Choose from 645 Fun Things to Do in Italy
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Appian Way and the Aurelian Wall
The Appian Way (Via Appia Antica) was the first and most important Imperial Roman road, stretching from Rome to Brindisi. The cobblestone road—built in the fourth century BC to transport supplies and soldiers to strategic points throughout the Roman Empire—still exists today, lined with archaeological sites and impressive ruins.
The Basics
Named for architect Appius Claudius Caecus, the Via Appia Antica was one of Rome’s main highways for centuries. As the empire began its decline in the third century and Rome experienced barbarian attacks, the Aurelian Wall was erected around the city’s seven hills for protection. This defensive wall had a number of gates, including Porta Appia (Porta San Sebastiano), which today contains a museum about the Aurelian Wall.
A guided walking or bike tour down the Appian Way from the Aurelian Wall through the Ancient Appian Way Regional Park and Caffarella Park is the perfect way to explore this historic road and the ancient sites along its route through the Roman countryside. Appian Way tours include stops at sites like the thermal baths of Caracalla, the early Christian San Callisto Catacombs, the Circus of Maxentius, the tomb of Caecilia Metella, and the ancient Roman aqueducts. You can also join a guided small-group bus tour to explore the ancient road from central Rome.
Things to Know Before You Go
- If you are joining a hiking or cycling tour, be sure to wear comfortable clothing and shoes.
- Via Appia Antica and sites along its route are all open-air, so bring a hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water.
- Some of the archaeological sites along the route require an entrance fee.
How to Get There
Metro line A has a stop at Parco Appia Antica, close to the entrance for Via Appia Park.
When to Get There
The Appian Way and its sights are almost entirely outside, so it’s best to visit in the spring and fall when the weather is mild. It takes anywhere from a few hours to an entire day to explore the route on foot or bike, so plan on setting off in the morning.
Parco Regionale della Via Appia Antica
The initial stretch of the Appian Way, just outside Rome’s city center, is part of a regional park, and many of the archaeological sites along the route are located within the park’s confines.
Address: Via Appia Antica, Italy
From $ 19
Ancient Rome
At the height of its power, the ancient city of Rome was home to millions and the capital of a vast empire, crowded with monumental temples, civic buildings, and villas. Today, visitors can get a sense of the ancient city’s wealth and power by visiting the archaeological ruins covering the Palatine Hill in the center of modern Rome, including the Colosseum, Roman Forum, Temple of Julius Caesar, and Arch of Constantine.
The Basics
The archaeological ruins of ancient Rome include some of the most iconic sights in Italy, and they’re visited by millions of tourists each year. Long entrance lines are common at the Colosseum and the Roman Forum (especially in summer), so consider booking a guided tour or skip-the-line access in advance. A half-day tour with a small group can cover most of the sites on the Palatine Hill, while a private Colosseum tour offering evening access is an excellent way to enjoy the ancient amphitheater without the crowds. For a unique experience, consider booking a Colosseum underground tour to understand the inner workings of this iconic stadium.
Things to Know Before You Go
- A family-friendly group tour with an expert guide is a great way to make these important sites come alive for kids.
- Most of the archaeological sites and monuments dating from ancient Rome are open air, so be sure to wear a hat and suitable clothing.
- The Colosseum and other Ancient Roman sites are accessible to wheelchairs.
How to Get There
The most famous ruins of Ancient Rome are concentrated on Palatine Hill, and they can be reached 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
The sights of Ancient Rome are most crowded at midday, so consider scheduling your Rome tour around a visit in the early morning or late afternoon. Summer is the busiest season, when skip-the-line tickets or a private tour guide are essential; the sites are less crowded during winter.
Discovering the Circus Maximus
The newly excavated and restored remains of the Circus Maximus, ancient Rome's largest stadium, offer a fascinating look into Roman life. The site of chariot races and other sports and entertainment for almost 1,000 years, this immense venue could hold up to 150,000 spectators.
Address: Rome, Italy
Hours: Daily
From $ 31
Bramante Staircase
The Bramante Staircase, designed by Donato Bramante in 1505, is an innovative double-helix spiral lined with Doric columns that connects the Vatican’s Belvedere Palace to the city of Rome below. It was commissioned by Pope Julius II and inspired Giuseppe Momo’s impressive 1930s staircase at the Vatican Museums exit.
The Basics
Many visitors mistake Giuseppe Momo's 1930s staircase for the historic Bramante Staircase, but the original was built more than 400 years earlier and is closed to the general public. Only private groups led by an official Vatican-approved tour guide are authorized to visit the elegant Renaissance staircase.
Some small-group guided tours of the Vatican Museums—among the most popular attractions in Italy—include access to the Bramante Staircase. Book in advance to avoid long ticket and entry lines. Extended tours generally also include stops in the Painting Gallery (Pinacoteca), Gallery of Tapestries, Gallery of Maps, Gallery of the Candelabra, the Sistine Chapel with its frescoes by Michelangelo, and the Raphael Rooms before moving on the St. Peter's Basilica.
Things to Know Before You Go
- There is a security check at the entrance to the Vatican Museums, so items like pocket knives, corkscrews, and umbrellas must be left at the coat check.
- If your Vatican tour includes entry to the Sistine Chapel, be sure to wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees.
- Vatican tours generally require quite a bit of walking, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes.
- The Bramante Staircase is not wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
The Vatican Museums are located adjacent St. Peter's Square in Vatican City. The closest metro station is Ottaviano on Line A.
When to Get There
The museums are most crowded at midday, so opt for a morning (or early-access) tour or plan a visit in the offseason winter months if you prefer a quieter experience.
Visiting the Vatican’s Painting Gallery
Most Vatican Museum tours include a stop in the Painting Gallery, a highlight of the museum complex. Here you can view one of the world's best collections of works by Italian masters such as Giotto, da Vinci, Raphael, and Caravaggio.
Address: Vatican Museums, Vatican City, Rome, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 29
Bramante Sacristy
While many travelers visit the adjacent Santa Maria delle Grazie church—home of da Vinci’s fresco The Last Supper—the Bramante Sacristy is an often-overlooked gem. Designed by architect Donato Bramante, the sacristy features a vaulted ceiling painted by da Vinci and exhibits on the inventor’s Codex Atlanticus.
The Basics
The Bramante Sacristy and Santa Maria delle Grazie church are connected by a cloister and both feature imposing architecture. In the sacristy, you can admire the ceiling painted with golden stars, peruse da Vinci’s sketches and notes, and stroll through the adjoining Cloister of Frogs—a peaceful space with a fountain and flower-lined walls. It’s possible to visit the Bramante Sacristy on some Milan city tours, which often include skip-the-line tickets to view The Last Supper.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Bramante Sacristy is a must-see for art and architecture lovers.
- Tickets to the Bramante Sacristy do not include a visit to The Last Supper, so arrange tickets to both separately or with a combination ticket.
- Avoid long lines to Bramante’s complex and da Vinci’s masterpiece with skip-the-line tickets.
How to Get There
Take the M1 Metro Line to the Milan Cathedral (Duomo), and walk five minutes to the Bramante Sacristy. Alternatively, you can take tram 2, 3, 12, 14, or 16 to the Milan Cathedral stop.
When to Get There
The Bramante Sacristy is open daily, with limited hours on Mondays. Peak season in Milan and Italy is June, July, and August. Visit the city during the shoulder months to avoid crowds.
Why Was the Bramante Sacristy Built?
The Duke of Milan, Ludovico il Moro, commissioned the Bramante Sacristy and The Last Supper in the Santa Maria delle Grazie. When the Sforza family came into power, the duke commissioned two great artists to expand the complex, which would become the ornately decorated mausoleum for the Sforza family.
Address: via Caradosso, 1, Milan 20123, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 80
Column of Marcus Aurelius
Standing an impressive 100 feet high, the Column of Marcus Aurelius was built as a Roman victory monument and stands in what is now called the Piazza Colonna, situated in what would have been the northern boundary of Ancient Rome.
The original date of construction is unknown, but there are inscriptions of the column throughout the region that promote the idea that the construction was completed, at the very latest, by 193 AD. Most scholars believe that the construction of the column may have started directly after the Roman victories over a number of their northern rivals.
Parallel to this idea are the intricate carvings on the column that work in a spiral fashion and tlel the stories of victories, war and conquest. The details show images of men, horses, women and the destruction of certain villages. By the 15th century, the statue of Marcus Aurelius atop the column had already deteriorated. Thus, in 1589, a restoration was done by Domenico Fontana, placing nearly 10 feet of it underground. The remodeling also meant that a bronze statue of St Paul was placed where Marcus Aurelius once stood.
Practical Info
The Column of Marcus Aurelius is in the Piazza Colonna on the northern end of Ancient Rome along Via del Corso. The plaza isn't directly served by the metro, but the Barberini stop is nearby. There are also a number of buses that serve the area, such as the N6, N25, 81 and 117.
Address: Piazza Colonna, Rome, Italy
From $ 35
Ambrosiana Library & Picture Gallery
Milan’s historical Ambrosiana Library and Picture Gallery (Biblioteca-Pinacoteca Ambrosiana) was founded in 1618 by Cardinal Federico Borromeo. The cardinal donated more than 30,000 books, 15,000 manuscripts, and 12,000 pieces of artwork by famous artists such as Caravaggio, Raphael, Botticelli, and Leonardo da Vinci.
The Basics
The cultural mecca of the Ambrosiana Library was built to ensure the artists with talent and intellectuals would have a place to train. Today many tours and travelers visit the Ambrosiana Library and Picture Gallery (or Art Gallery) to experience and understand the importance of art in Italy during the Renaissance. The library famously displays Leonardo da Vinci’s Codex Atlanticus in a permanent exhibition, as well as the love letters of Lucrezia Borgia and the works of Petrarch.
Many Milan city tours include skip-the-line access to Vespino’s famous copy of da Vinci’s The Last Supper. If visiting independently, buy a combination ticket to the Ambrosiana Library and The Last Supper in advance for the best availability.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Ambrosiana Library and Picture Gallery is a must-visit for art and art history buffs.
- Audio guides are available in several languages for a small fee.
- The library and art gallery are fully accessible to persons with physical disabilities and can be independently accessed.
How to Get There
The library is located in the heart of Milan, on Piazza Pio XI. Take the M1 red line or M3 yellow line to the Duomo stop and walk about five minutes. You can also take tram 2 or 3 to the Duomo stop, or tram 12, 14, or 16 to the Orefici-Cantù stop.
When to Get There
The Ambrosiana Library and Picture Gallery is open 10am to 6pm Tuesday to Sunday, and is closed January 1, Easter Sunday, and December 25. The best time to visit is during the shoulder seasons of spring and fall, when Last Supper tickets are more readily available.
The Legend of Lucrezia Borgia
Lucrezia Borgia was the Duchess of Ferrara during the late 1400s. A long lock of her golden hair is kept at the Ambrosiana, encased in glass and bronze, and has attracted many writers and poets passing through Milan. Legend has it that on All Souls’ night her ghost wanders the halls of the library in search of her hair. When found, she washes and combs it, which is why it remains silky and shiny to this day.
Address: Piazza Pio XI, 2, Milan 20123, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 16
Annunziata dei Catalani Church
This stunning example of 12 and 13th century religious architecture is one of the most-prized landmarks in all of Messina. That’s because a 1908 earthquake leveled much of the city but let this prestigious structure untouched. Today, Annunziata is used as a church for the nearby University, but travelers can still visit the place and take in much of its original splendor.
From the western entrance, travelers will find three ancient doors that decorate a remarkably well-preserved façade. Once inside, they’ll be greeted by towering Corinthian columns in yellow, white and red stone. An iconic statue of Don Juan of Austria—with his foot standing atop the head of Ali Bassa, an Ottoman leader—is located towards the rear of the church.
Practical Info
The church is located at Via Garibaldi Giuseppe, 111, 98122 Messina ME in Italy. It is between the Duomo and the University of Messina. It is open Monday through Saturday from 9:30 a.m. until 11:30 a.m. and Sunday from 9 a.m. until 11:30 a.m. It is free to enter.
Address: Via Garibaldi Giuseppe, 111, Messina ME 98122, Italy
Hours: Open Mon-Sat 9:30am-11:30am and Sun 9am-11:30am
From $ 22
Anatomical Theatre of the Archiginnasio
Bologna is home to the world’s oldest university in continuous operation - founded in 1088 - and one of the many schools in the university is a medical school. You might not think that a medical school would be an attraction worth seeking out, but the historic Anatomical Theatre of the Archiginnasio alone is worth the trip.
The Archiginnasio is a university building, originally constructed in the 16th century, that served for many years as the primary university building. Today, it houses the largest municipal library in the region, but the main attraction is the Anatomical Theatre. Built in 1637, it’s a gorgeous room paneled entirely in spruce with a coffered ceiling. The seating is amphitheatre-style, and the seat from which a professor would deliver lectures more closely resembles a throne or a preacher’s pulpit than a teacher’s desk.
There are niches in the walls of the Anatomical Theatre of the Archiginnasio, in which you’ll see carved wooden statues of historic physicians. Of particular note are the carved statues on each side of the professor’s chair - they’re carved as if they have no skin, to make their muscles visible. The enormous table in the center of the theatre’s floor may look pristine now, but this is where the dissections of both human and animal bodies took place during lessons.
The Archiginnasio building is on one side of the Piazza Maggiore, right in central Bologna, and it’s free to visit, making it a perfect - if slightly off-beat - addition to your itinerary in this lovely city.
The Archiginnasio is a university building, originally constructed in the 16th century, that served for many years as the primary university building. Today, it houses the largest municipal library in the region, but the main attraction is the Anatomical Theatre. Built in 1637, it’s a gorgeous room paneled entirely in spruce with a coffered ceiling. The seating is amphitheatre-style, and the seat from which a professor would deliver lectures more closely resembles a throne or a preacher’s pulpit than a teacher’s desk.
There are niches in the walls of the Anatomical Theatre of the Archiginnasio, in which you’ll see carved wooden statues of historic physicians. Of particular note are the carved statues on each side of the professor’s chair - they’re carved as if they have no skin, to make their muscles visible. The enormous table in the center of the theatre’s floor may look pristine now, but this is where the dissections of both human and animal bodies took place during lessons.
The Archiginnasio building is on one side of the Piazza Maggiore, right in central Bologna, and it’s free to visit, making it a perfect - if slightly off-beat - addition to your itinerary in this lovely city.
Address: Piazza Galvani, 1, Bologna 40124, Italy
From $ 17
Amalfi Cathedral
By far Amalfi’s most famous sight, the 9th-century Amalfi Cathedral (Duomo di Sant'Andrea) has a theatrical staircase that leads up from the town’s main square to the church’s facade above. Climb to the top to see the cathedral’s striking mix of architectural styles and a sweeping view over the town.
The Basics
With its Arab-Norman Romanesque architecture punctuated by Gothic, baroque, and Byzantine elements and soaring bell tower, the Duomo of Amalfi cuts a magnificent figure above Piazza Duomo. Highlights inside include the ancient bronze doors, mother-of-pearl cross, two Egyptian columns, and the Crypt of St. Andrew, the town’s patron saint. Adjacent to the cathedral, the 13th-century Cloister of Paradise is a peaceful refuge with whitewashed Arabic-style arches encircling a lush garden of palm trees.
The Duomo, one of the main attractions in the center of Amalfi, is included in small-group Amalfi Coast tours or shore excursions from Rome, Naples, and Sorrento that also include stops in Positano and Ravello. You can combine day trips to the Amalfi Coast with a tour of Pompeii or the island of Capri.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Duomo is Amalfi’s main church, and its main staircase is a popular backdrop for couples taking wedding photos.
- Like all Catholic churches, you need cover your shoulders and knees to enter the cathedral.
- Day tours of the Amalfi Coast require a bit of walking, so wear comfortable shoes and sun protection.
- The church is not accessible to wheelchair users.
How to Get There
The cathedral is located in the pedestrian-only center of Amalfi, along Italy’s Amalfi Coast. You can reach the coast by ferry from Naples in the summer, or by bus from Sorrento or Salerno year-round. Fearless drivers can tackle the beautiful coastal highway by car.
When to Get There
The Amalfi Coast is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most popular destinations in Italy, making the coastal towns very crowded in the summer. Opt to explore the sights along this stretch of coastline in the spring and fall.
The Bronze Doors
The Amalfi Cathedral’s imposing 11th-century bronze doors were cast in Constantinople and signed by Simeon of Syria, making them the earliest post-Roman bronze doors in Italy.
Address: Piazza Duomo, Amalfi 84011, Italy
From $ 42
Brenta Riviera
An ancient waterway connecting the Italian cities of Padua and Venice, the channel of the Brenta Riviera dates back to the 16th century and was built to flow directly into the lagoon of Venice. The green space lining the canal inspired many wealthy Venetians to build villas along its waterfront, and some still remain open for exploration today. These country homes often served as second residences for Venice’s noble families — far enough away to enjoy a countryside atmosphere but close enough to return quickly to Venice.
Not just any second home, many of the Brenta Riviera villas are more like monuments or palaces complete with exquisite works of art and large frescoes. The amount of villas, gardens, and residences lining the canals built up to a point where it was nearly considered an extension of Venice’s Grand Canal. Many of the villas can be visited still today, including the Villa Foscari and the Villa Pisani — which has gardens, an art collection, and a famous maze.
Practical info
The Brenta Riviera is best accessed by boat from either Padua or Venice. There are many famous towns, such as Stra and Mira, to stop in along the way.
Address: Venice, Italy
From $ 58
Borgo Medievale
The town that we know today as Taormina is in an area in which there has been a settlement of some kind since the 8th century B.C.E. - but in the town itself one of the oldest neighborhoods is the Borgo Medievale, or medieval quarter.
Taormina’s historic core centers on the Borgo Medievale, with its picturesque cobblestone streets. The buildings themselves have been beautifully preserved, giving the whole quarter a postcard look. The main street in Taormina, Corso Umberto I, runs through the center of the medieval quarter from the Piazza IX Aprile to the Piazza del Duomo.
You can begin your tour of the medieval quarter from the Piazza IX Aprile and going through the arch in the 12th century clock tower. The tower was actually almost completely destroyed in the 17th century, and when it was rebuilt the clock was added. The tower serves as something of a gateway to the Borgo Medievale, most of which dates from the 15th century.
Today, Taormina’s Borgo Medievale is a great place to wander aimlessly to explore the pretty streets and buildings, shop in the souvenir stores and boutiques, and stop for a bite to eat in one of the cafes or restaurants.
Taormina’s historic core centers on the Borgo Medievale, with its picturesque cobblestone streets. The buildings themselves have been beautifully preserved, giving the whole quarter a postcard look. The main street in Taormina, Corso Umberto I, runs through the center of the medieval quarter from the Piazza IX Aprile to the Piazza del Duomo.
You can begin your tour of the medieval quarter from the Piazza IX Aprile and going through the arch in the 12th century clock tower. The tower was actually almost completely destroyed in the 17th century, and when it was rebuilt the clock was added. The tower serves as something of a gateway to the Borgo Medievale, most of which dates from the 15th century.
Today, Taormina’s Borgo Medievale is a great place to wander aimlessly to explore the pretty streets and buildings, shop in the souvenir stores and boutiques, and stop for a bite to eat in one of the cafes or restaurants.
Address: Borgo Medievale, Taormina, Sicily, Italy
From $ 115
Antico Caffè Greco
Rome is known for its coffee culture, and Antico Caffè Greco is among the city's most famous and oldest landmark coffee shops. Over the past 250 years, artists, musicians, and writers such as Mendelssohn, Wagner, Ibsen, Keats, Byron, Liszt, Stendhal, Shelley, Casanova, and Goethe have all sat at its illustrious tables.
The Basics
Often simply called Caffè Greco, this storied coffee bar on the elegant Via dei Condotti just feet from the Spanish Steps is named for its Greek founder, Nicola della Maddalena, who served its first espresso in 1760. While many visitors stop in for coffee drinks, panini, or ice cream, most seek out the landmark because of its interesting history. The bar has a number of dining rooms, many of which double as art galleries showing paintings and drawings created by past patrons or depicting the bar. A stop at Caffè Greco is a must for coffee lovers and a highlight of coffee or gelato tasting tours in the city center.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Caffe Greco is open from 9am to 9pm daily.
- There is a surcharge to sit at a table rather than to stand at the bar, as is the case with most bars in Italy. Consider this a cafe that doubles as a museum.
- This is a great place to linger over a cappuccino and soak in the historic atmosphere.
- The cafe is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
How to Get There
Caffè Greco is just off Piazza di Spagna, so take metro line A to the Spagna stop.
When to Get There
Like most of Rome's coffee bars, Caffè Greco is especially crowded at breakfast time and after lunch and dinner, when Italians are getting their espresso shots. Time your visit outside those busy hours so you can find a free table.
Address: Via dei Condotti 86, Rome, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 60
Brera
Milan boasts a number of trendy neighborhoods thick with hip bars, restaurants, and clubs. Of these, the Brera district—a maze of narrow, cobblestone streets lined with boutiques and cafés near the Duomo in the city center—is perhaps the most beautiful thanks to its laid-back pace and old-world charm.
The Basics
Brera is one of the most fashionable neighborhoods in Milan for a before-dinner aperitivo and a great place to experience Milan’s excellent food and wine scene, so consider joining a small-group food tour or wine tasting. Food walking tours are also available in Brera.
In addition to strolling through Brera and enjoying the scene, you can visit the neighborhood’s main attraction: the famous Brera Art Gallery (Pinacoteca di Brera), one of Italy’s most important museums, with works by Botticelli, Raphael, Hayez, Titian, Caravaggio, Tintoretto, Piero della Francesca, Rembrandt, Rubens, and Andrea Mantegna. The designer shopping district Quadrilatero d’Oro, where the elegant Milanese head to update their wardrobes, is also nearby.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Milan’s Brera neighborhood is one of the most photogenic in the city, so be sure to bring your camera.
- This area is best explored on foot; choose comfortable shoes and dress for the weather.
- Brera is paved and well maintained, and is easily managed with a wheelchair or stroller.
How to Get There
Brera is right in the center of Milan, an easy walk north from the Duomo and Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. Milan itself is well connected by train to Venice, Florence, and Rome.
When to Get There
The Brera neighborhood is most vibrant in summer, when cafés spill onto the sidewalks and make for an excellent place to do some serious people-watching. During the day, the main attractions are the area’s boutiques and museum; by night, most gather here for a drink or meal.
Milan Food Tours
The cosmopolitan city of Milan may not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking about Italian cuisine. So it may be surprising to discover that the city is known both for its fashion and its food, with a variety of traditional dishes rooted in the area’s history and a thriving up-and-coming contemporary food scene, especially in Brera. Consider taking a food-themed walking tour through the neighborhood to experience the city’s gourmet side for yourself.
Address: Italy
From $ 25
Borghese Gallery
Rome’s Borghese Gallery and Museum (Galleria Borghese), housed in a former villa of the eponymous family, houses a large part of the family’s vast collection of antiquities, paintings, and sculptures. Its 22 rooms across two floors showcase many important pieces including paintings by Titian, Raphael, Caravaggio, and Rubens. The city of Rome acquired the Villa Borghese in 1903, opening its collection and gardens to the public. The 1911 World Exposition was held in the park and some of the various countries’ pavilions still exist.
The Basics
Advance reservations are required to visit the Borghese Gallery and numbers are limited at any given time, so it’s best to book tickets in advance. Travelers can book skip-the-line tickets, a private or small-group tour, or opt for a Segway tour of the greater Borghese Villa. Art historians often lead small-group tours, which add context to the artwork you’re seeing. Even without a tour, you will feel the impressionable impact of Raphael’s The Deposition and Caravaggio’s David with the Head of Goliath, two of the museum’s most famous works.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Borghese Gallery is a must-see for art lovers in Rome.
- Even with a required advance-purchase ticket, there can be long entry lines. To avoid the wait, consider a private, skip-the-line guided tour.
- The Borghese limits the number of people who can enter and the time they can stay (two hours), so it’s a great place to enjoy fine art and avoid the crowds found at most Roman art museums.
- Wi-Fi is free to all visitors.
- The Borghese features accessible restrooms and a small elevator to the second floor.
How to Get There
The Borghese Gallery is in central Rome, located within the Villa Borghese. You’ll find the Villa Borghese up the Spanish Steps on the path to the left. You can catch Metro Linea A to Flaminio in the Piazza del Popolo, from which the museum is located up the hill.
When to Get There
The Borghese Gallery is open from 8:30am to 7:30pm Tuesday through Sunday. Like most Roman attractions, the Borghese is at its busiest in summer. It’s best to purchase your ticket for early in the morning, as that is often when it is quieter.
The Borghese Family Effect
The Borgheses were a powerful Italian family who rose to prominence and wealth after one member became Pope Paul V in 1552 and gave power and titles to many family members. One such was the pope’s nephew, Cardinal Scipione Borghese, who built the Villa Borghese and Borghese Gardens in the 17th century to hold parties and house his private art collections. He was a patron of the famous artist Bernini, so many of Bernini’s sculptures—including Apollo and Daphne and David—are held in the Borghese collection.
Address: Piazzale del Museo Borghese, 5, 00187, Italy
Hours: Open Tues - Sun 8:30am - 7:30pm
Admission: €22 for adults
From $ 29
Brancacci Chapel (Cappella Brancacci)
Inside the Santa Maria del Carmine church in Florence’s Oltrarno neighborhood is a particularly famous chapel, the Brancacci Chapel. It’s famous not for who is buried there or who the chapel honors, but for the art that decorates it.
The cycle of frescoes that adorn the walls of the Brancacci Chapel were painted largely by Masaccio. He began work in 1424 when he was only 21 years old. Masaccio died only six years later in Rome, leaving the frescoes unfinished. Some were later completed by Filippino Lippi.
After some restoration work, the chapel - called by some the “Sistine Chapel of the early Renaissance" - has been cleaned of centuries of dirt, making the frescoes appear almost as colorful as they might have been when they were first painted. Among the more famous panels is Masaccio’s “The Expulsion from the Garden of Eden” and “Payment of the Tribute Money.”
The drab exterior of the church belies the art inside, so it’s easy to miss if you don’t know what you’re looking for. Tours of the Oltrarno often include the Brancacci Chapel.
Practical Info
Reservations to see the Brancacci Chapel are free, but they are recommended if you’re not booked on a tour that includes a stop in the church.
Address: Piazza del Carmine 14, Florence 50124, Italy
Hours: Mon & Wed-Sat 10am-5pm; Sun & religious holidays 1pm-5pm
Admission: €6 adults; €4.50 ages 18-25 (under 18 free)
From $ 16
Ara Pacis Museum (Museo dell'Ara Pacis)
Since opening its doors in 2006, the Ara Pacis Museum has caused more than its fair share of controversy, with its modernist glass and travertine façade splitting public opinion. The futuristic building, the work of architect Richard Meir, was one of Rome’s first major post-war architectural works and was built to house one of the city’s most significant ancient artworks.
Whatever your opinion of the museum itself, there’s no disputing the magnificence of its star exhibit – the Ara Pacis, or Altar of Peace, which dates back to 9 BC. The elaborate Roman sculpture is a gigantic marble altar towering over 35 feet (11 meters) high and built by the Emperor Augustus to symbolize peace in the Roman Empire. Today, the protected monument is preserved and displayed in its full glory, with the original structure augmented by reproductions of the panels already on display in the Villa Medici, the Vatican and the Louvre.
Practical Info
The Ara Pacis Museum is located on Lungotevere in Augusta in central Rome and is open daily from 9:30am to 7:30pm. Adult admission is €10.50.
Address: Museo dell Ara Pacis, Lungotevere in Augusta, Rome 00100, Italy
Hours: Daily 9:30am–7:30pm
Admission: €10.50
From $ 45
Bovolo Staircase (Scala Contarini del Bovolo)
Tucked down a Venice side street near the Grand Canal, Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo is worth a detour for its Bovolo Staircase (Scala Contarini del Bovolo). Named for the Venetian word for snail, this spiral staircase—the most famous in Venice—is housed in a cylindrical tower with open arches that climbs the facade, offering beautiful views over the city.
The Basics
The Scala Contarini del Bovolo was commissioned by Pietro Contarini at the end of the 15th century, and built by Giorgio Spavento in perfect synthesis to the original palace’s six floors of loggias designed by Giovanni Candi. A dramatic series of white stone arches spiral more than 90 feet (27 meters) up the imposing brick tower and seem inspired by the coils of a snail shell; at the top of the 80 steps, the belvedere has wonderful views over the Venetian rooftops.
Though it’s the city’s most famous staircase, Bovolo is also somewhat of a hidden treasure, and visits to this architectural gem are often a highlight of off-the-beaten-track city tours. Consider joining a Secret Venice tour to explore the lesser-known corners of the city along with must-see sights such as St. Mark’s Square, the Doge’s Palace, and the Rialto Bridge. You can also pair walking tours with a gondola ride, so you can explore the city both by land and water.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Bovolo Staircase is especially interesting for architecture enthusiasts.
- Be sure to bring your camera to capture the lovely views from the staircase and rooftop scenic overlook.
- Tours of hidden Venice require a bit of walking, so wear comfortable shoes and a sun hat.
- Due to steps and no elevator to reach the belvedere, the Bovolo Staircase is not accessible to wheelchairs or strollers.
How to Get There
The Bovolo Staircase is located at the Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo, near Campo Manin in the San Marco district of Venice. Take vaporetto line 1 or 2 to the Rialto stop from the train station. Trains to Venice run from most major cities in Italy, including Rome and Florence.
When to Get There
Bovolo Staircase is wonderful any time of day and year. If you’re a photography buff, visit in the late afternoon (before its 6pm closing time) to capture the city of Venice as the sun sets.
Bovolo on the Silver Screen
The Bovolo Staircase became popular among visitors to Venice after being immortalized on screen in Orson Welles’ 1952 adaptation of Shakespeare’s Othello.
Address: Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo, San Marco 4299, Venezia 30124, Italy
From $ 8
Como-Brunate Funicular Railway (Funicolare Como-Brunate)
The historic single-track Como–Brunate Funicular Railway has been carrying passengers up and down the steep mountain slope between the lakeside city of Como and the village of Brunate since 1894. The 7-minute ride passes through a scenic stretch of countryside with sweeping views over Italy’s Lake Como as far as the Swiss Alps.
The Basics
Once powered by steam engine, the Como–Brunate Funicular Railway (Funicolare Como–Brunate) now runs with an electric motor and travels through a lengthy tunnel before emerging to panoramic views of Lake Como and the surrounding area, including Villa d'Este, Villa Erba, and Monte Rosa. If Brunate, perched 2,362 feet (720 meters) above Como, isn’t high enough for you, after exiting the cable car you can continue another 30 minutes along a rough mule track to San Maurizio and then take 140-plus steps to the top of the Volta lighthouse. Either buy a return ticket for the funicular back down to Como, or take one of the many hiking trails that wind their way down to the lakeshore. Scenic trips on the Como–Brunate Funicular Railway are included in many Como day trips from Milan and as part of small-group hikes from Como.
Things to Know Before You Go
- With views like these, you will definitely want to bring your camera.
- Kids love the dizzying, steep trip up and down the mountainside.
- If you are headed up the mountainside to hike, be sure to wear appropriate footwear and clothing, and bring plenty of water.
- The funicular is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
How to Get There
The Como–Brunate cable car entrance is located at Piazza Alcide de Gasperi, about 10 minutes by bus from the railway station through the Como city center. From the bus terminal on Via Torno, it’s an easy 5-minute walk to the funicular. Lake Como (Lago di Como) is a popular day trip from Milan, the bustling capital of Lombardy.
When to Get There
The cable car runs all year, but the best time to visit the region is from late spring to early fall, when the countryside is lush and the high altitude offers a respite from the heat.
Como’s Main Sights
The city of Como sits on the shores of Lake Como and offers a number of interesting attractions. Those not to miss include Piazza Cavour; the Tempio Voltiano, a museum dedicated to scientist and inventor Alessandro Volta; and the neoclassical Villa Olmo.
Address: Piazza Alcide de Gasperi, 4, Como CO, Italy
From $ 69
Ancient Ostia
Ancient Ostia (Ostia Antica), one of the best-preserved archaeological sites in Italy, was once a thriving port city of roughly 100,000 inhabitants conquered by Rome. As the Roman empire expanded, its capital city needed a larger port, and Ostia was eventually abandoned and buried under silt as the course of the Tiber River changed. This layer of mud protected the ancient Roman town from the ravages of time. It is considered by some to be the “better Pompeii."
The Basics
There are a number of important sights in the Ostia Antica archaeological park, including the necropolis, the Baths of Neptune, the amphitheater, the Forum, the Collegiate Temple, and Via Casa di Diana, a main street lined with original apartment buildings and taverns. Given the historical importance of the port city and the collection in its archaeological museum, visiting on a private tour with in-depth explanation adds another layer to any experience. If visiting with kids, consider booking a family-friendly, small-group guided tour. The site is most often visited on half-day tours from Rome.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Bring a hat and sunblock as the archaeological park is outdoors and the area gets hot in summer.
- Ostia Antica is quite close to Rome, making a half-day tour an easy side trip.
- It takes about 2.5 hours to visit the archaeological park with a guide on foot, so wear comfortable clothes and shoes.
How to Get There
If not taking an Ostia tour that includes transportation from Rome, the best way to reach Ostia Antica is by train. Take Rome's metro to the Piramide stop, which is also the Roma Porta San Paolo train station. Follow the signs to Lido, and take a train to Ostia Antica.
When to Get There
Ostia Antica can get hot midday in summer. From June to October, visit in the early morning or late afternoon to beat the heat. No matter when you go, keep in mind that the site is outside—dress accordingly.
Visiting Ostia Beach
Modern Ostia, near the Ostia Antica site, is a popular resort town that’s perfect for a beach break. Visit the archaeological ruins in the cool morning hours, then relax on one of the town's beaches in the afternoon.
Address: Viale dei Romagnoli 717, Ostia Antica 00119, Italy
Hours: Open Tues - Sun 8:30am - 4:30pm and from 6pm-7pm
Admission: Adults: € 8
From $ 60
Bourbon Tunnel (Galleria Borbonica)
Travelers looking to venture back in time can explore the eight ramps that delve some 33 yards deep into the depths of Chiaia on an incredible tour of the Bourbon Tunnel, or Galleria Borbonica. What was once a veterinary laboratory, and even earlier an escape route from the Royale Palace to a barrack in Via della Pace, is today one of Naples' top attractions for history lovers wanting to gain a deeper understanding of the city's culture and heritage.
Visitors can choose from a number of tours designed to highlight this unique attraction that operated as a military hospital during World War II and even as the Hall Judicial Outpost. Guides share in-depth details and stories while visitors navigate the tunnel's depths. Travelers say that while it can be difficult to find, the experience of stepping back in time and far below the Naples' surface is not to be missed!
Practical Info
Galleria Borbonica is located at Vico del Grottone, 4 in Naples. It is accessible by bus or tram to Piazza Vittoria and walking to Domenico Morelli car park, where the entrance to the Bourbon Tunnel is located. Tours take place on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
Address: Vico del Grottone, 4, Naples, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 12