Choose from 645 Fun Things to Do in Italy
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Bramante Sacristy
While many travelers visit the adjacent Santa Maria delle Grazie church—home of da Vinci’s fresco The Last Supper—the Bramante Sacristy is an often-overlooked gem. Designed by architect Donato Bramante, the sacristy features a vaulted ceiling painted by da Vinci and exhibits on the inventor’s Codex Atlanticus.
The Basics
The Bramante Sacristy and Santa Maria delle Grazie church are connected by a cloister and both feature imposing architecture. In the sacristy, you can admire the ceiling painted with golden stars, peruse da Vinci’s sketches and notes, and stroll through the adjoining Cloister of Frogs—a peaceful space with a fountain and flower-lined walls. It’s possible to visit the Bramante Sacristy on some Milan city tours, which often include skip-the-line tickets to view The Last Supper.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Bramante Sacristy is a must-see for art and architecture lovers.
- Tickets to the Bramante Sacristy do not include a visit to The Last Supper, so arrange tickets to both separately or with a combination ticket.
- Avoid long lines to Bramante’s complex and da Vinci’s masterpiece with skip-the-line tickets.
How to Get There
Take the M1 Metro Line to the Milan Cathedral (Duomo), and walk five minutes to the Bramante Sacristy. Alternatively, you can take tram 2, 3, 12, 14, or 16 to the Milan Cathedral stop.
When to Get There
The Bramante Sacristy is open daily, with limited hours on Mondays. Peak season in Milan and Italy is June, July, and August. Visit the city during the shoulder months to avoid crowds.
Why Was the Bramante Sacristy Built?
The Duke of Milan, Ludovico il Moro, commissioned the Bramante Sacristy and The Last Supper in the Santa Maria delle Grazie. When the Sforza family came into power, the duke commissioned two great artists to expand the complex, which would become the ornately decorated mausoleum for the Sforza family.
Address: via Caradosso, 1, Milan 20123, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 80
Ca' d'Oro (Palazzo Santa Sofia)
When floating down Venice’s Grand Canal, the Ca' d'Oro—so named for the gold-leaf details that once adorned its Gothic-style exterior—is sure to catch your eye. This 15th-century Venetian masterpiece, also known as Palazzo Santa Sofia, is home to a lavish collection of art and furnishings, and offers gorgeous canal views.
The Basics
The Ca' d'Oro (House of Gold or Golden House) was built by Venetian architects Giovanni Bon and Bartolomeo Bon for the Contarini family in 1430, and purchased centuries later by Baron Giorgio Franchetti, who bequeathed the palace and its contents to the Italian State in 1916. Palazzo Santa Sofia is now home to Galleria Giorgio Franchetti alla Ca' d'Oro and holds the baron’s impressive art collection—including paintings by Tiziano, Jan Van Eyck, and Van Dyck—along with furniture, medals, and tapestries. You can explore the interior and its collection, and savor the palazzo’s captivating canal views from its front loggia.
Palazzo Santa Sofia is one of Venice’s most famous palazzi, and the highlight of any boat tour or gondola ride along the Grand Canal. Many private tours of Venice include a stop at the Ca' d'Oro along with the Doge’s Palace, Rialto Bridge, and St. Mark’s Basilica; booking a tour that includes skip-the-line tickets is essential in the summer months.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Ca' d'Oro houses temporary exhibits that run during the year for an additional entrance fee.
- Most of the palazzo is accessible to wheelchair users, though there are a number of steps to access the loggias that overlook the Grand Canal.
- Large bags, backpacks, and umbrellas must be left in the cloakroom.
How to Get There
The Ca' d'Oro is located along the Grand Canal in Venice’s Cannaregio neighborhood. Take vaporetto line 1 from Piazza San Marco to the Ca' d'Oro stop.
When to Get There
Venice is one of the most popular destinations in Italy, and the city’s main sights can be crowded, especially in summer. Ca' d'Oro is particularly busy on the first Sunday of each month, when entry to the art museum is free.
The "Vandalism" of Ca' d'Oro
In the 19th century, ballet dancer Marie Taglioni briefly owned Palazzo Santa Sofia. She infamously destroyed a priceless Gothic stairway and balconies overlooking the inner courtyard in an act that many art historians consider nothing less than vandalism.
Address: Sestriere of Cannaregio 3932, Venice 30121, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 18
Brancacci Chapel (Cappella Brancacci)
Inside the Santa Maria del Carmine church in Florence’s Oltrarno neighborhood is a particularly famous chapel, the Brancacci Chapel. It’s famous not for who is buried there or who the chapel honors, but for the art that decorates it.
The cycle of frescoes that adorn the walls of the Brancacci Chapel were painted largely by Masaccio. He began work in 1424 when he was only 21 years old. Masaccio died only six years later in Rome, leaving the frescoes unfinished. Some were later completed by Filippino Lippi.
After some restoration work, the chapel - called by some the “Sistine Chapel of the early Renaissance" - has been cleaned of centuries of dirt, making the frescoes appear almost as colorful as they might have been when they were first painted. Among the more famous panels is Masaccio’s “The Expulsion from the Garden of Eden” and “Payment of the Tribute Money.”
The drab exterior of the church belies the art inside, so it’s easy to miss if you don’t know what you’re looking for. Tours of the Oltrarno often include the Brancacci Chapel.
Practical Info
Reservations to see the Brancacci Chapel are free, but they are recommended if you’re not booked on a tour that includes a stop in the church.
Address: Piazza del Carmine 14, Florence 50124, Italy
Hours: Mon & Wed-Sat 10am-5pm; Sun & religious holidays 1pm-5pm
Admission: €6 adults; €4.50 ages 18-25 (under 18 free)
From $ 16
Campo de' Fiori
One of the mainstays of daily life in Italy is shopping at the market, and the market, for many Romans ,means Campo de’ Fiori. This historic square in the city center hosts one of the largest and most famous outdoor food markets each morning,, offering visitors the perfect opportunity to rub elbows with locals.
The Basics
The name Campo de’ Fiori, or “field of flowers”, harks back to a time when this space was a meadow, but it also hints at its main attraction: the daily open-air market with vendors selling fruit, vegetables, and flowers. The Campo de’ Fiori, open daily from the early-morning hours, also has a lively nightlife, with young locals and visitors filling the square’s many cafés and bars.
Private Rome walking, electric bike, and Segway tours, as well as hop-on-hop-off tours, generally include a stop in Campo de’ Fiori, and often offer skip-the-line access to highlights like the Colosseum, Vatican (and Sistine Chapel), and Trevi Fountain. The square is best seen, however, as part of a food and wine tour that allows you to walk through the market stalls and sample local specialities. Many food tours pair a stop at the Campo de’ Fiori market with a walk through the Trastevere neighborhood and the historic Jewish ghetto.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The square is pedestrian only and crowded with lively vendors hawking their wares, making it an interesting diversion for kids.
- If you’re joining a walking or bike tour of Rome and Campo de’ Fiori, wear comfortable shoes and a hat.
- Campo de’ Fiori is easy to navigate with a wheelchair or stroller, although the thick morning crowds may make the market difficult to navigate.
- In addition to the stands themselves, there are plenty of cafés and gelato shops in or near the square, making the area perfect for a snack.
- Shoppers are discouraged from touching the food; instead, point to your selection and the vendor will bag it for you.
How to Get There
Campo de’ Fiori is located in the historic city center of Rome between Piazza Navona and the Tiber River. To reach the square by public transportation, take one of several buses to the Argentina stop on Largo di Torre Argentina—it’s just a short walk from there.
When to Get There
To get a real feel for Campo de’ Fiori, visit in the early morning, when the market is at its busiest, and then again in the late evening, when the market is closed but the cafés and bars lining the square fill up with revelers.
The City of Markets
Campo de’ Fiori may be the best-known market in Rome, but the city is full of permanent and weekly food markets where you can stock up on seasonal produce and local specialties. The most beloved are Testaccio, which recently relocated from Piazza Testaccio into a modern facility; Piazza San Cosimo, a small market in the lively Trastevere neighborhood; and the Piazza dell’ Unità Market in the upscale Prati quarter.
Address: Piazza Campo De Fiori, Rome, Province of Rome 00186, Italy
From $ 3
Borghese Gallery
Rome’s Borghese Gallery and Museum (Galleria Borghese), housed in a former villa of the eponymous family, houses a large part of the family’s vast collection of antiquities, paintings, and sculptures. Its 22 rooms across two floors showcase many important pieces including paintings by Titian, Raphael, Caravaggio, and Rubens. The city of Rome acquired the Villa Borghese in 1903, opening its collection and gardens to the public. The 1911 World Exposition was held in the park and some of the various countries’ pavilions still exist.
The Basics
Advance reservations are required to visit the Borghese Gallery and numbers are limited at any given time, so it’s best to book tickets in advance. Travelers can book skip-the-line tickets, a private or small-group tour, or opt for a Segway tour of the greater Borghese Villa. Art historians often lead small-group tours, which add context to the artwork you’re seeing. Even without a tour, you will feel the impressionable impact of Raphael’s The Deposition and Caravaggio’s David with the Head of Goliath, two of the museum’s most famous works.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Borghese Gallery is a must-see for art lovers in Rome.
- Even with a required advance-purchase ticket, there can be long entry lines. To avoid the wait, consider a private, skip-the-line guided tour.
- The Borghese limits the number of people who can enter and the time they can stay (two hours), so it’s a great place to enjoy fine art and avoid the crowds found at most Roman art museums.
- Wi-Fi is free to all visitors.
- The Borghese features accessible restrooms and a small elevator to the second floor.
How to Get There
The Borghese Gallery is in central Rome, located within the Villa Borghese. You’ll find the Villa Borghese up the Spanish Steps on the path to the left. You can catch Metro Linea A to Flaminio in the Piazza del Popolo, from which the museum is located up the hill.
When to Get There
The Borghese Gallery is open from 8:30am to 7:30pm Tuesday through Sunday. Like most Roman attractions, the Borghese is at its busiest in summer. It’s best to purchase your ticket for early in the morning, as that is often when it is quieter.
The Borghese Family Effect
The Borgheses were a powerful Italian family who rose to prominence and wealth after one member became Pope Paul V in 1552 and gave power and titles to many family members. One such was the pope’s nephew, Cardinal Scipione Borghese, who built the Villa Borghese and Borghese Gardens in the 17th century to hold parties and house his private art collections. He was a patron of the famous artist Bernini, so many of Bernini’s sculptures—including Apollo and Daphne and David—are held in the Borghese collection.
Address: Piazzale del Museo Borghese, 5, 00187, Italy
Hours: Open Tues - Sun 8:30am - 7:30pm
Admission: €22 for adults
From $ 29
Campo San Bartolomeo
Sitting at the southeastern end of the steps leading up to the Rialto Bridge, the lively Campo San Bartolomeo is named after one of the Apostles; at its southwestern end is the church of San Bartolomeo, which was formerly the place of worship for German traders in the city. The long, narrow piazza is dominated by a flamboyant bronze statue of comic Venetian playwright Carlo Goldoni (1707–93), created in 1883 by sculptor Antonio Dal Zotto. Thanks to its location near the Rialto, it is nearly always crowded and is a popular meeting point for visitors and locals alike. It is lined with smart boutiques and restaurants fronting elegant, ocher-tinged Venetian townhouses and just a step away from the city’s upmarket shopping district of Mercerie, whose narrow streets link the Rialto Bridge with Piazza San Marco.
Practical Info
Campo San Bartolomeo, Castello, Venice. Ferry to Rialto.
Address: Campo San Bartolomeo, Castello, Venice, Veneto, Italy
From $ 30
Burano
Venice is made up of a group of islands that is crowded with opulent churches and sumptuous palaces. The humble island of Burano, though, in the outer reaches of the Venetian lagoon, shows a completely different side of the city, with its jumble of technicolor fishers’ houses and a long tradition of lace-making.
The Basics
Join a guided tour of the Venetian islands and stroll through the winding streets of this charming island to admire the brightly painted houses and watch a lace-making demonstration. A private tour of Burano, Murano, and Torcello islands is a fascinating way to explore the less famous corners of the Floating City by boat.
Things to Know Before You Go
- A boat trip to Burano is a must for photography buffs, who will love capturing the vibrant colors.
- Venice island tours require getting on and off a boat, so confirm wheelchair and stroller accessibility ahead of time.
- Burano lace, like Murano glass, is made entirely by hand and is very expensive. Don't be fooled by cheap industrial knock-offs sold at many souvenir shops.
- The island's main street is lined with souvenir shops, cafés, and restaurants.
How to Get There
From St. Mark's Square, take the 5.2 vaporetto from the San Zaccaria stop to Fondamente Nove, then transfer to the 12 to Burano. Boats run until late, but if you miss the last vaporetto, you’ll have to take what may be an expensive water taxi back to Venice.
When to Get There
Though the small islands outside Venice are less visited than sights like St. Mark's Basilica and the Doge's Palace, they can still get quite crowded. The best time to visit is in early spring or late fall. If you’re there in summer, head to Burano first thing in the morning.
Visiting Burano and Murano
Burano is often mistaken for Murano, the island known for its long history of glass blowing. You can easily visit both in a single day on a tour that combines them both. You’ll want to see Burano for the photo opportunities and lace-making and Murano for the glass-making demonstrations in the island's many glass factories.
Address: Burano, Italy
Admission: Free
From $ 23
Bridge of Sighs
As poignant as it is beautiful, Venice’s 17th-century, white-limestone Bridge of Sighs (Ponte dei Sospiri) spans the narrow Rio di Palazzo canal between the interrogation rooms in the Doge’s Palace (Palazzo Ducale) and the New Prisons just opposite. It’s one of the most famous bridges in the Floating City.
The Basics
The Bridge of Sighs is one of the most photographed sights in Venice. Its ornate stonework design was created in 1603 by Antonio Contino, nephew of the architect who designed the Rialto Bridge. The structure got its name from the tale that asserts convicts who passed through the covered bridge from their interrogation to their prison cell would let out mournful sighs when catching their final glimpse of Venice through the barred windows. You can sigh over this same view while walking over the bridge during a tour of the Doge's Palace, the only way to make the crossing.
Both the palace and St. Mark's Basilica host millions of visitors each year, so it is important to book a guided tour for skip-the-line access, saving hours of time in long lines. Joining a small-group walking tour is an excellent way to see the highlights in and around St. Mark's Square, accompanied by a tour guide who can explain this fascinating city's history and architecture.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Bridge of Sighs is most striking as seen from the outside. From St. Mark's Square, walk around the corner of Doge’s Palace along the Grand Canal; as you cross the first bridge, look to your left. Otherwise, for a more romantic (and less crowded) view, take a gondola ride under the iconic bridge.
- For an even deeper dive into the political history of the Republic of Venice, consider an official Doge’s Palace Secret Itineraries tour, which includes visits to some of the historic governmental halls deep inside the palace.
- Large backpacks, bags, and umbrellas are not allowed inside; there is a free cloakroom near the palace entrance.
- Parts of Doge’s Palace, including the Secret Itineraries route and Bridge of Sighs, are not wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
S. Zaccaria is the closest vaporetto stop to Piazza San Marco. Venice is one of the most popular destinations in Italy and well-connected by train to Rome, Florence, and Milan.
When to Get There
Doge's Palace is among the most visited sights in Venice and can get unpleasantly full of tourists during the peak midday hours. Booking a skip-the-line tour is imperative during the months of April through October and also recommended even during winter , the least crowded time to visit.
Lord Byron and the Bridges of Sighs
Much of the Bridge of Sighs’ fame is due to poet Lord Byron (1788–1824), who mentioned it in his long narrative poem Childe Harold's Pilgrimage.
Address: Doges Palace, Venice 30124, Italy
Hours: Open Summer 9am - 7pm (until 6pm in Winter)
Admission: Varies
From $ 23
Bourbon Tunnel (Galleria Borbonica)
Travelers looking to venture back in time can explore the eight ramps that delve some 33 yards deep into the depths of Chiaia on an incredible tour of the Bourbon Tunnel, or Galleria Borbonica. What was once a veterinary laboratory, and even earlier an escape route from the Royale Palace to a barrack in Via della Pace, is today one of Naples' top attractions for history lovers wanting to gain a deeper understanding of the city's culture and heritage.
Visitors can choose from a number of tours designed to highlight this unique attraction that operated as a military hospital during World War II and even as the Hall Judicial Outpost. Guides share in-depth details and stories while visitors navigate the tunnel's depths. Travelers say that while it can be difficult to find, the experience of stepping back in time and far below the Naples' surface is not to be missed!
Practical Info
Galleria Borbonica is located at Vico del Grottone, 4 in Naples. It is accessible by bus or tram to Piazza Vittoria and walking to Domenico Morelli car park, where the entrance to the Bourbon Tunnel is located. Tours take place on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
Address: Vico del Grottone, 4, Naples, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 12
Bovolo Staircase (Scala Contarini del Bovolo)
Tucked down a Venice side street near the Grand Canal, Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo is worth a detour for its Bovolo Staircase (Scala Contarini del Bovolo). Named for the Venetian word for snail, this spiral staircase—the most famous in Venice—is housed in a cylindrical tower with open arches that climbs the facade, offering beautiful views over the city.
The Basics
The Scala Contarini del Bovolo was commissioned by Pietro Contarini at the end of the 15th century, and built by Giorgio Spavento in perfect synthesis to the original palace’s six floors of loggias designed by Giovanni Candi. A dramatic series of white stone arches spiral more than 90 feet (27 meters) up the imposing brick tower and seem inspired by the coils of a snail shell; at the top of the 80 steps, the belvedere has wonderful views over the Venetian rooftops.
Though it’s the city’s most famous staircase, Bovolo is also somewhat of a hidden treasure, and visits to this architectural gem are often a highlight of off-the-beaten-track city tours. Consider joining a Secret Venice tour to explore the lesser-known corners of the city along with must-see sights such as St. Mark’s Square, the Doge’s Palace, and the Rialto Bridge. You can also pair walking tours with a gondola ride, so you can explore the city both by land and water.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Bovolo Staircase is especially interesting for architecture enthusiasts.
- Be sure to bring your camera to capture the lovely views from the staircase and rooftop scenic overlook.
- Tours of hidden Venice require a bit of walking, so wear comfortable shoes and a sun hat.
- Due to steps and no elevator to reach the belvedere, the Bovolo Staircase is not accessible to wheelchairs or strollers.
How to Get There
The Bovolo Staircase is located at the Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo, near Campo Manin in the San Marco district of Venice. Take vaporetto line 1 or 2 to the Rialto stop from the train station. Trains to Venice run from most major cities in Italy, including Rome and Florence.
When to Get There
Bovolo Staircase is wonderful any time of day and year. If you’re a photography buff, visit in the late afternoon (before its 6pm closing time) to capture the city of Venice as the sun sets.
Bovolo on the Silver Screen
The Bovolo Staircase became popular among visitors to Venice after being immortalized on screen in Orson Welles’ 1952 adaptation of Shakespeare’s Othello.
Address: Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo, San Marco 4299, Venezia 30124, Italy
From $ 8
Cala di Mitigliano
Cala di Mitigliano is an unspoiled beach at the tip of the Sorrentine Peninsula in Italy. It can only be reached by walking down a steep footpath for about 30 minutes, but once you get there, you will enjoy beautiful scenery and views of Punta Campanella and the island of Capri. With a pebble beach and crystal-clear water, Cala di Mitigliano is in a cove surrounded by steep vertical rocks, making for a dramatic landscape.
On the right side of the beach is a circular building, similar to a tower, that was once used for lime production. While no longer in use, the structure adds to the landscape and stands as a reminder of the area’s history. Nearby, a 50-foot deep circular grotto is a popular spot for snorkeling and scuba diving, although it is only possible to enter when the sea is calm and the tide is low.
Practical Info
Cala di Mitigliano is located in Massa Lubrense. To get there, take the footpath that starts from the Church of Santa Maria di Mitigliano.
Address: Cala di Mitigliano, Massa Lubrense, Campania, Italy
From $ 121
Borgo Medievale
The town that we know today as Taormina is in an area in which there has been a settlement of some kind since the 8th century B.C.E. - but in the town itself one of the oldest neighborhoods is the Borgo Medievale, or medieval quarter.
Taormina’s historic core centers on the Borgo Medievale, with its picturesque cobblestone streets. The buildings themselves have been beautifully preserved, giving the whole quarter a postcard look. The main street in Taormina, Corso Umberto I, runs through the center of the medieval quarter from the Piazza IX Aprile to the Piazza del Duomo.
You can begin your tour of the medieval quarter from the Piazza IX Aprile and going through the arch in the 12th century clock tower. The tower was actually almost completely destroyed in the 17th century, and when it was rebuilt the clock was added. The tower serves as something of a gateway to the Borgo Medievale, most of which dates from the 15th century.
Today, Taormina’s Borgo Medievale is a great place to wander aimlessly to explore the pretty streets and buildings, shop in the souvenir stores and boutiques, and stop for a bite to eat in one of the cafes or restaurants.
Taormina’s historic core centers on the Borgo Medievale, with its picturesque cobblestone streets. The buildings themselves have been beautifully preserved, giving the whole quarter a postcard look. The main street in Taormina, Corso Umberto I, runs through the center of the medieval quarter from the Piazza IX Aprile to the Piazza del Duomo.
You can begin your tour of the medieval quarter from the Piazza IX Aprile and going through the arch in the 12th century clock tower. The tower was actually almost completely destroyed in the 17th century, and when it was rebuilt the clock was added. The tower serves as something of a gateway to the Borgo Medievale, most of which dates from the 15th century.
Today, Taormina’s Borgo Medievale is a great place to wander aimlessly to explore the pretty streets and buildings, shop in the souvenir stores and boutiques, and stop for a bite to eat in one of the cafes or restaurants.
Address: Borgo Medievale, Taormina, Sicily, Italy
From $ 115
Ca' Rezzonico
Of all the sumptuous palaces lining Venice’s Grand Canal, Ca’ Rezzonico is arguably the most magnificent. An outstanding example of Venetian baroque and rococo architecture and décor, this palace and its museum offer a glimpse into the extravagances of 18th-century Venice.
The Basics
Started by Baldassare Longhena and completed more than a century later by Giorgio Massari, Ca' Rezzonico was owned by one of the Venetian aristocracy's most prominent families; in the same year that Giambattista Rezzonico was finishing work on the palace, his brother Carlo was elected Pope. The intricate canal-side facade is decorated with arcades, porticoes, and arched windows, while the interior features marble staircases, gilded apartments, Murano glass chandeliers, and ballrooms covered in frescoes and trompe l’oeil by Venetian artists such as Giambattista Tiepolo, Pietro Longhi, Giovanni Battista Crosato, and Pietro Visconti. Today, the palace is home to the Museum of 18th-Century Venice, with a collection of furniture and decorations; paintings by Canaletto, Tintoretto, Cima da Conegliano, and others; and frescoes by Giandomenico Tiepolo and Antonio Guardi.
Because of its size and scope, the best way to see Ca' Rezzonico is with a private tour that combines the museum with other highlights in the city of Venice, including St. Mark's Basilica and the Doge's Palace. A visit to Ca' Rezzonico is also often included in boat tours of the Grand Canal.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Ca' Rezzonico contains almost 20 rooms on three floors, so be prepared to spend some time on your feet and wear comfortable shoes.
- The third floor contains the 18th-century interiors of the Ai Do San Marchi pharmacy, which was once located in Campo San Stin.
- Ca' Rezzonico is wheelchair accessible.
- Large bags, backpacks, and umbrellas must be left at the coat check.
How to Get There
Ca' Rezzonico is located along the Grand Canal in the Dorsoduro neighborhood; take vaporetto (water bus) 1 from Piazza San Marco or the Santa Lucia train station to the Ca' Rezzonico stop.
When to Get There
Like all Venice museums, Ca' Rezzonico can be very crowded in summer. The best time to visit is from late fall to early spring. The museum is closed on Tuesdays.
Artists and Poets in the Palace
In the 1880s, the palace was owned by English painter Robert Barrett Browning, son of poet Robert Browning, who died there in 1889. The American painter John Singer Sargent also had an apartment in the palazzo during that time.
Address: Dorsoduro, 3136, Venice, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 12
Brunate
Not all visits to Lake Como are about waterfront towns – a trip up into the hills over the lake to Brunate offers spectacular views. The small hilltop town overlooks not just Lake Como, but the town of Como itself. The two are roughly 1,600 feet apart, so while you won't be dipping your toes in the lake from Brunate, you'll be enjoying views that the people in Como can't see.
The Como-Brunate Funicular linking the towns was built in 1894, but you can keep going up even after you reach Brunate – climb the steps to the 1920s lighthouse for an even better view.
Practical Info
There is a steep path between Como and Brunate, but the best way to get from the lower to the upper town is by the funicular. The funicular costs €2.90 one-way, €5.25 round-trip for adults (€1.90/€3.20 for children), and runs every half-hour from mid-April through mid-September 8am-12am, and only until 10:30pm the rest of the year.
Address: Brunate, Italy
From $ 106
Buontalenti Grotto
Built in the 16th century in Florence’s Boboli Gardens, Buontalenti Grotto is the largest grotto in the city. Named after the architect who oversaw its construction in the late 16th century, it was commissioned by Grand Duke of Tuscany and has since featured Dan Brown’s bestselling novel, “Inferno.”
A curious-looking place indeed, on both the outside and inside the grotto’s covered in man-made stalagmites and mythical mosaic creatures including sea goats. Buontalenti Grotto is divided into three rooms with the first, and biggest, styled in the most natural way as a cave full of stalactites and stalagmites. There are also a few anthropomorphic creatures created out of stones and shells thrown in there for good measure.
The next room is similarly decorated to the first, and includes frescoes depicting Minerva and Giunone. The third room is also known for its impressive frescoes, but here you’ll also see a green marble fountain and a ceiling painted to resemble a sky full of birds.
Practical Info
The Boboli Gardens are behind the Pitti Palace and are open to the public. Entry costs €7 and it’s open from 8:15 am to 4:30 pm from November to February, until 6;30pm from April to May and September to October, and until 7:30pm in the summer months. Last entrance is 1 hour before closing time.
Address: The Boboli Gardens, Firenze, Italy
Hours: Nov-Feb 8:15 am to 4:30 pm; April-May, Sept-Oct until 6:30 pm; summer until 7:30 pm.
Admission: €7
From $ 255
Brunelleschi's Dome
Towering above Florence, Filippo Brunelleschi’s dome is an important engineering and architectural feat. Completed in 1436, the fact that this symbol of the city still stands tall over the Duomo more than 600 years later is testament to Brunelleschi’s mastery. Climb to the top for some of the best views over Florence.
The Basics
Brunelleschi’s octagonal dome on top of Florence’s Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral (aka the Duomo) took 16 years to build and, at 144 feet (44 meters) wide, is one of the world’s largest masonry domes. You can admire the 16th-century Final Judgment frescoes by Giorgio Vasari and Federico Zuccari that decorate the inside of the dome and climb the 463 steps to the top for panoramic views from the lantern overlooking the historic center. The Opera del Duomo museum, just behind the church, holds a fascinating scale model of Brunelleschi’s dome as well as Lorenzo Ghiberti’s original bronze baptistry doors (replicas are on the baptistry outside).
The cathedral dome is one of the most popular attractions in the city, and booking a Florence Duomo tour that includes skip-the-line entrance to the Duomo, Giotto’s bell tower, and the baptistry is essential to avoid long lines to enter. Small-group and private tours of Florence’s Duomo may even include exclusive access to the north terrace, a panoramic rooftop terrace closed to the general public. Many Florence city walking tours also visit highlights like the Uffizi Gallery, Accademia Gallery (Galleria dell'Accademia), and Piazzale Michelangelo.
Things to Know Before You Go
- There is a single skip-the-line ticket to enter all five parts of the Duomo complex—church, crypt, dome, bell tower, and baptistry—and the museum. To climb to the top of the dome, you must also reserve a specific time slot.
- There is a lot of ground to cover in the Duomo complex, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes if taking a guided tour.
- If you are also planning on visiting the church, be sure to wear clothing that covers your shoulders and legs.
- There is no elevator to the top of the dome, so the climb is not recommended for those with heart problems, vertigo, or limited mobility.
How to Get There
Brunelleschi’s dome and Piazza del Duomo, in the historic center of Florence, are just a 5-minute walk from the Santa Maria Novella train station.
When to Get There
The Duomo complex in Tuscany’s capital city of Florence is one of the most popular attractions in Italy and can be very crowded during the summer high season. The best time to visit is from November to March, when the city sights are less overrun with tourists.
Construction of the Dome
Filippo Brunelleschi won a competition to design the dome in 1420 with an innovative system of two interconnected shells with an empty space in between. The dome was vaulted with no scaffolding by using bricks laid in a herringbone pattern in the inner shell as a self-supporting structural element; the outer shell serves as a heavier, wind-resistant cover.
Address: Piazza del Duomo, Firenze, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 17
Caelian Hill
One of Rome’s seven legendary hills, Caelian Hill was a wealthy residential district under the Roman Republic. Today, this is home to the ancient Basilica of Saints John and Paul, the circular Church of Santo Stefano Rotondo, and the ruins of the Baths of Caracalla. Travelers can tour Caelian Hill on foot, or by bike, scooter, or bus.
The Basics
Caelian Hill is unique among Rome’s seven historic hills, as its western slope is one of the few tranquil and unpopulated places in Rome. Several ancient churches dating from the fourth and fifth centuries can be visited on Caelian Hill, in addition to Roman ruins and Villa Celimontana, one of Rome’s nicest parks.
The churches and ruins on Caelian Hill are best visited as part of a guided tour to appreciate their historical importance. Consider joining a walking, rickshaw, or Vespa tour of the hills of ancient Rome, or a small-group tour dedicated to the most historic churches in the Eternal City. Many tours of Rome’s seven hills include skip-the-line access to the Colosseum and Roman Forum, which are nearby on Palatine Hill.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Caelian Hill is a must for history buffs, as it is home to some of the city’s most fascinating ancient churches and Roman ruins.
- The Baths of Caracalla are accessible to wheelchairs and strollers, and the site offers restrooms and a bookshop. The ruins are open to the elements, so bring a hat and sunscreen in summer.
- Visitors must wear clothing that covers shoulders and knees to enter the churches. Some churches are not wheelchair accessible.
- The park and gardens of Villa Celimontana are an ideal spot for a stroll with kids.
How to Get There
Caelian Hill is located on the southeast corner of the historic center of Rome, along the Tiber River. The nearest metro stop is Colosseo, on line B.
When to Get There
Most of the Baths of Caracalla ruins are outdoors, so visit on a day with clear skies and mild temperatures. The quiet churches, on the other hand, provide a cool refuge from the midday summer heat.
Rome’s Seven Hills
Caelian Hill is the farthest southeast of Rome’s seven hills, which are all east of the Tiber and form the geographical heart of ancient Rome. The other hills are Aventine Hill, Capitoline Hill, Esquiline Hill, Quirinal Hill, Viminal Hill, and Palatine Hill, where legend tells us that Romulus founded the city and where the most famous archaeological ruins can still be seen.
Address: Monte Celio, Rome 00184, Italy
From $ 43
Brera
Milan boasts a number of trendy neighborhoods thick with hip bars, restaurants, and clubs. Of these, the Brera district—a maze of narrow, cobblestone streets lined with boutiques and cafés near the Duomo in the city center—is perhaps the most beautiful thanks to its laid-back pace and old-world charm.
The Basics
Brera is one of the most fashionable neighborhoods in Milan for a before-dinner aperitivo and a great place to experience Milan’s excellent food and wine scene, so consider joining a small-group food tour or wine tasting. Food walking tours are also available in Brera.
In addition to strolling through Brera and enjoying the scene, you can visit the neighborhood’s main attraction: the famous Brera Art Gallery (Pinacoteca di Brera), one of Italy’s most important museums, with works by Botticelli, Raphael, Hayez, Titian, Caravaggio, Tintoretto, Piero della Francesca, Rembrandt, Rubens, and Andrea Mantegna. The designer shopping district Quadrilatero d’Oro, where the elegant Milanese head to update their wardrobes, is also nearby.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Milan’s Brera neighborhood is one of the most photogenic in the city, so be sure to bring your camera.
- This area is best explored on foot; choose comfortable shoes and dress for the weather.
- Brera is paved and well maintained, and is easily managed with a wheelchair or stroller.
How to Get There
Brera is right in the center of Milan, an easy walk north from the Duomo and Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. Milan itself is well connected by train to Venice, Florence, and Rome.
When to Get There
The Brera neighborhood is most vibrant in summer, when cafés spill onto the sidewalks and make for an excellent place to do some serious people-watching. During the day, the main attractions are the area’s boutiques and museum; by night, most gather here for a drink or meal.
Milan Food Tours
The cosmopolitan city of Milan may not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking about Italian cuisine. So it may be surprising to discover that the city is known both for its fashion and its food, with a variety of traditional dishes rooted in the area’s history and a thriving up-and-coming contemporary food scene, especially in Brera. Consider taking a food-themed walking tour through the neighborhood to experience the city’s gourmet side for yourself.
Address: Italy
From $ 25
Bramante Staircase
The Bramante Staircase, designed by Donato Bramante in 1505, is an innovative double-helix spiral lined with Doric columns that connects the Vatican’s Belvedere Palace to the city of Rome below. It was commissioned by Pope Julius II and inspired Giuseppe Momo’s impressive 1930s staircase at the Vatican Museums exit.
The Basics
Many visitors mistake Giuseppe Momo's 1930s staircase for the historic Bramante Staircase, but the original was built more than 400 years earlier and is closed to the general public. Only private groups led by an official Vatican-approved tour guide are authorized to visit the elegant Renaissance staircase.
Some small-group guided tours of the Vatican Museums—among the most popular attractions in Italy—include access to the Bramante Staircase. Book in advance to avoid long ticket and entry lines. Extended tours generally also include stops in the Painting Gallery (Pinacoteca), Gallery of Tapestries, Gallery of Maps, Gallery of the Candelabra, the Sistine Chapel with its frescoes by Michelangelo, and the Raphael Rooms before moving on the St. Peter's Basilica.
Things to Know Before You Go
- There is a security check at the entrance to the Vatican Museums, so items like pocket knives, corkscrews, and umbrellas must be left at the coat check.
- If your Vatican tour includes entry to the Sistine Chapel, be sure to wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees.
- Vatican tours generally require quite a bit of walking, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes.
- The Bramante Staircase is not wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
The Vatican Museums are located adjacent St. Peter's Square in Vatican City. The closest metro station is Ottaviano on Line A.
When to Get There
The museums are most crowded at midday, so opt for a morning (or early-access) tour or plan a visit in the offseason winter months if you prefer a quieter experience.
Visiting the Vatican’s Painting Gallery
Most Vatican Museum tours include a stop in the Painting Gallery, a highlight of the museum complex. Here you can view one of the world's best collections of works by Italian masters such as Giotto, da Vinci, Raphael, and Caravaggio.
Address: Vatican Museums, Vatican City, Rome, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 29
Brenta Riviera
An ancient waterway connecting the Italian cities of Padua and Venice, the channel of the Brenta Riviera dates back to the 16th century and was built to flow directly into the lagoon of Venice. The green space lining the canal inspired many wealthy Venetians to build villas along its waterfront, and some still remain open for exploration today. These country homes often served as second residences for Venice’s noble families — far enough away to enjoy a countryside atmosphere but close enough to return quickly to Venice.
Not just any second home, many of the Brenta Riviera villas are more like monuments or palaces complete with exquisite works of art and large frescoes. The amount of villas, gardens, and residences lining the canals built up to a point where it was nearly considered an extension of Venice’s Grand Canal. Many of the villas can be visited still today, including the Villa Foscari and the Villa Pisani — which has gardens, an art collection, and a famous maze.
Practical info
The Brenta Riviera is best accessed by boat from either Padua or Venice. There are many famous towns, such as Stra and Mira, to stop in along the way.
Address: Venice, Italy
From $ 58