Things to Do in Italy

Choose from 645 Fun Things to Do in Italy

Peggy Guggenheim Collection (Collezione Peggy Guggenheim)

One of the most popular and prestigious museums in Venice, the Peggy Guggenheim Collection of modern art provides a welcome contrast to Venice’s ornate Gothic and baroque art and architecture. A visit here is a must for any lover of 20th-century art.

The Basics

Peggy Guggenheim, an important New York art collector who spent the last 30 years of her life in Venice, amassed an important collection of early 20th-century European and American art. Upon her death in 1979, her home on the Grand Canal, Palazzo Venier dei Leoni, became the Peggy Guggenheim Collection museum. The palazzo and sculpture garden include works by such artists as Picasso, Kandinsky, Magritte, Dalí, Calder, Giacometti, Marini, and Pollock.

Because of the scope and importance of the collection, it’s best to visit as part of a Peggy Guggenheim Collection guided tour, or take an after-hours private tour to enjoy the art without the crowds.

Things to Know Before You Go

In addition to the permanent collection, the museum also hosts temporary exhibitions and retrospectives.
Photography (without flash) is allowed inside the museum and sculpture garden.
Both the museum and garden are accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
The museum has a shop and a café serving lunch and snacks.

How to Get There

The easiest way to reach the Peggy Guggenheim Collection is by water: take vaporetto 1 or 2 to the Accademia stop.

When to Get There

Palazzo Venier dei Leoni was retrofitted as a museum after Peggy Guggenheim's death, so the rooms are small and the collection is best viewed early in the day before the crowds arrive. The museum is open daily except Tuesdays.

The Guggenheim Museums

Before her death, Peggy Guggenheim donated her palazzo and art collection to the Solomon R. Guggenheim Foundation, created by her uncle in 1937. It was this same uncle who commissioned New York's famous spiral-shaped Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright in the 1950s.

704 Dorsoduro, Venice 30123, Italy

Varies

From $ 29

Palazzo Vecchio

The 13th-century Palazzo Vecchio has been the symbol of this Renaissance capital’s political power for more than seven centuries. With its imposing crenellated roofline and defensive tower, it dominates Piazza della Signoria and is home to the luxurious chambers of the Medici family. Visiting Palazzo Vecchio for a peek into Renaissance Florence is a rite of passage for visitors.

The Basics

The “Old Palace” was built in the early 1300s and sumptuously redecorated by the ruling Medici family in the 16th century when Grand Duke Cosimo I transferred his official seat here from Palazzo Medici. The courtyards, official halls, and private apartments feature elaborately decorated ceilings and statues by such luminaries as Donatello and Michelangelo, giving a sense of the wealth of Florence’s most powerful family during the height of the Renaissance. The most important rooms are the vast Salone dei Cinquecento, decorated by the celebrated Renaissance painter Giorgio Vasari and used as seat of the 500-member Grand Council; the secret Studiolo di Francesco I, also decorated by Vasari; and the Map Room.

Because of the palazzo's wealth of art and history, its museum is best visited with a tour guide, especially during the crowded months between May and October, when the wait to enter can be long and skip-the-line tickets are a must. Visitors can also tour the archaeological excavations under the building's foundations to see the uncovered remains of the Roman theater of Florentia.

Things to Know Before You Go

The palazzo's soaring Arnolfo Tower offers stupendous views of Florence and the surrounding hills of Tuscany; children under 6 are not allowed to climb the tower.
Most of Palazzo Medici is dedicated to the museum where visitors can take in important Renaissance art and architecture, but the building is also still the seat of local government and home to the mayor's office and city council.
Backpacks and bags are not allowed inside Palazzo Vecchio; lockers available for a charge at the entrance.
Most of the palazzo is accessible to wheelchairs, with exception of the tower and mezzanine level.

How to Get There

Palazzo Vecchio is in the southern corner of Piazza della Signoria, a short stroll from the Uffizi Gallery. By bus, take the C1 to Galleria Delgi Uffizi, then walk one block west or take the C2 to Porta Rossa and walk three blocks east.

When to Get There

The museums are open daily but close on Thursday afternoons. The palazzo can be very crowded at midday, so consider joining a tour in the early morning before most visitors arrive or at sunset to avoid the busiest time and enjoy the view from the tower.

The Vasari Corridor

This secret passage that runs between Palazzo Vecchio and Palazzo Pitti was commissioned by the Grand Duke Cosimo I in 1565 and designed by Giorgio Vasari. Once a secret route used by the Medici family to travel through the city, the corridor is now an art gallery and can be visited in small groups as part of a private tour.

Piazza della Signoria, Florence 50123, Italy

Open daily 9am - 7pm. Closed on Easter, Dec 25 and Aug 15

Varies

From $ 3

Piazza del Campidoglio

The first modern civic square in Rome, Piazza del Campidoglio was designed by Michelangelo in 1536. Perched at the top of the Capitoline Hill overlooking the Roman Forum, the space is lined by the monumental Cordonata staircase and three Renaissance palaces, now home to city hall and the Capitoline Museums.

The Basics

Piazza del Campidoglio was commissioned by Pope Paul III on the occasion of Holy Roman Emperor Charles V’s visit, and Michelangelo laid out the square to face St. Peter’s Basilica, turning its back on the Roman Forum. He also designed new facades for Palazzo dei Conservatori and Palazzo Senatorio and built Palazzo Nuovo to complement the older palaces. Today, Palazzo Senatorio houses city hall, and the other two palaces house the Capitoline Museums (Musei Capitolini), with vast collections of classical sculpture, Renaissance paintings, and archaeological artifacts. Michelangelo also designed the square’s sweeping Cordonata Steps, unique geometric paving, and setting for the central equestrian statue of Marcus Aurelius.

Piazza del Campidoglio is a stop on many guided walking, bike, and Segway tours of Rome’s highlights. Guided city tours generally visit other top attractions such as the Trevi Fountain and the Pantheon and may include skip-the-line tickets to the Colosseum and Vatican.

Things to Know Before You Go

There is no shade in the square, so be sure to wear a hat and sunscreen if visiting on foot or bike in the hot summer months.
The square is flat and well paved, easily navigable by wheelchair or with a stroller.
Photography enthusiasts will enjoy the view from the square atop the Capitoline Hill.
There are no restaurants or cafés along the square, but the museum has a rooftop café overlooking Rome.

How to Get There

Piazza del Campidoglio is located behind the famous Vittoriano monument in Piazza Venezia, where a number of bus and tram lines stop. You can also take metro line B to the Colosseo stop and walk about 10 minutes to Piazza del Campidoglio.

When to Get There

With no shade, Piazza del Campidoglio can be very hot during the midday hours. Time your visit for early in the morning or later in the afternoon, when the temperatures are milder and the light better for photographs.

Highlights of the Capitoline Museums

The Capitoline Museums on Piazza del Campidoglio are home to a number of important works of art, including the Capitoline Wolf (Lupa capitolina), a bronze statue of Romulus and Remus suckling a she-wolf; and The Dying Gaul (Galata Morente), dating from ancient Rome. There are also masterpieces by Caravaggio, Titian, Pietro da Cortona, and Guercino.

Piazza del Campidoglio, Rome, Province of Rome, Italy

From $ 3

Parco del Valentino

The first public gardens to be opened in Turin still exist as the Parco del Valentino, one of the city's most popular parks. Opened in 1856, the Parco del Valentino covers more than 123 acres in Turin along the left bank of the Po River. The park includes the Castello del Valentino, the University of Turin's botanical garden, and a replica medieval village – complete with a castle – built for the 1884 Turin International Expo.

The park was once the setting for car races—these were held between 1935 and 1954, all known as the Gran Premo del Valentino.

Practical Info

The Parco del Valentino is always open, and admission is free. It's on the west side of the river, between the Umberto I and Isabella bridges. Admission to and open hours of various attractions inside the park varies. The medieval village's castle, for instance, is open Tuesday-Sunday 10am-6pm, and admission is €5 for adults. The Castello del Valentino now houses the architecture department of the University of Turin, and is not open to visitors.

Corso Massimo d'Azeglio, Turin, Italy

Daily

From $ 14

Parco degli Acquedotti

One of Rome’s the most unique public parks, Parco degli Acquedotti is home to the remains of two ancient aqueducts—Aqua Felix and Aqua Claudia—and the 2nd-century Villa delle Vignacce. Part of Appian Way Regional Park, this 593-acre (240-hectare) expanse just outside the city center is a popular respite from the bustle of downtown Rome.

The Basics

Far enough outside the Eternal City to host flocks of grazing sheep but close enough to be an easily accessible retreat from the urban chaos, Parco degli Acquedotti is among the most fascinating areas of Appian Way Regional Park. Crossed by two aqueducts that provided water to ancient Rome, the park is fun to explore on foot or by bike as part of a guided tour that begins at the Aurelian Wall and follows the Appian Way along its historical route through the Roman countryside, visiting a number of archaeological ruins along the way.

Appian Way tours often include stops at sites such as the thermal baths of Caracalla, the San Callisto and San Sebastiano Catacombs, the Circus of Maxentius, and the tomb of Caecilia Metella. You can also join a guided small-group bus tour to explore this 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.
Parco degli Acquedotti is outdoors, so bring a hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water.
The ancient aqueducts make for unforgettable pictures and are a must for photography enthusiasts.
Kids especially enjoy an outing to the park, where they can explore the walking and biking paths without dangers from car traffic.
The park offers a free electric-minicar service for visitors with limited mobility, which must be reserved ahead of time.

How to Get There

Located just under five miles from Rome’s city center, Parco degli Acquedotti can be reached by Metro line A (Parco Appia Antica stop) or by bus (Piazza Cinecittà stop).

When to Get There

Parco degli Acquedotti, located inside Appian Way Regional Park, is entirely outside, so it’s best to visit on a clear day in the spring and fall when the temperatures are mild. You can spend anywhere from a few hours to an entire day exploring the park on foot or bike, so set off in the morning.

Appian Way Regional Park

The initial stretch of ancient Rome’s Appian Way, beginning at the Aurelian Wall that encircles Rome’s historical center, is part of a regional park, and there are a number of archaeological sites set along the historical route that are located within the park confines. A visit to Appian Way Regional Park is especially interesting for archaeology enthusiasts.

Parco degli Acquedotti, Rome, Province of Rome, Italy

From $ 31

Palermo Cathedral

Over the centuries, Sicily was ruled by successive waves of conquerors, each one leaving their mark on the island’s architecture, culture, and cuisine. A perfect example of this blend of cultures is the Palermo Cathedral, a fascinating patchwork of Norman, Arabic, Gothic, Baroque, and Neoclassical architectural styles.

The Basics

The Palermo Cathedral (also called Santa Maria Assunta or simply the Duomo) was begun in the late 12th century under Norman rule, and was expanded and renovated over the subsequent six centuries. Today, the imposing church is a striking mix of architectural elements, making it one of the most unique in Italy. The interior contains tombs of several members of the Sicilian royal family; the treasury’s collection of religious art, objects, and vestments; and the crypt with sarcophagi from the Roman era.

Because of its rich history and complex architecture, the Palermo Cathedral is best visited with a guide as part of a small-group or private tour. Most walking tours of the historic center of Palermo include a visit to the Cathedral along with other attractions like the Royal Palace and the Massimo Theater. Otherwise, you can join a hop-on-hop-off bus tour and explore the church and other sights independently.

Things to Know Before You Go

Walking tours of Palermo largely take place outdoors, so wear sunscreen and a hat in summer.
You will be doing a fair amount of walking if you’re joining a tour of the historic center, so wear comfortable footwear.
The Palermo Cathedral requires modest attire that covers the knees and shoulders.
The main part of the church is accessible to wheelchair users; however, the crypt isn’t.

How to Get There

The Palermo Cathedral is located in the city’s historic center within walking distance from the port and train station. You can reach Sicily from mainland Italy by ferry, train, or plane.

When to Get There

Sicily can be uncomfortably hot in summer, so try to visit the island in spring or fall. The second week of July, the city holds its annual U Fistinu festival, featuring processions, fireworks, street food, and music.

The Crown Jewels

The highlight the Palermo Cathedral is the 13th-century crown of Queen Constance of Aragon, crowned Queen of Sicily in 1209 and Holy Roman Empress in 1212. The crown was entombed with Constance’s body in 1222; in the 18th century, the tomb was opened and the crown was removed so it could be displayed in the treasury.

Corso Vittorio Emanuele, Palermo 90040, Italy

From $ 23

Perseus Statue

The Statue of Perseus, or Perseus with the Head of Medusa, is a bronze figure that was sculpted by Benvenuto Cellini in 1545. It depicts the story of Perseus destroying Medusa, a mythological Gorgon with snakes for hair and whose eyes turned humans to stone. The statue shows Perseus holding Medusa’s severed head raised triumphantly in one hand, having beheaded the monster. The statue stands upon a bronze base of relief panels depicting the story of Perseus and Andromeda. Cellini was the first to incorporate narrative reliefs into the sculptures at the Piazza della Signoria, where it still stands.

The Perseus Statue was added to the square amongst some of the more significant statues of the time, such as Michelangelo’s David and Bandinelli’s Hercules and Cacus. As these are stone statues of men, it is believed by scholars to be a motif response to these works. One can still see the unique craftsmanship as a prominent bronze sculpture with great detail (Cellini was first and foremost a goldsmith). The statue is considered to be a masterpiece of Italian Mannerism.

Practical Info

The Perseus Statue is located in the Loggia dei Lanzi of the Piazza della Signoria in Florence, just around the corner from the Uffizi. It is free to see.

Loggia dei Lanzi, Piazza della Signoria, Florence, Italy

From $ 36

Parco Virgiliano

The ancient Roman poet Virgil didn't die in Naples, but the city had stolen his heart and he said he wanted to be buried there. At least that's what the Neapolitans say. On the pretty Posillipo Hill, there are three attractions associated with Virgil – two parks, and his supposed tomb. Both parks have variations on the same name – Parco Virgiliano.

At the base of the Posillipo Hill, the Parco Virgiliano a Piedigrotta (also known as the Parco Virgiliano a Mergellina, the neighborhood below Posillipo) includes a winding path up the side of the hill, with plants on either side and great views over the Gulf of Naples and beyond. Partway up the hill, the supposed location of Virgil's tomb is at the end of a long tunnel. Although it's less of a pilgrimage destination now, it's still popular with some visitors.

At the top of Posillipo Hill is the other Parco Virgiliano (also called Parco Virgiliano a Posillipo). In addition to green space, this park also has a few playgrounds for kids and a small amphitheater where there are sometimes performances in the summer months. The park on top of the hill is a perfect place to enjoy the views over the historic city, the water, and even Mt. Vesuvius in the distance.

Even if you're not staying in the posh Posillipo neighborhood, it can be an excellent place to spend a romantic evening, with a walk through the park, dinner at a nice restaurant, and a parting view over the lit-up city before heading back to your hotel for the night.

Viale Virgilio, Naples 80123, Italy

From $ 27

Parco del Colle Oppio

With its prime location overlooking the mighty Colosseum, the Parco del Colle Oppio (Colle Oppio Park) is often seen as a mere walkway to Rome’s star attraction, but the hillside park is also a fascinating archeological site in its own right. Famously one of the seven hills of ancient Rome, Colle Oppio was once the site of the Baths of Trajan and Titus, as well as the Domus Aurea, (Nero’s Villa) and is dotted with intriguing ruins.

Laid out by Raffaele De Vico in 1928, the 11-hectare park was once embellished with marble statues, grand fountains and rose gardens, but today maintains a somewhat unkept façade. It’s none-the-less a popular lookout point, offering great views of the Colosseum and the Palatine, and hosts live music, entertainment and art exhibitions during the summer months.

Practical Info

The Parco del Colle Oppio is located just northeast of the Colosseum in central Rome.

Colle Oppio Park, 22, Rome, Italy

Open daily dawn-dusk

From $ 57

Parco Archeologico Greco-Romano di Catania

Despite being ravaged by eruptions of the neighboring Mt Etna volcano at least 17 times since its founding, traces of Catania’s long Greek and Roman history still remain, most notably the Roman theaters of the Parco Archeologico Greco-Romano di Catania. Dating back as early as the 2nd century AD, the remarkably preserved ruins can be found right at the center of the modern city, in striking contrast to the medieval Castello Ursino and the elegant Baroque masterpieces that stand nearby.

The Parco Archeologico Greco-Romano di Catania is home to three main structures, most notably the Teatro Romano (Roman Theater), once an opulent 7,000-seat theater constructed with a blend of marble and black lava stones, and the ancient amphitheater, once the largest of its kind in Sicily and seating up to 15,000. Additional highlights include a series of Roman baths and the smaller, but none-the-less impressive Odeon theater.

Practical Info

The Parco Archeologico Greco-Romano di Catania is located in central Catania, just north of Castello Ursino and is open daily from 9am-7pm. Adult admission is €6.

Via Vittorio Emanuele II 266, Catania, Italy

€6

From $ 115

Palermo Cruise Port

The dramatic mountain peaks towering over Palermo, along the northwestern coast of Sicily, is the first thing that strikes visitors arriving at the city’s port—but there’s more here than spectacular views. Famous for its cuisine, ceramics, and architecture, historic and happening Palermo is a highlight of any Mediterranean cruise.

The Basics

Because of the wealth of architectural masterpieces located across the old city center, it’s best to explore Palermo with a hop-on hop-off bus or private tour. Start your Palermo shore excursion at Palazzo dei Normanni, former Royal Palace of Palermo and today home of the Sicilian parliament. Seat of the kings of Sicily since the Norman domination in the 11th century, the building is the oldest royal residence in Europe and boasts intricate 12th-century mosaics. Follow this with Monreale, one of Italy’s most impressive cathedrals, famous for its 42 biblical scenes depicted in Byzantine mosaics. Take in the city’s other highlights—the Palermo Cathedral, Chiesa Della Martorana, Capuchin Catacombs, Teatro Massimo opera house, and Quattro Canti square—and be sure to browse Palermo’s ceramic shops for brightly painted Sicilian pottery and the city’s bustling street markets for food, handicrafts, and souvenirs.

Things to Know Before You Go

Popular day trips from Palermo include Cefalù, famous for its Sanctuary of Gibilmanna and Castello della Rocca; Segesta, home of a well-preserved Doric temple from the 5th century BC; and Erice, known for its Venus Castle.
Just outside the city of Palermo, you can easily visit Mondello, a historic fishing village now one of the area's prettiest coastal resorts.
Farther afield to the south, the Valley of the Temples, outside the city of Agrigento, is one of Sicily’s most popular sights and makes for an easy day trip.
Sicily’s train and bus systems are famously inefficient, in part due to the island’s complicated geography. It is almost always faster and easier to get around by car.

How to Get to Palermo from the Palermo Cruise Port

Cruise ships berth at the Stazione Marittima (cruise terminal), which was built in 1950. Taxis and horse-drawn carriages are usually waiting at the port exit to take travelers along the small winding streets of the city’s historic center, and many cruise companies also offer shuttle buses to the center of town.

Port Information

Many of the largest cruise lines stop at the Palermo port. Italian is the most widely spoken language here. The local currency is the euro; ATMs are easy to find, and foreign exchange bureaus are near the docks. You can pick up free city maps near the terminal’s exit.

Stazione Marittima, Palermo, Sicily, Italy

From $ 23

Palazzo Strozzi

One of the finest examples of renaissance architecture in Florence, Palazzo Strozzi was built in the 15th century for the wealthy Strozzi family and today serves as an exhibition space hosting some of the city’s most prestigious shows. Though not among Florence’s most famous venues, it will appeal to visiting art aficionados.

The Basics

Occupying an entire city block in the historic center of Florence, this imposing stone palace has large upstairs galleries and halls that have hosted exhibitions of artists from Cézanne to Ai Weiwei. The elegant central courtyard also hosts temporary art installations as well as concerts, films, and cultural activities in the summer.

Walking, bike, and Segway tours of Florence highlights generally stop by Palazzo Strozzi to admire its renaissance architecture, but art lovers should book skip-the-line tickets in advance to enter. Many small-group and private tours of Florence also include famous nearby attractions such as the Duomo, Uffizi, and Accademia, home to Michelangelo’s David.

Things to Know Before You Go

Photography is allowed in the special exhibitions; video is not.
Disabled access to Palazzo Strozzi is on Via Strozzi; the upstairs galleries are accessible via an elevator.
Large bags, backpacks, and umbrellas must be left at the free coat check.
There is a café located in the Palazzo Strozzi courtyard.

How to Get There

Palazzo Strozzi is located on Piazza Strozzi in the center of Florence, just a 5-minute walk from Santa Maria Novella train station.

When to Get There

The internal courtyard at Palazzo Strozzi is open daily until 11pm; the upstairs galleries and halls are only open for events and exhibitions.

The Strozzi-Medici Rivalry

Locked in a complicated political and financial rivalry with the Medici family for decades, the Strozzi family was one of the most powerful in Florence until their exile in 1434. In 1466, Filippo Strozzi was able to consolidate enough wealth and power to re-enter the city, and his first step was to build Palazzo Strozzi. The residence was designed to resemble the Palazzo Medici but surpass it in size and elegance as a clear architectural and political statement to the citizens of Florence.

Piazza degli Strozzi, Florence 50123, Italy

Varies

From $ 16

Piazza Barberini

Sitting atop Rome’s Quirinal Hill, Piazza Barberini is home to two 17th-century fountains designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini: the ornately sculpted Triton Fountain near the entrance to Palazzo Barberini and the small yet delightful Fountain of Bees. A stop at this bustling square is a must for lovers of baroque art.

The Basics

Piazza Barberini is one of the main transport hubs in central Rome, but look past the bustle of passing traffic and pedestrians to appreciate Bernini’s baroque masterpieces. The square is also home to the National Gallery of Ancient Art (Galleria Nazionale di Arte Antica) in Palazzo Barberini, which contains one of the most important painting collections in Italy, including works by Caravaggio, Titian, and Guercino.

Hop-on-hop-off bus tours of Rome’s most famous landmarks stop at the square, as do city highlights tours, which may include sights such as the Trevi Fountain and the Pantheon. You can opt for a walking or golf-cart tour to explore the square and other top attractions, or see the piazza as part of a food tour with a gelato tasting. The square is especially lovely at night when Bernini’s famous fountains are dramatically lit, so opt for a sunset or twilight tour for unforgettable photos.

Things to Know Before You Go

The square is pedestrian-only in the center, but busy with passing cars and buses around the periphery.
If you’re joining a walking or bike tour of Rome and Piazza Barberini, wear comfortable shoes and a sun hat.
Piazza Barberini is easy to navigate with a wheelchair or stroller, though the cobblestones make the terrain a bit bumpy.
There are plenty of cafés around the square, perfect for a quick snack or drink.

How to Get There

Piazza Barberini is located in the historical city center of Rome at the bottom of Via Veneto and is one of the main bus and metro hubs in the city. A number of bus routes and metro line A have stops in the square.

When to Get There

Since the piazza can be busy with traffic during the day, the best time to visit is later in the evening when Bernini’s fountains are beautifully lit and the urban chaos somewhat limited.

Highlights of the National Gallery of Ancient Art

Piazza Barberini is named for Palazzo Barberini, once residence of the powerful Barberini family and now home to the Galleria Nazionale di Arte Antica. Don’t be fooled by the name, however, as the collection focuses on paintings from the 13th to the 18th century and not ancient Roman art. Some of the most beautiful paintings in Rome are gathered here, including Raphael's La Fornarina and a number of works by Filippo Lippi, Titian, and Caravaggio—including his striking Judith Beheading Holofernes (Giuditta e Oloferne).

Piazza Barberini, Rome, Province of Rome 00187, Italy

From $ 3

Path of the Gods (Sentiero Degli Dei)

There is a hiking trail high above the picturesque Amalfi Coast known as the Path of the Gods, and it offers visitors a chance to get a bird’s eye view of the stunning scenery without leaving the ground.

The Path of the Gods - or Sentiero degli Dei in Italian - connects two little towns in the hills above the popular Amalfi Coast beach towns. The trail runs between Agerola (above Praiano) and Nocelle (above Positano) for about 4.8 miles.

The trail winds along the coastline, with an average of a 1,640-foot drop to the sea below. The views are spectacular - the lofty position is the reason the trail has such a poetic name. Hikers can start at either end of the trail, there is no “right” direction to walk in, but most start in Agerola because then the hike is primarily downhill to Nocelle and then you can descend some 1,500 steps into Positano itself.

There are many options for guided hikes of the Path of the Gods, which eliminate the need to figure out local buses and find the trailhead. There are day trips from the Amalfi Coast towns as well as Sorrento and Naples.

Practical Info

Be sure you’re wearing good hiking or walking shoes, and bring along plenty of water and sunscreen. You may also want to pack a picnic and stop along the way for lunch. Note that in some areas, the trail runs right next to the edge of the cliff - those with a severe fear of heights may find this disconcerting.

Amalfi Coast, Campania, Italy

From $ 617

Piazza & Fontana Pretoria

Palermo’s most famous piazza, the Piazza Pretoria, is just a few steps from the busy Quattro Canti - but a world away in terms of the kind of piazza experience it delivers.

The centerpiece of the Piazza Pretoria is the fountain, known as the Fontana Pretoria. It’s huge, designed in the 1550s by a sculptor from Florence named Camilliani. The fountain was originally commissioned for a private villa in Tuscany, but was gifted to the city of Palermo in 1574. City officials had razed several homes to make way for a grand fountain, meant to show off Palermo’s impressive city plumbing, but locals weren’t quite prepared for the fountain’s decorations when it was unveiled.

There are 16 figures on the Fontana Pretoria, all of which are entirely or partially nude, that circle the fountain. There is no side from which you can simply enjoy the water itself without seeing a nude statue - which many Palermitans in the late 16th century found scandalous. There are two churches facing the Piazza Pretoria - Santa Caterina and San Giuseppe dei Teatini - which may have added to the perceived inappropriate nature of the fountain’s decor.

Practical Info

The Fontana Pretoria was nicknamed “Fontana della Vergogna,” or “fountain of shame,” by locals at the time, and the moniker stuck - even though Palermo is no longer ashamed of its famous fountain.

Piazza Pretoria, Palermo, Italy

From $ 32

Palazzo Reale

Elegant Turin, which was the seat of the Duchy of Savoy before briefly becoming the first capital of unified Italy, is home to a number of sumptuous historic palaces and castles. The Palazzo Reale (Royal Palace) is among the most opulent, and today it houses the Royal Museums, with an extensive art collection, armory, and gardens.

The Basics

Originally the Bishop’s Palace, the Palazzo Reale was taken over by Duke Emmanuel Philibert when the city became the Savoy capital, and was expanded and embellished following the marriage of Victor Amadeus to the French Princess Christine Marie during the 17th century. The princess and architect Filippo Juvarra added a number of features, including the Scala delle Forbici staircase and the Chapel of the Holy Shroud, to house the Shroud of Turin.

Today, you can see firsthand how the European aristocracy lived by visiting the palace’s richly decorated rooms filled with tapestries and artwork. The Palace is also home to an armory, the Sabauda art gallery, Royal Library, Archaeological Museum, and Royal Gardens. A visit to the Royal Palace and gardens is included in most Turin small-group walking tours.

Things to Know Before You Go

Inside the Royal Museums, there is a cafeteria, restrooms, and a locker room where large bags and backpacks must be stored.
There are two wheelchair-accessible entrances: one on Piazzetta Reale and one on Piazza San Giovanni.
Visitors may take photographs without flash or tripods inside the Royal Museums.
Modest attire covering shoulders and knees is required to enter the Chapel of the Holy Shroud.
Admission to the Royal Gardens and reading room in the Royal Library is free; there is a single ticket for access to all the museums in the Royal Palace complex.

How to Get There

The Royal Palace is located on Piazza Castello, a short walk from the Porta Nuova train station. From the nearby city of Milan, you can take a day trip to Turin via the high-speed train that runs between these two capitals.

When to Get There

Though the Royal Palace museum complex stays open until 7:30pm, there is a lot of ground to cover and it takes at least two hours to visit, so plan to begin your visit by the late afternoon. The complex is closed Monday; the library is closed Sunday.

The House of Savoy’s Controversial Shroud

The Holy Shroud, housed in a chapel adjoining the palace and cathedral, has been the subject of debate by theologians and historians for centuries, because its authenticity as the cloth laid over Jesus’ body after his crucifixion has never been officially recognized by the Catholic Church. However, this doesn’t deter the thousands of faithful and curious who come to view this religious relic on the rare occasions when it is shown publicly.

Turin, Italy

Free

From $ 17

Palazzo Te

Palazzo Te is a half-hour’s enjoyable walk from the heart of gorgeous Mantua, a wonderfully OTT summer palace built for Federico II Gonzaga between 1525 and 1535. Designed by Renaissance architect Giulio di Piero Pippi de’ Iannuzzi (known as Romano), the palace was Federico’s retreat from royal life, which centered on the Palazzo Ducale in Piazza Sordello. A seemingly endless series of lavishly adorned apartments were decorated by leading artists of the day and reflect his pet obsessions with love, horses and astrology, from statuesque equine portraits in the Hall of the Horses to alarmingly suggestive frescoes by Romano in the Chamber of Amor and Psyche.

The palazzo was also built to remind the great unwashed of Mantua who held political supremacy over them; the vast and fantastically ornate Sala dei Giganti (Room of the Giants) is a metaphor for Gonazga power, which sees Titan overthrown by the gods in a dazzling trompe l’oeil that creates the illusion that the ceiling is collapsing. Tucked away among the upper floors of Palazzo Te is the town’s Museo Civico, where displays include a jumble of armory, medals, coins and Egyptian artifacts along with Gonzaga family portraits by 20th-century artist Armando Spadini.

The extensive formal gardens include loggias, a shell-encrusted grotto, stuccowork cloisters, fish ponds and Federico’s pretty garden retreat.

Practical Info

Viale Te 13, Mantua. Admission adults €10, seniors €7, ages 12–18 and students €3.50, free for under 12. Open Mon 1pm–6pm; Tue–Sun

9am–6pm. Best reached on foot from central Mantua.

Viale Te 13, Mantua, Lombardy 46100, Italy

Mon 1pm–6pm; Tue–Sun 9am–6pm

Adults €10, Seniors €7, ages 12–18 and students €3.50, free for under 12

From $ 127

Pantheon

Best recognized for its massive dome and center oculus, the Pantheon attracts millions of visitors as one of the most influential and well-preserved buildings of ancient Rome—its proximity to the gelaterias along Via della Maddalena is a bonus. Since AD 125, the temple-turned-church has astounded visitors with its awe-inspiring architecture, beautiful art, and Roman history. It also serves as the burial ground for the first king of Italy, Victor Emmanuel II, and Renaissance artist Raphael. You'll find tourists and locals admiring the structure from the steps of the obelisk in Piazza della Rotonda, a popular break spot.

The Basics
The Pantheon is free to visit and open every day. Visitors shouldn’t miss the experience of passing through the vast bronze doors and standing under the center of the dome, where light (and sometimes rain) shines down into the open interior. You can learn about the building’s history and architectural design with an expert, local guide on a small-group or private guided tour. Many other tour options, lasting three to four hours, combine a visit to the Pantheon with skip-the-line entry to the Colosseum or other popular Roman highlights such as the Trevi Fountain, Piazza Navona, and the Roman Forum.

Things to Know Before You Go

Wear comfy shoes, as walking tours are among the most popular ways to see this site.
If you’re not prepared to sweat through the summer heat, book a bus tour or a take a cool walking night tour around Rome’s illuminated fountains and buildings.
Bring your appetite on a food tour of Rome’s historical center that passes the Pantheon.
As the Pantheon is an active religious building, flash photography and loud conversations are discouraged.
Don't miss the stunning Gothic interior of the Santa Maria Sopra Minerva church, just one block behind the Pantheon.

How To Get to the Pantheon
The Pantheon is located in the center of Rome, a short walk from the Tiber River, the main shopping street of Via del Corso, and many other attractions. It’s possible to walk to the site or catch a bus or tram to stop Largo di Torre Argentina.

When to Get There
The Pantheon is open and popular with visitors every day. To see the building buzz with energy, attend weekend public mass, held Saturdays at 5pm and Sundays at 10:30am. Though the interior is not open at night, seeing the illuminated ancient architecture after dark is worth a visit in itself.

Piazza della Rotonda, 00186, Italy

Mon–Sat: 9am–7:30pm, Sun: 9am–5:30pm

Free

From $ 3

Piazza dei Miracoli

One of the most famous sights in all of Tuscany—perhaps all of Italy—stands in the Piazza dei Miracoli in Pisa. This grassy expanse is home to the city’s cathedral complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that includes the Duomo, Monumental Cemetery, and Opera del Duomo Museum. The headliner, however, is the Leaning Tower of Pisa.

The Basics

Piazza dei Miracoli (Square of Miracles), also known as Piazza del Duomo (Cathedral Square), attracts throngs of visitors snapping pictures of the Leaning Tower, but the square is home to much more than this iconic landmark. The magnificent Duomo and baptistery are splendid examples of Pisan Romanesque architecture, the Monumental Cemetery (Camposanto Monumentale) is home to a pretty central courtyard and 14th-century frescoes, and the Opera del Duomo Museum holds an important collection of religious art.

This public square is one of the most popular destinations in Tuscany and is very crowded in the summer. Booking a skip-the-line Piazza dei Miracoli tour ahead of time helps avoid a long wait and enjoy priority admission to the cathedral, baptistery, and bell tower. Consider a Leaning Tower family tour if traveling with kids, or pair your Piazza dei Miracoli visit with a walking or bike tour of Pisa’s other attractions.

Things to Know Before You Go

Even if you don’t have tickets to visit the cathedral complex, you can stroll through Piazza dei Miracoli to view the Duomo and Leaning Tower from outside.
Ticketed visitors can use the restrooms and store bags and luggage in the cloakroom for free.
The square is a large lawn area closed to traffic, so a safe place for kids to play.
A number of restaurants and cafés are located around the perimeter of the square.
Piazza dei Miracoli is accessible to wheelchair users.

How to Get There

Piazza dei Miracoli is about 1 mile (1.5 kilometers) north of the Pisa train station across the River Arno, about a 20-minute walk through the historical center of Pisa. Buses 4 and 21 run between the station and the square.

When to Get There

The piazza and the cathedral complex are most crowded from late morning through the afternoon. The best time to tour is in the early morning before the throngs of daily visitors arrive.

The Duomo Complex in Piazza dei Miracoli

Pisa’s vast Duomo complex is made up of a number of sights and buildings. In addition to the cathedral, baptistery, and bell tower, visitors can tour the Monumental Cemetery. The complex’s two museums are the Sinopie Museum, which holds preparatory sketches for the cathedral’s frescoes, and the Opera del Duomo Museum, with a collection of works of art that once decorated the Duomo and baptistery.

Piazza dei Miracoli, Pisa 56126, Italy

Free

From $ 13

Piazza dei Signori

Historically, Piazza dei Signori (also known as Piazza Dante in honor of the poet’s statue in the square center) was the civic and political heart of Verona, and is still home to the Loggia del Consiglio, the former city hall. Lined by medieval palaces and elegant arches, this square is a vibrant local gathering place.

The Basics

Piazza dei Signori is dominated by the historic city hall as well as a number of palaces that were built by Verona’s powerful Scaligeri family, alongside the family’s favored Santa Maria Assunta church. At the far end of the square, the Arche Scaligere (Scaliger Tombs) hold the remains of some of the family’s most prominent members.

Visit Verona’s bustling Piazza dei Signori on a city walking or Segway tour that also includes skip-the-line entrance to the city’s famous Roman arena in Piazza Bra, as well as other highlights like Piazza delle Erbe and Torre dei Lamberti, the Duomo, Castelvecchio, and the Basilica di San Zeno Maggiore. Tours inspired by the tale of Romeo and Juliet are a popular option for exploring Verona, as are private tours that include a wine tasting.

Things to Know Before You Go

Much of Piazza dei Signori is pedestrian, so it’s a perfect spot for families with young children to take a stroll.
The square has a number of cafés and restaurants where you can have a snack or meal either al fresco or inside.
If you join walking tour of Verona, choose comfortable shoes and dress for the weather.
The square is flat and well-paved, making it easy to navigate with a wheelchair or stroller.

How to Get There

Piazza dei Signori is in the heart of Verona’s historic center, and it’s an easy walk from the train station and most of the city’s most famous attractions. Verona is located about halfway between Venice and Milan in the Veneto region, and it’s an easy day trip from either city.

When to Get There

The square fills with students and locals each evening, and the families out for a stroll, street musicians, and overflowing sidewalk cafés and restaurants make for a particularly festive nighttime atmosphere.

The Rib Arch

The palaces around the square are joined by soaring arches; the neighboring Piazza delle Erbe market, on the other side of Arco della Costa, is said to contain a whale's rib that will fall on the first truly just person to pass beneath it. So far it remains firmly in place.

Piazza dei Signori, Verona 37121, Italy

From $ 47