Choose from 645 Fun Things to Do in Italy
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Devil's Saddle (Sella del Diavolo)
There is a distinctive rock formation on a promontory near Cagliari that, because of its shape, is known as the Devil’s Saddle - Sella di Diavolo in Italian. The promontory overlooks the city’s popular Poetto Beach.
The easiest way to see the Devil’s Saddle is simply by visiting the beach, but there are also hiking trails along the promontory for a more close-up look. Hikers can walk along what began as an ancient Roman road and can climb up to one of the points on the Devil’s Saddle.
Among the sights to see near Devil’s Saddle are the remains of a Roman cistern, an 11th-century monastery, and fortifications from World War II. There are even Punic ruins to see that date from the 6th century BC, before the ancient Roman era. A Punic temple was built on the promontory, dedicated to the Goddess Astarte. For many visitors, though, the main draw is the panoramic view from the top of the hill.
Practical Info
Sardinia is popular with outdoors enthusiasts, so there are plenty of chances to hike and even kayak around the promontory that includes the Devil’s Saddle. The hike up to the Devil’s Saddle is of medium difficulty.
Address: Viale Calamosca 50, Cagliari, Italy
From $ 57
Forum Boarium (Foro Boario)
Rome’s oldest forum, the Forum Boarium was once a busy cattle market and site of several temples, the remains of which can still be seen today. Much less famous than many of the city’s other ancient sights, the Foro Boario is one of Rome’s most interesting “secret” attractions.
The Basics
The Forum Boarium is across from the famous Mouth of Truth (Bocca della Verità) at the Church of Santa Maria in Cosmedin, but it’s often skipped by visitors as the temples are behind fences, so can only be seen from the outside. Consider joining a private guided tour of the “secret” sights of Ancient Rome to explore the temples up close, along with skip-the-line access to the more famous archaeological sites dating from the Roman Empire, including the Colosseum and Roman Forum.
This commercially strategic market along the Tiber river was a major center of livestock trade as far back as the third century BC, and occupied a central location between Ancient Rome's Aventine and Palatine hills, along with the nearby Forum Holitorium produce market. Today, visitors can see the Temple of Portunus (Temple of Fortuna Virilis) from the first century BC and the Temple of Hercules Victor, ringed by a 20 columns. The Forum Boarium is also home to the Arch of Janus, dating from the fourth century.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Foro Boario is an outdoor archaeological site, so wear a hat, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes when visiting.
- The cattle market is an especially fascinating tour for Roman history enthusiasts, and those who want to explore some of Rome's more off-the-beaten-path sights.
- The site is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
How to Get There
The Forum Boarium is located along the Tiber river near the Circus Maximus. Take bus 170 to the Bocca della Verità stop or metro line B to Circo Massimo.
When to Get There
The archaeological site is outdoors, so visit in early morning or late afternoon in the summer months and on mild days with clear skies in winter.
Temple of Vesta
The circular Temple of Hercules Victor is often mistaken for the Temple of Vesta, another round temple ringed by columns located in the Roman Forum but only partially preserved.
Address: Via della Greca, Rome, Lazio 00186, Italy
Hours: The area is always open, but the temples cannot be entered
From $ 90
Da Vinci's Last Supper (Il Cenacolo)
Each day, Leonardo da Vinci's "The Last Supper (Il Cenacolo)" draws hundreds of art-loving visitors to the unassuming refectory of the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie for just 15 minutes with the painting (Yes, it's that good). Milan's famous 15th-century wall mural may be one of the most famous (and regulated) artworks in Italy—to see it, you must book entrance tickets in advance or sign up for a guided Milan city tour.
The Basics
"The Last Supper" is incredibly popular, and it can be very difficult to get access. In order to preserve the mural, a maximum of 25 to 30 visitors are allowed to view the painting at a time, and only for 15 minutes. Fortunately, tours can help you lock in those high-demand tickets and customize your experience—spend a day touring Milan's must-see sites with an art historian tour guide, or opt for an expedited tour with skip-the-line "Last Supper" access. Most tours that visit the iconic painting also stop at Sforza Castle (Castello Sforzesco), Milan's Cathedral (Duomo), and the UNESCO-listed Santa Maria delle Grazie Church, thought to be designed by Renaissance architect Bramante. Other popular stops include the 16th-century Church of San Maurizio, the renowned Teatro La Scala opera house, and the glamorous shopping arcade of Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II.
Things to Know Before You Go
How To Get There
The Basilica di Santa Maria delle Grazie is located on the western outskirts of central Milan between metro stations Cadorna Triennale and Conciliazione. It's a 15-minute walk or a quick taxi ride from the Duomo, but you can also choose a tour that provides round-trip transportation from your Milan hotel.
- Skip the line with a priority access ticket that allows you to head right into the showroom.
- While walking tours are the most popular way to see "The Last Supper," you can also explore the city by rickshaw, bicycle, or vintage tram.
- From the church, Sforza Castle is a 15-minute walk down Corso Magenta, and Teatro alla Scala is about a 20-minute walk east on the same road.
The Basilica di Santa Maria delle Grazie is located on the western outskirts of central Milan between metro stations Cadorna Triennale and Conciliazione. It's a 15-minute walk or a quick taxi ride from the Duomo, but you can also choose a tour that provides round-trip transportation from your Milan hotel.
When to Get There
There are always visitors waiting their turn to see this hard-to-visit Renaissance masterpiece. Plan ahead to secure your ticket, and consider booking skip-the-line entry to walk in ahead of the queues.
Address: Piazza della Maria delle Grazie 2, Milan, Lombardy, Italy
Hours: Tues-Sun 8:15am-7pm. Closed Mondays, plus Jan 1, May 1, Dec 25
Admission: €10
From $ 25
Galata Museo del Mare
Genoa is a fitting location for the Galata Museo del Mare, as the city has been a major maritime power for centuries. The Museum of the Sea’s four floors feature numerous exhibits on sailing ships and sea explorations—including an entire room dedicated to the famous Genoese explorer Christopher Columbus and his Transatlantic voyage.
The Basics
The Galata Museo del Mare is housed in the oldest building in the Darsena (area of the Old Port), and its name is a nod to the old Genoese quarter in Istanbul, which was a part of the Genoese Republic from the 13th to 15th centuries. In addition to the 28-room museum, there is an open-air area where you can explore the inside of an S518 Nazario Sauro submarine.
Most tours of the Old Port include a visit to the Galata Museo del Mare along with the adjacent Genoa Aquarium. Also available are combo tours that take in several port attractions including the panoramic lift, the biosphere, and the S518 Nazario Sauro submarine.
Things to Know Before You Go:
- The Galata Museo del Mare is a must-visit for history buffs, especially those interested in maritime history.
- Book a skip-the-line ticket to save time.
- Guests typically spend about three hours exploring the main museum and the outdoor submarine.
- Head to the top floor of the museum for some of the best panoramic views of Genoa.
- The museum is fully accessible for those with vision and hearing impairments, with tactile guidance and amplification devices available.
- The museum’s main building is fully wheelchair accessible, however the outdoor submarine is not.
How to Get There
The Galata Museo del Mare stands in the middle of Genoa’s Old Port, Porto Antico. Take the train to Piazza Principe or the metro to Darsena, both a 5-minute walk to the museum. If driving, there are a few paid parking lots in the area.
When to Get There
The maritime museum is open 10am to 7:30pm daily from March to October; from November to February it’s open 10am to 6pm Tuesday through Friday and 10am to 7:30pm on weekends and holidays. It’s best to visit the museum—one of Genoa’s most popular attractions—before lunch to avoid large crowds and enjoy a more contemplative experience.
Memory and Migration
This section of the museum is very popular among visitors. More than 40 multimedia stations showcase Italian emigration by sea and the recent immigration to Italy. You can see reconstructions of Italian immigrant areas across the world, such as La Boca in Buenos Aires and New York’s famous Ellis Island.
Address: Calata De Mari, 1, Genoa 16126, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 12
Ca' Rezzonico
Of all the sumptuous palaces lining Venice’s Grand Canal, Ca’ Rezzonico is arguably the most magnificent. An outstanding example of Venetian baroque and rococo architecture and décor, this palace and its museum offer a glimpse into the extravagances of 18th-century Venice.
The Basics
Started by Baldassare Longhena and completed more than a century later by Giorgio Massari, Ca' Rezzonico was owned by one of the Venetian aristocracy's most prominent families; in the same year that Giambattista Rezzonico was finishing work on the palace, his brother Carlo was elected Pope. The intricate canal-side facade is decorated with arcades, porticoes, and arched windows, while the interior features marble staircases, gilded apartments, Murano glass chandeliers, and ballrooms covered in frescoes and trompe l’oeil by Venetian artists such as Giambattista Tiepolo, Pietro Longhi, Giovanni Battista Crosato, and Pietro Visconti. Today, the palace is home to the Museum of 18th-Century Venice, with a collection of furniture and decorations; paintings by Canaletto, Tintoretto, Cima da Conegliano, and others; and frescoes by Giandomenico Tiepolo and Antonio Guardi.
Because of its size and scope, the best way to see Ca' Rezzonico is with a private tour that combines the museum with other highlights in the city of Venice, including St. Mark's Basilica and the Doge's Palace. A visit to Ca' Rezzonico is also often included in boat tours of the Grand Canal.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Ca' Rezzonico contains almost 20 rooms on three floors, so be prepared to spend some time on your feet and wear comfortable shoes.
- The third floor contains the 18th-century interiors of the Ai Do San Marchi pharmacy, which was once located in Campo San Stin.
- Ca' Rezzonico is wheelchair accessible.
- Large bags, backpacks, and umbrellas must be left at the coat check.
How to Get There
Ca' Rezzonico is located along the Grand Canal in the Dorsoduro neighborhood; take vaporetto (water bus) 1 from Piazza San Marco or the Santa Lucia train station to the Ca' Rezzonico stop.
When to Get There
Like all Venice museums, Ca' Rezzonico can be very crowded in summer. The best time to visit is from late fall to early spring. The museum is closed on Tuesdays.
Artists and Poets in the Palace
In the 1880s, the palace was owned by English painter Robert Barrett Browning, son of poet Robert Browning, who died there in 1889. The American painter John Singer Sargent also had an apartment in the palazzo during that time.
Address: Dorsoduro, 3136, Venice, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 12
Franciacorta Outlet Village
Milan is famous for its fashion and design, and the Franciacorta Outlet Village is one of the largest and most popular outlet centers outside Lombardy’s cosmopolitan capital. Browse Italian and international brands at the more than 70 retailers offering deep discounts off retail prices.
The Basics
With dozens of stores offering discounts of up to 70 percent, the Franciacorta Outlet Village makes an excellent day trip from Milan, Verona, or Bergamo for travelers seeking great deals. You can visit independently or join a shopping tour, some of which include a stop for wine tasting in the famed Franciacorta wine country or a visit to nearby Lake Garda (Lago di Garda) and the picturesque town of Sirmione.
Things to Know Before You Go
- All the stores at the Franciacorta Outlet Center accept credit cards and euros.
- The outlet complex houses several restaurants and cafés.
- For a break from shopping, the complex has a beauty salon and spa.
- A number of stores for children and an outdoor play area are on-site.
- The outlet center is entirely accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
How to Get There
Franciacorta Outlet Village is located at Piazza Cascina Moie in Rodengo-Saiano, just over an hour outside Milan. Round-trip shuttle service runs daily from the Largo Cairoli meeting point, outside the Cairoli metro station, in Milan. The nearest train and bus stations are in Brescia, 9 miles (14 kilometers) away. Free parking is available on-site.
When to Get There
The outlet center can be very crowded on weekends and holidays, so visiting during the weekdays is the best option. Italy has two month-long sale seasons, beginning January 1 and July 1; time your visit during the annual sales for even better bargains.
Brands at the Franciacorta Outlet Village
The shopping center is home to branded boutiques and factory outlet shops for famous names including Calvin Klein, Guess, Pinko, North Sails, Nike, Adidas, and the North Face.
Address: Piazza Cascina Moie 1/2, Rodengo Saiano, Lombardy, Italy, Italy
From $ 23
Forte dei Marmi
Sitting seaside off the coast of Tuscany, the village of Forte dei Marmi has been a popular coastal holiday spot for hundreds of years. Tourism began here in the 18th century when wealthy families would travel from inland Tuscany for the cooler air of the beach here. Some built villas by the sea that still remain today. Translated the name means ‘fort of marbles,’ after the large fort built to protect from coastal attacks, which rises up above the middle of town.
There are wide expanses of sandy beach alongside forests of pinewood and the Apuane Alps. Though the number of visitors triples in the summer season, Forte dei Marmi is thought to be a well-kept secret and maintains its peaceful, tranquil air year-round. There is a wide waterfront promenade that is great for walking or biking by the sea. It remains a holiday destination for many wealthy Italians.
Practical Info
Forte dei Marmi is located in the Lucca province of Italy, in an area called Versilia. It is situated on the northern Tuscany coast between the Marinas of Ronci and Pietrasanta. Florence is about an hour’s drive away. The closest train station is Querceta.
Address: Lucca, Tuscany, Italy, Italy
From $ 162
Cala di Mitigliano
Cala di Mitigliano is an unspoiled beach at the tip of the Sorrentine Peninsula in Italy. It can only be reached by walking down a steep footpath for about 30 minutes, but once you get there, you will enjoy beautiful scenery and views of Punta Campanella and the island of Capri. With a pebble beach and crystal-clear water, Cala di Mitigliano is in a cove surrounded by steep vertical rocks, making for a dramatic landscape.
On the right side of the beach is a circular building, similar to a tower, that was once used for lime production. While no longer in use, the structure adds to the landscape and stands as a reminder of the area’s history. Nearby, a 50-foot deep circular grotto is a popular spot for snorkeling and scuba diving, although it is only possible to enter when the sea is calm and the tide is low.
Practical Info
Cala di Mitigliano is located in Massa Lubrense. To get there, take the footpath that starts from the Church of Santa Maria di Mitigliano.
Address: Cala di Mitigliano, Massa Lubrense, Campania, Italy
From $ 121
Dante House Museum (Museo Casa di Dante)
A bit of a misnomer, the Dante House Museum was never the 13th-century Italian poet Dante Alighieri's residence. Instead, this small museum is home to reproductions of early manuscripts of his magnum opus, The Divine Comedy, and other engaging exhibits that re-create Dante's life and times.
The Basics
Although there is nothing on display that actually belonged to the great poet, the museum provides a glimpse into the politics, economy, and social life of medieval Florence. Exhibits include a reconstruction of Dante's bedroom, illustrations of his poems, and reproductions of his magnum opus, written after he was banished from Florence for backing the wrong side in political intrigue. In exile, Dante was forced to wander northern Italy for several years before ending his days in Ravenna in 1321.
The Dante House Museum is included in the Florence Card museum pass and offers guided tours and workshops on the writings of Dante. Otherwise, you can visit the museum during a private electric bike tour or walking tour of Florence that also includes nearby attractions like the Duomo with its Baptistery of San Giovanni and Giotto's bell tower, the Badia Fiorentina monastery, and the Uffizi Galleries.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Dante House Museum’s labyrinthine medieval-style building is said to be located on the spot where the Alighieri family home once stood, but dates from the early 20th century.
- The museum is partially accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
- A stop here is particularly interesting for lovers of medieval history and literature.
- Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and dress for the weather if joining a bike or walking tour.
How to Get There
The Museo Casa di Dante is located on Via Santa Margherita in the heart of Florence's largely pedestrian-only historic center, a short walk from the Firenze Santa Maria Novella train station.
When to Get There
Florence is one of the most popular destinations in Italy, and the attractions in its historic center can be very crowded in the high-season summer months. Consider touring in the spring or fall to take advantage of mild weather and fewer visitors.
Dante Alighieri's Divine Comedy
This poet who lived between the 13th and 14th century is among the most important writers in western literature. His Divine Comedy is divided into three parts—Inferno, Purgatory, and Paradise—and the most famous copy is a manuscript commissioned by Lorenzo di Pierfrancesco de'Medici and illustrated by Botticelli, pages of which can be seen in Berlin's Museum of Prints and Drawings and the Vatican Museums.
Address: Via Santa Margherita, 1, Florence, Tuscany 50122, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 70
Burano
Venice is made up of a group of islands that is crowded with opulent churches and sumptuous palaces. The humble island of Burano, though, in the outer reaches of the Venetian lagoon, shows a completely different side of the city, with its jumble of technicolor fishers’ houses and a long tradition of lace-making.
The Basics
Join a guided tour of the Venetian islands and stroll through the winding streets of this charming island to admire the brightly painted houses and watch a lace-making demonstration. A private tour of Burano, Murano, and Torcello islands is a fascinating way to explore the less famous corners of the Floating City by boat.
Things to Know Before You Go
- A boat trip to Burano is a must for photography buffs, who will love capturing the vibrant colors.
- Venice island tours require getting on and off a boat, so confirm wheelchair and stroller accessibility ahead of time.
- Burano lace, like Murano glass, is made entirely by hand and is very expensive. Don't be fooled by cheap industrial knock-offs sold at many souvenir shops.
- The island's main street is lined with souvenir shops, cafés, and restaurants.
How to Get There
From St. Mark's Square, take the 5.2 vaporetto from the San Zaccaria stop to Fondamente Nove, then transfer to the 12 to Burano. Boats run until late, but if you miss the last vaporetto, you’ll have to take what may be an expensive water taxi back to Venice.
When to Get There
Though the small islands outside Venice are less visited than sights like St. Mark's Basilica and the Doge's Palace, they can still get quite crowded. The best time to visit is in early spring or late fall. If you’re there in summer, head to Burano first thing in the morning.
Visiting Burano and Murano
Burano is often mistaken for Murano, the island known for its long history of glass blowing. You can easily visit both in a single day on a tour that combines them both. You’ll want to see Burano for the photo opportunities and lace-making and Murano for the glass-making demonstrations in the island's many glass factories.
Address: Burano, Italy
Admission: Free
From $ 23
Frari Church
Frari Church, whose official name is Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari, is one of the grandest churches in Venice. It sits in the San Polo district on the Campo dei Frari and is dedicated to the Assumption of Mary. The church contains many Renaissance masterpieces and monuments to Renaissance artists and sculptors. It was built in an Italian Gothic style, and visitors will notice the plain exterior. This was intentional as it emphasizes the Franciscan values of poverty and austerity.
Inside you can see Titian's Madonna di Ca' Pesaro in the left aisle, which was modeled after his wife who died in childbirth. Over the main alter is Titian's Assumption of the Virgin. This piece is famous for its innovative style and bright colors, though at the time, the church was hesitant to accept the piece because of these features. Titian's tomb is in the church. Other notable artwork that can be seen in Frari Church includes Giovanni Bellini's Madonna and Child with Saints, Bartolomeo Vivarini's altarpiece St. Mark Enthroned and Saints John the Baptist, Jerome, Peter, and Nicholas, and Donatello's John the Baptist.
Practical Info
Frari Church is located at Campo dei Frari. Opening hours are 9am to 6pm Monday to Saturday and 1pm to 6pm on Sunday.
Address: San Polo, Venice, Italy
From $ 80
Asinara National Park (Parco Nazionale Asinara)
The Italian island of Sardinia (Sardegna) is known for its stunning natural beauty, including a pristine coastline and tiny offshore islets. In 1997 one of these, the island of Asinara, became Asinara National Park—a nature reserve that is home to wild animals, historic ruins, hiking trails, and idyllic beaches.
The Basics
Asinara Island was closed to the public for over a century before becoming Asinara National Park (Parco Nazionale dell'Asinara). This uninhabited island, whose remote location was perfect for isolating prisoners, housed a prison camp during World War I and Italy’s maximum security prison beginning in the 1970s. Decades of limited human impact resulted in the preservation of the island’s pristine Mediterranean landscape, which today you can enjoy in the park. Asinara is home to several animal species, including the Sardinian albino donkey, mouflon sheep, wild boar, and a variety of birds. In addition, you can see the remains of a medieval monastery and the Castellaccio fortress.
Asinara National Park is visitable only with an authorized guide as part of a day tour. Most tours include a boat ride from Stintino (on the main island) around Asinara and a stop to explore the park by land—either by joining an off-road vehicle or bus tour or a guided hike or bike along the trails—before heading back to Stintino. Many day trips include stops in the tiny coves of Fornelli, Cala Reale, and Cala d'Oliva for swims.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Asinara is a great destination for the entire family, with beautiful beaches for swimming, easy trails for hiking, and the abandoned prison and fortress to explore.
- The former high-security prison complex houses one of the island’s visitor centers, where you can get park maps and information.
- The island has two restaurants and a snack bar, each near one of the three main beaches.
- Asinara can be very hot in the summer months, so be sure to wear a hat and sunscreen, and drink plenty of water.
- If hiking, choose sturdy shoes and comfortable clothes. If swimming, bring a suit and towel.
How to Get There
Asinara is part of the province of Sassari, just offshore from the coastal village of Stintino. The nearest large town is Porto Torres, which is connected by highway to Sassari and Alghero. You can take a private boat tour or water taxi to Asinara from Stintino, or the ferry from Porto Torres.
When to Get There
The park is open all year long, but the best seasons to visit are spring and fall. In the winter, choppy seas make the crossing difficult; in the summer, the heat can make visiting the park uncomfortable.
The White Donkeys
One of Asinara’s biggest attractions is its local breed of albino donkeys that graze the island’s countryside and make for memorable pictures. Remember to avoid approaching the animals, even if they seem friendly.
Address: (main office on Sardinia’s mainland) via Iosto 7, Porto Torres, Sardinia 07046, Italy
From $ 139
Arch of Titus
Located at the southeastern end of the Roman Forum, the triumphal Arch of Titus stands as a memorial to an emperor's brother.
Emperor Domitian commissioned the arch in the 1st century to honor his brother Titus, with the scenes showing Titus' many victories in war. Among the scenes is the Siege of Jerusalem – you can see a Jewish Menorah being carted back to Rome among the spoils.
Triumphal arches are familiar sights in Europe today – the Arc de Triomphe in Paris is one of the most famous examples – but most were based on the design of the Arch of Titus.
Practical Info
The Arch of Titus sits outside the Roman Forum, so it's always open to the public and free to visit.
Address: Via Sacra, Rome, Italy
Hours: Daily
From $ 23
Caelian Hill
One of Rome’s seven legendary hills, Caelian Hill was a wealthy residential district under the Roman Republic. Today, this is home to the ancient Basilica of Saints John and Paul, the circular Church of Santo Stefano Rotondo, and the ruins of the Baths of Caracalla. Travelers can tour Caelian Hill on foot, or by bike, scooter, or bus.
The Basics
Caelian Hill is unique among Rome’s seven historic hills, as its western slope is one of the few tranquil and unpopulated places in Rome. Several ancient churches dating from the fourth and fifth centuries can be visited on Caelian Hill, in addition to Roman ruins and Villa Celimontana, one of Rome’s nicest parks.
The churches and ruins on Caelian Hill are best visited as part of a guided tour to appreciate their historical importance. Consider joining a walking, rickshaw, or Vespa tour of the hills of ancient Rome, or a small-group tour dedicated to the most historic churches in the Eternal City. Many tours of Rome’s seven hills include skip-the-line access to the Colosseum and Roman Forum, which are nearby on Palatine Hill.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Caelian Hill is a must for history buffs, as it is home to some of the city’s most fascinating ancient churches and Roman ruins.
- The Baths of Caracalla are accessible to wheelchairs and strollers, and the site offers restrooms and a bookshop. The ruins are open to the elements, so bring a hat and sunscreen in summer.
- Visitors must wear clothing that covers shoulders and knees to enter the churches. Some churches are not wheelchair accessible.
- The park and gardens of Villa Celimontana are an ideal spot for a stroll with kids.
How to Get There
Caelian Hill is located on the southeast corner of the historic center of Rome, along the Tiber River. The nearest metro stop is Colosseo, on line B.
When to Get There
Most of the Baths of Caracalla ruins are outdoors, so visit on a day with clear skies and mild temperatures. The quiet churches, on the other hand, provide a cool refuge from the midday summer heat.
Rome’s Seven Hills
Caelian Hill is the farthest southeast of Rome’s seven hills, which are all east of the Tiber and form the geographical heart of ancient Rome. The other hills are Aventine Hill, Capitoline Hill, Esquiline Hill, Quirinal Hill, Viminal Hill, and Palatine Hill, where legend tells us that Romulus founded the city and where the most famous archaeological ruins can still be seen.
Address: Monte Celio, Rome 00184, Italy
From $ 43
Ca' d'Oro (Palazzo Santa Sofia)
When floating down Venice’s Grand Canal, the Ca' d'Oro—so named for the gold-leaf details that once adorned its Gothic-style exterior—is sure to catch your eye. This 15th-century Venetian masterpiece, also known as Palazzo Santa Sofia, is home to a lavish collection of art and furnishings, and offers gorgeous canal views.
The Basics
The Ca' d'Oro (House of Gold or Golden House) was built by Venetian architects Giovanni Bon and Bartolomeo Bon for the Contarini family in 1430, and purchased centuries later by Baron Giorgio Franchetti, who bequeathed the palace and its contents to the Italian State in 1916. Palazzo Santa Sofia is now home to Galleria Giorgio Franchetti alla Ca' d'Oro and holds the baron’s impressive art collection—including paintings by Tiziano, Jan Van Eyck, and Van Dyck—along with furniture, medals, and tapestries. You can explore the interior and its collection, and savor the palazzo’s captivating canal views from its front loggia.
Palazzo Santa Sofia is one of Venice’s most famous palazzi, and the highlight of any boat tour or gondola ride along the Grand Canal. Many private tours of Venice include a stop at the Ca' d'Oro along with the Doge’s Palace, Rialto Bridge, and St. Mark’s Basilica; booking a tour that includes skip-the-line tickets is essential in the summer months.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Ca' d'Oro houses temporary exhibits that run during the year for an additional entrance fee.
- Most of the palazzo is accessible to wheelchair users, though there are a number of steps to access the loggias that overlook the Grand Canal.
- Large bags, backpacks, and umbrellas must be left in the cloakroom.
How to Get There
The Ca' d'Oro is located along the Grand Canal in Venice’s Cannaregio neighborhood. Take vaporetto line 1 from Piazza San Marco to the Ca' d'Oro stop.
When to Get There
Venice is one of the most popular destinations in Italy, and the city’s main sights can be crowded, especially in summer. Ca' d'Oro is particularly busy on the first Sunday of each month, when entry to the art museum is free.
The "Vandalism" of Ca' d'Oro
In the 19th century, ballet dancer Marie Taglioni briefly owned Palazzo Santa Sofia. She infamously destroyed a priceless Gothic stairway and balconies overlooking the inner courtyard in an act that many art historians consider nothing less than vandalism.
Address: Sestriere of Cannaregio 3932, Venice 30121, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 18
Fountain of Neptune
In pride of place at the center of the busy Piazza della Signoria, the Fountain of Neptune has long been one of Florence’s most memorable landmarks, set against a backdrop of the grand Palazzo Vecchio (Town Hall). Inaugurated in 1565, the striking artwork is the masterpiece of sculptor Bartolomeo Ammannati and was commissioned to celebrate the wedding of Francesco I de’ Medici and Johanna of Austria.
The elaborate bronze and marble statue portrays a 5.6-meter-high image of Neptune, the Roman God of the Sea, with the face of Cosimo I de 'Medici, stood on a high pedestal above the water, around which Satyrs and horses frolic. Despite sustaining considerable damage over the years, including losing one of its hands to vandals back in 2005, the statue has now been painstakingly restored and remains a popular meeting place for both locals and tourists.
Practical Info
The Fountain of Neptune is located on Piazza della Signoria in central Florence.
Address: Piazza della Signoria, Firenze, Italy
From $ 29
Buontalenti Grotto
Built in the 16th century in Florence’s Boboli Gardens, Buontalenti Grotto is the largest grotto in the city. Named after the architect who oversaw its construction in the late 16th century, it was commissioned by Grand Duke of Tuscany and has since featured Dan Brown’s bestselling novel, “Inferno.”
A curious-looking place indeed, on both the outside and inside the grotto’s covered in man-made stalagmites and mythical mosaic creatures including sea goats. Buontalenti Grotto is divided into three rooms with the first, and biggest, styled in the most natural way as a cave full of stalactites and stalagmites. There are also a few anthropomorphic creatures created out of stones and shells thrown in there for good measure.
The next room is similarly decorated to the first, and includes frescoes depicting Minerva and Giunone. The third room is also known for its impressive frescoes, but here you’ll also see a green marble fountain and a ceiling painted to resemble a sky full of birds.
Practical Info
The Boboli Gardens are behind the Pitti Palace and are open to the public. Entry costs €7 and it’s open from 8:15 am to 4:30 pm from November to February, until 6;30pm from April to May and September to October, and until 7:30pm in the summer months. Last entrance is 1 hour before closing time.
Address: The Boboli Gardens, Firenze, Italy
Hours: Nov-Feb 8:15 am to 4:30 pm; April-May, Sept-Oct until 6:30 pm; summer until 7:30 pm.
Admission: €7
From $ 255
Frari Church (Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari)
The modest Italian Gothic exterior of Venice’s Basilica di Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari (Frari Church) belies the wealth of Italian Renaissance masterpieces inside. Titian’s Assumption of the Virgin (1518) altarpiece is especially notable, its innovative emotional figures and bright colors marking the start of Venice’s High Renaissance.
The Basics
This plain brick church was built for the Franciscans between the 14th and 15th centuries, and the monks commissioned a number of renowned artists and sculptors of the time to decorate the interior—which became home to some of the city’s most important works of art. Significant works include Titian’s Pesaro Madonna; Giovanni Bellini’s Madonna and Child with Saints Nicholas of Bari, Peter, Mark, and Benedict; and Donatello’s St. John the Baptist, believed to be the Florentine artist’s first work in Venice. In addition to its glorious art and sculpture, be sure to admire the church’s ornately carved choir stalls by Marco Cozzi.
The Frari Church is located in Venice’s central San Polo district, home to the Rialto Bridge and market and one of the city’s most captivating neighborhoods to explore on a walking tour. Due to the scope and importance of the Titian painting behind the main altar—and other artworks inside the sacristy, nave, and side chapels—by far the best way to visit is under the guide of an expert. Join a private or small-group tour to fully appreciate these Venetian art masterpieces.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Frari Church is must-see for admirers of Italian Renaissance and religious art.
- This is a religious site, and proper attire and decorum are required to enter. Cover your shoulders and knees, and keep your voice low during your visit.
- The church is fully accessible to wheelchair users.
How to Get There
Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari is on the Campo dei Frari, which you can reach on foot along a series of twisting lanes skirting the neighborhood’s quiet canals. The nearest vaporetto (ferry) stop is S. Toma.
When to Get There
Venice is one of the most popular destinations in Italy, and all of its sights can be very crowded in the high-season summer months. If visiting from May to November, try to schedule a Frari Church visit in early morning or late afternoon, when you can enjoy the sumptuous art and sculpture in relative peace. The church is open daily from 9am to 6pm (Sundays and holidays from 1pm); last entrance is at 5:30pm.
Notable Tombs in Frari Church
The Frari contains the funerary monuments of a number of important and wealthy Venetian doges and religious figures, including members of the powerful Pesaro family. The artist Titian is interred here, as is the sculptor Antonio Canova’s heart, preserved inside a pyramid-shaped monument the artist had originally designed for the remains of Titian.
Address: Campo di Frari, 30125, Italy
Hours: Mon - Sat 9am-6pm, Sun 1-6pm
Admission: Varies
From $ 3
Fountain of the Four Rivers
Rome is full of fountains, but some are more famous than others. The Fountain of the Four Rivers in Piazza Navona is one of the fountains that, thanks to popular culture and a colorful legend about rival artists, is on many tourist must-see lists.
Gian Lorenzo Bernini is the artist behind the Fountain of the Four Rivers, which depicts four major rivers - the Nile, the Danube, the Rio de la Plata, and the Ganges - each representing a different continent. Sitting atop Bernini’s sculptures is an Egyptian obelisk.
The fountain was built in 1651 and sits at the center of the Piazza Navona, right in front of the church of Sant’Agnese in Agone. The statue representing the Rio de la Plata faces the church, and appears to be cowering away in horror at the design - the church was built by one of Bernini’s rivals. This is a common story, and a fun one, but it can’t be true - the church was built many years after Bernini’s fountain.
The Fountain of the Four Rivers features prominently in Dan Brown’s “Angels & Demons,” which makes it a must-see stop on any “Angels & Demons” tour of Rome.
Gian Lorenzo Bernini is the artist behind the Fountain of the Four Rivers, which depicts four major rivers - the Nile, the Danube, the Rio de la Plata, and the Ganges - each representing a different continent. Sitting atop Bernini’s sculptures is an Egyptian obelisk.
The fountain was built in 1651 and sits at the center of the Piazza Navona, right in front of the church of Sant’Agnese in Agone. The statue representing the Rio de la Plata faces the church, and appears to be cowering away in horror at the design - the church was built by one of Bernini’s rivals. This is a common story, and a fun one, but it can’t be true - the church was built many years after Bernini’s fountain.
The Fountain of the Four Rivers features prominently in Dan Brown’s “Angels & Demons,” which makes it a must-see stop on any “Angels & Demons” tour of Rome.
Address: Piazza Navona, Rome, The Provence of Rome 00186, Italy
From $ 21
Devil's Bridge (Ponte della Maddalena)
This idyllic medieval bridge whose name translates to "Bridge of Mary Magdelene" played an essential role in early Italian history. That's because its stone arches and narrow walkway allowed French pilgrims to make their way over waters to the holy city of Rome. Although locals know that a major flood in the mid-1800s damaged the bridge's original structure, travelers can still see what remains of the restored version, which includes a roadway and new arch that reflects beautifully when the river is calm.
Visitors to this popular Lucca attraction will likely hear the local legend about Ponte della Maddalena's nickname—Devil's Bridge—which comes from a tale of a shepherd who makes a deal with the devil to build the stone bridge.
Address: Via del Brennero, Lucca, Tuscany 55023, Italy
From $ 185