Choose from 645 Fun Things to Do in Italy
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Emerald Grotto (Grotta dello Smeraldo)
Tucked beneath the famous highway that skirts Italy's Amalfi Coast, the Emerald Grotto (Grotta dello Smeraldo) is one of the most popular attractions on this iconic stretch of coastline. Discovered in 1932 by a local fisherman, this marine cave is known for the turquoise water that fills the cavern with an emerald-green light when the sun’s rays filter up through a fissure beneath its surface. It’s covered with limestone stalagmites and stalactites more commonly associated with inland karstic caves and is popular among travelers to Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast.
The Basics
The Emerald Grotto can only be entered with official grotto rowboats, and lines to enter can be long during summer as these rowboats only seat about 20 passengers at a time. To avoid the long wait by land, book a tour with a private boat and arrive by sea. Visits to the Emerald Cave are often included on half- and full-day Amalfi Coast tours from Sorrento and Naples, as well as on boat excursions to the islands of Capri and Ischia.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Visitors can only enter the cave by small rowboat, which may be uncomfortable for those prone to seasickness.
- The Emerald Grotto shouldn't be confused with the Blue Grotto, another popular marine cave located on the nearby island of Capri.
- Entering and exiting the small rowboats may be a challenge for those with limited mobility.
- Many private boat tours include stops at the Emerald Grotto and the nearby Fiordo di Furore, a picturesque fjord along the coast to the west.
How to Get There
The Emerald Grotto (Grotta dello Smeraldo) is located in Conca dei Marini between Positano and Amalfi. You can reach the grotto by land along the SS 163 coastal highway and take the elevator down to the cave entrance where rowboats await. Otherwise, you can arrive by sea with a private tour from Amalfi, Positano, or Sorrento and transfer to a rowboat to enter the cave.
When to Get There
The sea cave is only open from May through September and is best visited between noon and 3pm, when the color of the water is most vivid.
The Nativity Scene at the Emerald Grotto
An underwater Nativity scene was created in the cave in 1956, and divers place flowers around the manger each Christmas.
Address: Conca dei Marini, Italy
Hours: Open May–Sept daily 9.30am–4pm
Admission: €5
From $ 138
Etruscan Necropolises of Cerveteri and Tarquinia
When we think of ancient civilizations, more often than not we think of Rome. Yet before the Romans, there were the Etruscans who lived in west Italy from the 9th century onward. Their necropolises, or burial grounds, represent much of what we know about not only Etruscan culture but also burial practices from that ancient time.
Depictions of daily life can be found on frescoed walls, and many of the necropolises resemble Etruscan homes. The necropolis of Cerveteri alone has thousands of tomb structures which are arranged as if a small city. It can be navigated in largely the same manner, with paths, city squares, and even distinct neighborhoods.
The nearby Tarquinia necropolis has more than 6,000 tombs carved into rock. Interestingly, these tombs built for death are one of the greatest keys we have to understand how the Etruscans lived. Many of them are the only existing structure of their kind.
Practical Info
Cerveteri is located in northern Lazio, about 28 miles from Rome. Open from 8:30 am daily, it costs 6 Euros to enter either tomb (Cerveteri and Tarquinia.) The National Museum of Cerverteri of Etruscan artifacts is nearby to the necropolis, and is also worth checking out. The Cerveteri necropolis is located at Via della Necropoli 43/45, whereas Tarquinia is at Strada provinciale Monterozzi Marina. You can get there by driving, or take Rome’s Metro Line A the Cornelia stop; from the Cornelia stop, you can catch a CoTral bus to Cerveteri. It’s about 45 minutes to then travel to Tarquinia.
Address: Via della Necropoli, Cerveteri, Italy
Hours: 8:30 am to sunset
Admission: 6€
From $ 116
Ferriere Valley Nature Reserve (Riserva Statale Valle delle Ferriere)
Known postcard-perfect fishing villages, the Amalfi Coast, a stretch of southern Italian coastline, also has striking countryside crisscrossed with hiking trails. Those in Ferriere Valley Nature Reserve (Riserva Statale Valle delle Ferriere)—thick with lemon groves, lush ferns, abandoned mills, and waterfalls—are among the most beautiful.
The Basics
The Ferriere Valley Nature Reserve is named after the old ironworks that once lined the Canneto riverbank from the peaks of Monti Lattari to Amalfi to the sea. See the ruins of some of these historic foundries through the thick undergrowth of ferns and take memorable photos of the waterfalls that once powered them.
Hike the two main trails in the reserve—the relatively easy Lower Trail (Sentiero Basso 323a) between Pontone and Amalfi and the challenging Upper Trail (Sentiero Alto 325a) that begins in Pogerola—with a professional nature guide. A guide is part of a private tour that also includes transportation to and from the trailhead and end point.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Botany buffs will be interested in the indigenous Woodwardia radicans ferns and Pinguicula hirtiflora carnivorous plants seen during their hike.
- Bring your camera to capture views from the rocky ridges and the overgrown former mills.
- Wear appropriate footwear and clothing for hiking and bring a hat, sunblock, and plenty of water.
- Wheelchair users or those with limited mobility won’t be able to access the stairs, rough terrain, and steep slopes of these trails.
- Older children especially enjoy this hike when accompanied by a nature guide who can explain the unique terrain and history.
How to Get There
Some Sita public buses from Amalfi stop in both Pontone and Pogerola. From Sorrento, Ravello, and Positano, take the bus to Amalfi and connect to the local routes there.
When to Get There
Hiking in the Ferriere Valley is particularly pleasant and scenic in summer and fall, with mild temperatures and lush countryside. But, start out in the cool morning hours in summer (June–September) as it can get quite hot.
The Valley of the Mills
Part of the same nature reserve and adjacent to the Ferriere Valley, the Valley of the Mills (Valle dei Mulini) is known for its romantic paper mill ruins that were once powered by the Canneto River waterfalls. One of these historic paper mills still functions in Amalfi. Visit the town’s Paper Museum to learn more about the history of this important local industry.
Address: Riserva Statale Valle delle Ferriere, Scala, Campania 84010, Italy
From $ 232
Fontana del Nettuno
Giambologna’s 16th-century Fountain of Neptune (Fontana del Nettuno), also known as Il Zigànt, or The Giant, is one of the most famous landmarks in Bologna. A bronze Neptune stands watch from atop the ornate Renaissance fountain in Piazza Maggiore, a popular and picturesque gathering spot for locals and visitors.
The Basics
Sitting in the center of the side of Piazza Maggiore known as Piazza del Nettuno, this marble-and-bronze fountain features a muscular statue of Neptune holding aloft a trident—the inspiration for the logo of the Maserati car manufacturer, which was founded in Bologna—set on a base with circular pools, four spouting sirens representing the four continents, and four cherubs representing the winds. The Fountain of Neptune is a top sight in city walking or bike tours that include Piazza Maggiore, Bologna’s main square and home to the massive Basilica di San Petronio. Bologna is also known for its excellent cuisine, so opt for a food tour if you’d like to combine sightseeing with samples of local dishes.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Piazza Maggiore is pedestrian only, so children can explore without the danger of traffic.
- Dress for the weather and wear comfortable shoes if joining a bike or walking tour.
- The square and fountain are wheelchair accessible.
- Cafés and restaurants line the square around the fountain, so you can stop for a snack or meal.
How to Get There
The Fountain of Neptune is located in Piazza Maggiore, the main square in Bologna’s historic center. You can easily reach the square on foot from the Bologna Centrale train station or the most important attractions in the city center.
When to Get There
Although it’s lovely during the day, the fountain is particularly beautiful at night, when it’s dramatically illuminated along with the basilica and palaces lining the square.
Piazza Maggiore, Bologna’s Beating Heart
In addition to the Fountain of Neptune, Piazza Maggiore is home to the Basilica di San Petronio and a number of historic porticoed palaces, now filled with bustling restaurant and cafés. Experience Bologna’s vibrant atmosphere with a visit to the square to linger with locals and students over lunch or afternoon drinks.
Address: Piazza del Nettuno, Bologna 40124, Italy
Admission: Free
From $ 17
Florence Duomo (Cathedral of Santa Maria dei Fiori)
No matter where you walk in Florence, chances are you will spot its famous Duomo—a defining element of the city’s history, geography, and identity—towering above. Beneath its red-tiled dome lies Florence’s largest church, officially known as the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. Together with the Museum of the Duomo, an opera museum, the baptistery of San Giovanni, and Giotto's Bell Tower, the Duomo complex has become the city’s most famous landmark.
The Basics
A visit to the Duomo is essential for understanding and immersing yourself in both Florence and the Renaissance.Tickets to the complex include access to the dome, baptistery, bell tower, crypt, and museum, and are valid for 48 hours from use. As entry to the cathedral is free, there are often long lines. Many visitors opt to join a small-group guided tour to explore the more hidden corners of the complex—and to skip the lines. Audio guides are also available.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The cathedral is open daily from 10am, but is closed for Sunday morning service and on major holidays.
- Dress modestly. For women, it’s best to cover shoulders and knees (a scarf will do). Sandals, sunglasses, and hats are discouraged.
- It is more than 400 steps to the top of architect Filippo Brunelleschi’s dome, so proper footwear and fitness level are recommended. There is no elevator.
- Tickets can be purchased at the Duomo, but expect lines. You can also purchase tickets in advance, or access the complex through a private guided tour.
How to Get There
The Duomo is at the very center of Florence, fewer than 10 minutes walking from the train station. It is near the must-see Uffizi Gallery, with which it is often visited in combination. Independent travelers and guided tours alike often stop at the Accademia Gallery as well, where Michelangelo’s David resides.
When to Get There
The museum is closed on the first Tuesday of each month. Crowds are unavoidable, but quieter times are early morning and late afternoon, especially outside of the busy summer months (May through September).
An Unforgettable View of Florence
The pink, white, and green marble facade of the Duomo is a sight in itself, but the real can’t-miss views are from the top of the cupola. Climbers are rewarded with an unforgettable vista of Florence’s red-roofed skyline, the Arno River, and the rolling hills beyond. There are panoramic views from atop Giotto’s Campanile, as well. Back on ground level, admire the famous stained glass and frescoes that line the cathedral’s interior. The cathedral’s crypt, which includes the tomb of Brunelleschi, is also worth a visit.
Address: Piazza del Duomo, Florence 50122, Italy
Hours: Vary
Admission: Varies
From $ 17
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
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
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
Enzo Ferrari Museum (Museo Casa Enzo Ferrari)
In the center of Modena, a historical brick factory building is dwarfed by the adjacent contemporary glass-and-steel hangar topped with a bright yellow car hood–shaped roof. Together, these two structures and their contents tell the story of Enzo Ferrari, race car driver and founder of one of the most famous car brands in the world.
The Basics
Visitors to the Enzo Ferrari Museum complex can trace the timeline of events that brought the "prancing horse" to be. The beautifully renovated former factory—where Enzo Ferrari’s father once worked—now houses the Museum of Ferrari Engines (Museo dei Motori). This display showcases various race car models as well as their powerful engines and gives context to how the unique cars were developed. Just next door, the strikingly futuristic automotive design gallery houses temporary exhibitions of Ferrari’s classic road cars and racers.
You can book tours that include tickets to both these structures, to these two structures in combination with the Ferrari Museum in Maranello, or combine a visit to the Enzo Ferrari Museum complex with a gourmet tour featuring some of Modena's most famous products, such as balsamic vinegar and fresh pasta. True aficionados can book a tour that includes a test drive.
Things to Know Before You Go
- A visit to this museum complex is a must for car and racing enthusiasts.
- There are two Ferrari museums: The Enzo Ferrari Museum in Modena and the Ferrari Museum (Museo Ferrari) and Ferrari factory in nearby Maranello. The two are linked by a shuttle bus that runs every 90 minutes.
- The Enzo Ferrari Museum is wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
The Enzo Ferrari Museum is located at Via Paolo Ferrari 85 in Modena, just a 5-minute walk from the Modena train station. The same shuttle that runs between the two Ferrari museums also brings visitors here from the train station; it departs from gate 4.
When to Get There
Open daily all year, the museum is the perfect indoor activity on wet days or hot summer afternoons. Not often overrun with visitors, it’s a good bet for a middle-of-the-day visit.
Emilia-Romagna's Automotive Museums
Due to the concentration of iconic Italian car manufacturers based here, the area of Emilia-Romagna between Bologna and Modena is known as "Motor Valley." In addition to Ferrari’s two museums, a number of other manufacturers have museums that can be visited here, including Maserati, Lamborghini, and Pagani, as well as motorcycle company Ducati.
Address: Via Paolo Ferrari, 85, Modena, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 290
Fontana Maggiore
The 13th-century Fontana Maggiore is undoubtedly the main attraction in Piazza IV Novembre and not only because of its size. The huge area was built in the late 1270s and sits in a prominent location between Perugia's cathedral and the Palazzo dei Priori. It was sculpted by a father-son team from pink and white marble. They depicted scenes from the Old Testament, legends about the founding of Perugia, as well as symbols of the city.
The construction of the fountain was part of a host of city-wide renovations marking Perugia's becoming autonomous, which is why many of the symbols on the fountain promote civic pride. The piazza itself is named for the day World War I ended in Italy.
Practical Info
Piazza IV Novembre is in the heart of Perugia, and has been an important public place since Etruscan times.
Address: Piazza IV Novembre, Perugia, Umbria 06122, Italy
From $ 105
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
Egyptian Museum (Museo Egizio)
With over 26,000 ancient Egyptian artifacts gathered between the 18th and 20th century, Turin's Egyptian Museum (Museo Egizio) houses one of the largest collections of Egyptian antiquities in the world. The galleries were extensively enlarged, renovated, and reorganized, reopening in 2015, and the result is both spectacular and engaging.
The Basics
Founded in 1824, the Museo Egizio is the world’s oldest museum dedicated to ancient Egypt and covers four floors of the Palace of the Academy of Sciences (Palazzo dell'Accademia delle Scienze). The collection includes human mummies, an important papyrus collection, and the Gallery of Kings (Galleria dei Re), a statuary collection organized and dramatically lit by Academy Award–winning production designer Dante Ferretti. Museum highlights include a papyrus measuring 60 feet (18 meters), an important statue of Ramesses II, and the Tomb of Kha, which dates to 3500 BC.
The Egyptian Museum is one of the most popular attractions in Turin. To avoid a long wait in line, book a museum tour with skip-the-line tickets. Many Turin walking or bike tours include a stop at the museum, as do full-day tours from Milan. For a deep dive into this significant collection, consider a private tour with an Egyptologist guide.
Things to Know Before You Go
- A visit to the museum is a must for history buffs and a fun activity for kids, who especially enjoy the mummies and tomb.
- The Egyptian Museum is completely wheelchair accessible.
- Large bags, backpacks, and umbrellas must be left at baggage check at the entrance.
- The museum houses a small bookshop and café.
- Photography without flash is allowed in the museum.
How to Get There
The Egyptian Museum is in the historic center of Turin, a 10-minute walk northeast from the train station. The museum is also accessible via tram (line 4 to Bertola) and any number of city buses to the Bertola or Castello stop. Turin is an easy day trip by car or train from Milan.
When to Get There
The Egyptian Museum can be very crowded on the weekends so is best visited on a weekday. The museum is closed on Monday afternoon.
Other Famous Sights to Explore in Turin
The elegant center of Turin is home to beautiful baroque, rococo, neoclassical, and art deco architecture. Highlights include sweeping squares such as Piazza San Carlo and Piazza Castello, the Royal Palace (Palazzo Reale), Turin Cathedral of St. John the Baptist (Cattedrale di San Giovanni Battista, or Duomo di Torino), and Mole Antonelliana.
Address: Via Accademia delle Scienze 6, Turin, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 22
Florence Central Market (Mercato Centrale Firenze)
The renovated Central Market (Mercato Centrale Firenze) is a trendy gastronomic mecca in the heart of Florence. On the ground floor, you’ll find 19th-century architecture and traditional food stalls; upstairs, there’s an urban food court featuring more than a dozen stands and shops, as well as a cooking school.
The Basics
Florence’s Central Market, the largest of its kind in the city, has been located in its soaring cast-iron-and-glass pavilion for more than a century. The ground-floor indoor market is crowded with stalls selling gourmet specialties from Tuscany and beyond, including fresh fruit and vegetables, buffalo mozzarella, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and Chianti wine. The second floor has been reworked into a chic food court offering freshly prepared Florentine classics served street-food style—everything from fresh pasta with truffles to hamburgers made with heirloom beef.
A stroll through the market is a highlight of any food walking tour in Florence. Some tours include stops to snack along the way, as well as cooking lessons in the school upstairs.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Lovers of Italian food will particularly enjoy touring the market—it’s the perfect place to try Florentine classics like ribollita, lampredotto, and bistecca alla fiorentina.
- The upstairs area has an excellent wine shop that can ship anywhere in the world, a bookstore, and a workshop that hosts wine tastings and cooking demonstrations.
- The downstairs stalls are a great place to snag ingredients, either for an impromptu picnic or for souvenirs.
- There are ramps and an elevator to access both the upper and lower floors of the market.
How to Get There
The market is located in Piazza del Mercato Centrale in the San Lorenzo district, a short walk from the Florence train station.
When to Get There
The ground-floor stalls are open each morning Monday to Saturday, while the upper-floor food court is open daily from 10am to midnight, making it convenient for snacks or meals. Upstairs can get very crowded at mealtimes (1 to 3pm and 7 to 9pm), so it's best to wander through and sample the Tuscan goods at off-hours.
Visiting Another Florentine Market
Just outside the Central Market, the San Lorenzo Market (Mercato di San Lorenzo) is known as the best place in the city to find inexpensive leather goods.
Address: Piazza del Mercato Centrale, Firenze, Italy
From $ 29
Faito Mountain (Monte Faito)
Towering over the countryside of Campania in southern Italy, Faito Mountain (Monte Faito)—in the Lattari mountain range—overlooks the whole of the Sorrento Peninsula. Faito is a popular destination in summer, when its scenic trails offer a respite from the heat and crowds along the coastline.
The Basics
Faito Mountain, named for the beech trees that blanket its slopes, offers some of the best hiking trails in the area. From its highest point, you can set off along a number of routes that lead past churches and ancient cisterns, and through spectacular beech and black pine forests, where it’s often possible to spot birds, butterflies, and small mammals in the wild. A road and cable car run up 3,711 feet (1,131 meters) to one of the highest peaks on the Sorrentine Peninsula, where the views of the Amalfi Coast—from the Gulf of Salerno to the Bay of Naples—are stellar; most hiking trails set off from near the cable car station here. Faito’s trails are of varying length and difficulty, so the best way to explore is on a private walking or hiking tour led by a professional nature guide.
Things to Know Before You Go
- If hiking Faito’s trails, be sure to wear appropriate shoes, a hat, and sunblock, and carry ample water.
- You’ll want to capture the sweeping views, so don’t forget your camera.
- There are a few restaurants and cafés on the peak of Faito Mountain, as well as a playground and swimming pool.
- Outdoor activities are often a welcome break from days of sightseeing for kids, so consider a guided hike with a family-friendly guide.
- The cable car is not accessible to wheelchair users.
How to Get There
The easiest way to reach Faito Mountain is by taking the cable car from the Circumvesuviana train station in Castellammare di Stabia. You can also take the bus from the Circumvesuviana train station in Vico Equense, or drive to the top. To reach the Circumvesuviana line from Positano, Ravello, or Amalfi, take the bus to Sorrento and board the train there.
When to Get There
The cable car runs only in summer, when the lion’s share of hikers hit the trails on Faito Mountain. If hiking in summer, plan to set off early in the morning to avoid the heat of the day; or opt to visit in spring or fall when the temperatures are milder.
Faito and Pompeii in a Day
The archaeological ruins of Pompeii at the base of Mount Vesuvius are also located along the Circumvesuviana rail line between Sorrento and Naples, so easy to reach before or after your cable car excursion to the top of Faito.
Address: Sorrento, Italy
From $ 232
Fontana dell'Acqua Paola
This monumental fountain sits at the top of Rome’s Janiculum Hill, one of the tallest in the city. Dating from 1612, the ornate terminus of the Acqua Paola aqueduct brought water to Vatican City and Trastevere for the first time. Today, you can admire both the fountain and the view, one of the best in Rome.
The Basics
The ornate Fontana dell'Acqua Paola—known in Rome as Il Fontanone, or “the big fountain”—is located on the hilltop above Trastevere and is a highlight of many walking or Segway tours of this charming historic neighborhood. Trastevere pizza-tasting tours also often stop at the Fontana dell'Acqua Paola, as do tours of attractions featured in the film "The Great Beauty."
The fountain was commissioned by Pope Paul V to be the first major fountain on the Trastevere side of the Tiber river. Much of the marble used by architect Giovanni Fontana to build the fountain was pilfered from the Roman Temple of Minerva in the Forum of Nerva, and four of the six granite columns on the fountain's facade are from the original St. Peter’s Basilica. The design inspired that of the Trevi Fountain more than a century later.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The view from Fontana dell'Acqua Paola stretches across the historic center of Rome to the Roman Forum, so be sure to bring your camera.
- Walking and Segway tours of Trastevere offer little shade; comfortable shoes, a hat, and sunscreen are recommended.
- Remember that it is illegal to bathe in Rome's historic fountains.
- The fountain and scenic terrace are accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
How to Get There
The Fontana dell'Acqua Paola is located on Via Garibaldi on Janiculum Hill (Gianicolo) above the Trastevere neighborhood. Since it can be confusing to wind your way through the back streets of Trastevere to the fountain, it’s best to visit with a group or private tour.
When to Get There
Rome is the most popular tourist destination in Italy, which means that its sights can be very crowded in high season. It's best to visit the city in the spring and fall to take advantage of milder temperatures and fewer tourists. If visiting the fountain in summer, time your tour for early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photos.
Pope Paolo V
Pope Paul V was a member of the Borghese family and you can see the Borghese symbols of the dragon and eagle worked into the marble decorations on the Fontana dell'Acqua Paola.
Address: Via Garibaldi, Rome, Puglia, Italy
From $ 15
Fidenza Village
Italians love to shop and they love high fashion, but that doesn't mean they always love paying top prices. Shop like they do at the Fidenza Village outlet shopping center near Parma.
Fidenza Village opened in 2003 and has more than 100 boutique shops. You'll be able to browse the selections for brands such as Versace, Missoni, Armani, Diesel, Dolce & Gabbana, Valentino, and Furla. It's located in the Emilia-Romagna region not far from the city of Parma, and the design of the outdoor shopping center is reportedly meant to evoke some of Giuseppe Verdi's opera sets.
Practical Info
Fidenza Village is right on the A1 Autostrada, one of Italy's main highways, and there is train service to the town of Fidenza. You can catch the shuttle from Fidenza's train station to the outlet center, or you can even get a daily shuttle that runs from Milan right to the outlet center (a one-way ticket on the shuttle costs €20). The shopping center is open daily from 10am-8pm.
Address: Italy
Hours: 10am-8pm
From $ 23
Ear of Dionysius (Orecchio di Dionisio)
Set in the hills of the Sicilian town of Syracuse is a large cave with the evocative name of the Ear of Dionysius. The name does not, however, refer to the Greek god. The name, Orecchio di Dionisio in Italian, was given to the cave by 16th-century painter Caravaggio, who named it after a vicious fifth-century BCE ruler of Syracuse. He is said to have used the cave as a political prison, and the cave's incredible acoustics gave him the ability to eavesdrop on his enemies. Another legend says he once used the cave as a torture chamber.
While the legends are unlikely to be true, the name stuck. The primary acoustic position in the cave is no longer accessible to visitors due to safety concerns, but the cavern is still an impressive sight.
Practical Info
The Ear of Dionysius is part of a larger archaeological site that also includes a Greek theatre. The park is open Tuesday-Saturday 8:30am-4:30pm, and Mondays and holidays from 8:30am-12:30pm. Admission to the park is €10.
Address: 2 Viale Giulio Emanuele Rizzo, Syracuse, Sicily 96100, Italy
Hours: Park is open Tuesday-Saturday 8:30am-4:30pm, and Mondays and holidays from 8:30am-12:30pm
Admission: €10
From $ 28
Fontanelle Cemetery (Cimitero delle Fontanelle)
Despite the name, Fontanelle Cemetery in Naples isn’t a traditional cemetery. It’s a place of many thousands of burials, but it’s actually an ossuary built into a natural cave in the soft rock underneath the Capodimonte Hill in the early 16th century. It served as a burial ground until the late 1960s.
The bones interred at Fontanelle were painstakingly catalogued and re-organized in the early 1870s, after flooding and mass burials had made the cemetery more of a jumbled mess. A cult devoted to the skulls in the cemetery sprang up, and a church was built at the entrance. Today, visitors can still see the church - Maria Santissima del Carmine - as well as the cataloging work done in the 19th century.
Prior to 2010, Fontanelle was only open to the public on a few days every year. Now, it’s open year-round. Visitors are free to walk through the site without a guide, though joining a tour that includes Fontanelle Cemetery as one of its stops is beneficial to help make sense of the history of the place. Tours that include off-the-beaten-path parts of Naples sometimes include Fontanelle Cemetery.
Practical Info
Note that if you do decide to visit on your own without a tour, some people may try to sell you tickets outside the entrance. Entry to the cemetery is free, so don’t pay for a ticket.
Address: Via Fontanelle 80, Naples 80136, Italy
Hours: 10am-5pm daily
From $ 42
Ferrari Museum (Museo Ferrari)
The most evocative name in Italian sports cars is Ferrari, and this dedicated museum in Maranello, Italy, focuses on the auto manufacturer’s history and production. It features 25 cars, including road cars and prototypes, a section devoted to the historic Formula 1 racing team, and fascinating automotive artifacts and memorabilia.
The Basics
With about 27,000 square feet (2,500 square meters) of floor space devoted to Ferrari’s history and design, a visit to this unique museum is an unforgettable day trip from nearby Bologna, or cities as far afield as Verona, Florence, or Milan. For a full-immersion experience, combine your visit with a stop at the Fiorano Test Track at the nearby Ferrari factory, a visit to the Enzo Ferrari Museum in Modena, or even a thrilling test drive. The Ferrari Museum is one of several world-renowned car manufacturers in Emilia-Romagna’s famed Motor Valley, so consider booking a full-day tour that also includes visits to the Lamborghini, Pagani, and Ducati museums and showrooms.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Ferrari Museum is located in Maranello, and the Enzo Ferrari Museum is located in Modena about 12.5 miles (20 kilometers) away; free shuttle buses run between the two museums every 90 minutes.
- The museum includes a Ferrari store selling official branded clothing, toys, and other memorabilia.
- Kids will particularly enjoy the multimedia exhibits, Formula 1 simulators, and interactive activities like pit-stop trials and photo ops in a Ferrari.
- Ferrari does not offer factory tours; the nearest visitors get to the factory is the Fiorano track, accessible by a dedicated shuttle bus.
How to Get There
The Ferrari Museum is located in Maranello, about 31 miles (50 kilometers) west of Bologna. It’s not easy to reach the museum by public transportation—you must take a train to Modena, then a bus or taxi to Maranello—so booking a private bus tour is the most convenient option.
When to Get There
The museum is open from 9:30am to 6pm from November through March and until 7pm from April to October. It makes an unforgettable way to spend a rainy day, as the collection and store are indoors.
Cars and Food: Two Passions
Emilia-Romagna is famous for its iconic automotive design and its unrivaled cuisine. Parmesan cheese, prosciutto ham, and balsamic vinegar all hail from this region, so combine a Ferrari Museum visit with a food tour to experience the best of Emilia-Romagna in a single day.
Address: Via Alfredo Dino Ferrari, Maranello, Emilia-Romagna 41053, Italy
Hours: Daily Nov–March 9:30am–6pm; April–Oct 9.30am–7pm
Admission: Adult €16, child (under 19) €6
From $ 156
Foro Italico
The Foro Italico is one of the largest architectural complexes built under Mussolini, and home to two stadiums that host Rome’s soccer teams, international sports tournaments, and concerts. An excellent example of Italian Fascist architecture, the Foro Italico is an interesting stop for architecture aficionados.
The Basics
Originally called the Foro Mussolini, this sprawling sports complex was built to draw the 1944 Olympic games to Italy's capital city (the games were instead canceled due to World War II). The largest building on the site is the Olympic Stadium (Stadio Olimpico), rebuilt in 1990 to seat more than 70,000 people. The nearby Stadio dei Marmi, designed to resemble an ancient Greek stadium, is ringed by 60 marble statues of athletes and can hold 20,000 spectators.
The main draws for visitors to the Foro Italico today are Lazio and Roma soccer (football) games, the Italian Open tennis tournament, rugby matches, swimming competitions, music events, and architecture tours. As the complex is outside the center of Rome, the best way to visit is on a guided tour of Rome’s Fascist architecture that includes transportation to the Foro Italico and back into central Rome. The complex is a stop on many Palermo Segway, walking, and biking tours.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Foro Italico is an outdoor complex, so wear a hat and sunscreen.
- When large sporting events or concerts are scheduled, only ticket holders can enter the complex.
- This is an especially fascinating site for architecture and 20th-century history buffs.
- The complex is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
How to Get There
The Foro Italico Sports Complex is located on Viale del Foro Italico outside the city center. Take metro line A from Piazza del Popolo to Flaminio, and then the tram 2.
When to Get There
The complex is outdoors, so tour on a day with clear skies and mild temperatures. During the summer, the best times to visit are in the early morning or late afternoon. Check the event schedule, as visitors who do not have tickets cannot pass the security checkpoints into the complex when large sporting events or concerts are scheduled.
Italy's Fascist Architecture
There are a number of architectural reminders of Italy's Fascist past in the capital city. The most important are clustered in the EUR neighborhood, home to the "Square Colosseum," but perhaps the most controversial is the Obelisco del Foro Italico, a large obelisk at the entrance to the Foro Italico that was erected to honor Mussolini in 1932.
Address: Viale del Foro Italico, Rome, Lazio 00135, Italy
Hours: Varies by building & whether there’s an event going on
Admission: Varies
From $ 93