Choose from 645 Fun Things to Do in Italy
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Colosseum
The Colosseum has been a symbol of Rome since 80 AD, and today it’s a top monument in Italy. Some 50,000 spectators once gathered in the amphitheater’s tiered seats to watch gladiatorial games, and though parts of its original marble facade were pilfered over the years to build the likes of St. Peter’s Basilica, the Colosseum remains remarkably intact 2,000 years later.
The Basics
As the second most popular attraction in Italy after only the Vatican, the Colosseum hosts some 4 million annual visitors, meaning that long lines are nearly inevitable without a skip-the-line tour. Choose from a number of tours suited to any age or interest, such as a Colosseum underground tour that heads beneath the arena floor to explore a network of passages; a small-group guided tour of the third tier; or a night tour that offers an eery experience and relief from the daytime heat. Consider group tours, self-guided audio tours, or private tours to gain an understanding of this well-preserved ancient Roman amphitheater and its historical importance.
Things to Know Before You Go
- It's best to purchase Colosseum tickets in advance to avoid long entry lines.
- The Colosseum is well-suited for families with kids.
- This is an open-air amphitheater, so bring a hat and sunscreen and wear comfortable shoes and attire.
- You may also see the Colosseum referred to as the Flavian Amphitheatre or the Coliseum.
How to Get to the Colosseum
Alongside the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, the Colosseum is in the center of Rome, just across the street from the Colosseo station on Line B of the city's underground metro system, which also stops at the main Termini train station.
When to Get There
Since the Colosseum is most crowded during the middle of the day, begin or end your Rome tour with a visit first thing in the morning or just before last entry (which is an hour before closing time) in the late afternoon. Alternatively, choose a night tour for a unique, less crowded experience. Summer is the most popular time of year to visit, while the site receives fewer crowds in November through February, aside from the Christmas and New Year holidays.
The Colosseum in Numbers
The Colosseum is the world's largest amphitheater, has 76 entrances, and measures 615 feet (189 meters) long by 510 feet (156 meters) wide. The total area of the stadium covers six acres (24,000 square meters), and its highest tier reaches 157 feet (48 meters). It was built in under 10 years and was used for games and hunting for over four centuries.
Address: Piazza del Colosseo, Rome 00184, Italy
Admission: €12
From $ 2
Colonne di San Lorenzo
Milan is known for its opera, fashion, and banking – not its ruins. And yet the city has Roman ruins – including the Colonne di San Lorenzo. These well-preserved ruins all date from the 2nd century, when they were part of a Roman building (experts aren't sure whether it was a bath house or a temple). They were likely moved to their current location in the 5th century.
The 16 columns line one side of a piazza in front of the fifth-century Basilica di San Lorenzo, one of Milan's oldest churches. They were brought to the piazza when the church was complete.
Practical Info
The Colonne di San Lorenzo are on Corso di Porta Ticinese, southwest of the Duomo in the historic city center.
Address: Corso di Porta Ticinese, Milan, Italy
From $ 39
Cinecitta World
Having just opened in 2014, Cinecitta World is Italy’s newest amusement park and the largest film studio in Europe. Dedicated solely to film and entertainment, eight film sets, four theaters, and twenty attractions comprise the main area. The park was built in the Castel Romano complex atop former a film studio, and remains an homage to great Italian cinema produced here in the 1960s. Films such as Gangs of New York, Ben-Hur, and Dante's Inferno were brought to life in this space.
Visitors today are immersed in the experience of filmmaking, having the chance to go behind-the-scenes in former and imagined movie sets. Oscar-winning composer Ennio Morricone created the soundtrack for the Western themed set, and designer and art director Dante Ferretti completed the initial drawing plans. The idea is that the line between fiction and reality becomes blurred during the experience. The park also has two rollercoasters and live themed shows daily.
Practical Info
Cinecitta World is open daily from 10 am to 11 pm. Located at Via di Castel Romano 200 in Rome, the admission cost is €29 for adults and €23 for children. A shuttle from Termini Station leaves daily at 9:30 in the morning.
Address: Via di Castel Romano, 200, Roma 00128, Italy
Hours: Daily 10am-11pm
Admission: Adults: €29; Children: €23
From $ 28
Collegio del Cambio
Collegio del Cambio - Perugia’s exchange guild - was built sometime between 1452 and 1457 and originally operated as a bank. Today, this stunning example of Roman architecture is a destination for travelers who want to experience the beauty of the best-preserved Renaissance frescoes in the nation.
Though only two rooms are open to the public at a cost of about five euros, visitors say what lied behind the massive wooden doors is definitely worth a visit. Stunning works from the artist Perugino, ornate wood carvings and a truly spectacular ceiling make this an attraction that is not to be missed while in Perugia.
Practical Info
Collegio del Cambio is located in Perugia’s Palazzo dei Priori at 25 Corso Vannucci. It is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. and from 2:30 p.m. until 5:30 p.m. Sundays and public holidays the museum is open from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m.
Address: Corso Vannucci 25, Perugia 06121, Italy
Hours: Open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. and from 2:30 p.m. until 5:30 p.m. Sundays and public holidays the museum is open from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m.
Admission: € 4,50
From $ 185
Cleopatra Island (Sedir Island)
Sedir Island is best known as Cleopatra Island, named after the pharaoh who allegedly met her lover Marc Antony on its shores. Forever romanticized by its connection with the iconic lovers, this small island in the Gulf of Gökova is now a popular stop on boat cruises and jeep safaris from Marmaris.
Cleopatra Island’s second claim to fame is its unusually textured sands, made up of smooth white, ground seashells. To preserve this one-of-a-kind sand, visitors are required to leave their belongings and shoes at the entrance to the beach. Removing the sand is strictly prohibited. Typically, such sand can only be found on Egyptian shores, fueling the legend that Marc Antony had it shipped in to Sedir Island from North Africa in an attempt to woo his mistress.
The island also has an additional sandy beach, popular among swimmers and sunbathers, that is home to a number of Roman ruins, including an agora and an amphitheater that dates back to the fourth century B.C.
Practical Info
Cleopatra Island is reachable only by boat. It is located off Turkey’s southwestern coast, about 25 kilometers from Marmaris.
Address: Marmaris, Turkey
From $ 29
Bologna University Quarter
Bologna is home to the oldest university in Europe, and the city owes much of its youthful vibrancy and thriving cultural life to the formidable student population, concentrated in the lively University Quarter. Tour this area to discover its cache of cafes and clubs, along with fascinating historic museums and university buildings.
The Basics
Bologna’s university was established in 1088, and has hosted some of Europe’s finest minds over the centuries, including Renaissance scholars Mirandola and Alberti, astronomer Copernicus, and the artists Durer and Borromeo. The university houses a number of museums, including an Anatomy Museum, Herbarium, Physics Museum, Museum of Anthropology, Wax Museum, Museum of Zoology, and the excellent Astronomy Museum. Most are located inside the elegantly frescoed Palazzo Poggi, the university’s seat after 1803. The University Quarter is one of Bologna’s most fascinating neighborhoods, and it’s a highlight of any city walking or bike tours. Combine a visit to the University Quarter with a tour of Bologna’s historic center to visit top sights like Piazza Maggiore, the Basilica di San Petronio, and the Two Towers.
Things to Know Before You Go
- A tour of the University Quarter requires some walking, so wear comfortable shoes and dress for the weather.
- Kids especially enjoy the eclectic museums and informal atmosphere in this area.
- Some university museums aren’t wheelchair accessible; confirm in advance.
- The area is thick with cafés and restaurants, perfect for a quick snack or meal.
How to Get There
The University Quarter centers around Via Zamboni, a 10- to 15-minute walk east of Bologna’s historic center. You can easily reach the area on foot from the Bologna Centrale train station or Piazza Maggiore in the city center.
When to Get There
This student-dominated neighborhood is especially vibrant during the academic year, which runs from October through May.
Highlights of Bologna’s University Quarter
Palazzo Poggi is the heart of Bologna’s university, but there are a number of historic buildings linked to the university. The Collegio di Spagna and the Collegio dei Fiamminghi Jean Jacobs are testimony to the various colleges that once housed students from across Europe. Next to the churches of San Francesco and San Domenico, the Glossators’ Tombs demonstrate the social prestige university professors historically held; the Museo Medievale holds a collection of depictions of professors with students from centuries ago. In front of the Church of Santa Maria della Vita, the arcades of the Ospedale della Morte is where students of medicine would find corpses to study anatomy in the Palazzo dell'Archiginnasio next door. Finally, the Biblioteca Universitaria has been a public library since 1756.
Address: Via Zamboni, Bologna 40126, Italy
Admission: Free
From $ 83
Circus of Maxentius (Villa di Massenzio)
Part of the 4th-century Villa of Maxentius complex along the Via Appia Antica in the Roman countryside, the Circus of Maxentius is the best preserved chariot racetrack in Rome and second in size only to the Circus Maximus.
The Basics
Located between miles I and II of Rome's ancient Appian Way, the villa complex, which was commissioned by the Emperor Maxentius, is home the ruins of the imperial palace and the Mausoleo di Romolo (Tomb of Romulus). The highlight, though, is the Circus of Maxentius—also known as the Circus Maxentius, Circo di Massenzio, or, for many years, the Circus of Caracalla. In its heyday, the public stadium held 10,000 spectators; the obelisk that decorates Piazza Navona today once marked its center. Explore the site on a Vespa tour of ancient Rome, a guided bike ride, or independently.
Things to Know Before You Go
- This site is particularly interesting for ancient Roman history buffs.
- The Circus of Maxentius is an outdoor archaeological site, so wear a hat and sunscreen if you’re visiting in summer.
- Most of the site consists of uneven, overgrown terrain; it’s difficult to navigate with a wheelchair or stroller.
- For older kids, a bike ride through along the Appian Way is a fun break from seeing Rome’s historic center on foot.
How to Get There
The Circus of Maxentius is located in the Villa of Maxentius at Via Appia Antica 153 between the Basilica of San Sebastiano and the tomb of Caecilia Metella inside the Appian Way Regional Park (Parco Regionale Appia Antica). You can reach it on bike or Vespa from center of Rome.
When to Get There
The archaeological ruins are part of an open-air park, so visit on a clear day with mild temperatures.
Roman Circuses
The circus, where games, political events, religious functions, and funerals were held, was the primary gathering place for ancient Romans. Italy's most important Roman circuses are located in Rome, Milan, Aquileia, and Marino.
Address: Via Appia Antica 153, 00179, Italy
From $ 19
Cloister of San Francesco (Chiostro di San Francesco)
Sorrento’s Cloister of San Francesco is an oasis of tranquility steps away from the historic town’s bustling central piazza of Sant’Antonino. The cloister unites a religious complex of seventh-century monastery and a late-medieval church, both dedicated to St Francis of Assisi, and is a showpiece of various architectural styles from pre-Roman through Arabic to medieval.
In the 14th century Franciscan friars from the monastery repurposed an ancient oratory into their church; it has some Baroque features and its simple white façade was rebuilt in 1926. Inside there are several richly decorated chapels adjoining the single nave and in 1992, a bronze statue of St Francis was placed outside the church; it is the work of Roman sculptor Alfiero Nena.
But the cloister, built at the same time as the church, is the star turn here; its tranquil gardens are filled with bougainvillea and vines that climb over arched arcades, which are made of soft tufa stone and rubble pinched from earlier pagan temples. During the summer there are art exhibitions and concerts set to the stunning backdrop of the cloister and it is also one of Sorrento’s most popular venues for weddings.
Always dress conservatively when visiting churches in Italy; shoulder and legs should be covered.
Practical Info
Piazza Francesco Saverio Gargiulo. Opening hours are 9am to 6pm and admission is free. The church and cloister re within walking distance of Sorrento’s charismatic, chaotic center.
Address: Piazza Gargiulo 8, Sorrento, Italy
Hours: Open 9am to 6pm
From $ 57
Circumetnea Railway
If you are looking for a unique way to see the countryside surrounding Mount Etna, hop aboard the historic narrow-gauge Circumetnea Railway. This scenic train ride takes passengers around the foot of Sicily’s famous volcano on a vintage mid-20th-century railroad car.
The Basics
As its name suggests, the Circumetnea Railway (Ferrovia Circumetnea) circumnavigates the base of Mt. Etna from Catania Borgo to Riposto, just south of Taormina on Sicily’s eastern coast. The main line stretches over 68 miles (109 kilometers) with 30 stops—the largest stations are Paternò, Adrano, Bronte, Randazzo, and Giarre—and the complete trip from one end to the other takes more than three hours one way, assuming there are no delays. Along the way, enjoy lovely views over Sicily’s rural scenery, including the lunar landscapes of the lava fields, pistachio plantations, citrus groves, prickly pear cacti loaded with fruit, and the railway line’s picturesque abandoned stations.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Circumetnea Railway is a must for railroad fans and those looking for a different way to experience the Mt. Etna countryside.
- Not every train serves every station along the route, so make sure the train you’re taking will get you where you want to go.
- The historic cars are not air conditioned, so they can be uncomfortably hot when it’s warm outside.
- The vintage train cars are not easy to navigate with wheelchairs, though by law station personnel must guarantee wheelchair users access, as it is a public transport line.
How to Get There
From Catania, take the metro to Catania Borgo, from where the Circumetnea departs. The Riposto station is located in the center of town.
When to Get There
The Circumetnea is primarily a commuter train transporting locals from town to town, so trains run from early morning to late at night every day except Sundays and holidays. Opt for a ride departing in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid midday heat. The schedule varies depending on the season, so check at the Circumetnea station for the current timetable.
Visiting the Alcantara Gorges
You can combine a ride on the Circumetnea around Mount Etna with a visit to the spectacular Alcantara Gorges. Simply get off at the Randazzo stop and catch a bus to the gorges park, or book a combined tour of both to avoid the hassle of public transportation.
Address: Taormina, Sicily, Italy
From $ 52
Civita di Bagnoregio
With its crumbling ruins perched atop a precipitous mountaintop and reachable only by a footbridge that climbs up the cliff side, Civita di Bagnoregio is surely one of Italy’s most dramatically situated towns. Originally built by the Etruscans more than 2,500 years ago, Civita di Bagnoregio boasts a fascinating history and, thanks to its remote location, a wealth of well-preserved medieval buildings.
With erosion causing most inhabitants to move on, the cobbled streets and stone-brick houses of Civita di Bagnoregio are now near deserted, leaving it as a hauntingly beautiful reminder of times past. The uniquely situated town still springs to life in summer as part-time residents return to welcome tourists and visitors gather to enjoy the jaw-dropping views and wander around the town that time forgot.
Practical Info
Civita di Bagnoregio is located around 120km north of Rome.
Address: Civita di Bagnoregio, Viterbo, Italy, Italy
From $ 104
Alcantara Gorges
Following the path of an ancient Mt. Etna lava flow, Sicily’s Alcantara River carved intricate ravines and underground passages through the volcanic rock. The resulting Alcantara Gorges are part of the Alcantara River Park, popular with travelers drawn to the beautiful rock formations and the refreshing river water, especially in summer.
The Basics
A visit to the Alcantara Gorges (Gole dell’Alcantara) can include a simple walk through the park, or a more challenging hike down into the canyons—including some more than 200 feet (61 meters) deep—for river trekking. By far the simplest way to manage the logistics of getting to and from the Alcantara Gorges from the Sicilian cities of Taormina, Messina, and Catania is to join a small-group tour that includes hotel pickup and drop-off, round-trip transportation to the Alcantara River Park, and an expert guide. Many full-day tours of Mt. Etna and Alcantara also offer wine tastings at the nearby vineyards, hikes up to the active volcano crater, and a ride on the historic Circumetnea Railway.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Bring sturdy footwear, a sun hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, and water, especially if you plan to hike down into the gorges.
- The Alcantara River Park entrance fee is not included in many group tours.
- Because of the rough terrain, hiking the gorges is not recommended for young children or those who are not in good physical condition.
- Along the top of the ravines, there are easy trails, suitable for all ages and physical conditions, that take you through the park’s botanical gardens and past a number of scenic viewpoints.
How to Get There
The main entrance to the Alcantara River Park is about 12.5 miles (20 kilometers) from Taormina. You can reach it easily by car, tour bus, or public bus.
When to Get There
The park is lovely to visit year-round due to Sicily’s mild climate, though is most pleasant in summer’s cooler early morning or late afternoon hours. The park can be very crowded in August, when Italians traditionally go on summer vacation, so it’s best to avoid visiting during this time if you want to appreciate the park in relative peace and quiet.
Alcantara River Park Facilities
The Alcantara River Park entrance fee gives you access to two swimming pools, a 3D film presentation explaining the evolution of the canyon, a botanical museum, a restaurant, and an elevator down into the canyon.
Address: Alcantra, Sicily, Italy
From $ 52
Civic Museum of Ancient Art (Palazzo Madama)
Dominating Turin’s Piazza Castello and with the appearance of two buildings uneasily glued together, Palazzo Madama began life as a fortified castle and has a medieval façade looking eastwards that was built by ruling house of Savoy in the 14th century. The later, ornate Baroque addition faces west and was added by the famous architect Filippo Juvarra in the early 18th century at the request of Marie Jeanne of Savoy, who gave her nickname to the palace. Juvarra was appointed court architect by the Savoy dynasty and went on to design much of Turin’s glamorous arcaded face lift in the 1860s. Palazzo Madama also reveals a Roman gate and foundations, medieval towers and a series of courtyards and apartments constructed in Renaissance times.
Today, the building houses the Civic Museum of Ancient Art (Museo Civico di Arte Antica), a sprawling and roughly chronological collection that leads over four floors, starting off with a small Roman collection in the basement and running on through medieval stonework to Renaissance art in the ornate Baroque galleries on the first and second floors. On the top floor there is one of Italy's largest collections of decorative arts to discover, with examples of precious Meissen porcelain, Delftware and fine embroidered textiles. However, quite the most spectacular artwork on display here is Antonello da Messina’s glorious Portrait of a Man, painted around 1475 and hidden away in the Treasure Tower at the back of the building.
Practical Info
Located in Piazza Castello, Palazzo Madama is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10am to 6pm and on Sunday from 9am to 7pm. Admission costs €10 for adults, €8 for seniors and students, and is free for those under 18. Much of Turin’s Baroque heart is pedestrianized, and it is easy to walk to all the main sights. Alternatively, take trams 4, 13, 15 or 18 to Piazza Castello.
Address: Piazza Castello, Torino 10122, Italy
Hours: Tue-Sat 10am-6pm, Sun 9am-7pm
Admission: Adults €10, Students €8, Children Under 18 Free
From $ 41
Collegiate Church of San Gimignano
Taking prize place beside the Town Hall on Piazza Duomo, the Collegiate Church of San Gimignano, or the Duomo of San Gimignano, ranks among most impressive monuments of San Gimignano’s UNESCO-listed historic center.
Behind its comparatively reserved façade, the church’s main claim to fame is its exquisite frescos, which date back to the 14th and 15th centuries, and remain remarkably unrestored. The bold colors and painstaking detail bring to life iconic biblical scenes including Cain and Abel, Noah’s Ark, the Garden of Eden and dramatic depictions of Heaven and Hell, with highlights including works by Bartolo di Fredi, Lippo Memmi, Benozzo Gozzoli and Taddeo di Bartolo.
Adjoining the church, the small Museum of Sacred Art includes more works taken from the Collegiata and other San Gimignano churches, including a Crucifix by Benedetto di Maiano and the ‘Madonna of the Rose’ by Bartolo di Fredi.
Insider’s Tip: Don’t forget to take a peek at the chapel of Santa Fina, a Renaissance masterpiece by architect Giuliano da Maiano, sculptor Benedetto da Maiano and painter Domenico Ghirlandaio.
Practical Info
The Collegiate Church of San Gimignano is located in Piazza Duomo in the historic center of San Gimignano. Opening times are: Nov-March Mon-Sat 10am-5pm and Sun 12.30-5pm; April Oct Mon-Fri 10am-7.30pm, Sat 10am-5.30pm, Sun 12.30-7.30pm. Adult admission is €4, while combined admission to the church and the adjoining Museum of Sacred Art is €6.
Address: Piazza Duomo, 2, San Gimignano, Italy
Hours: Nov-March Mon-Sat 10am-5pm, Sun 12.30-5pm; April-Oct Mon-Fri 10am-7.30pm, Sat 10am-5.30pm, Sun 12.30-7.30pm
Admission: Adult €4, Child €2
From $ 120
Blue Grotto (Grotta Azzurra)
The Blue Grotto (Grotta Azzurra) is one of the most famous attractions on the beautiful island of Capri, located in Italy’s Bay of Naples. This unique sea cave gets its name from the bright blue light filtering through the water by way of an opening below sea level. To enter the cave, visitors board a small rowboat and duck as they enter through a low opening. Once inside the cave, you’ll marvel at the glowing turquoise light.
The Basics
A visit to the Blue Grotto is a must for visitors on a day trip or shore excursion from the Amalfi Coast, Naples, or Sorrento. You can reach the cave by water or land, but to enter the cave, you must board an official rowboat. Due to the high number of visitors, wait times can stretch for hours, though passengers of private boat tours are often given precedence. Book your boat transfer to and from the Blue Grotto in advance to avoid long lines, or reserve a private tour with a boat ride around Capri and the Faraglioni rock formations.
Things to Know Before You Go
- At the cave entrance, you must purchase a ticket from the floating ticket office and board a rowboat to enter. This is included in most boat tours.
- Due to the low cave entrance, the Blue Grotto is only open when weather conditions permit.
- You’ll have to wait to enter the cave aboard small, open-air rowboats, so bring a hat and sunblock.
- The journey to the Blue Grotto is not recommended for those who suffer from seasickness.
- Once inside the cave, many rowboat skippers will treat you to a serenade for a small tip.
How to Get to the Blue Grotto
You can reach the Blue Grotto by sea from the Marina Grande port or by land from the town of Anacapri.
When to Get There
The cave is most crowded in summer and during the midday hours, so plan to visit first thing in the morning to avoid a long wait to enter. Note that the Blue Grotto is open only when sea conditions permit, so when the waters are rough or there are high winds, the cave may close with no advance warning.
Capri by Land
The Blue Grotto can only be visited by sea, but the island of Capri has a number of attractions on land, as well. Take an island tour of Villa San Michele, with its sweeping views over the Mediterranean, the lush Gardens of Augustus, and the 14th-century Charterhouse of San Giacomo.
Address: Anacapri, Capri, Italy
From $ 25
Circus Maximus (Circo Massimo)
Rome’s Circus Maximus—a massive arena for chariot races, games, religious ceremonies, and civic events—was the largest stadium in the Roman Empire. A major restoration in 2016 yielded a spruced-up archaeological site comprising arched walkways, ancient shops, a newly excavated cobbled road, and the Circus track’s oblong outline and starting gates.
The Basics
Measuring more than 2,000 feet (610 meters) long and 387 feet (188 meters) wide, and capable of holding an audience of 150,000, the Circus Maximus (Circo Massimo) was built on the plain between Aventine Hill and Palatine Hill in the sixth century BC. Five centuries later, Julius Caesar gave the venue its distinctive shape—especially suited to chariot racing. The stadium was enlarged repeatedly over the next several centuries, and Emperor Trajan completely rebuilt it in the early second century. Its last recorded use dates from the sixth century, after which the site fell into disuse and became a public park.
Today, as one of the most important sites dating from imperial Rome in Italy’s capital, the Circus Maximus is best visited as part of an Ancient Rome guided tour, which also includes skip-the-line access to the underground chambers and arena inside the Colosseum and the ruins of the Roman Forum. You can combine private Circus Maximus visits with an Aventine Keyhole tour, for the iconic view of St. Peter’s Basilica through the famous garden door.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Circus Maximus is a must-see for ancient history and architecture buffs, and all first-time visitors to Rome. Older children especially enjoy visiting this huge Roman circus and imagining it filled with thousands of cheering Roman spectators.
- Circus Maximus and combo tours are mostly outdoors, so be sure to dress appropriately for the weather. A hat and sunblock are particularly important in summer.
- The Circus Maximus is accessible to wheelchair users except for the Torre della Moletta (a watchtower located on the site dating from the Middle Ages) and the highest perimeter terrace.
How to Get There
The Circus Maximus is located between Via dei Cerchi and Via del Circo Massimo in central Rome. Take the metro’s Line B to Circo Massimo station, located directly in front of the archaeological site.
When to Get There
The Circus Maximus is open from Tuesday to Friday for guided tours, and on Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 4pm to the general public. As it’s an outdoor archaeological site, try to visit on clear days when the temperature is mild.
The Egyptian Flaminio Obelisk
The towering Flaminio Obelisk (Obelisco Flaminio) in the center of Rome’s Piazza del Popolo was built in Egypt in the 13th century BC. Emperor Augustus had it brought to Rome in 10 AD and placed as part of the central barrier in the Circus Maximus. Pope Sixtus V moved it to its current location in 1587.
Address: Via del Circo Massimo, Rome, Province of Rome 00186, Italy
From $ 6
Boboli Gardens
Pass through the arched entrance of Florence’s stately Pitti Palace and into the serenity of the sweeping Boboli Gardens, once the private playground of this Renaissance capital’s ruling Medici family. Dating from the 16th century, the Giardino di Boboli is among the earliest examples of formal Italian gardens, commissioned for the wife of Cosimo I de Medici in 1540. The gardens were expanded in the 16th and 17th centuries, and now cover 11 acres (4.4 hectares) of hillside and include a collection of outdoor sculptures dating from ancient Rome through the 17th century, making it a veritable open-air museum.
The Basics
The Boboli Gardens are among Italy’s most famous gardens, and a popular attraction in central Florence as they offer a respite from the crowded city streets. Visitors can stroll along tree-lined paths on a private tour—or, for those traveling with kids, a family-friendly garden tour—to admire the expanses of manicured lawns, Renaissance fountains, classical grottos, nymphaea, temples, and an amphitheater with an Egyptian obelisk at its center. Tickets to the Boboli Gardens include entrance to the Porcelain Museum, inside the garden’s 18th-century Palazzina del Cavaliere, and the neighboring Bardini Gardens. Admission is free on the first Sunday of each month.
Things to Know Before You Go
- A visit to the Boboli Gardens is perfect for kids who need to let off a bit of steam, but stay on the walking paths as some sections of lawn are off limits.
- The gardens can be toured only on foot, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes and a sun hat.
- You may bring food and drink into the gardens for an impromptu picnic on one of the many outdoor benches.
- There are four entrances to the Gardens: Pitti Palace, Annalena (Via Romana 37/A), Porta Romana, and Forte Belvedere.
How to Get There
The Boboli Gardens are located between Palazzo Pitti and Porta Romana in Florence’s central Oltrarno neighborhood. The main entrance on Piazza de’ Pitti can be reached in 30 minutes on foot or 15 minutes by bus from the Santa Maria Novella train station. Florence is a popular destination for shore excursions from the port city of Livorno.
When to Get There
The gardens are best visited from spring through fall, when the weather is mild, and early in the morning or late in the afternoon during the hottest months of the year.
Important Works in the Boboli Gardens
The Boboli Gardens hold an important collection of Renaissance statues and fountains. Notable works include “Bathing Venus” and “Fountain of the Ocean” sculpted by Giambologna, a copy of “The Prisoners” by Michelangelo, and a number of pieces by Buontalenti.
Address: Piazza Pitti, 1, Florence, Tuscany 50125, Italy
Hours: Open daily from 8:15am to 4:30pm (Nov-Feb), to 5:30pm (March), to 6:30pm (April-May, Sept-Oct) and to 7:30pm (June-August)
Admission: Full Price: 7 euros; Reduced: 3.50 euros
From $ 22
Ciampino International Airport (CIA)
Ciampino was the first airport serving the Rome area, and though it was replaced for many routes by the larger, newer Fiumicino International Airport, Ciampino remains in operation for many of the domestic and shorter routes within Europe. It is also known as G. B. Pastine International Airport, and services commercial and civilian as well as military aircraft.
The airport opened in 1916 and remains one of the oldest airports still in operation. During World War II, Ciampino was captured by Allied Forces and became a cargo hub, even serving as a United States Army Air Force airfield at one time. Today it welcomes just over 5 million passengers per year and is a hub for Ryanair, the budget airline connecting most of Europe.
Practical Info
Ciampino International Airport is situated approximately 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) from Rome’s city center. Get there by taking a Terravision bus for €13.
Address: Via Appia Nuova, 1651, Rome, Italy
From $ 15
Cinque Terre National Park
Cinque Terre National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site full of postcard-worthy landscapes: sweeping sea cliffs dotted with sandy coves, brightly painted villages clinging to steep terraces, and forested plateaus blooming with wildflowers. Stretching some 4,300 acres (1,740 hectares) along northern Italy’s rugged Italian Riviera, the park dazzles visitors with breathtaking views of the Mediterranean coastline.
The Basics
The five centuries-old villages comprising Cinque Terre National Park—Monterosso al Mare, Riomaggiore, Corniglia, Manarola, and Vernazza—are the main draw for travelers. A well-worn footpath links the towns; some portions of the trail are better maintained than others, but all offer stunning views over the Ligurian Sea. Day tours are the most convenient way to visit the coast, running to the Cinque Terre from La Spezia, Siena, Pisa, San Gimignano, and most commonly, Florence. Most day trips squeeze in all five towns plus a stop in nearby Portovenere, but those who want more time in the Cinque Terre can stay overnight or on a multi-day tour to make the most of outdoor activities—such as hiking, mountain biking, kayaking, and paragliding—plus the region’s seafood and warm hospitality.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Cinque Terre can get extremely busy in peak summer season, so book tours and accommodations in advance.
- Pack sunscreen, a refillable water bottle (drinking fountains are available throughout the park), and comfortable and sturdy walking shoes (the village roads are often steep and uneven).
- While many hotels and attractions in Cinque Terre National Park are wheelchair and stroller accessible, the villages’ steep and narrow lanes can be challenging for those with mobility issues.
- Wi-Fi is available throughout the national park.
How to Get There
Cinque Terre National Park is two hours from Florence by road, an hour from Pisa, and 20 minutes from La Spezia. Parking is limited in the villages, so unless you are staying in Cinque Terre overnight, ditch the car and join a tour or arrive by train. Trains (year-round) and ferries (mid-April through October) connect the five villages, but the best options for exploring the national park are hiking and mountain biking.
When to Get There
Cinque Terre National Park sees the most visitors (especially day-trippers) and the highest temperatures—upwards of 100°F (40°C)—during summer. Hikers should aim to visit in May or September to avoid the heat, while budget-minded might plan around August, when hotel prices rise. Visiting in winter is possible, but some hiking trails may be inaccessible in rainy weather.
Hiking in Cinque Terre National Park
There are over 75 miles (120 kilometers) of hiking trails in Cinque Terre National Park, some of which were the only connection between the villages and the hinterland for centuries. Today, the most commonly traversed path is the Blue Trail (Sentiero Azzurro), a six-hour coastal trail linking Cinque Terre’s villages and offering spectacular views. For visitors who fancy more of a workout, there are plenty of rugged mountain trails, including the Sciacchetrail, a challenging 29-mile (47-kilometer) route that loops around the entire protected area—and hosts an annual trail-running race.
Address: Italy
From $ 55
Church of St Peter in Chains
Beloved by both pilgrims and art aficionados, the Church of St. Peter in Chains (San Pietro in Vincoli) houses the chains that bound Saint Peter when the Romans imprisoned him in Jerusalem. Built in the fifth century, the church today is also home to Michelangelo’s Moses, part of the unfinished monumental tomb of Pope Julius II.
The Basics
Michelangelo’s dramatic Moses statue was to have been the most prominent of the 40 figures planned for Pope Julius II's tomb and is considered one of the artist’s best works. But, work on the Sistine Chapel in the Vatican interrupted progress on the tomb, and Michelangelo completed only a few of the planned statues before his death.
The Church of St. Peter in Chains, also known as the Basilica Eudoxiana, is a favorite stop on walking tours of Ancient Rome that include other early Christian churches, such as San Clemente and the Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls. Those who want to pair their culture with cuisine can combine a tour of St. Peter in Chains with a wine tasting in the surrounding Monti neighborhood.
Things to Know Before You Go
- If you are joining a walking tour of Rome, wear comfortable shoes, a hat, and sunscreen.
- Catholic churches in Rome require modest attire to enter: Knees and shoulders must be covered.
- Photography without flash is permitted inside the church.
- There are stairs at the entrance to the church, so it is not accessible to wheelchairs or strollers.
How to Get There
St. Peter in Chains is only a short walk from the Colosseum and Roman Forum; the closest metro stop is Cavour.
When to Get There
Italy's capital city is one of the most popular destinations in Europe, and its sights can be very crowded in the summer months. Try to visit from November to April to enjoy the city's treasures without the crush of high-season tourists.
The Chains That Held St. Peter
This holy relic eventually made its way from Jerusalem to Rome, where it arrived in two parts, one of which was sent to Eudoxia, wife of emperor Valentinian III. When held next to shackles owned by Pope Leo I, legend holds the two parts miraculously fused together to form a single chain, now kept in an urn under the main altar.
Address: Piazza di San Pietro in Vincoli, Rome, Italy
From $ 38
Bologna Piazza Maggiore
Bologna’s beating heart is Piazza Maggiore, in the city’s old center. A classic example of Renaissance town planning, it is one of the most graceful public squares in Italy.
The pedestrianised square is surrounded by the Basilica di San Petronio, the Palazzo Communale (city hall), palatial public buildings and Bologna’s trademark covered walkways ringed by arches.
Sit at an outdoor cafe to enjoy people watching in the sunshine during the day, and visit in the early evening to see the beautifully floodlit Fountain of Neptune, sculpted in 1566.
Practical Info
To get here from the station, take a stroll south down Via dell'Indipendenza.
Address: Piazza Maggiore, Bologna, Italy
Admission: Free
From $ 17