Choose from 645 Fun Things to Do in Italy
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St Mark's Anglican Church
This historic Anglican Church in Florence, Italy has English roots — remaining one of three worship centers that form the chaplaincy of the Church of England (the other two are St. Peter’s in Siena and a growing congregation in Bologna.) Built in 1881, it is steeped in local history — part of an old Medici palace, later owned by Machiavelli, and then renovated in neb-renaissance style. It is known as a symbol of Renaissance architecture.
The church often serves the homeless community of Florence and holds mass regularly. It remains a center of Anglo-Catholic religion for the British expat community in Florence. The beautiful interior of the Anglican Church is furthermore a hub of historic art and one of the most celebrated concert venues in Florence with classical performances in music, choral singing, and opera as well as a variety of visiting performers. With only 150 seats, it is an intimate venue to experience a live concert.
Practical Info
The church is located at Via Maggio 18. To get there by walking, take the one minute walk south from the Arno River at the Ponte Santa Trinita.
Address: Via Maggio 18, Florence 50125, Italy
From $ 40
St John Lateran's Basilica
The Basilica of St. John Lateran is the most important of the four major papal basilicas in Rome and is seat of the bishop of Rome: the Pope. One of the most important Catholic churches in the world, the archbasilica is decorated with rich mosaics, Cosmatesque floors, and 12 baroque statues of the apostles.
The Basics
The Cathedral of the Most Holy Savior and of Sts. John the Baptist and John the Evangelist in the Lateran is the cathedral of Rome. More commonly known as the Basilica of St. John Lateran, it is named for its location at the Lateran Palace. Constantine, the first Christian emperor, donated the property to the church. It became the main papal residence and the venue for consecration of popes for centuries. Today, visitors can see the six papal tombs and larger-than-life-size statues of the Twelve Apostles.
St. John Lateran is best visited with a guide as part of a Christian Rome tour to be able to fully appreciate its historical and religious importance. Many small-group tours also include visits of the Vatican City’s Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter's Basilica.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Wear comfortable shoes, a hat, and sunscreen if joining a walking tour of Rome, as there is a lot of ground to cover.
- Catholic churches have a strict dress code that requires knees and shoulders to be covered.
- Photography without flash is permitted inside the church.
- The basilica is fully accessible to wheelchairs or strollers via ramps inside and outside.
How to Get There
The Basilica of St. John Lateran is located at the southern edge of the city center, about a 5-minute walk from the San Giovanni Metro Station on Line A.
When to Get There
Italy's capital city is one of the most visited destinations in Europe, and its holy sites, such as Saint John Lateran, are especially crowded during the Catholic holidays and Jubilee years. Try to schedule your tour outside of these popular times to visit.
The Holy Stairs
St. John Lateran is also the site of the Holy Stairs (Scala Sancta)—said to have been climbed by Jesus Christ to reach the praetorium of Pontius Pilate in Jerusalem and brought to Rome in the fourth century. Today, they lead to the Sancta Sanctorum, a chapel that contains some of the holiest relics in Christian history, though pilgrims today climb a nearby replica, as the original stairs are closed to visitors.
Address: Piazza di San Giovanni in Laterano, Rome, Italy
From $ 31
St Mark's Square (Piazza San Marco)
St. Mark’s Square (Piazza San Marco), often referred to as “the drawing room of Europe,” is one of the most famous squares in Italy. The geographic and cultural heart of Venice—with St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace at one end, the campanile in the center, and the colonnaded arcade topped by the Procuratie palaces lining three sides—this elegant piazza is also steeped in history. Settle in at one of the many coveted café tables and watch tourists (and pigeons) pose for photos while you sip a Bellini and soak in the square’s Renaissance splendor.
The Basics
Located at the center of Venice, St. Mark’s Square is the perfect hub around which to plan your walking tour of Venice. It is just steps from the Doge’s Palace (Palazzo Ducale) and its famous Bridge of Sighs, the Rialto Bridge over the Grand Canal, and the Riva walk along the waterfront. The piazza is home to a number of palaces and sculptures by the Renaissance sculptor and architect Sansovino, so a private or small-group guided tour is key to fully appreciating its rich Venetian Gothic art and architecture.
Things to Know Before You Go
- You can climb to the top of the square’s clock tower, but prebook skip-the-line access to avoid a long wait.
- Kids love to feed and chase the pigeons that flock to the center of this family-friendly piazza.
- The main square connects to the smaller piazzetta square, which is flanked by the Doge’s Palace and the St. Mark’s library (Biblioteca Nazionale Marciana), and opens out onto the Grand Canal.
- St. Mark’s Square is the focal point of Venice’s lavish Carnival celebrations every February.
- Although often crowded, the flat square is easily accessible for strollers and those with limited mobility.
How to Get There
St. Mark’s Square is located along Venice’s Grand Canal. The nearest vaporetto (ferry) stop is San Marco–San Zaccaria.
When to Get There
St. Mark’s Square is an open-air square, so the area is best enjoyed during the milder months of the year. Summer brings the largest crowds to the piazza, but overall, Venice is relatively quiet from November through February.
Flooding at St. Mark’s Square
Venice sits at sea level on the Adriatic, so when tides are especially high during winter, the city is often flooded. St. Mark’s Square is one of the lowest parts of the city center, and when acqua alta, or high water, hits, Venice sets up elevated walkways so locals and visitors can cross the piazza without getting wet.
Address: Piazza San Marco, Venice 31024, Italy
Hours: Open daily 24hrs
Admission: Free
From $ 5
Roman Forum
A sprawling mass of ruins, the Roman Forum (Fori Imperiali) was once the center of ancient Rome, with temples, courts, markets, and government buildings in full swing until the 4th century AD. While all that remains today is an array of ancient columns and arches, the forum is one of the most important archaeological sites in Italy, and excavations occur to this day. Aside from a lesson in Roman history, visitors can get a great view of the Eternal City from the overlooking Palatine and Capitoline hills.
The Basics
The site is most often visited on three-hour tours that combine a visit to the ancient city with a Colosseum tour. Whether you choose a private tour or small-group tour, it's wise to visit with an expert guide who can help you navigate the large space and bring the ruins to life with true stories of gladiators, Roman emperors, and Julius Caesar. After your visit, check out the adjacent ruins at Circus Maximus or pay a visit to the Capitoline Museums to see the display of classical Roman empire sculptures.
How To Get to the Roman Forum
The Roman Forum is located in the area between Piazza Venezia and the Colosseum in the southeastern end of Rome’s historical center. You can get there by metro and bus from most central hotels. The closest metro stop is Colosseo.
When to Get There
As the Roman Forum shares an admission ticket with the Colosseum, it stays consistently busy throughout the day and often has long lines. Choose a walking tour with priority access to jump the queue and maximize your time.
Discovering the Roman Forum Ruins
Inside the archaeological area, stick to the Forum’s main thoroughfare, Via Sacra, to pass by important ruins such as the Julia Curia and the house of the Vestal Virgins. Some of the forum’s most impressive ruins include the white marble arch of Settimio Severo, the first-century Arch of Titus, and the remains of the Basilica of Maxentius and Constantine. If you can’t get enough of ancient Rome, there’s plenty more history just outside the city with day trips available to Pompeii and the Appian Way.
The Basics
The site is most often visited on three-hour tours that combine a visit to the ancient city with a Colosseum tour. Whether you choose a private tour or small-group tour, it's wise to visit with an expert guide who can help you navigate the large space and bring the ruins to life with true stories of gladiators, Roman emperors, and Julius Caesar. After your visit, check out the adjacent ruins at Circus Maximus or pay a visit to the Capitoline Museums to see the display of classical Roman empire sculptures.
- Most tour options include hotel pickup and dropoff.
- Standard admission tickets to the Roman Forum include entry to the Colosseum and Palatine Hill.
- Don’t waste time in line—skip-the-line entry is available for both the Roman Forum and the Colosseum.
- Staying in Florence but want to see Rome? Book a day trip with round-trip transportation by high-speed train, also available from Milan and Naples.
How To Get to the Roman Forum
The Roman Forum is located in the area between Piazza Venezia and the Colosseum in the southeastern end of Rome’s historical center. You can get there by metro and bus from most central hotels. The closest metro stop is Colosseo.
When to Get There
As the Roman Forum shares an admission ticket with the Colosseum, it stays consistently busy throughout the day and often has long lines. Choose a walking tour with priority access to jump the queue and maximize your time.
Discovering the Roman Forum Ruins
Inside the archaeological area, stick to the Forum’s main thoroughfare, Via Sacra, to pass by important ruins such as the Julia Curia and the house of the Vestal Virgins. Some of the forum’s most impressive ruins include the white marble arch of Settimio Severo, the first-century Arch of Titus, and the remains of the Basilica of Maxentius and Constantine. If you can’t get enough of ancient Rome, there’s plenty more history just outside the city with day trips available to Pompeii and the Appian Way.
Address: Largo Romolo e Remo, Rome 00186, Italy
Hours: Summer: 8:30am–7:15pm, Winter: 8:30am–4:30pm. Closed Dec 25 & Jan 1
Admission: Full: 12 euros; EU Citizens 18-25: 7.50 euros; online reservation fee: 2 euros
From $ 23
Roman Theater and Archaeological Museum
Verona Arena, the first-century Roman amphitheater on Piazza Bra is one of the city’s most famous sights, but Verona also boasts a pristine Roman Theater that is even older than the arena and is set on the banks of the River Adige. Visit the theater to see remains of the stage, stone seating (cavea), and loggia arcades.
The Basics
Verona’s Roman Theater was unearthed during the 19th century, when developers discovered the original marble floor of the orchestra pit and rows of stone seats. Part of the seating was destroyed when the Church of San Siro was built on the site during the 10th century, but otherwise this theater dating from the first century BC is surprisingly intact. On the hill above the theater, the former Convent of San Gerolamo is home to the Archaeological Museum, displaying a collection of Roman artifacts found in and around Verona.
By day, visit the Roman theater with a walking or bike tour of Verona, or join a hop-on hop-off bus tour that stops at the theater and museum. Most Verona tours also include skip-the-line entrance to the arena and stops at the historic center’s top attractions. On summer evenings, you can enjoy a concert in the theater.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Roman Theater is accessible to wheelchairs via gangways in the summer for those attending concerts, and via Vicolo Botte in the winter for those touring the theater.
- The Archaeological Museum is not wheelchair accessible.
- Both the Roman Theater and the Archaeological Museum offer beautiful views over Verona and the Adige River, so bring your camera.
- A tour of the theater and museum is especially interesting for Roman history enthusiasts.
How to Get There
The Roman Theater and Archaeological Museum are located just across the Adige River from the historic center of Verona. These sights are easily reached on foot or via public transportation by crossing the Ponte Pietra bridge. Verona is located in the Veneto region in northern Italy between Venice and Milan, and is a popular day trip from Venice or Lake Garda.
When to Get There
The theater is open all day Tuesday through Sunday and Monday afternoon year-round, but is especially memorable to visit on a summer evening to see a concert or performance. On evenings when events are scheduled, the theater may close early.
Verona’s Roman Amphitheater
The Verona Arena is a spectacular oval-shaped Roman amphitheater dating from the first century. The arena once hosted sporting events, games, and gladiator battles. The arena was opened once again during the 19th century to hold performances, and today audiences of up to 15,000 gather there to watch opera, concerts, and ballet.
Address: Rigaste Redentore, 2, Verona 37129, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 21
Roman Odeon
The Roman Odeon is an ancient theater in Taormina, Italy. It is small in size and was likely used for small-scale vocal and literary performances for the city's elite. This theater was built in 21 BC under the rule of the Roman emperor Caesar Augustus Octavian. It was discovered by accident in the late 1800s when a man was digging in his land. Excavations eventually uncovered the theater and found it to be very similar to the larger Greek-Roman theater in another part of the city.
The theater included a Greek temple, and the marble steps that made up its base have been preserved. The theater itself has also been well preserved over the centuries, and visitors can still see the red clay bricks that form the different sections: stage, orchestra, and audience. It could hold about 200 people. Today it is used for a variety of events, such as the setting for a nativity scene during the Christmas season.
Practical Info
The Roman Odeon is located near Palazzo Corvaia on Via Timeo. It is about one mile from the Taormina-Giardini train station.
Address: Corso Umberto, Taormina, Sicily 98039, Italy
From $ 22
Valentino Castle (Castello del Valentino)
Set in acres of landscaped parkland on the banks of the Po River, Valentino Castle (Castello del Valentino) is Turin’s most stately building and one of the Residences of the Royal House of Savoy.
The UNESCO-listed royal palace dates back to the 16th century, but its heyday was under Duchess Christine of France, who redecorated in a style fit for her lavish parties. Today, visitors can admire many of the beautifully preserved rooms, including the Roses Room, the Zodiac Room, the Valentine Room and the War Room, each richly decorated with white and gold stuccoes, colorful frescoes, and elaborate friezes.
As well as touring the former palace, visitors can enjoy views from the castle gardens, now a public park and a popular inclusion on walking and biking tours of Turin.
Practical Info
Valentino Castle is located on the Po Riverfront in central Turin, and is open to visitors on the first and third Saturday of every month. Guided tours (held at 10am and 1pm) are free of charge, but reservations are recommended.
Address: Viale Pier Andrea Mattioli, 39, Turin, Italy
Hours: First and third Saturday of each month
From $ 93
Roman Jewish Ghetto (Ghetto Ebraico di Roma)
Though Rome’s Jewish Ghetto no longer officially exists (it was abolished in 1882), the neighborhood is still the center of Rome’s Jewish community, the oldest in Italy. The city’s 19th-century synagogue— home to the Jewish Museum of Rome— is here, as are winding lanes lined with kosher restaurants, markets, and butchers.
Like many cities in Europe, Rome required its Jewish residents to live in a separate, walled-off neighborhood during the Middle Ages. The Roman Jewish Ghetto (Ghetto Ebraico di Roma) was established in 1555, when the city erected walls around this area in the historic center; these barriers were torn down only after the ghetto was abolished in 1882. Today, despite its unhappy history, the Jewish Ghetto is now one of Rome’s most beautiful neighborhoods.
The Basics
Walking tours focused on the city’s Jewish life and food tours highlighting the neighborhood’s cuisine are excellent ways to discover the history and culture of this unique corner of Rome. You can also book a private tour of the area, allowing for customized experiences for those with limited mobility, food allergies, or other requirements or preferences. For even more insight into Jewish Rome, the synagogue’s museum has a curated collection of documents and artifacts related to local Jewish history.
In addition to its Jewish cultural sights, the Ghetto is home to a number of ancient ruins—the Portico of Octavia (Portico d’Ottavia or Porticus Octaviae) and the Theatre of Marcellus (Teatro di Marcello) are the most significant— and the iconic Bocca della Verità (Mouth of Truth) marble mask at the Basilica of St. Mary in Cosmedin (Basilica di Santa Maria in Cosmedin), made famous in the Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck film Roman Holiday.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Most small-group Jewish Ghetto tours are on foot or by bike, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes and clothing.
- The Jewish Ghetto is located near Rome’s bustling Campo de’ Fiori outdoor market, and many group tours include visits to both.
How to Get There
The Jewish Ghetto is in Rione Sant’Angelo, directly across the Tiber River from the Trastevere neighborhood and not far from the Roman Forum. There are no metro stops near the Ghetto, but a number of city bus lines connect it with the train station and other parts of the city.
When to Get There
A Rome tour focused on the Jewish Ghetto is best scheduled when the neighborhood businesses are open; many close for the Sabbath from Friday at sunset to Saturday at sunset.
The Turtle Fountain
The Eternal City is known for its dozens of beautiful fountains, and one of the prettiest is the Turtle Fountain (Fontana delle Tartarughe) in the ghetto’s Piazza Mattei. Dating from the late Renaissance, this small fountain’s original dolphin decorations were replaced by turtles due to low water pressure, resulting in the endearing version we see today.
Address: Italy
From $ 31
Royal Palace of Naples (Palazzo Reale)
Naples’ Royal Palace (Palazzo Reale di Napoli) is a stellar reminder of this city’s royal history. Construction began in the 1600s when Spain’s Viceroy Fernando Ruiz de Castro ruled Naples, and the site was designed by Renaissance architect Domenico Fontana. Today, visitors can enter to take the soaring double staircase up to the royal apartments decorated by architect Gaetano Genovese.
The Basics
Palace highlights include the Court Theater (Teatrino di Corte) designed by Ferdinando Fuga, the Throne Room, the Hall of Hercules ballroom, and the Royal Chapel (Cappella Reale), home to a monumental 18th-century nativity scene.
The palace is one of the most important historical tourist destinations in central Naples, so it is important to book your Royal Palace of Naples entrance ticket in advance to avoid having to wait in a long line to enter. You can also join a Naples city walking tour or sightseeing tour by Segway or bike that includes visits to the Palazzo Reale, the nearby Teatro di San Carlo, and Castel Nuovo.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The palace interiors and courtyard are open daily from 9am to 7pm, with the exception of Wednesdays and holidays.
- The palace and courtyard are wheelchair- and stroller-accessible via an internal elevator.
- There are free storage lockers for small personal belongings, but no luggage storage.
How to Get There
This sumptuous royal residence is located on the central Piazza del Plebiscito, Naples’ largest square. Take the ANM R2 bus to the Via San Carlo station, or the metro line 1 to Toledo, a 15-minute walk away. Naples is the capital city of Campania, so easy to reach by train and ferry for a day trip from Rome, the Amalfi Coast, Sorrento, and Pompeii.
When to Get There
The Royal Palace is one of the most important monuments in Naples, and best visited in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid midday crowds. Entrance is free the first Sunday of the month, so the palace can also be very crowded then.
The Biblioteca Nazionale
The Royal Palace is also home to the National Library, which contains thousands of papyrus scrolls found at Herculaneum as well as the remains of a fifth-century Coptic bible.
Address: Piazza del Plebiscito, Naples, 80132, Italy
Hours: 9am - 8pm, closed Wednesdays
Admission: Varies
From $ 10
Royal Church of San Lorenzo (Real Chiesa di San Lorenzo)
Next to Turin's Royal Palace, you'll find (not surprisingly) a royal church – the Royal Church of San Lorenzo, to be exact. Construction on the church was completed in 1687, and it was consecrated in 1680. The Royal Church of San Lorenzo (Real Chiesa di San Lorenzo in Italian) was built around an older structure, a former chapel for the Dukes of Savoy, which you can see near the entrance of the current church.
Designed by Modena master-architect Guarino Guarini – who was also a priest – in the 1660s, the church is located to the left of the entrance gates of the Palazzo Reale, its plain, pastel-hued façade topped by a lacy dome and hiding a frothy interior.
This fanciful Baroque jewel is smothered in oil paintings, exquisite wooden carving, gilt and multi-colored marble, with an ornate octagonal layout and eight wildly elaborate side chapels covered in seraphim and gilding. The central cupola is decorated with a six-point star, which was the signature flourish of the architect Guarini, and seems to dance as beams of sunlight pours through its windows. Its high altar is one of the most extravagant in Italy, fronted with an inlaid marble floor, studded with gilt and adorned with twisted marble columns and cherubs as well as statues of the ruling Savoy family; this is all backed by a portrait of San Lorenzo (St Lawrence in English), the patron saint of Turin.
Practical Info
The Royal Church of San Lorenzo is located near the entry gates of the Royal Palace, just off the Piazza Castello. It's open for visitors Monday-Friday from 7:30am-12pm and 4-7pm. On weekends, it is open from 9am-1pm and from 3-7:30pm. Admission is free. 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: Via Palazzo di Città, 4, Torino 10122, Italy
Hours: Mon-Fri 7:30am-12pm & 4pm-7pm, Sat 9am-12pm & 3pm-6pm, Sun 3pm-6pm
From $ 237
Rome Olympic Stadium (Stadio Olimpico)
Rome’s Stadio Olimpico seats more than 72,000 spectators, and when the city’s deeply beloved A.S. Roma and S.S. Lazio soccer teams hold their home matches here, there isn’t an empty seat in the house. But the stadium isn’t just for "football" fans; rather, the venue is also used for rock concerts and other sporting events.
The Basics
Soccer is a national obsession in Italy; home matches of the city's two top-division (Serie A) teams are the year’s biggest highlights for Roman sports fans; emotions run high at their matches, especially when they’re vying for a spot for the Coppa Italia, UEFA Champions League Finals, or the FIFA World Cup. The city's original stadium, dating back to the 1930s, was mostly demolished at one point, then expanded. Today's modern stadium was inaugurated in 2008 for the European Cup Finals. Tickets sell out quickly for games at the Stadio Olimpico, so be sure to book in advance. For a truly unforgettable experience, opt for VIP seats, which often include a buffet and open bar.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Italian football fans generally behave well at matches, with much good-natured bantering and chanting. The most rabid fans are seated in the curva nord and curva sud—the stadium’s north and south curves.
- Matches last 90 minutes and are split into two halves. During the 15-minute break in the middle, crowds rush the concession stands for snacks and drinks.
- Large bags and backpacks can’t be taken inside the stadium, and there are security checks for banned items.
- Lazio players dress in sky blue and white; the Roma sport gold and dark red. If you’re looking to suit up, you can buy gear outside the stadium before the game.
- The Italian National Rugby team also uses this stadium—the Six Nations Rugby finals are also a popular event.
How to Get There
Stadio Olimpico, located on Piazzale del Foro Italico, is part of the Foro Italico Sports Complex outside the city center. The easiest way to get there is by public transportation: Take the metro line A from Piazza del Popolo to Flaminio, then the tram 2, which goes right to the stadium.
When to Get There
Soccer season lasts from August to May; some championship games run into the beginning of summer.
Italy's Soccer Clubs
Roma and Lazio are the two teams based in Rome, but most major Italian cities have their own local teams as well; most famously, Milan, Turin, and Naples.
Address: Viale dello Stadio Olimpico, Rome, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 346
St Peter's Basilica
The enormous St. Peter's Basilica dominates Vatican City, and its dome can be seen from all over Rome. Built on the site of St. Peter’s crucifixion and over his tomb, it’s the epicenter of the Catholic Church and the burial place of many popes, including Pope John Paul II. The lavishly adorned basilica is the largest church in Italy and all of Christendom, and it's also a museum full of priceless works of art—including Michelangelo’s spectacular “Pietà” and Bernini’s bronze baldachin.
The Basics
St. Peter's Basilica is an essential part of any visit to the Vatican. There's no admission fee, so it's easy to stop in on your own, but a guided tour or audio guide will help you truly understand the significance of the history and art. Many travelers either choose a tour that focuses exclusively on the basilica or opt for one that pairs a visit with stops at other areas in the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel. This is one of the most popular attractions in Rome and all of Italy, so crowds are nearly inevitable. It’s best to book a skip-the-line ticket or early-access tour that allows you to visit before most of the swarms arrive.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Be prepared for security lines similar to those at airports, including metal detectors, bag scanners, and potentially long waits.
- The basilica has a strict dress code—no bare shoulders, midriffs, or knees—and you won't be allowed in unless you adhere to it.
- A skip-the-line tour of the Vatican that includes St. Peter’s enables you to bypass the basilica’s long entry lines—though you still have to go through the security check.
- Climbing into the basilica’s dome, which affords fantastic views over St. Peter’s Square, requires a ticket.
How to Get There
St. Peter's Basilica is across the Tiber River from top sights such as the Colosseum and Piazza Navona. The nearest metro stops are Ottaviano–San Pietro–Musei Vaticani and Cipro on line A; there are closer tram and bus stops. If you'd like to walk, cross the Ponte Sant'Angelo toward the Castel Sant'Angelo for a picturesque view.
When to Get There
The church is open year-round, but it's a working church so it closes regularly for mass and special religious services. Crowds are at their thickest during summer and holidays such as Easter and Christmas, as well as during public papal addresses, given most Wednesdays in the square.
Underneath St. Peter's Basilica
The basilica’s most famous tomb is that of St. Peter, but most visitors never go below the main level of the church. You can book a small group tour of the Vatican Necropolis to explore the ancient Roman cemetery that lies underground, past the Vatican grottoes, and stand before St. Peter's tomb.
Address: Piazza San Pietro, Vatican City 00120, Italy
Hours: Open daily 7am - 7pm (6pm in winter)
Admission: Free
From $ 15
Royal Palace Museum (Museo di Palazzo Reale)
The Royal Palace (Palazzo Reale) in Genoa (Genova) is one of the city’s Palazzi dei Rolli, magnificent residences built by the Genoese aristocracy during the Republic of Genoa’s height of wealth and power. Get a glimpse into the city’s opulent baroque period by touring the sumptuous interiors and art collection of this palace museum.
The Basics
Though the palace seems designed for royalty, it was actually built in the early 17th century for the Balbi family, who sold it to the wealthy Durazzo family just a few decades later. Originally called Palazzo Balbi, it only became the Royal Palace in the 19th century when the Royal House of Savoy moved in. The Palazzo Reale is now a museum filled with a collection of fine antique furniture and decorated with frescoes, stuccowork, and paintings by important artists, such as Tintoretto and van Dyck.
The Museo di Palazzo Reale is an unforgettable stop on Genoa walking tours and one of the city's main attractions, along with the Nautical Museum (Galata Museo del Mare) and Genoa Aquarium. If touring independently, book admission in advance so you can skip the lines upon arrival.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Walking tours of Genoa involve a considerable amount of time on your feet, so choose comfortable shoes.
- The palazzo is accessible to wheelchairs via an elevator.
- Flash photography is not allowed inside the museum.
- A tour of the Royal Palace Museum is especially interesting for art and architecture aficionados.
How to Get There
Genoa is the capital of Liguria and one of the most important ports in Italy, so it’s easy to reach by train from any other major Italian city. The Royal Palace is just a 5-minute walk up Via Balbi from the train station.
When to Get There
The museum is open all day, so it’s a good stop during those tricky early afternoon hours when many churches and other attractions close for lunch. Keep in mind that the Royal Palace Museum is closed on Mondays, and Saturday and Sunday mornings.
Highlights of the Royal Palace Museum
Be sure to visit the ornate Piano Nobile, the Hall of Mirrors, and the Throne Room. Outside, you can also tour the pretty palace gardens.
Address: Via Balbi, 10, Genoa, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 7
Val d'Orcia
If you’ve ever seen a picture of the Tuscan countryside—softly rolling hills, towering cypress trees, winding country roads, and quaint hill towns—chances are that you were looking at the Val d'Orcia. This unique landscape, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is considered among the loveliest in Italy, and the wines produced here are among Italy’s best.
The Basics
The Val d'Orcia, a favorite subject of Renaissance painters and modern photographers, covers a small area of Tuscany between the town of Siena and Mount Amiata, and is known for its beautiful landscapes, medieval towns, and excellent cuisine. Take a Val d'Orcia tour to visit the villages of Montalcino and Montepulciano, and to sample their local Brunello di Montalcino and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano wines—perhaps paired with pecorino cheeses from nearby Pienza—during a wine tasting session. Other delightful small towns worth a visit on a private tour of the Val d'Orcia are San Quirico d'Orcia, famous for its olive oil, and Bagno Vignoni, home to historic thermal baths.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The scenery around the Val d'Orcia area is truly picturesque, so don’t forget your camera.
- Some of Italy’s most prestigious wines are produced in the Val d'Orcia, so wine lovers will especially appreciate exploring the area’s wineries and tasting rooms.
- There is a small amount of walking during most Tuscany tours, either through hilltop towns or across winery vineyards; comfortable shoes and a sun hat are recommended.
- Winery visits may not be appropriate for young children.
How to Get There
Val d'Orcia is located about an hour south of Florence and is an easy day trip from Rome, Florence, Pisa, San Gimignano, and Siena. There is little public transportation between the towns and wineries in this area, so by far the best way to explore is by joining a small-group tour with transportation included.
When to Get There
The Val d'Orcia is lovely year-round but is particularly interesting to visit in the fall, when the grapes and olives are harvested and many towns hold wine and olive oil festivals.
Famous Tuscan Landscapes
The Val d'Orcia is just one of many areas in Tuscany known for its striking scenery. The stark chalk hills of the Crete Senesi and the wooded countryside of Chianti are also beautiful—and are equally popular wine tour destinations.
Address: Val D’Orcia, Tuscany, Italy, Italy
From $ 64
St Mark's Basilica (Basilica of San Marco)
St. Mark’s Basilica is the crown jewel of Venice, one of the most sumptuous cities in the western world. This ornate cathedral blends elements of Gothic, Byzantine, Romanesque, and Renaissance architecture—testimony to the city’s political and economic dominance that spanned centuries. Topped by soaring domes and with an interior of astonishing golden mosaics, the church is so opulent it is known as the Chiesa d’Oro, or the Golden Church. Construction began in 828, when the body of St. Mark was smuggled back to Venice from Alexandria; the church has been rebuilt, expanded, and delicately restored over the centuries.
The Basics
St. Mark’s Basilica is the most famous monument in Venice and hosts millions of visitors each year, so there are often long lines to enter. To avoid the crowds and wait times, book a skip-the-line tour, or opt for an after-hours tour for private evening access. While the exterior is visited on just about every city sightseeing tour, a guided tour is the best way to experience the cathedral, given the complexity of its art and architecture. A private or small-group evening tour led by an expert tour guide offers a unique and intimate experience, and the basilica is located on St. Mark’s Square, so you can easily combine a basilica tour with a gondola ride and a Doge’s Palace tour.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Like most churches in Italy, St. Mark’s Basilica requires visitors to wear appropriate clothing—no exposed shoulders, knees, or midriffs.
- Large bags are not permitted in the basilica. Deposit any luggage at Ateneo di San Basso (in Piazzetta dei Leoncini).
How to Get There
The cathedral is on the eastern end of the Piazza San Marco, adjacent to the Palazzo Ducale (Doge’s Palace) along the Grand Canal. The nearest vaporetto (ferry) stop is San Marco–San Zaccaria.
When to Get There
The basilica is most crowded at midday, so begin or end your Venice tour with a morning or late-afternoon visit. Summer is the most popular time of year to visit, while Venice is relatively quiet from November through February (aside from the Christmas and New Year holidays, and during Carnival).
The Pala d’Oro
St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome is famous for Michelangelo's “Pietà” and Florence’s Duomo is known for Brunelleschi’s dome, but St. Mark’s Basilica’s greatest treasure—the stunning Pala d'Oro—dates back centuries before either of those masterpieces. This glittering gold and enamel altarpiece from AD 976 is considered one of the most important, refined examples of Byzantine enamel in the world.
Address: Piazza San Marco, Venice 30124, Italy
Hours: Mon - Sat 9:45am-5:00pm, Sun and holidays 2pm-4:30pm
Admission: Free
From $ 3
Rome Civitavecchia Cruise Port
Located 50 miles (80 kilometers) northwest of Rome, the Civitavecchia cruise port is a popular jumping-off point for shore excursions to Italy’s capital city. Home to some of the world’s most important art and architecture, and bursting with bustling piazzas and lively restaurants, Rome is a highlight of any Mediterranean cruise.
The Basics
To see the important sights in this busy European capital, maximize your time by taking a tour, perhaps a private one with a driver and skip-the-line tickets to the crowded Colosseum and Vatican Museums. Most Rome tours and shore excursions last a day to cover top attractions including Trevi Fountain, Piazza Navona, the Pantheon, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Square and Basilica. Experience the city’s culinary traditions in trattorias and cafes lining its squares.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Colosseum and Vatican Museums (including the Sistine Chapel) are among the most visited attractions in Italy, so be sure to book a tour with skip-the-line tickets.
- Most Roman churches, including St. Peter’s Basilica, require clothing that covers shoulders and knees to enter.
- Many archaeological sites in Rome, including the Colosseum and Roman Forum, are outdoors. Bring a hat and sunscreen in summer.
- Even driving tours of Rome require a fair amount of walking; comfortable footwear and weather-appropriate clothing is recommended.
- The city’s metro and bus systems are famously overcrowded and slow; it is almost always faster and easier to get around by private car.
How to Get There
Shore excursions and private tours generally include port pickup and drop-off, and shuttle buses and private transfers are available for visitors heading to the city or Fiumicino and Ciampino airports. You can reach Rome by train from the Civitavecchia train station, a 10-minute walk from the port or a short shuttle ride from Civitavecchia's landmark Michelangelo Fort. Trains run every half hour to Rome’s Termini station, and the trip takes about an hour.
Port Information
Most of the largest cruise lines stop at the Civitavecchia port. Italian is the most widely spoken language here. The local currency is the euro; ATMs are easy to find, and foreign exchange bureaus are near the docks.
Address: Calata Principe Tommaso, Civitavecchia, Italy
From $ 31
St Paul's Within the Walls
St. Paul’s Within the Walls was the first Protestant church built in Rome, considered the capital of the Catholic world. Today, this 19th-century Episcopal church—a national monument and home to beautiful mosaics—is both a religious and cultural center, holding services, musical performances, and art exhibitions.
The Basics
Using glass from Murano, pre-Raphaelite artist Edward Burne-Jones designed St. Paul’s Within the Walls’ four mosaics that earned the building its recognition as a national monument from the Italian government. That said, St. Paul’s Within the Walls (Chiesa di San Paolo Entro Le Mura) is primarily known as venue for musical performances. Here you can see productions of famous Italian operas such as Giuseppe Verdi’s La Traviata and Gioachino Rossini’s Barber of Seville, or performances of famous opera arias by singers from the Teatro dell'Opera di Roma or today’s Three Tenors. There are also frequent classical music concerts featuring works by composers including Beethoven, Schubert, and Vivaldi.
Booking tickets to one of the many concerts and performances held at St. Paul’s Within the Walls is the perfect way to both visit the lovely church interior and appreciate its excellent acoustics. The Three Tenors and the Virtuosi dell'Opera di Roma are two of the most popular performances, but there are also symphonic concerts and special musical events on Easter and New Year’s Eve.
Things to Know Before You Go
- St. Paul’s Within the Walls is one of Italy’s most important Protestant churches and holds Episcopal services in English each Sunday.
- If attending a musical performance, the dress code is smart casual.
- The church is accessible to wheelchair users.
How to Get There
The church is located on the corner of Via Nazionale and Via Napoli, about a 10-minute walk from Rome’s Termini train station or near the Piazza Repubblica stop on metro line A.
When to Get There
St. Paul’s Within the Walls is a beautiful backdrop for evening performances, though you can also visit Monday to Friday from 9am to 4:30pm to simply tour the interior.
Art Exhibitions
In addition to concerts and operas, St. Paul’s Within the Walls often holds contemporary art exhibitions, which you can visit during their regular opening hours.
Address: Via Napoli 58, Rome, Italy
From $ 23
Roman Catacombs
The miles of underground cemetery that comprise the Roman Catacombs are some of the oldest burial tunnels in the world. Located just outside the city and hidden deep underground, the catacombs were created in the second century in response to a shortage of land for deceased’s remains. Today the narrow tunnels are eerily quiet and full of Roman history, including some of the best-preserved early Christian frescoes and sculptures—and, in the bone-adorned Capuchin Crypt, a Caravaggio. Look out for ancient wall paintings and mosaics lining the walls, as well as the catacombs of St. Agnes, Domitilla, and Priscilla, home to the oldest known depiction of the Virgin Mary.
The Basics
As burial inside the Roman walls was forbidden by law, you’ll find the catacombs of Rome—of which there are at least 40—on the roads just outside of the city itself. Five are open to visitors, including St. Sebastian and St. Callixtus, both of which are located on Via Appia Antica. A trip to the catacombs is often combined with a visit to the Roman countryside and the ancient Appian Way, either on foot or by bike. Choose a tour tailored for kids and families, one focused on ghosts and mystery, or a walking tour with skip-the-line access to beat the crowds. For an exclusive after-hours experience, tour the crypt at night when it’s closed to the public. English-speaking guides explain past burial rituals and give historical context to the sights.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Due to the delicate nature of the surroundings, travelers cannot visit the catacombs independently; all visits must be part of a guided group or private tour. Admission includes a guided tour.
- Tours and group visits can be arranged upon arrival at the most popular catacombs, but visits must be booked in advance at the less-visited areas.
- Catacomb tours are not recommended for travelers who may get claustrophobic due to the small spaces.
- Catacombs are holy places, so guests should dress appropriately—all should cover their shoulders and thighs. It’s best to also have a light jacket, as it can get cold underground.
How to Get to There
You’ll find the Roman Catacombs on Via Appia Antica, Via Ostiense, Via Labicana, Via Salaria, and other roads. They can be reached by public transport on various metro and bus lines. Many tours depart from Rome’s Piazza Barberini.
When to Get to There
Most of Rome’s crypts and catacombs are open year-round from 9am to noon and from 2 to 5pm, though typically they are closed on Sundays. Compared with world-famous attractions in Italy such as the Colosseum, they are less visited. Still, limited access to the catacombs makes booking in advance a good idea, especially around Easter and between May and September, when Rome swarms with travelers. The cool catacombs make for a great break from Italy’s summer heat, but the quieter months are recommended for thinner crowds.
Rome’s Strangest Sight?
Perhaps the most interesting sight in the catacombs is the Capuchin Crypt, or Bone Chapel, an area containing—and decorated with—the bones of 4,000 Capuchin friars. Crypt rooms are themed by different types of bones, from skulls to pelvis and leg bones.
Address: Italy
Hours: Open daily 9am - noon and 2pm - 5pm
Admission: €8 for adults, €5 for children 7-15, free for children 6 and below
From $ 19
Royal Palace of Caserta (Reggia di Caserta)
The Royal Palace of Caserta, famous for its massive size and opulent style, is a triumph of late Italian Baroque architecture. The largest royal residence in the world, the palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, shares a number of features with the Palace of Versailles and is one of the most-visited monuments in southern Italy.
The Basics
The 18th-century Royal Palace (Reggia di Caserta) was built by the architect Luigi Vanvitelli for the Bourbon kings of Naples. It sits majestically on a hill overlooking its 300 acres of undulating grounds, including ornate fountains and water features and the English Garden, one of the most important botanical gardens in Europe. The palace, inspired by Versailles in France and similarly opulent structures in Madrid, includes 1,200 rooms on five floors, including royal apartments, the Throne Room, the Palatine Chapel, and the Grand Staircase, all sumptuously decorated with frescoes, marble, and gold leaf. The Royal Palace and park are among the most popular attractions in the region of Campania; the best way to fully appreciate its architecture and history is by taking a private guided tour of the palace and its beautiful gardens.
Things to Know Before You Go
- As one of the largest palaces in the world, visiting the Reggia di Caserta is a mammoth undertaking. You’ll be spending most of the day on your feet, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes and clothing.
- If you don’t want to tour the grounds on foot, you can rent a bike, take the bus, or opt for a horse-drawn carriage ride.
- The palace and grounds are wheelchair-accessible.
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Star Wars fans may recognize the palace as the setting for scenes from Episode I and Episode II.
How to Get There
The palace is located in Caserta, just north of Naples—it’s an easy day trip from Naples, Sorrento, the Amalfi Coast, or Rome. (Exit the Autostrada A1 at Caserta Nord.) You can also take the train right to Caserta.
When to Get There
The Reggia di Caserta is open 8am to 7:30pm daily, except for Tuesdays. The grounds close earlier in winter. The English Garden is open for guided tours more or less hourly (10am to 4:30pm daily).
San Leucio
The grounds of the royal palace also house the historic San Leucio silk factory; today it’s the Silk Museum, with original looms and historic machinery on display.
Address: Viale Douhet, 2/a, Caserta CE 81100, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 19
St Peter's Baldachin
In the early years of his pontificate, Pope Urban VIII commissioned what is now called St Peter’s Baldachin (Baldacchino di San Pietro) over the saint’s grave. The project was designed by Bernini and turned out to be so enormous that the Pantheon’s beams had to be melted down to provide the massive amount of bronze needed. The Romans weren’t too happy with the damage done to their beloved Pantheon, and the project was thus on the receiving end of all sorts of mockery. A popular pun was an allusion to the Pope’s family name Barberini: "Quod non fecerunt Barberi, fecerunt Barberini"—a saying that roughly translates to "what even the barbarians didn’t dare to do, the Barberini did."
Located under the dome of Michelangelo where the nave and transept meet, the canopy is as high as a nine-story building. It is directly over the altar, which in turn lies over the supposed grave of St Peter, and is held up by four corkscrew columns that form a helix—an idea conjured up by then-24-year-old master sculptor Bernini when he saw the twisted columns of the old St Peter’s Basilica. The work of art turned out to be so expensive that the project devoured 10 percent of the Papacy’s annual revenue at the time. But the risk paid off. On the day the baldachin was unveiled, it proved to be a spectacular success, even with the previously disdainful Romans.
Practical Info
St Peter’s Basilica, where St Peter's Baldachin is located, opens every day from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. in winter and from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. from April to September. To get to the basilica, take the Metro line A to the Ottaviano San Pietro stop and follow the Via Ottaviano Street.
Address: Piazza San Pietro, Vatican City, Rome, Italy
Hours: April-September 7am-7pm; October-March 7am-6pm
From $ 23