibition.
The Querini Stampalia Library
The Querini Stampalia Foundation’s library has a collection of over 350,000 historical and modern pieces, with a reading room of about 32,000 books, more than 350 magazines and journals, and 20 local, national, and international newspapers. Count Giovanni wanted the citizens of Venice to have access to culture, so he stipulated that the library be open on Sunday, on holidays, and late into the evening. The library is free for visitors aged 16 and up.
Address: Santa Maria Formosa, 5252, Sestiere Castello, Venice, Veneto 30122, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 16
Ospedale degli Innocenti
Florence’s one-of-a-kind Ospedale degi Innocenti (Hospital of the Innocents) is the oldest orphanage on the continent and offers travelers the perfect blend of Italian history, Roman artistry, classic architecture and lush gardens. It can only be described as one of the city’s oddest—and most beautiful—attractions. Built during the early 15th century, Ospedale degli Innocenti has served as a center of care for infants and children for more than 500 years and today also operates as a home for some of the nation’s best-known works of art.
In addition to a vast gallery, this historic landmark is also home to open cloisters and plenty of hospital-like rooms, including an infirmary and group dormitories. Travelers can explore the grounds and bear witness to giant frescos that depict scenes from the historic site’s lengthy past. Dozens of brilliantly colored paintings line the galleries and hallways projecting images of religious figures with dozens of children—a nod to the hospital’s original purpose. Travelers say the glazed terra-cotta reliefs of swaddled newborn babies are not to be missed and prove one of Ospedale degi Innocenti’s most unique details.
Practical Info
Ospedale degi Innocenti is located off of Via della Colonna and accessible via the number 6 and 31 buses.
Address: Piazza della Santissima Annunziata, 12, Firenze 50121, Italy
Hours: Weekdays 8:30am-7pm, Holidays 8:30am-2pm
Admission: € 4,00
From $ 81
Paciotti Salumeria
Established in 1970, Paciotti Salumeria (the word ‘salumeria’ translates roughly as ‘a shop selling cured meats’, but this place is so much more) is one of Rome’s best-loved and smartest gastro-emporiums, family-run over four generations and located in a tangle of backstreets north of the Vatican City. A visual and aromatic delight, the store is known throughout Rome for its superb selection of salamis, smoked meats and fine Parma hams. There’s a wide choice of Italian cheeses—from Dolcelatte to Parmiggiano and Gorgonzola—and the very freshest of bread delivered daily. Other treats include homemade pastas, extra-virgin olive oils and exclusive (and expensive) seasonal truffles.
An experienced sommelier is on hand to advise on buying some of Italy’s best wines, from reds and whites to sparkling Astis and the Italian liqueur grappa. Paciotti also offers a gift service and its hampers can be delivered across the world; the gourmet store is also on several tours of the very best of Rome’s gastronomy.
Practical Info
Via Marcantonio Bragadin, 51/53. Mon–Wed, Fri–Sat 7.30–8.30pm; Thur 1pm–8.30pm. Metro Line A to Cipro.
Address: Via Marcantonio Bragadin, 51/53, Rome 00136, Italy
Hours: Open Mon–Wed, Fri–Sat 7:30–8:30pm; Thurs 1pm–8:30pm
From $ 87
Quirinale Palace (Palazzo del Quirinale)
Quirinale Palace (Palazzo del Quirinale), the official residence of the president of the Italian Republic, sits on Quirinal Hill, the highest of Rome’s historic seven hills. Formerly a royal residence, the palace has dozens of sumptuous, art-filled halls around a stately central courtyard and a beautiful garden with expansive views over Rome.
The Basics
Pope Gregory XIII built the Quirinale Palace in the late 1500s as a summer residence. It was home to dozens of popes for over three centuries before becoming the first residence of the royal House of Savoy, and finally the residence of Italy’s president of the republic in 1947. Its monumental staircase, grand Salone dei Corazzieri, and Cappella Paolina even caught the eye of Napoleon, who was defeated before he could make the palace his own.
Palace visits are only by guided tour on Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday; booking in advance is imperative, as spaces are limited. To view the Renaissance palace from the outside, join a walking, e-bike, or Vespa tour that includes Rome’s highlights such as the Quirinale Palace, Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, and the Vatican. For a unique experience, opt for an evening tour of Rome to see the palace beautifully lit.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Palace visits require a security check; large bags and backpacks, plastic and glass bottles, cans, umbrellas, and other pointed objects are prohibited.
- No photos or videos are allowed.
- The palace is accessible to wheelchair users, though the garden has gravel paths that may be difficult to maneuver.
How to Get There
The Quirinale Palace is located on Via del Quirinale at Piazza del Quirinale. Take metro line A to Repubblica–Teatro Opera station or metro line B to Cavour station.
When to Get There
The palace is closed on Monday and Thursday. Plan to visit on a Sunday, when you can also see the Changing of the Guard.
The History of Quirinal Hill
The palace’s current site was once home to Roman temples and, later, baths built by Constantine. The hill was known as the Salita di Montecavallo (Horse Hill) for centuries, named for ancient statues that portrayed Castor and Pollux in the act of taming their horses that once sat here.
Address: Piazza del Quirinale, Rome, Lazio 00187, Italy
From $ 3
Rialto Fish Market (Mercato di Rialto)
To get a glimpse into authentic Venice, a visit to the city’s historic outdoor fish market is a must. Venetians have been purchasing their fish and seafood, fresh fruit and vegetables, and other foods at the Rialto Market since 1097, making it one of the most long-lived aspects of daily life in the Floating City.
The Basics
At Venice's best-known local market, stalls stand cheek by jowl hawking familiar seafood as well as local specialties from the Venetian lagoon. Browsing the selection is a great way to get an idea of what's local and fresh before you peruse restaurant menus later in the day.
Many walking tours of Venice include a stroll through the Rialto Market along with stops at Piazza San Marco and the Doge's Palace and a gondola ride. An excellent way to visit is as part of a food tour of the city that combines the market with tastings of cicchetti, Venetian snacks.
Things to Know Before You Go
- As with any busy outdoor market in Italy, it's a good idea to keep an eye on your valuables.
- Be sure to bring your camera, as the stalls filled with artful displays of fresh seafood make for great photo opportunities.
- Tours through the Rialto Market are on foot, so wear comfortable shoes and a sun hat.
- The Rialto Bridge is essentially a flight of stairs going up and down, so getting to the market from across the canal may be challenging with a wheelchair or stroller. Instead, take vaporetto Line 1, which is wheelchair accessible, to Rialto Mercato.
How to Get There
Cross the Rialto Bridge from the San Marco side of the Grand Canal to San Polo, then turn right and follow the edge of the canal to Campo della Pescaria, the open square where the Erberia (fruit and vegetable market) is located. Beyond that is the Pescheria, the covered fish market.
When to Get There
The Rialto Market is open Tuesday through Saturday, and the stands are usually closed up by lunch. To see them at their most interesting (and to pick up anything you'd like for a picnic lunch), be there in the early morning.
Food Markets in Italy
Before the recent rise of supermarkets, Italians shopped for their food and housewares in bustling outdoor markets for centuries. A visit to the local market is a fascinating slice of Italian life in any city or town you visit.
Address: 42 San Polo, Venice 30125, Italy
From $ 35
Marzamemi
The small town of Marzamemi sits at the southeastern-most point of Sicily, and is known for its pretty beach and abundant seafood. Historically, Marzamemi has long been known as an important seafood processing town. The Arabs who came to Sicily in the 9th century C.E. started some of the first fish processing operations here, and the tuna processing facility that was built in the 16th century – the Tonnara – still stands today. This historic building is no longer used for fish processing, however.
Marzamemi still serves as a fish processing center, but the town is far more popular as a summer seaside tourist destination. The small town swells in size during the summer, as visitors flock to the pretty beach and historic center. In addition to the Tonnara and the town's beautiful beach, don't miss the Church of San Francesco di Paola.
Practical Info
Marzamemi is not far from Noto, a popular stop along the southeastern coast of Sicily. It's roughly 100 miles south of Taormina, and the best way to get there is by renting your own car or booking a spot on an organized tour – public transportation to Marzamemi is non-existent.
Address: Marzamemi, Italy
From $ 58
Lake Orta
The northern Italian lakes are popular destinations, beloved for their placid waters and mountain scenery. Among these, however, sleepy Lake Orta is one of the least well known. Overshadowed by its famous neighbor, Lake Maggiore, and slightly farther from Milan, Lake Orta attracts visitors who want to get away from it all.
The Basics
One of the charms of picturesque Lake Orta is the tiny island at its center, Isola San Giulio, home to a centuries-old basilica and monastery. Ferries run to the island from the medieval village of Orta San Giulio, whose historical center and 16th-century town hall are worth exploring; climb the hill above town to visit the Sacro Monte chapels. A few small towns dot the shores of the lake, including Pettenasco and Omegna, but this isn't the tourist-centered experience of Lake Garda or Lake Como.
Lake Orta is a popular excursion from Milan or Stresa, and joining a Lake Orta day trip by coach is an easy way to experience the lake without the hassle of driving. Alternatively, consider taking a private tour of Orta San Giulio and San Giulio Island to get the most out of these out-of-the-way spots.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Day trips may include a boat trip to Isola San Giulio, so wear weather-appropriate clothing for the ferry ride.
- Some boats may be accessible to wheelchairs, but always confirm ahead of time.
- A day trip to the lake is a fun break for kids and can include a dip in the water and walks along the shore.
- Lake Orta and its island and towns are all very picturesque, so be sure to bring your camera.
How to Get There
The lake district in northern Italy is easy to reach from Turin, Milan, and Venice. Lake Orta is about an hour by car from Milan's Malpensa Airport; the train trip from Milan to Orta San Giulio requires a change in Novara and takes between two and three hours.
When to Get There
Italy's northern lakes are especially spectacular in the fall when the surrounding countryside explodes in autumn colors. Lake Orta also hosts the Poetry on the Lake festival each September, honoring the lake's history as a favorite destination for writers such as Lord Byron, Honoré de Balzac, and Robert Browning.
The Sacred Mountain
On the hilltop above the town of Orta San Giulio, the Sacro Monte religious complex comprises 20 chapels built between the 15th and 18th century. The chapels, scattered artfully around a wooded estate, form part of the UNESCO-listed Sacri Monti of Piedmont and Lombardy.
Address: Milan, Italy
From $ 179
Monteriggioni
Picturesque Monteriggioni is the quintessential Tuscan village, encircled by medieval walls and perched on a hilltop above a rolling expanse of olive groves and vineyards. Stroll through its postcard-perfect center of cobblestone piazzas, pretty churches, and Renaissance townhouses and enjoy the authentic atmosphere.
The Basics
The fortified village of Monteriggioni was founded in 1214 and formed the northern bastion of the Republic of Siena’s territory, often finding itself on the front line in the power struggle between Siena and its arch rival, Florence. Originally, the outpost served as a garrison for Siena’s soldiers and the main Piazza Roma was the vegetable garden that kept them fed in times of siege; today there is a scattering of bars, restaurants, and souvenir shops to keep modern invaders happy. The town’s 13th-century walls incorporate 14 well-preserved towers, so iconic that they were mentioned by Tuscan poet Dante Alighieri in The Divine Comedy.
Monteriggioni is a popular stop on day trips to the Chianti region of Tuscany from Florence, Siena, and Pisa that explore the countryside surrounding San Gimignano, Montecatini, and Volterra; full-day sightseeing tours generally include lunch and a wine tasting of local Brunello di Montalcino wine. You can also explore the area on foot by joining a Tuscany hiking tour, or zip down the country lanes on a scooter during a Vespa tour.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The rolling hills of Chianti comprise one of the most picturesque corners of Italy, so be sure to bring your camera.
- The town is accessible to wheelchair users, but if your visit is part of a wine tour, wineries may not be. Check in advance.
- Tours of Monteriggioni and the villages of Tuscany require a fair bit of walking. Choose comfortable shoes and dress for the weather.
How to Get There
By car, take the Firenze-Siena highway and exit at Monteriggioni. Arriving by public transportation involves multiple bus connections, so the most convenient way to visit is by joining a small-group or private tour that includes transportation.
When to Get There
Monteriggioni hosts a Festa Medievale (medieval festival) in late July, one of the most famous medieval pageants in Italy, with music and dancing, feasting and merrymaking. The Chianti countryside is particularly beautiful in spring and fall, when the fields and vineyards are lush and colorful.
Medieval San Gimignano
San Gimignano is another historic Tuscan village known for its unique skyline of soaring towers and charming medieval center. Like Monteriggioni, San Gimignano is a lovely town to explore on foot, popping into the Collegiata church and local shops, and stopping for a gelato on the main square.
Address: Monteriggioni, Tuscany, Italy
From $ 52
Monterosso al Mare
The biggest and most visited of the five villages comprising Italy’s famed Cinque Terre, Monterosso al Mare draws sunseekers to its sandy beach and scenic seafront promenade. The town’s comparatively flat terrain makes its two halves—the historic Old Town and the modern center—easy to get around on foot, while the surrounding hills abound with dreamy lookouts and medieval monuments.
The Basics
Monterosso al Mare makes a good base for sailing and boat tours along the Italian Riviera, as well as for hiking in Cinque Terre National Park, which encompasses all five Cinque Terre towns. Day tours to Monterosso al Mare run from La Spezia, Florence, and Milan, and typically include visits to the neighboring Cinque Terre villages of Riomaggiore, Vernazza, Corniglia, and Manarola, plus a stop in nearby Portovenere.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Monterosso al Mare can get busy in peak summer season, so book tours and accommodations in advance.
- Bring comfortable, sturdy walking shoes, as roads in the other villages—and the trails between them—can be steep and uneven.
- Monterosso al Mare is the most wheelchair and stroller accessible of all the Cinque Terre villages, and is reached by a long seafront promenade.
How to Get There
Located at the northern edge of Cinque Terre National Park along the Italian Riviera, Monterosso al Mare is a 2.5-hour drive from Florence or a 50-minute drive from La Spezia. Monterosso is easily accessible by car, but it’s most convenient to arrive by train from La Spezia (a 30-minute ride). Alternatively, from mid-April through October, ferries connect Monterosso al Mare with La Spezia, Riomaggiore, Vernazza, and Manarola.
When to Get There
The Cinque Terre see the most visitors and the highest temperatures—upwards of 100°F (40°C)—in summer. Hikers should aim to visit in May or September to avoid the peak heat, while budget-minded travelers might want to skip August, when hotel prices rise. Visiting in winter is possible, but some hiking trails may be inaccessible in inclement weather. Year-round, overnight guests can enjoy relatively quiet evenings once the day-trippers have filed out.
Monterosso al Mare’s Landmarks and Monuments
Take a short break from the beach to explore Monterosso’s historic center, home to the 13th-century Church of San Giovanni Battista and the 16th-century Oratory of Confraternita dei Neri. Continue to the waterfront to take in the views from the medieval Aurora Tower, pose for photos by the 1910 Il Gigante (Giant) statue, then climb San Cristoforo hill to admire the historic and artistic Capuchin convent and the Church of San Francesco.
Address: Montrerosso al Mare, Italy
From $ 139
Rainbow Magic Land
Just as its name implies, Rainbow Magic Land is a fantasy world of color and magic — a theme park for families to explore, located just outside of Rome. With more than thirty attractions and ten different shows, there is plenty to see and do, from roller coaster rides to live entertainment. Areas are themed with castles, fairies, Vikings, wizards, and other enchanted characters, some of which are from popular cartoons shown in Europe. Sections of the park are inspired by the Italian Rainbow Group for children with animated characters such as Winx fairies, Monster Allergy, and Huntik PopPixie.
There are also many restaurant, shopping, and entertainment options throughout. Seasonally the options expand, as ice, water, and firework shows are added. The park is partly powered by solar energy. At over 600,000 square meters in size, there are plenty of adventures to be had!
Practical Info
Located in Valmontone, it takes about 20 minutes to reach Rainbow Magic Land by car from Rome. It is open daily from 10 am to 6 pm, with extended hours in July and August. Admission costs 35 € for adults, 28 € for children under 10 and free for children under 1 meter in height. There are activities suitable for all ages.
Address: Via della Pace, Valmontone, Italy
Hours: Daily from 10 am to 6 pm, with extended hours in July and August.
Admission: 35 € for adults, 28 € for children under 10 and free for children under 1 meter in height.
From $ 30
Marsala
You might be familiar with the name “Marsala” because of the famous fortified wine that originates in the city - and in fact, one of Marsala’s nicknames is the “Città del Vino,” or city of wine. It would be a shame to get to this city on the western coast of Sicily and not try its namesake wine, but that’s surely not the only reason to visit.
Marsala is a historic port city, the furthest point west on the island of Sicily, and is known for its history, beaches, and, of course, wine. The ancient Roman city that once occupied this spot was one of the most important on the island, thanks to its position as a busy commercial port. Today, while Marsala is still a port city, it’s more of a tourist area than a commercial center.
Things to do and see in Marsala include an archaeological museum, a former Benedictine monastery (which houses a Garibaldi exhibit), the lagoon (popular with windsurfing and kite surfing), and the nearby island of Motya (an archaeological site where an ancient Greek city once stood).
Most people coming to this part of Sicily are likely attracted by the sun, sand, and surf - not to mention the relaxed attitude toward summer. Foodies will be interested in sampling Marsala’s namesake wine. The Marsala that gets exported is a fortified wine, but you’ll find a wider variety of Marsala available in the city itself.
Visitors to Marsala can fly into nearby Trapani and then take the train along the coast (the train from Palermo to Marsala takes more than three hours). If you plan to visit multiple places in Sicily, however, you would benefit from renting a car.
Marsala is a historic port city, the furthest point west on the island of Sicily, and is known for its history, beaches, and, of course, wine. The ancient Roman city that once occupied this spot was one of the most important on the island, thanks to its position as a busy commercial port. Today, while Marsala is still a port city, it’s more of a tourist area than a commercial center.
Things to do and see in Marsala include an archaeological museum, a former Benedictine monastery (which houses a Garibaldi exhibit), the lagoon (popular with windsurfing and kite surfing), and the nearby island of Motya (an archaeological site where an ancient Greek city once stood).
Most people coming to this part of Sicily are likely attracted by the sun, sand, and surf - not to mention the relaxed attitude toward summer. Foodies will be interested in sampling Marsala’s namesake wine. The Marsala that gets exported is a fortified wine, but you’ll find a wider variety of Marsala available in the city itself.
Visitors to Marsala can fly into nearby Trapani and then take the train along the coast (the train from Palermo to Marsala takes more than three hours). If you plan to visit multiple places in Sicily, however, you would benefit from renting a car.
Address: Sicily, Italy, Italy
From $ 116
Paestum Archaeological Site
From Rome’s Coliseum to the mighty city of Pompeii, Italy might be most famous for its Roman ruins, but the Paestum Archaeological Site dates back even earlier. The ancient Greek city of Poseidonia was founded in 600 B.C. and conquered by the Romans in 273 B.C., when it became Paestum, and the impressively preserved ruins offer a unique glimpse into Italy’s Greco-Roman roots.
The most memorable remains of Paestum are a trio of remarkably preserved Greek Temples – the Temple of Hera, the Temple of Neptune and the Temple of Athena – while additional highlights include part of a Roman Forum and amphitheater, and the Heroon tomb. There’s also an archaeological museum on-site displaying a sizable collection of sculptures, paintings and artifacts, most notably the famous fresco from the 'Tomb of the Diver'.
Practical Info
Paestum Archaeological Site is located around 40km south of Salerno and is open daily from 8.30am to between 4.30pm-7.30pm depending on the time of year. Adult admission is €9.
Address: Campania, Italy
Hours: Daily: 8.30am – 4.30, 5.30 or 7.30pm, depending on time of year
Admission: Adult: €9
From $ 49
Raphael's Rooms
Raphael's Rooms (Stanze di Raffaello) are four interconnected halls inside the Vatican Museums, each decorated with sumptuous frescoes by painter Raphael (1483–1520). These High Renaissance masterpieces are second in fame and beauty only to Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel in the whole of the enormous Vatican collection.
The Basics
The frescoes adorning Raphael’s Rooms were originally commissioned by Pope Julius II in the early 1500s; Pope Leo X continued the commission after Julius' death in 1513 and, when Raphael died just seven years later, artists from his studio completed the frescoes.
The Vatican Museums, home to the Raphael Rooms, are the most visited attraction in Rome, so booking a guided tour with skip-the-line access in advance is a must. Tickets to the Vatican Museums include entry to Raphael’s Rooms. A small-group tour offering early-morning access before the museums are open to the general public is an excellent way to enjoy Raphael's works in relative peace. Many Vatican tours include Raphael's Rooms, the Sistine Chapel, and other highlights of the Vatican Museums—along with St. Peter’s Basilica and St. Peter’s Square.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Vatican Museums have notoriously long lines; it is imperative that you book tickets in advance. Tickets to the Vatican Museums include entry to Raphael’s Rooms.
- Attire covering shoulders and knees are required to enter certain areas of the Vatican, including the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter's Basilica.
- There is a security check to enter the museums, and pocket knives, corkscrews, and umbrellas are banned.
- You can check large backpacks, umbrellas, and luggage in the free cloakroom.
- The Vatican Museums and Raphael’s Rooms are wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
The Vatican Museums complex is in Vatican City. The nearest metro station is Ottaviano along line A, about a 5-minute walk away.
When to Get There
The Vatican is busiest in summer, when skip-the-line tickets or a private tour guide are recommended. Though the museums are less crowded during winter, they can still fill up around midday, so join a private tour in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds. The museum’s opening hours apply to Raphael’s Rooms.
Raphael’s Rooms by Name
The Room of the Segnatura (Stanza della Segnatura) was the first to be decorated and contains Raphael's most famous painting, The School of Athens. The other rooms, also decorated with scenes inspired by both religious and political history, are known as The Room of Constantine (Stanza di Costantino), Heliodorus (Stanza di Eliodoro), and Fire in the Borgo (Stanza dell'Incendio del Borgo).
Address: Viale Vaticano, Vatican City 00120, Italy
Hours: Open Mon - Sat 9am - 6pm
Admission: Requires ticket to the Vatican Museums
From $ 31
Keats-Shelley House
Rome was a popular stop for artists and writers during the Italian Grand Tour of centuries past. The Keats-Shelley House pays homage to a particular group of Romantic poets—specifically John Keats, who briefly lived in the house at the end of his life—who resided in Italy’s Eternal City during the early 19th century.
The Basics
English poet John Keats moved into this house at the base of the Spanish Steps in Piazza di Spagna in late 1820, and died from tuberculosis here just a few months later. While the objects in his room were burned after he died, a replica of his bed and his death mask are now on display. The rest of this small museum contains letters, art, and other objects related to Byron, Elizabeth and Robert Browning, Oscar Wilde, and Percy Bysshe Shelley (whose name is on the house, though he never lived here). The historic site is managed by the Keats-Shelley Memorial Association, which often holds literary events in English at the museum.
Rome walking and bike tours that include a stop in Piazza di Spagna can include a visit to the Keats-Shelley House, as well as other city highlights like the Trevi Fountain and the Colosseum.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Keats-Shelley House is an especially interesting attraction for English literature and poetry buffs.
- The museum’s gift shop sells English-language books and objects related to Romantic poetry.
- You must leave large bags in the entrance.
- Photography is allowed without flash.
- Though the museum is accessible to wheelchairs inside, there are stairs to reach the entrance. Contact the museum to arrange for transportation up the stairs.
How to Get There
The Keats-Shelley House is at in Piazza di Spagna, on the right side of the base of the Spanish Steps. It is easily reached from metro line A’s Spagna stop.
When to Get There
The museum is open 10am to 1pm and 2pm to 6pm Monday to Saturday; it is closed Sunday as well as December 8 and December 24 through January 1. It’s busiest from Easter to October, when you should plan to arrive first thing in the morning to explore before the crowds arrive.
Joseph Severn
Keats lived in the Rome house with artist friend Joseph Severn, whose portraits of the poet hang in various places around the museum.
Address: Piazza di Spagna 26, Rome 00187, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 35