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Sant'Andrea della Valle
Tucked away in a piazza just off one of Rome’s busiest thoroughfares in the Centro Storico, the Baroque church of Sant’Andrea delle Valle was designed by Giacomo della Porta and eventually completed by a succession of other Baroque masters—including Carlo Maderno and Borromini—in 1663. It is famous for providing the setting for the opening of Puccini’s opera Tosca.
The frescoed dome was the handiwork of Carlo Maderno and at 528.5 ft (16.1 m) it is the second largest in Rome after St Peter’s. Underneath this mighty cupola, the church is liberally scattered with the extravagant marble chapels and tombs of wealthy 16th-century Italian aristocrats, including the Strozzis, the Barberinis and several popes. Great names like Michelangelo and Bernini had a hand in designing these sarcophagi, and together with the gilt ornamentation and nave frescoes from the greatest artists of the day adorning the walls, plus the marble patterning of the floors, they come together in creating a highly decorative church interior awash with color.
Sant’Andrea delle Valle is within an easy stroll of the lovely ancient squares of Campo de’ Fiori—a lively morning market is held here—and Piazza Navona, famous for its Baroque fountains by Bernini.
Practical Info
Corso Vittorio Emanuele II, Centro Storico, Rome. Open daily 7:30am–12:30pm, 4:30pm–7:30pm. Admission free. Take Metro Line B to Colosseo and then a 10-minute walk.
Address: Corso Vittorio Emanuele II, Centro Storico, Rome 00186, Italy
Hours: Open daily 7:30am–12:30pm, 4:30pm–7:30pm
From $ 31
Sao Vicente Caves & Volcanism Centre
A 30-minute tour of the São Vicente Caves is a uniquely Madeira experience that is not to be missed. Formed by the same volcanic activity that created the island itself, these caves were created by a massive eruption that took place some 890 thousand years ago. Eight tunnels extend more than 1,000 meters, making it the largest system of caves in Madeira. Visitors can weave through the well-lit paths, past transparent pools and incredible stalactites on a unique journey to the interior of the earth.
The Volcanism Centre, located next to the caves, offers visitors a chance to watch the evolution of the caves and the eruption that formed Madeira through unique audiovisual shows. Travelers will also get a multi-media exploration of geology, volcanic activity, the origins of the solar system and the natural history of Madeira, making a trip to the Centre the perfect follow-up to a tour of the caves.
The Volcanism Centre, located next to the caves, offers visitors a chance to watch the evolution of the caves and the eruption that formed Madeira through unique audiovisual shows. Travelers will also get a multi-media exploration of geology, volcanic activity, the origins of the solar system and the natural history of Madeira, making a trip to the Centre the perfect follow-up to a tour of the caves.
Practical Info
The Caves and the Volcanism Centre are open daily from 10am until 7pm and are located on Sitio do pe do Passo. Tickets cost 8 Euros for adults and 6 Euros for seniors and children between ages 5 and 14.
Address: Grutas de S Vicente, Sao Vicente, Madeira, Portugal
Hours: Daily 10am-7pm
Admission: Adult: €8; Child: €6
From $ 27
Santo Stefano Rotondo
Officially called the Basilica of St. Stephen in the Round, Santo Stefano Rotondo gets its more commonly-known nickname from its shape – it's one of the world's oldest and largest circular churches.
The church was built in the 5th century, and although it was altered in the 6th and 7th centuries and then quite drastically in the 15th century, the central part of the church remains the original 5th century design.
In addition to the church's shape, the other main attraction are the gruesome frescoes that line the outer wall. There are 34 scenes of martyrdom depicted, painted in the 16th century, each with a brief explanation of who was martyred and who gave the order.
Practical Info
Santo Stefano Rotondo is open daily from 10am to 1pm year-round, and then 2 to 5pm during the winter and 3 to 6pm during the summer. There is no admission fee, but donations are always greatly appreciated.
Address: Via di Santo Stefano Rotondo, 7, Rome, Italy
Hours: Daily from 10am-1pm year-round, and then 2pm-5pm during the winter and 3pm-6pm during the summer.
From $ 43
Santi Giovanni e Paolo
With a history dating back to the 4th century, the Church of Santi Giovanni e Paolo is among the oldest in Rome and, despite its rather unremarkable façade, boasts a fascinating history. The church was built on the site of the Case Romane, allegedly the former home and burial site of Roman soldiers and converted Christians John and Paul, who were beheaded at the hand of Emperor Julian the Apostate.
Today, the fabled church, extensively restored in the 12th century, stands atop Celian Hill and is acclaimed for its lavishly decorated interiors, adorned with striking frescos and glittering chandeliers. The real highlight though, lies beneath the church – the excavated ruins of the ancient Claudianum and the Case Romane, which offer a fascinating glimpse into Roman life.
Practical Info
Santi Giovanni e Paolo is located on Piazza dei Santi Giovanni e Paolo in central Rome and is open daily from 8am to 1pm and 3pm to 6pm.
Address: Piazza dei Santi Giovanni e Paolo, Rome 00184, Italy
Hours: 8am-1pm, 3-6pm
From $ 43
Santorini Volcano
The “Santorini volcano” may refer to two different peaks: the first, Thira, exploded around 1600 BC and ended the thriving Minoan civilization and may have spawned the legend of Atlantis. Millennia of eruptions formed the second “Santorini volcano”—the island of Nea Kameni, drawing visitors eager to hike to the rim of its active crater.
The Basics
Most visitors reach the active volcano on Nea Kameni, whose crater continues to rumble and puff out steam, by way of a boat tour departing from the town of Oia, the Old Port of Fira, or the Athinios port on Santorini’s main island. Once on the island, you can hike up to the crater’s rim and take in the views across lava fields to Greece’s Aegean Sea. Volcano tours may also stop on Thirasia, the second-largest island in the archipelago, and at the hot springs on Palea Kameni, where boats moor at Erinia and you can swim to the springs beneath the tiny church of Agios Nikolaos. Boat trips can get crowded in high season, so opt for a small-group guided tour or catamaran tour if you would prefer a more personal experience.
Things to Know Before You Go
- If you plan to walk to the crater’s rim, be sure to wear hiking-appropriate clothing and comfortable shoes.
- Don't forget a hat, sunblock, and plenty of water to guard against the Mediterranean heat.
- Boat tour passengers must be agile enough to board and disembark boats, so travelers with limited mobility should confirm accessibility before booking.
- Visiting the volcano requires about 30 minutes of uphill hiking, so may not be suitable for young children or those who are not strong walkers.
How to Get There
You can reach the volcano on Nea Kameni by boat on a private tour or a larger group cruise departing from Santorini.
When to Get There
Santorini volcano tours are most crowded in summer, when it can also be uncomfortably hot during the peak hours of the day. Opt for an early morning or late afternoon departure, or plan your visit for the spring or fall.
Santorini Sunsets
Santorini boasts gorgeous sunsets, and the archipelago has the Thira volcano to thank. Its cataclysmic eruption scooped out the once-circular island’s center and west coast, creating the sea-filled caldera ringed by the sheer cliffs of the Santorini archipelago’s main island. Today the caldera provides a low-lying, obstruction-free observation point along Santorini’s west coast, perfect for watching the sun sink into the sea. Consider booking a romantic sunset tour by boat in the late afternoon to savor this famous sunset.
Address: Greece
From $ 107
Sapadere Canyon
A tall canyon filled with turquoise streams and waterfalls, Sapadere is a retreat into nature in the Turkish Riviera. Formed centuries ago by erosion from water and ice, it stands 360 meters long and nearly 400 meters high. Fresh air breezes through the canyon, filled with the sounds of rushing water and wildlife such as butterflies and birds.
Once unknown outside of locals, facilities were only recently built to welcome visitors from all over Turkey and the world. A natural wooden path curves through the park, at times leading to pools for swimming (especially welcome in the summer heat.) High rocks and the Torsos mountains scenically surround you as you walk through. At the end of the path is the canyon’s most impressive waterfall, which also has a spot ideal for swim in the clear waters. The nearby Sapadere Village is also worth a stop.
Practical Info
Sapadere Canyon is located 50 kilometers east of Alanya. To get there, head toward Demirtas village and then follow the signs to the canyon. The entrance fee is 5 Turkish Lira. Be sure to bring your own water and sun protection.
Address: Sapadere Kanyonu, Turkey
Admission: 5 Turkish Lira
From $ 17
Santo Amaro Docks
The Santo Amaro Docks (Docas de Santo Amaro), located beneath the 25 de Abril Bridge along the waterfront between Baixa and Belem, is both a lively marina with moorages for hundreds of boats, as well as one of Lisbon’s nightlife hot spots.
Locally known simply as “Docas,” this waterfront area features restaurants, bars and clubs housed in old warehouses. It’s a lively place for an afternoon drink, and the waterfront is landscaped all the way to Belem, making for a pleasant 30-minute stroll. Things really start heating up come nightfall when Lisbon’s youth turn out to party late into the night.
Practical Info
To get to Santo Amaro Docks, take a train from Cais do Sodre Station to Alcantara Station, then walk toward the bridge.
Address: Doca Santo Amaro Armazém CP, Alcântara, Lisbon 1350-353, Portugal
From $ 17
Sant'Andrea delle Fratte
The Baroque church of Sant’Andrea delle Fratte—while small—houses impressive religious artifacts and artworks worthy of a visit. The 17th-century church is home to a single nave and three chapels that include paintings by Borgognone and ornate frescoes and stuccoed angels by Marini. Of particular note are the sculpted angels on each side of the presbytery, created by Bernini.
The church's striking dome and tower, designed by Borromini, contrasts its modest interior, and serves as a beacon to those traversing Rome's top attractions. Located between the Spanish Steps and the Trevi Fountain, the church is a highly-recommended stop along the way.
You can visit the church, which honors St Andrew, as part of a city walking tour of sites dedicated to Mary and different saints.
Practical Info
The church is located at Via di Sant’Andrea delle Fratte in Rome. It is near the Mercede bus station, and is a five-minute walk south of the Spanish Steps and north of the Trevi Fountain.
Sant'Andrea delle Fratte is open daily July through September from 6:30am to 12:30pm and from 4:30pm to 8pm. It is open October through June from 6:15am to 1pm and 4pm to 7pm. Entrance to the church is free.
Address: Via di Sant'Andrea delle Fratte, 1, Rome, Italy
Hours: July–Sept: 6:30am–12:30pm & 4:30pm–8pm; Oct–June: 6:15am–1pm & 4pm–7pm
From $ 21
Santorini Cruise Port
One of the most memorable places in Greece, the volcanic island of Santorini - located in the Cyclades group - is a spectacular Mediterranean paradise known for its dazzling views, fine beaches and unforgettable sunsets. Without much need for modern amenities, the place is lined with historic sights, and more than enough natural and ancient wonderment to go around. It's no wonder why so many people love Santorini.
How to Get to Santorini
There are a few ways to get into Santorini, either by land or sea, depending on your budget and how much time you have to explore. By air, there is Santorini National Airport, which during the summer months flies directly to several destinations in Europe. If the water highway is your transportation method of choice, you can either grab a ferry from domestic locations in Naxos, Paros, or more commonly Piraeus. Big cruises will reach Santorini through the old port in Fira (take note: not the newer one located just 2 miles away in Pyrgos).
One Day in Santorini
Choosing what do here will be difficult to muss up. If you're looking for the historical route, the 3,500-year-old Minoan town of Akrontiri, and ancient Thira monastery are the way to go. Otherwise, for a little R&R there are more beaches than you'll know what to do with. Take a trip to the red, black or white beaches, or for a less crowded experience head to Vlichada Beach.
Port Information
The Old Port in Fira is designated specifically for cruise liners and, interestingly enough, if you do happen to arrive in Santorini by this means, the only way you will be able to get into town is by cable car or donkey. Otherwise, a smaller ferry is available to transfer you to the other port at Pyrgos. Feel free to get some shopping done at the harbor of the old port where you can buy souvenirs and other nice Greek trinkets.
How to Get to Santorini
There are a few ways to get into Santorini, either by land or sea, depending on your budget and how much time you have to explore. By air, there is Santorini National Airport, which during the summer months flies directly to several destinations in Europe. If the water highway is your transportation method of choice, you can either grab a ferry from domestic locations in Naxos, Paros, or more commonly Piraeus. Big cruises will reach Santorini through the old port in Fira (take note: not the newer one located just 2 miles away in Pyrgos).
One Day in Santorini
Choosing what do here will be difficult to muss up. If you're looking for the historical route, the 3,500-year-old Minoan town of Akrontiri, and ancient Thira monastery are the way to go. Otherwise, for a little R&R there are more beaches than you'll know what to do with. Take a trip to the red, black or white beaches, or for a less crowded experience head to Vlichada Beach.
Port Information
The Old Port in Fira is designated specifically for cruise liners and, interestingly enough, if you do happen to arrive in Santorini by this means, the only way you will be able to get into town is by cable car or donkey. Otherwise, a smaller ferry is available to transfer you to the other port at Pyrgos. Feel free to get some shopping done at the harbor of the old port where you can buy souvenirs and other nice Greek trinkets.
Address: Aktoploiki Grammi, Fira, Santorini Island 84700, Greece
From $ 12
Santuario de Madonna di San Luca
Perched on Colle della Guardia 2.5 miles (4 kilometers) southwest of Bologna’s historic center, the Santuario della Madonna di San Luca was built to house a Byzantine icon of the Virgin Mary. Its portico, running from the city’s Porta Saragozza to the hilltop sanctuary, is the longest covered arcade in the world.
The Basics
There has been a church on this spot since the 12th century, though the current Santuario della Madonna di San Luca dates from the 1700s. San Luca’s roofed arcade, consisting of 666 elegant arches and 15 chapels, was built between 1674 and 1793 to protect the sanctuary’s precious icon during religious processions; today it’s a pretty uphill route climbing the over 900 feet (300 meters) in altitude between the historic center and the church. Once at the church, you can admire a number of important works by artists, including Guido Reni and Guercino, in addition to the famed Madonna and Child icon.
The Santuario della Madonna di San Luca is one of the most important churches in Bologna, and city walking or bike tours often include the trip uphill under its famous covered portico, along with attractions like Piazza Maggiore and the Basilica of San Petronio, the Two Towers, and the churches of Santo Stefano and San Domenico.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Bologna walking and cycling tours require significant time outdoors, so dress for the weather and wear comfortable shoes. Visitors are required to wear modest attire that covers shoulders and knees to enter the sanctuary.
- Photography without flash is allowed inside, though the sanctuary is a pilgrimage site, so taking photographs during Mass or other religious services is discouraged.
- The Portico di San Luca and the entrance to the sanctuary church have a number of steps—they’re not accessible to wheelchair users.
- Though the ascent is gradual, the route along the portico from Bologna’s center to the sanctuary is uphill and should only be undertaken by those in good physical condition.
How to Get There
The Santuario della Madonna di San Luca is located about 2.5 miles (4 kilometers) outside the historic center of Bologna. On foot or bike, follow the covered Portico di San Luca from Porta Saragozza to the church; by car, drive up Colle della Guardia, the road that skirts the portico.
When to Get There
The walk from the Bologna’s center to the outlying sanctuary is one of the prettiest in the city, one that’s especially pleasant on clear, mild days. The church closes at midday on weekdays and Saturdays, but stays open all day on Sundays and Catholic holidays.
The Miraculous Madonna
The sanctuary’s 12th-century icon depicting Mother and Child is one of the most precious religious objects in Bologna, said to have saved the city from torrential rain in 1433. Since then, an annual procession, held on the Saturday preceding the fifth Sunday after Easter, celebrates the miraculous Madonna. The icon is taken from the sanctuary and transported under the covered portico first to the Cathedral of San Pietro and then to the Basilica of San Petronio, where it stays for a week before returning to its home up the hill.
Address: 36 Via di San Luca, Bologna 40135, Italy
Admission: Free
From $ 6
Santiago Bernabeu Stadium
Football fans won’t want to miss a visit to the magnificent Santiago Bernabéu, home to the legendary Real Madrid football team. Despite boasting a capacity of 81,000 spectators and reaching a 5-star rating as a UEFA-classified Elite Stadium, Santiago Bernabéu is actually Spain’s second-largest football stadium, after Barcelona’s Camp Nou.
The Basics
Watching a match at the famous stadium, a 4-time European Cup finals host, is a memorable experience for any football fanatic—especially Real Madrid fans, who want to see iconic players like Cristiano Ronaldo, Gareth Bale, and Karim Benzema in action. But if you’re not lucky enough to score tickets for a match, you can still visit the grounds. Fan tours allow behind-the-scenes access to the stadium, where you can take the elevator to the top of the stadium towers for an impressive panoramic view and then walk in the footsteps of your heroes across the pitch. You’ll also get to sneak a peek into the locker rooms, presidential box, press room, and trophy room—and even walk through the players’ tunnel. The stadium is also a stop on many Madrid city sightseeing tours. Tickets can be purchased at the box office or in advance.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Santiago Bernabéu is a must-see for any soccer fan.
- Don’t forget your camera—stadium fan tours afford many memorable photo ops.
- Guided city tours with entrance to the stadium can last anywhere from one to four hours. A stadium fan tour takes about 45 minutes.
- The entire stadium tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but wheelchair users can visit the Best Club in History room, Sensations room, and the substitute bench.
How to Get There
The easiest way to reach Santiago Bernabéu is by taking the metro (Line 10) to Santiago Bernabéu station. Several city buses also stop outside the iconic stadium.
When to Get There
The stadium is open for tours daily throughout the year. On match days, tours stop five hours before kick-off.
Watching a Real Madrid Match
Nothing quite matches the excitement of seeing a live Real Madrid match inside their historic stadium. If you want to snag tickets, keep in mind that it’s easier the earlier in the season you plan to attend. High-profile matches against rivals F.C. Barcelona are very difficult to acquire (and often very expensive). Plan to buy tickets at least two weeks before the match to avoid the disappointment of a sold-out stadium.
Address: Avenida de Concha Espina, 1, Madrid, Spain
Hours: Vary
Admission: Tours start at €18
From $ 29
Santo Tom e
Toledo’s relatively humble Santo Tomé Church happens to be home to one of the world’s most famous paintings: The Burial of Count Orgaz, by El Greco. The star piece was commissioned for the church’s chapel, where the count is buried, and features the burial along with St. Augustine and St. Stephen. El Greco in fact appears in his creation as well, even though the event took place over a century prior to the painting.
The church dates back to the 12th century (when it was built atop a previous mosque) but was later reconstructed in the 14th century with the funds of the aforementioned Count Orgaz, who was a generous benefactor. The building’s tower is distinguished as being one of the finest examples of Mudejar architecture in Toledo — take note of its typically Moorish horseshoe-shaped bell tower windows. Though Santo Tomé itself may not be among Toledo’s most impressive sights, it’s the famous painting and history behind it that continue to lure the masses to the church’s doors.
Practical Info
Santo Tomé is located in Toledo’s Jewish quarter, which sits west of the main cathedral.
Address: Plaza del Conde, 4, Toledo, Castilla La Mancha 45002, Spain
Hours: March 1 to October 15: 10 a.m.-6:45 p.m.; October 16 to February 28: 10 a.m.-5:45 p.m.
Admission: €2,50; accredited school groups: €2,20
From $ 13
SantaPark
Finland’s SantaPark may be as close as you can get to actually visiting Santa at the North Pole. Located near the town of Rovaniemi in northern Finland, it offers the quintessential Christmas experience. Children and adults alike can attend Elf School to learn elf secrets and decorate gingerbread made with Mrs. Claus’ secret recipe in the Gingerbread Kitchen. Visit Santa Claus in his office and hand him your Christmas wish list or drop by Calligraphy School to practice old-fashioned elf writing and write your own Christmas card. Then, drop it off at Santa’s Post Office and watch the elves hard at work sorting out all of Santa’s mail. Your card will be stamped with a special stamp and you can even get a head start on next year’s Christmas mail.
Don’t miss the opportunity to cross the Arctic Circle through a tunnel 50 meters underground and get your own Arctic Circle Undercrossing Certificate. Finally, ride a sleigh through the winter landscape around Rovaniemi and through the Elves’ Toy Factory before stopping at the Elves’ Workshop to make your own Christmas decorations.
Practical Info
SantaPark is located two kilometers from the Rovaniemi airport and eight kilometers from the Rovaniemi city center. To get there from the city center, take bus 8, Santa’s Express, which takes about 15 minutes.
Tickets to SantaPark are valid for two consecutive days. There is a restaurant on site that is open from 11am-3pm.
Address: Tarvantie 1, Rovaniemi, Lapland 96930, Finland
Hours: Second half of November, daily 10am-5pm; December to early January, daily 10am-6pm
Admission: 33 Euro
From $ 39
Santi Cosma e Damiano Church (Chiesa dei Santi Cosma e Damiano)
Like many of Rome’s earliest Christian churches, the Santi Cosma e Damiano Church (or Basilica dei Santi Cosma e Damiano) was once a pagan temple and incorporates elements of its original Roman architecture. After becoming a church in 527, however, the interior was richly decorated with mosaics considered to be masterpieces of sixth and seventh-century art.
The Basics
This circular church and adjacent monastery are located at the original entrance of the Roman Forum, in what was once the Foro di Vespasiano, and are home to some of Italy's most important early Christian mosaics. Many private tours of the Roman Forum include a stop in the basilica, and devotees of Saint Damian can also join a day excursion from Rome to Assisi and Orvieto to visit the Chiesa di San Damiano as part of a tour of Assisi with a private guide.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Though the church is part of the Forum complex, the entrance is through the monastery outside the Forum, so you do not need tickets to enter.
- Visitors must wear clothing that covers shoulders and knees to enter the church.
- The church and cloister are accessible to wheelchairs; the crypt beneath the church is not.
- Photography (without flash) is allowed inside the church.
How to Get There
The basilica is part of the Roman Forum (Foro Romano) complex, located on Via dei Fori Imperiali near the Colosseum. Take metro line B to the Colosseo stop.
When to Get There
The Roman Forum is usually busy, but this separate area is less visited, meaning you don’t have to expect crowds throughout the day. September 26 is the saint's day dedicated to the church’s saints, Cosmas and Damiano. This makes for a particularly beautiful day to visit the church during the celebratory mass.
Santi Cosma e Damiano History
The basilica is dedicated to the saints Cosmas and Damian, two Syrian brothers who were physicians and, after martyrdom, became the patron saints of doctors and veterinarians. The church was first a fourth-century temple dedicated to Romolo (or Romulus, the deified son of Emperor Maxentius) before becoming the Church of the Saints Cosmas and Damian in 527.
Address: Piazza Benedetto Cairoli 117, Rome, Lazio 00186, Italy
From $ 131
Santorini Hot Springs
Santorini’s hot springs are on the tiny, uninhabited islet of Palea Kameni. Continuous volcanic activity underground maintains the springs’ temperature between 86ºF and 95ºF (30°C and 35°C). The sulfuric, orange-tinged spring waters that bubble up into a shallow cove off the islet’s coast are said to be curative for the skin and joints.
The Basics
Most visitors reach the hot springs by way of a boat tour departing from the town of Oia or the Old Port—which sits beneath the town of Fira—on the main Greek island of Santorini. Tours may also stop on neighboring Nea Kameni, where you can hike up to the active volcano for panoramic views across lava fields to the Aegean Sea, and on Thirasia, the second-largest island in the archipelago. Boat trips to the springs moor in the rocky inlet at Erinia, and from there it is a short swim to the shallow, orange-streaked water overlooked by the tiny whitewashed church of Agios Nikolaos and bordered by vast lava boulders. For a more private experience, you can opt for a small-group catamaran tour or a romantic sunset cruise.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The distinctive sulfuric odor of the hot springs can persist for some time after a swim, and the rust-colored water may stain light-colored swimwear.
- Don’t forget a hat, sunblock, and plenty of water to stave off the Mediterranean heat.
- Boat tour passengers must be agile enough to board and disembark boats, so travelers with limited mobility should confirm accessibility before booking.
- The hot springs are accessible only by taking a short swim, so are not recommended for young children or those who are not confident in the water.
How to Get There
You can reach the hot springs on Palea Kameni (also called Palia Kameni), just off the coast of the larger volcanic island of Nea Kameni, by boat on a private tour or a larger group cruise departing from Santorini.
When to Get There
The Santorini hot springs are most crowded in summer, but some days in late spring and early fall are warm enough to take a soak in the hot springs without having to share them with the summer crowds.
The Santorini Volcano
The massive explosion of what is now known as the Santorini volcano around the 16th or 17th century BC formed the enormous, water-filled caldera around which the dramatic Santorini archipelago is grouped. Repeated volcanic eruptions of ash and lava over the millennia have formed the Nea Kameni and Palea Kameni islands, now popular destinations for tour boats ferrying visitors to the active crater for a volcano tour and to the nearby hot springs.
Address: Palia Kameni, Oia, Santorini, Cyclades Islands 847 00, Greece
Hours: Daily
From $ 77
Santi Quattro Coronati
The ancient basilica of Santi Quattro Coronati is dedicated to four unnamed saints, all martyred. The name means “four crowned saints,” meaning they were martyrs.
The church was first built in the 6th century, but mostly destroyed in the 11th century. The rebuilt church was much smaller, preserving the original apse. In the 13th century, the Chapel of San Silvestro and a cloister were added – the former decorated with frescoes, and the latter with intricate inlaid stonework designs. The four saints to whom the church is dedicated are buried in tombs in the crypt.
Practical Info
The church is open daily from 10am-11:45am, and then from 4pm-5:45pm. The cloister is closed on Sunday mornings.
Address: Via dei Santi Quattro, 20, Rome, Italy
Hours: Daily from 10am-11:45am, and then from 4pm-5:45pm. The cloister is closed on Sunday mornings.
From $ 43
Sant'Anna dei Lombardi
The 15th-century church Sant’Anna dei Lombardi, also known as Santa Maria di Monte Oliveto, is home to some of Naples' best art. With Baroque paintings and an impressive collection of Renaissance sculptures, the church's unassuming exterior gives way to intricately-decorated ceilings and elaborately-adorned walls that evoke feelings of marvel and beauty like a small-scale Sistine Chapel.
Don’t miss the elaborate sacristy, which was done by Giorgio Vasari, or the beautiful chapel at the back of the church—a crowd-favorite. Walk through the building to enter the courtyard, which is adorned with a bronze sculpture of Charles II of Spain and what is considered to be one of the most beautiful fountains in Italy.
There are many churches in Naples, and many of them are worth a visit. Consider livening up your visit to Sant'Anna dei Lombardi on a private Vespa or Fiat 500 tour of Naples' most famous sights.
Practical Info
Sant'Anna dei Lombardi is located in Piazza Monteoliveto, in the center of Naples. The nearest metro station is Toledo.
The church is open Monday through Thursday from 10am to 1:30pm and from 2pm to 4pm. It is open Friday and Saturday from 2pm to 6pm. The church is free to enter, but a EUR 5 donation will get you into areas that are currently being restored.
Address: Piazza Monteoliveto, 4, Naples 80134, Italy
Hours: Mon–Thu: 10am–1:30pm & 2–4pm; Fri & Sat: 2–6pm
From $ 39
Sant'Anastasia
Verona’s largest church, the impressive brick facade of Basilica Sant'Anastasia has been a fixture of the city for hundreds of years. Located in the historical center, it’s also one of the city’s finest examples of Italian Gothic architecture.
The Basics
The basilica is named after Saint Anastasia, a martyr who lived in the 4th century AD. The basilica kept the name of an earlier church that stood on the same site, although it’s also dedicated to St. Peter, one of Verona’s patron saints. Construction of the current church started in 1290 and continued for hundreds of years. In fact, the facade is still unfinished; there’s a painting above the altar that shows how the final design was meant to look.
The basilica was the main place of worship for Verona’s ruling families, including the influential Scaliger family. The interior, with its richly decorated vaulted ceiling and ornate side chapels, often features on guided tours of the city. Another highlight: the fresco of St. George and the Princess by 15th-century artist Pisanello.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Entry to the basilica is via paid ticket, but it’s free if you’re attending mass.
- Gain combined entry into multiple attractions with the Verona Card.
- Pisanello’s famous fresco can be found above the entrance to the Pellegrini chapel.
How to Get There
The Basilica Sant'Anastasia stands on Piazza Sant'Anastasia, and it’s within walking distance of other points in central Verona. Visitors can also opt to visit the church as part of a guided bike or Segway tour. Hop-on-hop-off tour buses are also within walking distance.
When to Get There
The church is open daily; on Sundays and on holidays, it’s open only in the afternoon. It can be especially busy on weekends, so visit during the week for a quieter experience.
Visit the Scaliger Tombs
Although the Basilica Sant'Anastasia served as the Scaligers’ main church, the family also had Santa Maria Antica, a private chapel nearby. Today, this is where you can view the Scaliger tombs, which are famous for their ornate Gothic decoration. A symbol of one family’s power over the city, the tombs add an interesting depth to any visit to Verona.
Address: Vicolo Sotto Riva 4, Verona 37121, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 21
Santana
Santana’s brightly colored A-frame houses, built in a traditional style with natural stone and thatched roofs, make this mountain destination worth the trip any time of year. The rolling wheat and rye fields, dotted with these triangular bungalows, are famous and distinctive sights. Travelers can visit the Santa Ana Chapel or shop for local crafts at the dozens of shops that dot the rural landscape. Ride the nearby cable car for an aerial look at the attractive historic town, or wander the levadas footpaths for equally impressive views from the island’s highest point.
However, many visitors come to Santana for the famed Madeira Theme Park, seven sprawling hectares of family fun. Most activities and exhibits showcase traditional Madeira culture, from lake rowboats and traditional hedge mazes to pirate-themed rides and live shows. Music lovers also gather here every July for the 24 Hours of Dancing Festival, during which traditional folklore groups perform, making it one of the best times of year to experience this picturesque village on Madeira’s northern coast.
Practical Info
There are two scenic drives connecting Santana and Funchal: Mountainous Route 103, traversing the Parque Ecológicao do Fuchal and Parque Natural do Ribeiro Frio, and the faster, coastal Rapida 101, via Macheco. Buses 56, 103, 132 and 138 run hourly between Funchal and Santana.
Address: Estrada Regional 101, Fonte da Pedra, Santana 9230-098, Portugal
Hours: Closed Monday; open daily June to September
From $ 29
Santiago del Teide
The town of Santiago del Teide sits near the western coast of the island of Tenerife in Spain’s Canary Islands.
Santiago del Teide is in the foothills of the Macizo de Teno mountains, not far from the historic mountain town of Masca. On the coast, the imposing Acantilados de Los Gigantes (Cliffs of the Giants) drop from the mountains directly into the ocean. There are several beach resort towns in the area along the coast.
The town itself is rather small, with only a few restaurants and shops, though there is a museum and a good visitor’s center. Most travelers use Santiago del Teide as a base from which to explore the excellent walking and hiking trails in the area.
Another popular draw for visitors is the village of Masca itself, home to about 90 people who have maintained its historic appearance and agricultural independence. The mountains around Santiago del Teide and Masca have many challenging, though scenic, hiking trails.
Practical Info
There is a hiking trail that descends from the village of Masca all the way down to the beach, but it’s definitely a challenging 2.7-mile trail. Wear good hiking shoes and go with a guide.
Address: Santiago del Teide, Canary Islands, Spain
From $ 29