Choose from 645 Fun Things to Do in Italy
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Castello Estense
This iconic castle located in the heart of Ferrara dates back to the 1300s and stands as an homage to an ancient era that still attracts travelers and history lovers to its towering gates. Visitors who want to explore this scenic destination will find restored prisons, barracks and weapon stores, in addition to gardens, a council hall, and dozens of other restored and renovated rooms that showcase what life here was like thousands of years ago.
Travelers say the idyllic drawbridge, Giants’ Room and the old school dungeon are some of the spots in this massive castle that are not to be missed. And while the castle’s interior is still covered with frescos, visitors say some are badly in need of restoration to return them to their original beauty.
Practical Info
Castello Estense is located in the center of Ferrara near the intersection of Viale Cavour and Corso Ercole I d’Este. It is open daily except Mondays and hours vary according to the season. Entrance is 8 euros for adults. Guided tours are available for 4 euros.
Address: Largo Castello, 1, Ferrara, Italy
Hours: Open Tues-Sun and hours vary according to the season
Admission: Adults: 8 euros
From $ 57
Bari Cruise Port
Bari is one of the largest cities on southern Italy’s Adriatic coast and a major cruise ship port and ferry hub for routes to Greece, Turkey, Croatia, Serbia, Montenegro, and Albania. Before exploring the surrounding region of Puglia or heading farther afield by ferry, tour Bari’s charming historical center and seafront promenade.
The Basics
Highlights of Bari’s old town (Bari Vecchia or San Nicola) include the Romanesque Basilica di San Nicola, dedicated to the Saint Nicholas the rest of the world knows as Santa Claus; Via Sparano, the city’s elegant boulevard lined with designer shops; and Castello Svevo, a castle now used for art exhibitions. The city also has a lively market, busting restaurants and cafés, and vibrant nightlife.
Bari’s old town is surrounded by a vast urban sprawl of apartment blocks and office buildings, so the best way to visit is by joining a private or small-group tour that includes a transfer from the port to the center of the historical district.
Things to Know Before You Go
- It is at least a 20-minute walk through the busy port area to reach the historical center; booking a private transfer or taxi is the best way to reach Bari’s more picturesque quarter.
- Most churches, including the Basilica di San Nicola, require clothing that covers shoulders and knees to enter.
- Many of Bari’s highlights are outdoors. Bring a hat and sunscreen in summer.
- Tours of Bari require a fair amount of walking; comfortable footwear and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended.
How to Get There
Shore excursions and private tours generally include port pickup and drop-off, though there is a local bus that stops right outside the port terminal, taxis, and a shuttle bus. It’s possible to walk to Bari’s historical core from the port, but it’s not a particularly pleasant stroll.
Port Information
The official language at the Bari cruise port is Italian, although the local dialect is a hybrid of Italian and Greek surviving from the town’s fishing-port days. Not a lot of English is spoken, and due to its busy ferry terminal, the port area can be a Tower of Babel of languages. The currency is the euro.
Address: Piazzale Cristoforo Colombo, 1, Bari, Puglia 70122, Italy
From $ 12
Castel Sant'Angelo National Museum
Don’t be fooled by the name—Rome's Castel Sant'Angelo was built as a tomb, not a castle. Commissioned by emperor Hadrian in AD 139, this imposing cylindrical mausoleum held the ashes of Hadrian and subsequent Roman emperors until becoming a fortress in AD 401. In the 14th century, a fortified corridor between the castle and St. Peter’s Basilica was built, and it became a papal residence. Today, it’s home to the Castel Sant'Angelo National Museum and its collection of art, archaeological finds, and weaponry.
The Basics
Castel Sant’Angelo is located just outside the walls of Vatican City, and many visitors combine a walking tour of St. Peter’s Basilica with a museum visit and a stroll across the picturesque Ponte Sant’Angelo bridge into central Rome. There can be a wait to enter if you don’t book skip-the-line museum tickets in advance, especially during summer. Castel Sant'Angelo and the Colosseum are two of Rome's most stunning sights to visit after sunset, so consider a Rome night tour to see both the castle and amphitheater beautifully illuminated.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The five floors inside Castel Sant'Angelo are a maze of rooms and corridors, so wear comfortable shoes.
- The large terrace, where Puccini's heroine jumped to her death in his opera Tosca, has spectacular views over the Eternal City.
- Kids enjoy the large collection of historic weapons and armor displayed in the museum.
- The sumptuous Pope Paul III Papal Apartments are decorated with perfectly preserved Renaissance frescoes, a highlight for art aficionados.
- There is an elevator to the fifth floor, but most of the museum is not accessible to wheelchairs.
How to Get There
Castel Sant'Angelo is located along Lungotevere Castello on the banks of the Tiber River, a short walk from St. Peter's Square. The Ottaviano station on Line A of the city’s underground metro system is about a five-minute walk away.
When to Get There
Like all of Rome's most famous historic sites, Castel Sant'Angelo is most crowded during the middle of the day and in summer. To avoid crowds, visit in winter, shortly after opening, or before closing.
Sant’Angelo and the Plague
The name Castel Sant'Angelo dates to AD 590, when the archangel Michael is said to have appeared on top of the fortress to mark the end of the plague that had ripped through Rome.
Address: Lungotevere Castello, 50, Rome 00186, Italy
Hours: Tues - Sun: 9am - 7pm
Admission: Adults: € 10.50
From $ 3
Castelvecchio Bridge (Ponte Scaligero)
A symbol of Verona, the 14th-century Castelvecchio Bridge spanning the Adige River had the largest supporting arch span in the world when it was completed in 1356. The original was destroyed during World War II, but a new bridge was rebuilt with the same red-brick crenellations as its predecessor.
The Basics
Castelvecchio Bridge (Ponte di Castelvecchio) connects on one side of the river to the city’s historic castle, from which the bridge gets its name. The bridge is also known as the Scaliger Bridge (Ponte Scaligero in Italian), after the powerful family that ruled Verona in the 1300s. French troops destroyed the tower on one end of the bridge in the late 1700s, and retreating German troops bombed the entire structure during World War II; what stands today in its place is an almost exact replica of the original bridge.
Most walking tours of Verona follow Corso Castelvecchio across the Castelvecchio Bridge to the river’s left bank and the old castle, now home to the Museo di Castelvecchio with a collection of art and weaponry. Private tours include other nearby attractions like Lamberti Tower (Torre dei Lamberti) in Piazza delle Erbe, Juliet’s House (Casa di Giulietta), Piazza Bra, the Basilica of San Zeno Maggiore, and the Arena di Verona.
Things to Know Before You Go
- With no traffic and fortified ramparts, the bridge and castle make for an interesting sight for young kids.
- The Castelvecchio Bridge is pedestrian-only, which makes it easier to take your time with photographs of and from the bridge.
- Walking tours of Verona cover a lot of ground, so wear comfortable shoes and clothes.
- The bridge is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
How to Get There
Verona, one of the most important cities in Italy’s northern region of Veneto, is well connected by train to Milan, Florence, and Venice. The Ponte Scaligero is in the city’s historic center, a short walk from the main train station.
When to Get There
As the setting of one of the greatest love stories of all time—Romeo and Juliet—Verona is particularly lovely to visit on Valentine’s Day, when the city fills with romantics for the Verona in Love festival, and a number of events and exhibitions are held.
The Stone Bridge
Verona’s other famous bridge spanning the Adige is Ponte Pietra, a Roman arch bridge and the oldest bridge in Verona, completed in 100 BC.
Practical Info
Address: Verona, Veneto 37121, Italy
From $ 52
Castelmola
The town of Taormina sits high above the Mediterranean Sea, so it already boasts some of the loveliest views in Sicily. But the tiny town of Castelmola, which sits above Taormina, can argue its views are even better.
Little Castelmola is just over 1,700 feet above sea level - for comparison, Taormina sits at just under 670 feet - and is a great hiking destination from Taormina. It’s a challenging hike, as you’re going uphill and up staircases almost from the time you leave Taormina until you arrive in Castelmola, but the views and town are worth it.
It’s true that you can see Taormina’s beaches and the Mt. Etna volcano from the Teatre Greco in Taormina, but from Castelmola you can see all of that plus the views on the other side of the mountain. From Castelmola, you’ve got a 360-degree view - and that’s hard to beat. The town itself invites you to stop and stay awhile as you recover from your uphill hike, with places to eat and get a drink, as well as just relax and take in the view.
Sights in Castelmola include a cathedral and several small churches, as well as the 13th century castle that gives the town its name. Many visitors partake in the local “vino di mandorla” - almond wine - as part of their hike recovery, as it’s refreshing when served cold.
Little Castelmola is just over 1,700 feet above sea level - for comparison, Taormina sits at just under 670 feet - and is a great hiking destination from Taormina. It’s a challenging hike, as you’re going uphill and up staircases almost from the time you leave Taormina until you arrive in Castelmola, but the views and town are worth it.
It’s true that you can see Taormina’s beaches and the Mt. Etna volcano from the Teatre Greco in Taormina, but from Castelmola you can see all of that plus the views on the other side of the mountain. From Castelmola, you’ve got a 360-degree view - and that’s hard to beat. The town itself invites you to stop and stay awhile as you recover from your uphill hike, with places to eat and get a drink, as well as just relax and take in the view.
Sights in Castelmola include a cathedral and several small churches, as well as the 13th century castle that gives the town its name. Many visitors partake in the local “vino di mandorla” - almond wine - as part of their hike recovery, as it’s refreshing when served cold.
Address: Castelmola, Sicily, Italy
From $ 70
Case Romane del Celio
It's awe-inspiring to walk through the ruins of ancient Roman temples and amphitheaters, but to bring history to a human level you've got see where those ancient people lived. You can do that at the Case Romane del Celio.
Underneath the Basilica of Santi Givanni e Paolo, the Case Romane del Celio is a network of ancient Roman houses. There are homes from different periods – one from the 2nd century, another from the 3rd century – and for different levels of society. There are beautiful frescoed walls and a small museum displaying some of the artifacts unearthed during the excavation of the site.
Practical Info
The Case Romane del Celio is open Thursday-Monday from 10am-1pm and 3pm-6pm, closed Tuesday-Wednesday. Tickets cost €8 for adults, €6 for children ages 12-18, and children under 12 are admitted for free.
Address: Clivo di Scauro, snc, Rome, Italy
Hours: Thursday-Monday from 10am-1pm and 3pm-6pm, closed Tuesday-Wednesday.
Admission: Adults €8; Children 12-18 €6; Children under 12 free
From $ 35
Ear of Dionysius (Orecchio di Dionisio)
Set in the hills of the Sicilian town of Syracuse is a large cave with the evocative name of the Ear of Dionysius. The name does not, however, refer to the Greek god. The name, Orecchio di Dionisio in Italian, was given to the cave by 16th-century painter Caravaggio, who named it after a vicious fifth-century BCE ruler of Syracuse. He is said to have used the cave as a political prison, and the cave's incredible acoustics gave him the ability to eavesdrop on his enemies. Another legend says he once used the cave as a torture chamber.
While the legends are unlikely to be true, the name stuck. The primary acoustic position in the cave is no longer accessible to visitors due to safety concerns, but the cavern is still an impressive sight.
Practical Info
The Ear of Dionysius is part of a larger archaeological site that also includes a Greek theatre. The park is open Tuesday-Saturday 8:30am-4:30pm, and Mondays and holidays from 8:30am-12:30pm. Admission to the park is €10.
Address: 2 Viale Giulio Emanuele Rizzo, Syracuse, Sicily 96100, Italy
Hours: Park is open Tuesday-Saturday 8:30am-4:30pm, and Mondays and holidays from 8:30am-12:30pm
Admission: €10
From $ 28
Castel dell'Ovo
Castel dell’Ovo, the imposing fortified castle on the island of Megaride in the Bay of Naples, is one of Naples’ most famous monuments. Connected to the mainland by a causeway, the castle—home to the Museum of Ethno-Prehistory—offers sweeping views over the city and Mount Vesuvius in the distance.
The Basics
The site on which Naples’ (Napoli’s) iconic castle now stands has a long history, beginning as a settlement for Greek colonists before hosting a monastery and then a 12th-century Norman fortress. The current castle was built during the Aragonese dynasty in the 15th century, and today, the 19th-century fishing village of Borgo Marinari, known for its excellent seafood restaurants and marina, sits at the base of the castle.
Castel dell'Ovo, one of the city’s most important sights, is included on most Naples walking, bike, and Segway tours along with other landmarks like Piazza del Plebiscito and Castel Nuovo, also known as the Maschio Angioino, the city’s inland fortress. As the largest city on the coast of Campania, Naples is a transportation hub and a popular day trip from nearby destinations like the Amalfi Coast and Capri.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Castel dell’Ovo is a must-see for history and architecture buffs.
- Admission to the castle and the museum is free.
- The inner halls of the castle are open to the public only during special events and exhibitions; the ramparts and towers are always open.
- There is an elevator from the ground floor to the ramparts, making the castle mostly accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
How to Get There
Castel dell’Ovo is located in the Bay of Naples (also called the Gulf of Naples) just off the lungomare (coastal road) between the San Ferdinando and Chiaia neighborhoods. Bus 151 from the train station and 140 from the port stop at Castel dell’Ovo.
When to Get There
The castle is open Monday through Saturday from 8:30am to 7pm, and Sundays and holidays from 8:30am to 1:30pm. The Prehistoric Museum is open only on weekends from 10am to 1pm. As Naples is one of Italy’s most visited cities, its sights can be very crowded in the high-season summer months. Visit in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds and to take advantage of the best light for snapping photos from the castle’s towers.
The Egg Castle
The origins of the castle’s name comes from a legend about the Roman poet Virgil, who is said to have placed a magical egg in the foundations beneath where the castle now stands. As long as the egg stays intact, Castel dell’Ovo will remain standing.
Address: via Caracciolo, Naples, 80133, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 39
Castel Nuovo (Maschio Angioino)
Castel Nuovo, known locally as Maschio Angioino, has the imposing stone walls, soaring turrets, and crenellated ramparts of a storybook medieval castle. Built as the new royal residence between 1279 and 1282 by Charles I of Anjou, it is one of Naples' most striking buildings and home of the city’s Civic Museum.
The Basics
Most of the current "New Castle" dates from the 15th century, when the Aragonese monarch Alfonso V carried out a number of renovations to the original building, including its white marble triumphal arch. At the end of the 1600s, Naples was annexed by Spain and the castle was downgraded to military fortress, but Charles III moved back in as king of Naples in 1734 and restored it to its former glory. Today, visitors can tour the castle's halls and courtyard, 14th-century Palatine Chapel decorated with fragments of frescoes from the Giotto school, and Museo Civico.
This castle is best visited with a tour guide as part of a Naples Segway tour or walking tour that includes visits to other landmarks such as the Castel dell'Ovo and Royal Palace. Alternatively, a visit to Castel Nuovo can be combined with a Neapolitan food tour or an archaeological tour of sites in Naples and nearby Pompeii.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Museo Civico is closed on Sundays, but the other areas of the castle remain open to visitors.
- The castle and museum are completely accessible to wheelchairs via elevators and ramps.
- Exploring the historic halls and towers of Castel Nuovo is especially fun for kids.
- There are great views from the castle over the Bay of Naples and city center, so be sure to bring your camera.
How to Get There
Castel Nuovo is located in the center of Naples (Napoli) near the port; metro line 1 and bus line R2 both have Piazza Municipio stops near the castle. Naples is the largest city in Southern Italy and a main transport hub, so an easy day trip from Rome or Sorrento.
When to Get There
The castle is open free of charge each Sunday, which means that it can be very crowded. Better to plan a visit on the other days of the week, when opening hours are from 9am to 7pm. Visit at night to see the castle illuminated.
The Museo Civico
The art collection in the castle's Civic Museum includes 14th- and 15th-century frescoes and sculptures, as well as paintings by Neapolitan artists from the 17th to 20th century.
Address: Piazza Munipio, Naples, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 35
Castello Bevilacqua
The town of Bevilacqua, about 31 miles from Verona, developed around (and is now mainly known for) the Castello Bevilacqua, a fortified castle dating from the 14th century.
A 6th-century fortified settlement was expanded and turned into Castello Bevilacqua (Bevilacqua Castle) by a Venetian count, Guglielmo Bevilacqua. The castle was beautified and turned into a more liveable villa in the 16th century, severely damaged by fire in the late 19th century, and later used as both a school and a home for the elderly. Finally in the 1990s, the castle was acquired by a family that restored it to its 16th-century splendor.
Today, the Castello Bevilacqua is a hotel and a venue for special events - it’s very popular for weddings - including concerts and other performances. There is a beautiful rooftop garden (which dates from the 16th-century design), an on-site restaurant in one of the oldest parts of the castle, and a well-stocked wine cellar.
In addition to the hotel and event spaces, the castle is also home to an armory museum in what was once likely part of the old kitchens, a collection of antique furniture, 18th-century Murano glass chandeliers, some tools like the ones used by scribes in the Middle Ages, and there are many beautiful frescoes on the walls that have been restored.
Practical Info
There are classes for children held at the Castello Bevilacqua that include leatherwork, paper making, archery, and the art of using pen and ink as scribes once did.
Address: Via Roma 50, Bevilacqua, Veneto 37040, Italy
Hours: 9:30am-6:30pm
From $ 22
Castel Gandolfo
Considered by many to be one of Italy’s most scenic towns, the quiet hamlet of Castel Gandolfo is located in the Alban Hills overlooking Lake Albano. With fewer than 10,000 people calling this quaint village home, Castel Gandolfo offers travelers a picturesque escape from some of the country’s larger, more urban destinations. The place is so popular among locals in search of the serene that even the pope vacations in this beautiful resort town.
Travelers will find idyllic summer villas and cottages—some dating back to the 17th century—in addition to some remarkable religious architecture, like the iconic Church of Our Lady of the Lake. It’s possible to visit the Apostolic Palace of Castel Gandolfo, where the pope spends his summers, as well as the Vatican Observatory. Castel Gandolfo is also home to ancient religious ruins, a former castle and a stunning hidden natural bath inside a darkened cave.
Practical Info
The town of Castel Gandolfo is located about 15 miles southeast from Rome in Italy’s Lazio region. It’s best to visit in summer and spring when weather is dry and pleasant.
Address: Castel Gandolfo, Italy
From $ 69
Barolo
The town of Barolo in Piedmont is very small – less than 1,000 residents – but since it produces one of the most sought-after wines on any Italian wine list, it attracts quite a bit of attention.
Barolo is roughly 30 miles southeast of Turin, not far from Alba. The tiny town is easy to explore on foot – although some of it is quite hilly, it's small enough that you can take your time. The countryside around Barolo is covered in vineyards, most of which are responsible for growing the nebbiolo grapes used to make the town's namesake wine.
Wine lovers will likely want to explore the area's vineyards, but don't overlook the town itself. There are a number of wine shops right in Barolo, and many winemakers have storefronts there, too, where you can taste (and buy) their wines.
Practical Info
Barolo is just nine miles south of Alba, and it's easiest to explore the whole area (including the vineyards) by renting a car. If you're staying in Alba, however, there are local buses you can take to get to Barolo.
Address: Barolo, Cuneo 12060, Italy
From $ 9
Casa Milan
Opened in 2014, the striking Casa Milan is the headquarters of Milan’s leading football team, A.C. Milan, located just 10 minutes from the famous San Siro Stadium. Housed in a futuristic glass-fronted façade, embossed with the team’s red and black logo, the Casa Milan is the ultimate destination for AC Milan fans, home to a museum, a well-stocked souvenir shop and the Cucino Milanello restaurant.
The highlight for football enthusiasts is the Mondo Milan Museum, where interactive exhibitions and multi-media presentations take visitors on a journey through the triumphs and trials of the popular football club. The huge collection of memorabilia on display includes some rare and much-coveted items, and there’s also a Hall of Fame, Trophies Room and Ballon d'Or Winners Room to marvel over.
Practical Info
Casa Milan is located in the Portello district in northwest Milan and is open daily from 10am- 8pm (shop), 8am-8.30pm (restaurant) and 10am-7pm (museum). Adult admission to the museum at the time of writing is €18.
Address: Via Aldo Rossi, 8, Milano 20149, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 68
Gianicolo Hill
Ancient Rome was famously composed of seven hills, but there are even more hills in modern Rome that weren't even included back then. One of them is the Janiculum Hill, or Gianicolo in Italian.
Gianicolo Hill sits on the western side of the Tiber River, near the Trastevere neighborhood, and takes its name from the god Janus – there was once an ancient cult to him located on the hill. Today, attractions on the hill include the San Pietro in Montorio church, a Bramante-designed shrine on the supposed location of St. Peter's crucifixion, and a botanical garden associated with the University of Rome. But the main draw is the view overlooking Rome – it's one of the best in the city.
Practical Info
The Gianicolo Hill is a public place, so it's open at all hours and it costs nothing to explore. There are several buses that will get you up to the central Piazza Giuseppe Garibaldi if you don't feel like walking, too.
Address: Via del Gianicolo, Rome, Italy
From $ 65
Castello Sforzesco
Il Castello Sforzesco (Sforza Castle) is a medieval fortress built by the Visconti dynasty that became home to Milan’s ruling Sforza family in 1450. Stark and domineering, the historic brick castle has massive round battlements, an imposing tower overlooking the central courtyard and surrounding Parco Sempione gardens, and defensive walls designed by Leonardo da Vinci. Today the castle houses a number of world-class museums and galleries.
The Basics
The castle is among the most important cultural sights in Milan, together with the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie—where Leonardo Da Vinci’s Last Supper is located—and the Cathedral. Lines can be long to enter its museums, so book a skip-the-line tour of this vast complex to avoid a delay at the entrance or join a walking tour of the city that includes stops at some of its most famous monuments and a visit to the castle. Certain parts of the castle, including the crenellated ramparts and the covered "Ghirlanda" passage, are only accessible by private tour.
Things to Know Before You Go
- If traveling with kids, consider taking a family-friendly tour of the castle and its museums. Kids especially enjoy the Museum of Musical Instruments and surrounding gardens.
- Il Castello Sforzesco is open every day of the week, but the museums inside are closed on Mondays.
- The castle is accessible to visitors with limited mobility.
- Large bags and backpacks must be checked in the cloakroom at the entrance.
How to Get to There
Castello Sforzesco is in Piazza Castello on the edge of central Milano, which can be reached from Piazza del Duomo and Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II by following Via Dante. The three nearest underground metro stops are Cairoli, Lanza, and Cadorna FN.
When to Get There
The museums offer free admission every Tuesday afternoon and the first Sunday of each month, so they’re very busy during those times. Avoid the hassle of the crowds by visiting on weekdays or Saturday.
Artistic Highlights in the Castello Sforzesco Museums
The Museum of Ancient Art holds a number of statues by Michelangelo, including the famous Pieta Rondanini. Upstairs, the Pinacoteca is home to a collection of paintings by masters including Titian and Bellini, while the adjacent Museum of Applied Arts and Museum of Musical Instruments are also worth a visit. In addition, there are excellent Egyptian and Prehistoric collections in this large museum complex.
Address: Piazza Castello, Milan 20121, Italy
Hours: Castle open daily from 7am - 7:30pm. Castle museums open Tues-Sun from 9am - 5:30pm.
Admission: Free. Admission to museums: € 5
From $ 25
Duomo Ravello
Built in the 11th century, the Duomo, which faces the town square, is the spiritual and social center of Ravello. The cathedral is a combination of Baroque and Romanesque architecture and has undergone extensive restorations over the past 900 years, with its modern white façade a result of its last major renovation in 1931. The church’s bell tower dates back to the 13th century and is Moorish and Byzantine in style.
The Duomo features three naves, separated by two colonnades, each of which is formed by eight columns of granite, transept and crypt. The famous bronze doors were made using the relief technique, and are unique in that there aren’t many bronze church doors still in existence in Italy, particularly of this kind.
The cathedral's pulpit was built in 1272 and is supported by six spiraled columns sitting atop marble lions. Across from the pulpit is the Ambo of the Epistles, with its ornate byzantine mosaics. The church’s marble chapel was built during the 17th century and is dedicated to St. Pantaleone, a 3rd-century Ravello healer, who was beheaded after converting to Christianity. A small ampul of the saint’s blood is kept here, and is said to liquefy each year on the anniversary of his martyrdom.
Practical Info
Ravello is easily explored on foot. SITA buses run frequently between Ravello and Amalfi, and taxis are available near the main bus stop in Ravello. The Duomo cathedral has an adjoining museum containing various significant sculptures and other works of art.
Address: Piazza Duomo, Ravello, Amalfi Coast, Italy 84010, Italy
Hours: Open daily 8am-1pm and 4:30pm-7pm
From $ 44
Castel Romano Designer Outlet
Italy is known for its fashion and design: Some of the world’s most recognized luxury clothing and home decor labels are proudly “made in Italy.” If you love elegant Italian style, head to Castel Romano Designer Outlet to shop for famous designer brands such as Valentino and Versace at a deep discount.
The Basics
With almost 150 stores offering discounts of up to 70% off of retail prices, this outlet center is popular with bargain hunters. The collection of branded boutiques and factory outlet shops is laid out in an open-air plan with architecture vaguely inspired by the Roman forum. There are also restaurants and cafés, an on-site tax refund service office, and special events held throughout the year.
Consider joining a guided tour including transportation so you can shop 'til you drop without having to worry about getting back and forth between the outlets and Rome's city center. Small-group tours often include pickup and drop-off at Rome hotels, or you can opt for a private tour that includes a shopping assistant for the day.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The shopping center has a number of stores for children, an outdoor play area, and frequently entertainment, so this is a fun excursion for the entire family.
- All the stores in the outlet center accept credit cards or cash in euros.
- Castel Romano Designer Outlet is in a beautiful setting mostly outdoors, so be sure to dress for the weather. Also wear comfortable shoes, as there is a lot of ground to cover.
- The outlet center is entirely accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
How to Get There
Castel Romano is located on Via del Ponte di Piscina Cupa in Agro Pontino, about 20 minutes outside of Rome in Lazio. Shuttle bus service runs multiple times daily from the Via Marsala side of Rome's Termini Station, and free parking is available on-site.
When to Get There
The shopping center can be very crowded on weekends and holidays, so it's best to visit on a weekday. Italy has two main sale seasons that each last for about a month—beginning after January 1st and beginning after July 1st—when you can find even better bargains.
Brands at Castel Romano Designer Outlet
Shops at the outlet center include Italian brands like Roberto Cavalli, Salvatore Ferragamo, Moschino, and Versace, and international designers such as Hugo Boss, Calvin Klein, Jimmy Choo, Nike, and Tommy Hilfiger.
Address: Via del Ponte di Piscina Cupa, 64, Rome 00128, Italy
From $ 87
Giotto's Bell Tower
After Brunelleschi’s soaring dome, Giotto’s elegant bell tower (Campanile di Giotto) is perhaps the most recognized landmark emerging above the rooftops of Florence. Admire the intricate polychrome marble covering the entire 270-foot (82-meter) height, and climb the more than 400 steps to the top for one of the best views over Florence.
The Basics
Giotto’s bell tower is part of Florence's Duomo di Santa Maria del Fiore complex, which includes the cathedral, baptistery, dome, and crypt. Designed by Giotto in 1334, the Gothic tower is decorated in the same white, green, and pink marble that covers the adjacent Duomo. It’s divided into five distinct tiers decorated with arched windows, sculptural works from statues to bas-reliefs by della Robbia and Pisano, and geometric patterns of different colored stone.
Giotto’s bell tower is one of the most popular attractions in Florence, and booking a Duomo Complex tour that includes skip-the-line entrance to the tower, cathedral, and baptistery is essential to avoid long lines to enter. Many Florence sightseeing walking tours and shore excursions also visit highlights like the Uffizi, Accademia Gallery (Galleria dell'Accademia), and Piazzale Michelangelo.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Giotto’s bell tower is a must for first-time visitors to Florence. Kids especially love the exhilarating climb and vertiginous view from the top of the tower.
- There is a single skip-the-line ticket to enter all five parts of the Duomo complex—church, crypt, dome, bell tower, and baptistery—and the Museo dell'Opera. The ticket is good for 72 hours after the first use.
- There is a lot of ground to cover in the Duomo complex, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes if taking a guided tour.
- If you are also planning on visiting the church, choose clothing that covers your shoulders and legs.
- There is no elevator to the top of the bell tower, so the climb is not recommended for those with heart problems, vertigo, or limited mobility.
How to Get There
Giotto’s bell tower is in the Piazza del Duomo, just a 5-minute walk from the Santa Maria Novella train station in the historic center of Florence.
When to Get There
The Duomo complex in Tuscany’s capital city of Florence is one of the most visited attractions in Italy and can be very crowded during the summer months. The best time to tour the bell tower and complex is from November to March, when the city sights are less overrun with tourists.
The Duomo’s Second Eagle-Eye View
Florence’s Duomo complex offers two sweeping views over Florence: one from the top of Giotto’s bell tower and the second from Brunelleschi’s dome, which sits atop the Duomo itself. An important feat of engineering and architecture, the dome was completed in 1436 and is one of the most recognized symbols of the city today.
Address: Piazza del Duomo, Florence 50125, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 22
Duomo di Verona
Had Shakespeare’s tale of star-crossed lovers Romeo and Juliet ended happily ever after, the two may have wed in Verona’s beautiful 12th-century cathedral; and, in fact, travelers flock to the duomo on Romeo and Juliet-themed tours. The mix of Romanesque, Gothic, and Renaissance elements make this one of the most beautiful churches in Verona.
The Basics
The Duomo di Verona, in the historic city center, is built on top of an older proto-Christian church that was destroyed by an earthquake in 1117. The cathedral is dedicated to Santa Maria Assunta and is part of a complex that also includes the baptistery, the churches of San Giovanni in Fonte and Sant’Elena, the Canons’ cloister, and the Chapter Library of Verona Cathedral (Biblioteca Capitolare della Cattedrale di Verona).
Visit the Duomo di Verona on a city walking or hop-on hop-off bus tour that also includes skip-the-line entrance to the city’s famous Roman arena in Piazza Bra and other highlights. Popular themed tours in Verona include itineraries based on the plot of Romeo and Juliet, and a mystery tour exploring the murder of Veronese lord Cangrande della Scala, which remains unsolved after 700 years.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The cathedral is closed to tours during Mass.
- There is wheelchair access to the main church; the baptistery and secondary churches have steps at the entrances.
- Visitors are required to cover their shoulders and knees to enter the church.
How to Get There
The Duomo is on Piazza Vescovado in the historic center of Verona, about a 25-minute walk from the Porto Vescovo train station, or 15 minutes on bus 31.Verona is located about halfway between Venice and Milan in Italy’s Veneto region, an easy day trip from Venice or Lake Garda.
When to Get There
The Duomo is open all day from March to November, but it closes briefly at midday the rest of the year. Tourists are not allowed to visit during Mass, so check the schedule in advance.
Art and Sculpture in the Cathedral
Duomo highlights include the portal sculptures in the western doorway by Maestro Nicolo dating from 1139 (they are conveniently signed and dated); at the south door are sculptures depicting the story of Jonah, a lion, an angel, and the Virgin Mary. Two sculpted holy warriors, Oliver and Uliviero, guard the entrance. The interiors are decorated with frescoes by a number of artists from the first Veronese Renaissance and Titian's Assumption of the Virgin.
Address: Piazza Duomo, 21, Verona 37121, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 21
Castel del Monte
The UNESCO World Heritage-listed Castel del Monte was built in the latter half of the 12th century by Holy Roman Emperor Frederick II. At this time his realm stretched across much of southern Italy, and he was also responsible for the Castello Normanno-Svevo in Bari, the region’s biggest city, as well as a series of hunting lodges across his domain.
Sitting on a remote hillock among endless undulating plains, Castel del Monte is regarded as a masterpiece of medieval architecture, taking its influences from both Classical and Islamic building styles. Perfectly octagonal in shape, it is constructed around a courtyard and boasts a series of octagonal towers. Internally, it comprises two stories containing eight rooms in each, and although the rich furnishings and much of the decoration are long gone, the marble moldings around the great entrance doorway and the lack of fortifications suggest that the castle may have been a private residence rather than for military purposes. With the demise of the Sicilian empire, the castle was abandoned, and by the 16th century had fallen into disrepair; over the centuries it has been used variously as a prison, a refuge from plague and a hang out for bandits. Today it stands empty and proud, a monument to the political and cultural flowering that saw southern Italy come to prominence in the Middle Ages.
Practical Info
The castle is located in Andria, near Bari. From here, follow the SS170 for 11 miles (18 km). The site is open daily. From April through September, it is open from 10:15 a.m. to 7:45 p.m., and from October through March it is open from 9 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Admission costs €5 for adults, €2.50 for students and is free for those under 18.
Address: Andria, Italy
Hours: Daily Apr–Sept 10:15am–7:45pm;
Oct–March 9am–6.30pm
Admission: Adult: €5, Students: €2.50, Under 18 free
From $ 68