Things to Do in Italy

Choose from 645 Fun Things to Do in Italy

Roman Forum

A sprawling mass of ruins, the Roman Forum (Fori Imperiali) was once the center of ancient Rome, with temples, courts, markets, and government buildings in full swing until the 4th century AD. While all that remains today is an array of ancient columns and arches, the forum is one of the most important archaeological sites in Italy, and excavations occur to this day. Aside from a lesson in Roman history, visitors can get a great view of the Eternal City from the overlooking Palatine and Capitoline hills.

The Basics
The site is most often visited on three-hour tours that combine a visit to the ancient city with a Colosseum tour. Whether you choose a private tour or small-group tour, it's wise to visit with an expert guide who can help you navigate the large space and bring the ruins to life with true stories of gladiators, Roman emperors, and Julius Caesar. After your visit, check out the adjacent ruins at Circus Maximus or pay a visit to the Capitoline Museums to see the display of classical Roman empire sculptures.

Most tour options include hotel pickup and dropoff.
Standard admission tickets to the Roman Forum include entry to the Colosseum and Palatine Hill.
Don’t waste time in line—skip-the-line entry is available for both the Roman Forum and the Colosseum.
Staying in Florence but want to see Rome? Book a day trip with round-trip transportation by high-speed train, also available from Milan and Naples.

How To Get to the Roman Forum
The Roman Forum is located in the area between Piazza Venezia and the Colosseum in the southeastern end of Rome’s historical center. You can get there by metro and bus from most central hotels. The closest metro stop is Colosseo.

When to Get There
As the Roman Forum shares an admission ticket with the Colosseum, it stays consistently busy throughout the day and often has long lines. Choose a walking tour with priority access to jump the queue and maximize your time.

Discovering the Roman Forum Ruins
Inside the archaeological area, stick to the Forum’s main thoroughfare, Via Sacra, to pass by important ruins such as the Julia Curia and the house of the Vestal Virgins. Some of the forum’s most impressive ruins include the white marble arch of Settimio Severo, the first-century Arch of Titus, and the remains of the Basilica of Maxentius and Constantine. If you can’t get enough of ancient Rome, there’s plenty more history just outside the city with day trips available to Pompeii and the Appian Way.

Largo Romolo e Remo, Rome 00186, Italy

Summer: 8:30am–7:15pm, Winter: 8:30am–4:30pm. Closed Dec 25 & Jan 1

Full: 12 euros; EU Citizens 18-25: 7.50 euros; online reservation fee: 2 euros

From $ 23

Roman Catacombs

The miles of underground cemetery that comprise the Roman Catacombs are some of the oldest burial tunnels in the world. Located just outside the city and hidden deep underground, the catacombs were created in the second century in response to a shortage of land for deceased’s remains. Today the narrow tunnels are eerily quiet and full of Roman history, including some of the best-preserved early Christian frescoes and sculptures—and, in the bone-adorned Capuchin Crypt, a Caravaggio. Look out for ancient wall paintings and mosaics lining the walls, as well as the catacombs of St. Agnes, Domitilla, and Priscilla, home to the oldest known depiction of the Virgin Mary.

The Basics

As burial inside the Roman walls was forbidden by law, you’ll find the catacombs of Rome—of which there are at least 40—on the roads just outside of the city itself. Five are open to visitors, including St. Sebastian and St. Callixtus, both of which are located on Via Appia Antica. A trip to the catacombs is often combined with a visit to the Roman countryside and the ancient Appian Way, either on foot or by bike. Choose a tour tailored for kids and families, one focused on ghosts and mystery, or a walking tour with skip-the-line access to beat the crowds. For an exclusive after-hours experience, tour the crypt at night when it’s closed to the public. English-speaking guides explain past burial rituals and give historical context to the sights.

Things to Know Before You Go

Due to the delicate nature of the surroundings, travelers cannot visit the catacombs independently; all visits must be part of a guided group or private tour. Admission includes a guided tour.
Tours and group visits can be arranged upon arrival at the most popular catacombs, but visits must be booked in advance at the less-visited areas.
Catacomb tours are not recommended for travelers who may get claustrophobic due to the small spaces.
Catacombs are holy places, so guests should dress appropriately—all should cover their shoulders and thighs. It’s best to also have a light jacket, as it can get cold underground.

How to Get to There

You’ll find the Roman Catacombs on Via Appia Antica, Via Ostiense, Via Labicana, Via Salaria, and other roads. They can be reached by public transport on various metro and bus lines. Many tours depart from Rome’s Piazza Barberini.

When to Get to There

Most of Rome’s crypts and catacombs are open year-round from 9am to noon and from 2 to 5pm, though typically they are closed on Sundays. Compared with world-famous attractions in Italy such as the Colosseum, they are less visited. Still, limited access to the catacombs makes booking in advance a good idea, especially around Easter and between May and September, when Rome swarms with travelers. The cool catacombs make for a great break from Italy’s summer heat, but the quieter months are recommended for thinner crowds.

Rome’s Strangest Sight?

Perhaps the most interesting sight in the catacombs is the Capuchin Crypt, or Bone Chapel, an area containing—and decorated with—the bones of 4,000 Capuchin friars. Crypt rooms are themed by different types of bones, from skulls to pelvis and leg bones.

Italy

Open daily 9am - noon and 2pm - 5pm

€8 for adults, €5 for children 7-15, free for children 6 and below

From $ 19

Royal Church of San Lorenzo (Real Chiesa di San Lorenzo)

Next to Turin's Royal Palace, you'll find (not surprisingly) a royal church – the Royal Church of San Lorenzo, to be exact. Construction on the church was completed in 1687, and it was consecrated in 1680. The Royal Church of San Lorenzo (Real Chiesa di San Lorenzo in Italian) was built around an older structure, a former chapel for the Dukes of Savoy, which you can see near the entrance of the current church.

Designed by Modena master-architect Guarino Guarini – who was also a priest – in the 1660s, the church is located to the left of the entrance gates of the Palazzo Reale, its plain, pastel-hued façade topped by a lacy dome and hiding a frothy interior.

This fanciful Baroque jewel is smothered in oil paintings, exquisite wooden carving, gilt and multi-colored marble, with an ornate octagonal layout and eight wildly elaborate side chapels covered in seraphim and gilding. The central cupola is decorated with a six-point star, which was the signature flourish of the architect Guarini, and seems to dance as beams of sunlight pours through its windows. Its high altar is one of the most extravagant in Italy, fronted with an inlaid marble floor, studded with gilt and adorned with twisted marble columns and cherubs as well as statues of the ruling Savoy family; this is all backed by a portrait of San Lorenzo (St Lawrence in English), the patron saint of Turin.

Practical Info

The Royal Church of San Lorenzo is located near the entry gates of the Royal Palace, just off the Piazza Castello. It's open for visitors Monday-Friday from 7:30am-12pm and 4-7pm. On weekends, it is open from 9am-1pm and from 3-7:30pm. Admission is free. Much of Turin’s Baroque heart is pedestrianized and it is easy to walk to all the main sights. Alternatively, take trams 4, 13, 15 or 18 to Piazza Castello.

Via Palazzo di Città, 4, Torino 10122, Italy

Mon-Fri 7:30am-12pm & 4pm-7pm, Sat 9am-12pm & 3pm-6pm, Sun 3pm-6pm

From $ 237

Roman Jewish Ghetto (Ghetto Ebraico di Roma)

Though Rome’s Jewish Ghetto no longer officially exists (it was abolished in 1882), the neighborhood is still the center of Rome’s Jewish community, the oldest in Italy. The city’s 19th-century synagogue— home to the Jewish Museum of Rome— is here, as are winding lanes lined with kosher restaurants, markets, and butchers.

Like many cities in Europe, Rome required its Jewish residents to live in a separate, walled-off neighborhood during the Middle Ages. The Roman Jewish Ghetto (Ghetto Ebraico di Roma) was established in 1555, when the city erected walls around this area in the historic center; these barriers were torn down only after the ghetto was abolished in 1882. Today, despite its unhappy history, the Jewish Ghetto is now one of Rome’s most beautiful neighborhoods.

The Basics

Walking tours focused on the city’s Jewish life and food tours highlighting the neighborhood’s cuisine are excellent ways to discover the history and culture of this unique corner of Rome. You can also book a private tour of the area, allowing for customized experiences for those with limited mobility, food allergies, or other requirements or preferences. For even more insight into Jewish Rome, the synagogue’s museum has a curated collection of documents and artifacts related to local Jewish history.

In addition to its Jewish cultural sights, the Ghetto is home to a number of ancient ruins—the Portico of Octavia (Portico d’Ottavia or Porticus Octaviae) and the Theatre of Marcellus (Teatro di Marcello) are the most significant— and the iconic Bocca della Verità (Mouth of Truth) marble mask at the Basilica of St. Mary in Cosmedin (Basilica di Santa Maria in Cosmedin), made famous in the Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck film Roman Holiday.

Things to Know Before You Go

Most small-group Jewish Ghetto tours are on foot or by bike, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes and clothing.
The Jewish Ghetto is located near Rome’s bustling Campo de’ Fiori outdoor market, and many group tours include visits to both.

How to Get There

The Jewish Ghetto is in Rione Sant’Angelo, directly across the Tiber River from the Trastevere neighborhood and not far from the Roman Forum. There are no metro stops near the Ghetto, but a number of city bus lines connect it with the train station and other parts of the city.

When to Get There

A Rome tour focused on the Jewish Ghetto is best scheduled when the neighborhood businesses are open; many close for the Sabbath from Friday at sunset to Saturday at sunset.

The Turtle Fountain

The Eternal City is known for its dozens of beautiful fountains, and one of the prettiest is the Turtle Fountain (Fontana delle Tartarughe) in the ghetto’s Piazza Mattei. Dating from the late Renaissance, this small fountain’s original dolphin decorations were replaced by turtles due to low water pressure, resulting in the endearing version we see today.

Italy

From $ 31

Saint Lucia Neighborhood

At one point in history, Naples was divided into more than two dozen neighborhoods. Present day city geography breaks Naples into 10 municipalities, but the neighborhood names like Saint Lucia are often still used when referring to various parts of the city.

Saint Lucia refers to the area surrounding the Castel dell'Ovo or Egg Castle. The neighborhood has been the subject and inspiration for some traditional Neapolitan songs, the best-known simple titled Santa Lucia. Numerous lyric renditions are known and recognized around the world.

Practical Info

Situated by the Bay of Naples, the Saint Lucia Neighborhood enjoys nice seaside views. The waterfront location includes a long promenade popular with walkers and joggers. There are also many hotels and restaurants that take advantage of the views.

Naples, Italy

From $ 27

Sacro Monte of Varese

One of nine hills that form the UNESCO World Heritage Site of sacred pilgrim routes in Piedmont and Lombardy, the Sacro Monte (Sacred Hill) de Varese is in the Campo dei Fiori Regional Park north of the city of Varese.

Dating from 1604, the Sacro Monte owes its origins to a Capuchin monk and wends its way 1.25 miles (2 km) uphill past a group of 14 chapels interspersed with three archways and three fountains. Marking a medieval pilgrim route dedicated to the Mysteries of the Rosary, they are scenically located among a rustic backdrop of hills, forests and distant mountains and each showcases an event in the life of Jesus. The chapels were the work of major Lombardian architects and every one has a portico of a different design. Likewise each is adorned with statuary and frescoes; the most recent addition is the Flight from Egypt in the Nativity Chapel, which was painted by Renato Guttuso in 1983.

After a walk of about 1.5 hours, the pilgrim route lead up to the hilltop village of Santa Maria del Monte, which has a 15th-century Sanctuary dedicated to the Virgin Mary. With views extending to the Alps, the village also has two small museums and a permanent nativity scene as well as several restaurants and hotels.

Practical Info

Via Assunzione, 21, Frazione Santa Maria del Monte, Varese. No charge for walking the Sacro Monte. Sanctuary open daily 8am 12pm, 2pm–6pm. Best accessed along the A8 Milan toll road, exit Varese. A funicular operates between the parking lot at the Prima Cappella and the top of Sacro Monte on Saturdays and Sundays all year round, and daily during August.

Via Assunzione, 21, Frazione Santa Maria del Monte, Varese, Lombardy 21100, Italy

Sanctuary open daily 8am–12pm, 2pm–6pm

From $ 9

Rome Civitavecchia Cruise Port

Located 50 miles (80 kilometers) northwest of Rome, the Civitavecchia cruise port is a popular jumping-off point for shore excursions to Italy’s capital city. Home to some of the world’s most important art and architecture, and bursting with bustling piazzas and lively restaurants, Rome is a highlight of any Mediterranean cruise.

The Basics

To see the important sights in this busy European capital, maximize your time by taking a tour, perhaps a private one with a driver and skip-the-line tickets to the crowded Colosseum and Vatican Museums. Most Rome tours and shore excursions last a day to cover top attractions including Trevi Fountain, Piazza Navona, the Pantheon, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Square and Basilica. Experience the city’s culinary traditions in trattorias and cafes lining its squares.

Things to Know Before You Go

The Colosseum and Vatican Museums (including the Sistine Chapel) are among the most visited attractions in Italy, so be sure to book a tour with skip-the-line tickets.
Most Roman churches, including St. Peter’s Basilica, require clothing that covers shoulders and knees to enter.
Many archaeological sites in Rome, including the Colosseum and Roman Forum, are outdoors. Bring a hat and sunscreen in summer.
Even driving tours of Rome require a fair amount of walking; comfortable footwear and weather-appropriate clothing is recommended.
The city’s metro and bus systems are famously overcrowded and slow; it is almost always faster and easier to get around by private car.

How to Get There

Shore excursions and private tours generally include port pickup and drop-off, and shuttle buses and private transfers are available for visitors heading to the city or Fiumicino and Ciampino airports. You can reach Rome by train from the Civitavecchia train station, a 10-minute walk from the port or a short shuttle ride from Civitavecchia's landmark Michelangelo Fort. Trains run every half hour to Rome’s Termini station, and the trip takes about an hour.

Port Information

Most of the largest cruise lines stop at the Civitavecchia port. Italian is the most widely spoken language here. The local currency is the euro; ATMs are easy to find, and foreign exchange bureaus are near the docks.

Calata Principe Tommaso, Civitavecchia, Italy

From $ 31

San Carlo Opera House (Teatro di San Carlo)

Naples' opera house, the Teatro di San Carlo, is not only Italy's oldest opera house—it's also the longest-running opera house in Europe, open since 1737.

The site was built under King Charles VII, a member of the Bourbon monarchy, so the theater was originally called the “Royal” opera house. In November 1737, the opera house opened its doors for the first time, but an 1816 fire consumed the entire interior of the building—only the outer structure was left standing. The theater was rebuilt, and it reopened the next year.

Today, the opera season begins in late January and continues through May. You can also see ballet performances at the theater—that season runs from April through the beginning of June.

Practical Info

The Teatro di San Carlo is located near the Piazza del Plebiscito and is attached to the Royal Palace. Opera ticket prices range from €32 to €400, depending on seat location. Tickets for the symphony and ballet cost less. The opera house also offers 45-minute guided tours in Italian and English every day from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and additionally from 2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Tours of the theater are €6 for adults and €5 for seniors and children.

Via San Carlos, Naples, Italy

Varies

From $ 40

Roman Odeon

The Roman Odeon is an ancient theater in Taormina, Italy. It is small in size and was likely used for small-scale vocal and literary performances for the city's elite. This theater was built in 21 BC under the rule of the Roman emperor Caesar Augustus Octavian. It was discovered by accident in the late 1800s when a man was digging in his land. Excavations eventually uncovered the theater and found it to be very similar to the larger Greek-Roman theater in another part of the city.

The theater included a Greek temple, and the marble steps that made up its base have been preserved. The theater itself has also been well preserved over the centuries, and visitors can still see the red clay bricks that form the different sections: stage, orchestra, and audience. It could hold about 200 people. Today it is used for a variety of events, such as the setting for a nativity scene during the Christmas season.

Practical Info

The Roman Odeon is located near Palazzo Corvaia on Via Timeo. It is about one mile from the Taormina-Giardini train station.

Corso Umberto, Taormina, Sicily 98039, Italy

From $ 22

Roman Theater and Archaeological Museum

Verona Arena, the first-century Roman amphitheater on Piazza Bra is one of the city’s most famous sights, but Verona also boasts a pristine Roman Theater that is even older than the arena and is set on the banks of the River Adige. Visit the theater to see remains of the stage, stone seating (cavea), and loggia arcades.

The Basics

Verona’s Roman Theater was unearthed during the 19th century, when developers discovered the original marble floor of the orchestra pit and rows of stone seats. Part of the seating was destroyed when the Church of San Siro was built on the site during the 10th century, but otherwise this theater dating from the first century BC is surprisingly intact. On the hill above the theater, the former Convent of San Gerolamo is home to the Archaeological Museum, displaying a collection of Roman artifacts found in and around Verona.

By day, visit the Roman theater with a walking or bike tour of Verona, or join a hop-on hop-off bus tour that stops at the theater and museum. Most Verona tours also include skip-the-line entrance to the arena and stops at the historic center’s top attractions. On summer evenings, you can enjoy a concert in the theater.

Things to Know Before You Go

The Roman Theater is accessible to wheelchairs via gangways in the summer for those attending concerts, and via Vicolo Botte in the winter for those touring the theater.
The Archaeological Museum is not wheelchair accessible.
Both the Roman Theater and the Archaeological Museum offer beautiful views over Verona and the Adige River, so bring your camera.
A tour of the theater and museum is especially interesting for Roman history enthusiasts.

How to Get There

The Roman Theater and Archaeological Museum are located just across the Adige River from the historic center of Verona. These sights are easily reached on foot or via public transportation by crossing the Ponte Pietra bridge. Verona is located in the Veneto region in northern Italy between Venice and Milan, and is a popular day trip from Venice or Lake Garda.

When to Get There

The theater is open all day Tuesday through Sunday and Monday afternoon year-round, but is especially memorable to visit on a summer evening to see a concert or performance. On evenings when events are scheduled, the theater may close early.

Verona’s Roman Amphitheater

The Verona Arena is a spectacular oval-shaped Roman amphitheater dating from the first century. The arena once hosted sporting events, games, and gladiator battles. The arena was opened once again during the 19th century to hold performances, and today audiences of up to 15,000 gather there to watch opera, concerts, and ballet.

Rigaste Redentore, 2, Verona 37129, Italy

Varies

From $ 21

Royal Palace Museum (Museo di Palazzo Reale)

The Royal Palace (Palazzo Reale) in Genoa (Genova) is one of the city’s Palazzi dei Rolli, magnificent residences built by the Genoese aristocracy during the Republic of Genoa’s height of wealth and power. Get a glimpse into the city’s opulent baroque period by touring the sumptuous interiors and art collection of this palace museum.

The Basics

Though the palace seems designed for royalty, it was actually built in the early 17th century for the Balbi family, who sold it to the wealthy Durazzo family just a few decades later. Originally called Palazzo Balbi, it only became the Royal Palace in the 19th century when the Royal House of Savoy moved in. The Palazzo Reale is now a museum filled with a collection of fine antique furniture and decorated with frescoes, stuccowork, and paintings by important artists, such as Tintoretto and van Dyck.

The Museo di Palazzo Reale is an unforgettable stop on Genoa walking tours and one of the city's main attractions, along with the Nautical Museum (Galata Museo del Mare) and Genoa Aquarium. If touring independently, book admission in advance so you can skip the lines upon arrival.

Things to Know Before You Go

Walking tours of Genoa involve a considerable amount of time on your feet, so choose comfortable shoes.
The palazzo is accessible to wheelchairs via an elevator.
Flash photography is not allowed inside the museum.
A tour of the Royal Palace Museum is especially interesting for art and architecture aficionados.

How to Get There

Genoa is the capital of Liguria and one of the most important ports in Italy, so it’s easy to reach by train from any other major Italian city. The Royal Palace is just a 5-minute walk up Via Balbi from the train station.

When to Get There

The museum is open all day, so it’s a good stop during those tricky early afternoon hours when many churches and other attractions close for lunch. Keep in mind that the Royal Palace Museum is closed on Mondays, and Saturday and Sunday mornings.

Highlights of the Royal Palace Museum

Be sure to visit the ornate Piano Nobile, the Hall of Mirrors, and the Throne Room. Outside, you can also tour the pretty palace gardens.

Via Balbi, 10, Genoa, Italy

Varies

From $ 7

San Giovanni and Paolo Church (Santi Giovanni e Paolo)

Venice is home to many important churches, including the huge Basilica of Saints Giovanni and Paolo (John and Paul). Known as “San Zanipolo” in Venetian, this Basilica was the setting for every Venetian doge’s funeral from the 15th century on, and is the burial site for 25 of those doges.

Santi Giovanni e Paolo was built in the 14th century on land donated by a 13th century doge. The church is enormous - one of Italy’s biggest - and contains artwork by notable Italian artists as well as several tombs. Because the church also holds a piece of a saint - in this case, one of the feet of St. Catherine of Siena - it rises to the level of “Basilica.”

Artists whose work appears in Santi Giovanni e Paolo include Bellini, Veronese, and two generations of Lombardo sculptors. Not only does a painting by Bellini hang in the church, Bellini himself is also buried inside. Other tombs in the church include 25 Venetian doges and the 3rd Baron of Windsor, who died in Venice in 1574.

Practical Info:

The Basilica of Santi Giovanni e Paolo is located on a square of the same name in the Castello sestiere.

Santi Giovanni e Paolo, Venice, Castello 6363 30122, Italy

From $ 21

San Domenico Maggiore

Set on a busy square and surrounded by palaces, a visit to the 13th-century San Domenico Maggiore offers visitors the chance to see a beautiful church and lively piazza.

The new Church of San Domenico Maggiore was built between 1283 and 1324. It incorporates a smaller church, the Chapel of San Michele Arcangelo a Morfisa – you can see the remains inside—first built at the same location in the 10th century. Like many churches, San Domenico Maggiore has undergone many renovations and remodels over its long history. In 1670, it underwent a Baroque redo, only to be restored to its original Gothic design in the 19th century.

San Domenico Maggiore contains well-known Renaissance art including frescoes by Pietro Cavallini and copies of works by Caravaggio and Titian.

Practical Info

Along with the main entrance, there is a second entrance into the Church through the Chapel of San Michele Arcangelo a Morfisa from Piazza San Domenico Maggiore. Located near the center of Naples, the piazza is a bustling place, crowded with locals and visitors.

Piazza San Domenico Maggiore, 8, Naples 80134, Italy

From $ 29

Salerno Cathedral (Duomo di Salerno)

Just south of the Amalfi Coast, the seaside town of Salerno is home to the magnificent 11th-century Cathedral of Saint Matthew—one of the most beautiful medieval churches in Italy, with an ornate baroque crypt containing the remains of the Apostle Matthew. It’s an easy day trip from Sorrento, Positano, or Amalfi.

The Basics

The Salerno Cathedral (Duomo di Salerno or Cattedrale di San Matteo) was built during the Norman period and has a somewhat plain exterior that belies the beauty of its 17th-century crypt inside, with rich marble floors, exquisite frescoes, and elaborate gold mosaics forming a lavish backdrop for the relics of Saint Matthew. The basilica is home to precious artworks—12th-century mosaics, massive bronze doors, and the tomb of Pope Gregory VII, leader of the Holy Roman Empire who died in exile in Salerno in 1085—and is known for its 12th-century bell tower.

Salerno is an ideal excursion from Sorrento, Amalfi, Positano, and Naples; a stop at the Cathedral is a highlight of guided tours through the narrow streets of Salerno's old town. You can also combine a visit to Salerno with day tour of Paestum, about an hour south.

Things to Know Before You Go

Conservative clothing is required in the cathedral; shorts and tank tops are strictly prohibited.
Tours of the center of Salerno require some walking, so wear comfortable shoes.
The cathedral is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
Photography without flash is allowed inside the cathedral.

How to Get There

The Salerno Cathedral is located on Piazza Alfano I in the center of Salerno; it’s accessible by bus and train running from a number of locations throughout Campania. To avoid the hassle of public transportation, however, consider joining an organized tour that includes Salerno and Paestum.

When to Get There

Salerno is significantly less touristy than the nearby Amalfi Coast; in summer, you might consider it a welcome break from the crowds.

The Chapel of the Treasures of St. Matthew

The Salerno Cathedral’s beautiful 16th-century Chapel of the Treasures of St. Matthew (Cappella del Tesoro di San Matteo), is open to visitors on the 21st day of each month. If you time your visit right, you can view the Gothic relics, silver statues, and other precious artifacts inside.

Piazza Alfano I, Salerno, Italy

Varies

From $ 49

Royal Palace of Caserta (Reggia di Caserta)

The Royal Palace of Caserta, famous for its massive size and opulent style, is a triumph of late Italian Baroque architecture. The largest royal residence in the world, the palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, shares a number of features with the Palace of Versailles and is one of the most-visited monuments in southern Italy.

The Basics

The 18th-century Royal Palace (Reggia di Caserta) was built by the architect Luigi Vanvitelli for the Bourbon kings of Naples. It sits majestically on a hill overlooking its 300 acres of undulating grounds, including ornate fountains and water features and the English Garden, one of the most important botanical gardens in Europe. The palace, inspired by Versailles in France and similarly opulent structures in Madrid, includes 1,200 rooms on five floors, including royal apartments, the Throne Room, the Palatine Chapel, and the Grand Staircase, all sumptuously decorated with frescoes, marble, and gold leaf. The Royal Palace and park are among the most popular attractions in the region of Campania; the best way to fully appreciate its architecture and history is by taking a private guided tour of the palace and its beautiful gardens.

Things to Know Before You Go

As one of the largest palaces in the world, visiting the Reggia di Caserta is a mammoth undertaking. You’ll be spending most of the day on your feet, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes and clothing.
If you don’t want to tour the grounds on foot, you can rent a bike, take the bus, or opt for a horse-drawn carriage ride.
The palace and grounds are wheelchair-accessible.
Star Wars fans may recognize the palace as the setting for scenes from Episode I and Episode II.

How to Get There

The palace is located in Caserta, just north of Naples—it’s an easy day trip from Naples, Sorrento, the Amalfi Coast, or Rome. (Exit the Autostrada A1 at Caserta Nord.) You can also take the train right to Caserta.

When to Get There

The Reggia di Caserta is open 8am to 7:30pm daily, except for Tuesdays. The grounds close earlier in winter. The English Garden is open for guided tours more or less hourly (10am to 4:30pm daily).

San Leucio

The grounds of the royal palace also house the historic San Leucio silk factory; today it’s the Silk Museum, with original looms and historic machinery on display.

Viale Douhet, 2/a, Caserta CE 81100, Italy

Varies

From $ 19

Salvatore Ferragamo Museum

Though Milan is considered Italy’s fashion capital, Florence is home to some of the most historic fashion houses in the country, including shoe designer Salvatore Ferragamo. You don’t have to be a fashionista to appreciate the Ferragamo Museum, where the beauty and craftsmanship of the iconic shoes classify them as works of art, rather than simply footwear.

The Basics

The Ferragamo Museum, opened in 1995, is housed in the Palazzo Spini Feroni on Piazza Santa Trinita, a 13th-century former residential palace that Ferragamo bought in the 1930s to serve as his company headquarters and workshop. The museum’s collection started with a staggering 10,000 shoes created by Ferragamo from the 1920s until 1960, and has grown after his death. Exhibits rotate every couple of years, and there are also temporary exhibitions from time to time.

Join a private artisan walking tour of Florence to explore the city’s thriving workshops along with a number of its museums honoring Florentine fashion labels like Ferragamo and Gucci. You can easily pair an artisan tour with a guided visit of the city’s highlights, including skip-the-line access to the Duomo, the Uffizi Gallery, and the Accademia (home of Michelangelo’s David).

Things to Know Before You Go

The Ferragamo Museum has an adjacent boutique where you can purchase Ferragamo shoes and bags.
If you’re joining a walking tour of Florence, wear comfortable shoes and a hat.
The museum is accessible to wheelchair users via a dedicated entrance.
A visit to the Ferragamo Museum is a must for fashion addicts, but the vintage displays and life story of Salvatore Ferragamo are fascinating even for those who are more interested in history than design.

How to Get There

The Ferragamo Museum is located in the heart of historic Florence, just steps from Ponte Vecchio and an easy 10-minute walk from the Santa Maria Novella train station.

When to Get There

Florence is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Italy, and it can get very crowded in summer. Plan to visit in spring or fall to enjoy the city’s museums and monuments without the crush of high-season tourists. The Ferragamo Museum is open daily, and can offer a respite from the crowds the more famous city landmarks see at midday.

Florence’s Famous Fashion

In addition to Ferragamo, Florence is home to a number of other famous names in fashion. You can visit the Gucci Garden, dedicated to the history and design of this iconic Florentine label; the Capucci Museum in Villa Bardini, dedicated to Roberto Capucci; or the elegant boutiques of local designers Emilio Pucci and Roberto Cavalli.

At Piazza Santa Trinita 5/R, Florence, Tuscany 50123, Italy

Varies

From $ 12

San Frediano

Entering the neighborhood of San Frediano means historically passing through the Porta San Frediano, which was once a door to the walled city, leading to one of Florence’s most popular residential areas in the present day. The trendy area has a variety of culture, cuisine, and art that contribute to its cosmopolitan feel. The neighborhood is home to many artisans that have kept their workshops here for decades. It has been compared to the SoHo neighborhood of New York City. Many will cross the bridges on the river from the historic city center to enjoy a greater variety of food and drink in a less expensive price range.

After crossing through the Porta San Frediano, the Chiesa San Frediano in Cestello becomes visible. The 17th century church was built on the site of an older monastery, Santa Maria degli Angeli, which was founded in 1450.

Practical Info

San Frediano is located on the left side of the Arno River (Oltrarno) with its main landmark, the Chiesa di San Frediano, located on the riverbank.

Florence, Tuscany, Italy, Italy

From $ 56

Royal Palace of Naples (Palazzo Reale)

Naples’ Royal Palace (Palazzo Reale di Napoli) is a stellar reminder of this city’s royal history. Construction began in the 1600s when Spain’s Viceroy Fernando Ruiz de Castro ruled Naples, and the site was designed by Renaissance architect Domenico Fontana. Today, visitors can enter to take the soaring double staircase up to the royal apartments decorated by architect Gaetano Genovese.

The Basics

Palace highlights include the Court Theater (Teatrino di Corte) designed by Ferdinando Fuga, the Throne Room, the Hall of Hercules ballroom, and the Royal Chapel (Cappella Reale), home to a monumental 18th-century nativity scene.

The palace is one of the most important historical tourist destinations in central Naples, so it is important to book your Royal Palace of Naples entrance ticket in advance to avoid having to wait in a long line to enter. You can also join a Naples city walking tour or sightseeing tour by Segway or bike that includes visits to the Palazzo Reale, the nearby Teatro di San Carlo, and Castel Nuovo.

Things to Know Before You Go

The palace interiors and courtyard are open daily from 9am to 7pm, with the exception of Wednesdays and holidays.
The palace and courtyard are wheelchair- and stroller-accessible via an internal elevator.
There are free storage lockers for small personal belongings, but no luggage storage.

How to Get There

This sumptuous royal residence is located on the central Piazza del Plebiscito, Naples’ largest square. Take the ANM R2 bus to the Via San Carlo station, or the metro line 1 to Toledo, a 15-minute walk away. Naples is the capital city of Campania, so easy to reach by train and ferry for a day trip from Rome, the Amalfi Coast, Sorrento, and Pompeii.

When to Get There

The Royal Palace is one of the most important monuments in Naples, and best visited in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid midday crowds. Entrance is free the first Sunday of the month, so the palace can also be very crowded then.

The Biblioteca Nazionale

The Royal Palace is also home to the National Library, which contains thousands of papyrus scrolls found at Herculaneum as well as the remains of a fifth-century Coptic bible.

Piazza del Plebiscito, Naples, 80132, Italy

9am - 8pm, closed Wednesdays

Varies

From $ 10

San Francesco di Paola Church

Naples version of the Pantheon, San Francesco di Paola Church is located on the pedestrian-only Piazza del Plebiscito. It’s no doubt the first thing you’ll notice when you step into the piazza.

Originally intended to serves as a monument to Napoleon Bonaparte, when Ferdinand I returned to the throne he constructed the church, dedicating it to the saint of the same name. The 19th century church is circular with two side chapels. Its façade is dominated by six Ionic columns and two pillars. The massive dome is 174 feet (53 meters) high.

Inside the San Francesco di Paola Church are numerous sculptures and paintings by Luca Giordano and other Neapolitan artists.

Practical Info

The Basilica of San Francesco di Paola is located opposite the Royal Palace on the Piazza Plebiscito. Entrance to the Church is free. It closes daily for a few hours in the early afternoon.

Piazza del Plebiscito, Naples, Italy

From $ 34

Rome Olympic Stadium (Stadio Olimpico)

Rome’s Stadio Olimpico seats more than 72,000 spectators, and when the city’s deeply beloved A.S. Roma and S.S. Lazio soccer teams hold their home matches here, there isn’t an empty seat in the house. But the stadium isn’t just for "football" fans; rather, the venue is also used for rock concerts and other sporting events.

The Basics

Soccer is a national obsession in Italy; home matches of the city's two top-division (Serie A) teams are the year’s biggest highlights for Roman sports fans; emotions run high at their matches, especially when they’re vying for a spot for the Coppa Italia, UEFA Champions League Finals, or the FIFA World Cup. The city's original stadium, dating back to the 1930s, was mostly demolished at one point, then expanded. Today's modern stadium was inaugurated in 2008 for the European Cup Finals. Tickets sell out quickly for games at the Stadio Olimpico, so be sure to book in advance. For a truly unforgettable experience, opt for VIP seats, which often include a buffet and open bar.

Things to Know Before You Go

Italian football fans generally behave well at matches, with much good-natured bantering and chanting. The most rabid fans are seated in the curva nord and curva sud—the stadium’s north and south curves.
Matches last 90 minutes and are split into two halves. During the 15-minute break in the middle, crowds rush the concession stands for snacks and drinks.
Large bags and backpacks can’t be taken inside the stadium, and there are security checks for banned items.
Lazio players dress in sky blue and white; the Roma sport gold and dark red. If you’re looking to suit up, you can buy gear outside the stadium before the game.
The Italian National Rugby team also uses this stadium—the Six Nations Rugby finals are also a popular event.

How to Get There

Stadio Olimpico, located on Piazzale del Foro Italico, is part of the Foro Italico Sports Complex outside the city center. The easiest way to get there is by public transportation: Take the metro line A from Piazza del Popolo to Flaminio, then the tram 2, which goes right to the stadium.

When to Get There

Soccer season lasts from August to May; some championship games run into the beginning of summer.

Italy's Soccer Clubs

Roma and Lazio are the two teams based in Rome, but most major Italian cities have their own local teams as well; most famously, Milan, Turin, and Naples.

Viale dello Stadio Olimpico, Rome, Italy

Varies

From $ 346