Things to Do in Italy

Choose from 645 Fun Things to Do in Italy

Corso Umberto I

The Corso Umberto I is the main street in Taormina, running from one end of the historic center to the other. This pedestrian-only avenue is, as you might imagine, lined with shops, restaurants, and hotels, all beckoning the countless tourists who amble by each day during the high season. But it’s not just a tourist street - locals enjoy strolling along the Corso Umberto I, too.

Taormina’s Medieval Quarter is one of the prettiest sections of the city, and Corso Umberto I cuts right through its middle. The clock tower that marks the start of the Medieval Quarter is actually in an arched tower that spans the Corso Umberto I. The particularly picturesque Piazza Aprile IX sits along the famous street, and it’s one of the most popular places to pause and do some people-watching. The view from the piazza over the water is lovely, and the piazza itself is a beautiful backdrop to whatever is going on.

Further down the Corso Umberto I is another piazza, the Piazza Duomo in front of Taormina’s cathedral. This is another good place for a pause - many hang out on or near the Baroque fountain at the center of the piazza.

Practical Info

Keep in mind that while you’ll find plenty of cheap souvenirs on offer in shops along the Corso Umberto I, you’ll also find unique Sicilian treats and crafts to take home, too. Plan to take your time wandering this street - and many of the smaller streets that connect to it - in order to find the hidden gems. For an insider look at this city’s most famous street, take a walking tour of Taormina with an expert local guide.

Corso Umberto I, Taormina, Sicily, Italy

From $ 69

Colosseum

The Colosseum has been a symbol of Rome since 80 AD, and today it’s a top monument in Italy. Some 50,000 spectators once gathered in the amphitheater’s tiered seats to watch gladiatorial games, and though parts of its original marble facade were pilfered over the years to build the likes of St. Peter’s Basilica, the Colosseum remains remarkably intact 2,000 years later.

The Basics

As the second most popular attraction in Italy after only the Vatican, the Colosseum hosts some 4 million annual visitors, meaning that long lines are nearly inevitable without a skip-the-line tour. Choose from a number of tours suited to any age or interest, such as a Colosseum underground tour that heads beneath the arena floor to explore a network of passages; a small-group guided tour of the third tier; or a night tour that offers an eery experience and relief from the daytime heat. Consider group tours, self-guided audio tours, or private tours to gain an understanding of this well-preserved ancient Roman amphitheater and its historical importance.

Things to Know Before You Go

It's best to purchase Colosseum tickets in advance to avoid long entry lines.
The Colosseum is well-suited for families with kids.
This is an open-air amphitheater, so bring a hat and sunscreen and wear comfortable shoes and attire.
You may also see the Colosseum referred to as the Flavian Amphitheatre or the Coliseum.

How to Get to the Colosseum

Alongside the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, the Colosseum is in the center of Rome, just across the street from the Colosseo station on Line B of the city's underground metro system, which also stops at the main Termini train station.

When to Get There

Since the Colosseum is most crowded during the middle of the day, begin or end your Rome tour with a visit first thing in the morning or just before last entry (which is an hour before closing time) in the late afternoon. Alternatively, choose a night tour for a unique, less crowded experience. Summer is the most popular time of year to visit, while the site receives fewer crowds in November through February, aside from the Christmas and New Year holidays.

The Colosseum in Numbers

The Colosseum is the world's largest amphitheater, has 76 entrances, and measures 615 feet (189 meters) long by 510 feet (156 meters) wide. The total area of the stadium covers six acres (24,000 square meters), and its highest tier reaches 157 feet (48 meters). It was built in under 10 years and was used for games and hunting for over four centuries.

Piazza del Colosseo, Rome 00184, Italy

€12

From $ 2

Dolomites

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Dolomites mountain range comprises almost 20 spectacular peaks topping 10,000 feet (3,000 meters) in the Alpine region of Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol, which straddles the Italian-Austrian border. The scenery is staggering in both summer and winter, and includes the dramatic Tre Cime di Lavaredo pinnacles, the emerald-green Lake Misurina and Lake Santa Caterina, the elegant Cortina d'Ampezzo ski resort, and idyllic mountain villages such as Pieve di Cadore.

The Basics

In addition to being one of the most popular ski destinations in Europe, the Dolomites are also known for summer activities such as mountain climbing, Alpine hiking, mountain biking, paragliding, and hang gliding. Visitors can join a small-group driving tour from Venice to explore the many gorgeous drives through the Dolomites without the stress of having to navigate the winding mountain roads. Upon arrival in the region, small-group and private walking and hiking tours are also excellent ways to explore in summer, with plenty of photo opportunities and a tour guide who can pick a trail suited to individual skill levels. Cable cars transport travelers up to the trailheads, ski slopes, and lodges year-round.

Things to Know Before You Go

Many top trails in the Dolomites are for advanced hikers, though there are also easier routes. Wear clothing and footwear suitable for the weather, and bring water.
For train buffs, the historic narrow-gauge Renon railway and the Brennero railway are considered the most scenic in Italy.
To sample traditional cuisine, stop for a meal at a rifugio, or refuge mountain lodge.

How to Get There

Most visitors depart from Venice for a day trip or a longer stay in this part of the Italian Alps. The nearest airports are in Venice or Treviso, and there are airport shuttles directly to the ski resorts in winter. You can drive or take the train from Venice too.

When to Get There

The Dolomites are spectacular year-round. In winter, you can ski, snowshoe, or hike the winter trails. In summer, visitors hike, tour the countryside, and explore the area’s many villages.

The Multicultural Dolomites

The Dolomite mountains were part of Austria until after the World War I, and residents here still identify with Germanic history. In addition, the ancient Ladin people, who have their own separate culture and language, have been living among these mountains for centuries.

Italy

From $ 179

Duomo Ravello

Built in the 11th century, the Duomo, which faces the town square, is the spiritual and social center of Ravello. The cathedral is a combination of Baroque and Romanesque architecture and has undergone extensive restorations over the past 900 years, with its modern white façade a result of its last major renovation in 1931. The church’s bell tower dates back to the 13th century and is Moorish and Byzantine in style.

The Duomo features three naves, separated by two colonnades, each of which is formed by eight columns of granite, transept and crypt. The famous bronze doors were made using the relief technique, and are unique in that there aren’t many bronze church doors still in existence in Italy, particularly of this kind.

The cathedral's pulpit was built in 1272 and is supported by six spiraled columns sitting atop marble lions. Across from the pulpit is the Ambo of the Epistles, with its ornate byzantine mosaics. The church’s marble chapel was built during the 17th century and is dedicated to St. Pantaleone, a 3rd-century Ravello healer, who was beheaded after converting to Christianity. A small ampul of the saint’s blood is kept here, and is said to liquefy each year on the anniversary of his martyrdom.

Practical Info

Ravello is easily explored on foot. SITA buses run frequently between Ravello and Amalfi, and taxis are available near the main bus stop in Ravello. The Duomo cathedral has an adjoining museum containing various significant sculptures and other works of art.

Piazza Duomo, Ravello, Amalfi Coast, Italy 84010, Italy

Open daily 8am-1pm and 4:30pm-7pm

From $ 44

Correr Civic Museum (Museo Civico Correr)

Dedicated to the art and history of Venice, Correr Civic Museum (Museo Correr) holds objects from the city’s past, including neoclassical sculptures, books, medallions, documents, paintings, musical instruments, and Greek and Roman statues. Located in the ornate palaces lining St. Mark’s Square, the museum includes neoclassical rooms decorated in the period’s opulent style.

The Basics

Set in the 16th-century Procuratie Nuove and 19th-century Napoleonic Wing on St. Mark’s Square, the Correr Civic Museum is home to an extensive collection of Venice artifacts. Sculptures by Antonio Canova and sumptuous Imperial Rooms used by the Hapsburgs during their residency in Venice share space with relics of the Venetian republic, including model ships, maps, and weaponry.

Due to the size and scope of its collections, the Correr Civic Museum is best visited with a guide who can explain the museum’s architecture and art. You can join a private tour of the museum, or take a more general tour that includes skip-the-line entrance to St. Mark’s Basilica, Doge’s Palace (Palazzo Ducale), and all three St. Mark’s Square museums (Correr Civic Museum, National Archaeological Museum, and Marciana National Library).

Things to Know Before You Go

Tickets to Correr Civic Museum allow entrance to Doge’s Palace, the National Archaeological Museum, and Marciana National Library.
The museum entrance is inside the building and up a staircase. Wheelchair users can access it via elevator but should contact the museum in advance to arrange assistance.
Large bags and backpacks must be left at the free coat check at the entrance.
Restrooms, a cafe, and a gift shop are located inside the museum.

How to Get There

The main entrance to the Correr Civic Museum is via the monumental staircase in the Napoleonic Wing on St. Mark’s Square. Vaporetto (water bus) lines 1 and 2 stop nearby.

When to Get There

Expect crowds in Venice during summer, with spring or fall seeing fewer visitors. The museum can be a welcome respite from the crush in St. Mark’s Square and is open daily with no midday closing.

The Drawing Room of Europe

St. Mark’s Square (Piazza San Marco) is the geographic and cultural heart of Venice. It’s home to St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace at one end and the bell tower in the center. The colonnaded arcade topped by the Procuratie palaces and Napoleonic Wing lines three sides. The square is one of the most popular spots in the city to relax at an outdoor table with a drink and soak in the Venetian atmosphere.

San Marco 52, Venice 30124, Italy

Varies

From $ 28

Devil's Saddle (Sella del Diavolo)

There is a distinctive rock formation on a promontory near Cagliari that, because of its shape, is known as the Devil’s Saddle - Sella di Diavolo in Italian. The promontory overlooks the city’s popular Poetto Beach.

The easiest way to see the Devil’s Saddle is simply by visiting the beach, but there are also hiking trails along the promontory for a more close-up look. Hikers can walk along what began as an ancient Roman road and can climb up to one of the points on the Devil’s Saddle.

Among the sights to see near Devil’s Saddle are the remains of a Roman cistern, an 11th-century monastery, and fortifications from World War II. There are even Punic ruins to see that date from the 6th century BC, before the ancient Roman era. A Punic temple was built on the promontory, dedicated to the Goddess Astarte. For many visitors, though, the main draw is the panoramic view from the top of the hill.

Practical Info

Sardinia is popular with outdoors enthusiasts, so there are plenty of chances to hike and even kayak around the promontory that includes the Devil’s Saddle. The hike up to the Devil’s Saddle is of medium difficulty.

Viale Calamosca 50, Cagliari, Italy

From $ 57

Duomo di Verona

Had Shakespeare’s tale of star-crossed lovers Romeo and Juliet ended happily ever after, the two may have wed in Verona’s beautiful 12th-century cathedral; and, in fact, travelers flock to the duomo on Romeo and Juliet-themed tours. The mix of Romanesque, Gothic, and Renaissance elements make this one of the most beautiful churches in Verona.

The Basics

The Duomo di Verona, in the historic city center, is built on top of an older proto-Christian church that was destroyed by an earthquake in 1117. The cathedral is dedicated to Santa Maria Assunta and is part of a complex that also includes the baptistery, the churches of San Giovanni in Fonte and Sant’Elena, the Canons’ cloister, and the Chapter Library of Verona Cathedral (Biblioteca Capitolare della Cattedrale di Verona).

Visit the Duomo di Verona on a city walking or hop-on hop-off bus tour that also includes skip-the-line entrance to the city’s famous Roman arena in Piazza Bra and other highlights. Popular themed tours in Verona include itineraries based on the plot of Romeo and Juliet, and a mystery tour exploring the murder of Veronese lord Cangrande della Scala, which remains unsolved after 700 years.

Things to Know Before You Go

The cathedral is closed to tours during Mass.
There is wheelchair access to the main church; the baptistery and secondary churches have steps at the entrances.
Visitors are required to cover their shoulders and knees to enter the church.

How to Get There

The Duomo is on Piazza Vescovado in the historic center of Verona, about a 25-minute walk from the Porto Vescovo train station, or 15 minutes on bus 31.Verona is located about halfway between Venice and Milan in Italy’s Veneto region, an easy day trip from Venice or Lake Garda.

When to Get There

The Duomo is open all day from March to November, but it closes briefly at midday the rest of the year. Tourists are not allowed to visit during Mass, so check the schedule in advance.

Art and Sculpture in the Cathedral

Duomo highlights include the portal sculptures in the western doorway by Maestro Nicolo dating from 1139 (they are conveniently signed and dated); at the south door are sculptures depicting the story of Jonah, a lion, an angel, and the Virgin Mary. Two sculpted holy warriors, Oliver and Uliviero, guard the entrance. The interiors are decorated with frescoes by a number of artists from the first Veronese Renaissance and Titian's Assumption of the Virgin.

Piazza Duomo, 21, Verona 37121, Italy

Varies

From $ 21

Como-Brunate Funicular Railway (Funicolare Como-Brunate)

The historic single-track Como–Brunate Funicular Railway has been carrying passengers up and down the steep mountain slope between the lakeside city of Como and the village of Brunate since 1894. The 7-minute ride passes through a scenic stretch of countryside with sweeping views over Italy’s Lake Como as far as the Swiss Alps.

The Basics

Once powered by steam engine, the Como–Brunate Funicular Railway (Funicolare Como–Brunate) now runs with an electric motor and travels through a lengthy tunnel before emerging to panoramic views of Lake Como and the surrounding area, including Villa d'Este, Villa Erba, and Monte Rosa. If Brunate, perched 2,362 feet (720 meters) above Como, isn’t high enough for you, after exiting the cable car you can continue another 30 minutes along a rough mule track to San Maurizio and then take 140-plus steps to the top of the Volta lighthouse. Either buy a return ticket for the funicular back down to Como, or take one of the many hiking trails that wind their way down to the lakeshore. Scenic trips on the Como–Brunate Funicular Railway are included in many Como day trips from Milan and as part of small-group hikes from Como.

Things to Know Before You Go

With views like these, you will definitely want to bring your camera.
Kids love the dizzying, steep trip up and down the mountainside.
If you are headed up the mountainside to hike, be sure to wear appropriate footwear and clothing, and bring plenty of water.
The funicular is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.

How to Get There

The Como–Brunate cable car entrance is located at Piazza Alcide de Gasperi, about 10 minutes by bus from the railway station through the Como city center. From the bus terminal on Via Torno, it’s an easy 5-minute walk to the funicular. Lake Como (Lago di Como) is a popular day trip from Milan, the bustling capital of Lombardy.

When to Get There

The cable car runs all year, but the best time to visit the region is from late spring to early fall, when the countryside is lush and the high altitude offers a respite from the heat.

Como’s Main Sights

The city of Como sits on the shores of Lake Como and offers a number of interesting attractions. Those not to miss include Piazza Cavour; the Tempio Voltiano, a museum dedicated to scientist and inventor Alessandro Volta; and the neoclassical Villa Olmo.

Piazza Alcide de Gasperi, 4, Como CO, Italy

From $ 69

Da Vinci's Last Supper (Il Cenacolo)

Each day, Leonardo da Vinci's "The Last Supper (Il Cenacolo)" draws hundreds of art-loving visitors to the unassuming refectory of the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie for just 15 minutes with the painting (Yes, it's that good). Milan's famous 15th-century wall mural may be one of the most famous (and regulated) artworks in Italy—to see it, you must book entrance tickets in advance or sign up for a guided Milan city tour.

The Basics

"The Last Supper" is incredibly popular, and it can be very difficult to get access. In order to preserve the mural, a maximum of 25 to 30 visitors are allowed to view the painting at a time, and only for 15 minutes. Fortunately, tours can help you lock in those high-demand tickets and customize your experience—spend a day touring Milan's must-see sites with an art historian tour guide, or opt for an expedited tour with skip-the-line "Last Supper" access. Most tours that visit the iconic painting also stop at Sforza Castle (Castello Sforzesco), Milan's Cathedral (Duomo), and the UNESCO-listed Santa Maria delle Grazie Church, thought to be designed by Renaissance architect Bramante. Other popular stops include the 16th-century Church of San Maurizio, the renowned Teatro La Scala opera house, and the glamorous shopping arcade of Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II.

Things to Know Before You Go

Skip the line with a priority access ticket that allows you to head right into the showroom.
While walking tours are the most popular way to see "The Last Supper," you can also explore the city by rickshaw, bicycle, or vintage tram.
From the church, Sforza Castle is a 15-minute walk down Corso Magenta, and Teatro alla Scala is about a 20-minute walk east on the same road.

How To Get There
The Basilica di Santa Maria delle Grazie is located on the western outskirts of central Milan between metro stations Cadorna Triennale and Conciliazione. It's a 15-minute walk or a quick taxi ride from the Duomo, but you can also choose a tour that provides round-trip transportation from your Milan hotel.

When to Get There

There are always visitors waiting their turn to see this hard-to-visit Renaissance masterpiece. Plan ahead to secure your ticket, and consider booking skip-the-line entry to walk in ahead of the queues.

Piazza della Maria delle Grazie 2, Milan, Lombardy, Italy

Tues-Sun 8:15am-7pm. Closed Mondays, plus Jan 1, May 1, Dec 25

€10

From $ 25

Colonne di San Lorenzo

Milan is known for its opera, fashion, and banking – not its ruins. And yet the city has Roman ruins – including the Colonne di San Lorenzo. These well-preserved ruins all date from the 2nd century, when they were part of a Roman building (experts aren't sure whether it was a bath house or a temple). They were likely moved to their current location in the 5th century.

The 16 columns line one side of a piazza in front of the fifth-century Basilica di San Lorenzo, one of Milan's oldest churches. They were brought to the piazza when the church was complete.

Practical Info

The Colonne di San Lorenzo are on Corso di Porta Ticinese, southwest of the Duomo in the historic city center.

Corso di Porta Ticinese, Milan, Italy

From $ 39

Devil's Bridge (Ponte della Maddalena)

This idyllic medieval bridge whose name translates to "Bridge of Mary Magdelene" played an essential role in early Italian history. That's because its stone arches and narrow walkway allowed French pilgrims to make their way over waters to the holy city of Rome. Although locals know that a major flood in the mid-1800s damaged the bridge's original structure, travelers can still see what remains of the restored version, which includes a roadway and new arch that reflects beautifully when the river is calm.

Visitors to this popular Lucca attraction will likely hear the local legend about Ponte della Maddalena's nickname—Devil's Bridge—which comes from a tale of a shepherd who makes a deal with the devil to build the stone bridge.

Via del Brennero, Lucca, Tuscany 55023, Italy

From $ 185

Doge's Palace (Palazzo Ducale)

The powerful Doges ruled the Venetian Empire from the Gothic fantasy palace that is Doge's Palace (Palazzo Ducale) until 1797. The site was one of the first things those arriving in Venice saw as their ships sailed through the lagoon and landed at St Mark's Square, and the doges ruled with an iron fist—justice was often meted out here. Today, the site is one of the most well-known attractions in Italy.

The Basics
The Palace of Doges is a significant historical site in Venice, with many travelers arriving to hear about the strict rule of the Venice Doges from an expert local guide. The site is most often visited on a two- to five-hour Venice tour and can be combined with a stop at St Mark's Basilica, once the private chapel of the Doges. Inside the palace, admire the many paintings by Titian, Tintoretto, and Veronese, and climb the narrow staircases to visit the Doge's apartments and the prison cells, as well as the ducal notary. Outside the palace is the Bridge of Sighs and the beautiful columns along the piazzetta.

The popular Secret Itineraries tour allow visitors, accompanied by a guide, into chambers of the palace not open to the general public. You'll see the secret chancellery where the delicate work of governing was done, the secret archives, the torture room, and the cell from which the famous writer Giacomo Casanova made his escape.

Things to Know Before You Go

The palace is best explored on a guided tour for an in-depth historical understanding.
Booking a St. Mark's museum pass allows access to the three museums in St. Mark's Square.
The palace is wheelchair accessible, and an audio guide is available for rental.
The majority of palace tours include Venice hotel pickup and dropoff, although a few tours offer departures from Florence and Milan.

How to Get to the Doge's Palace
The Doge's Palace (Palazzo Ducale) is located next to St. Mark's Church in St. Mark's Square. The site is easily accessible by vaporetto (the public water taxi) on the Grand Canal or on foot.

When to Get There
Summertime is popular in Venice; be prepared for lines and crowds. The palace's hours vary seasonally.

A Haunting History

Death sentences were declared between the 9th and 10th columns outside the palace, while executions were carried out between the freestanding columns in the piazzetta next to the lagoon; even today Venetians won't walk between them. A final chance at life was offered if the accused were able to walk around the edge of the third column on the seaward side of the palace.

San Marco, 1, Venice, Veneto 31024, Italy

Varies

From $ 5

Column of Marcus Aurelius

Standing an impressive 100 feet high, the Column of Marcus Aurelius was built as a Roman victory monument and stands in what is now called the Piazza Colonna, situated in what would have been the northern boundary of Ancient Rome.

The original date of construction is unknown, but there are inscriptions of the column throughout the region that promote the idea that the construction was completed, at the very latest, by 193 AD. Most scholars believe that the construction of the column may have started directly after the Roman victories over a number of their northern rivals.

Parallel to this idea are the intricate carvings on the column that work in a spiral fashion and tlel the stories of victories, war and conquest. The details show images of men, horses, women and the destruction of certain villages. By the 15th century, the statue of Marcus Aurelius atop the column had already deteriorated. Thus, in 1589, a restoration was done by Domenico Fontana, placing nearly 10 feet of it underground. The remodeling also meant that a bronze statue of St Paul was placed where Marcus Aurelius once stood.

Practical Info

The Column of Marcus Aurelius is in the Piazza Colonna on the northern end of Ancient Rome along Via del Corso. The plaza isn't directly served by the metro, but the Barberini stop is nearby. There are also a number of buses that serve the area, such as the N6, N25, 81 and 117.

Piazza Colonna, Rome, Italy

From $ 35

Doria Pamphili Gallery

The Doria Pamphili Gallery, located in Rome, Italy, is one of the largest and most magnificent palaces in the center of the city. It is home to the Doria Pamphili (sometimes spelled Pamphilj) family, and some members of the family still live in one section of the palace. The original building dates back to the 15th century, though it has been renovated several times. A visit to the gallery provides a glimpse into aristocratic life in Rome. Many private rooms are now open, including a ballroom, a chapel, and living quarters, all decorated with elaborate paintings and sculptures.

The art gallery itself contains approximately 400 pieces from the 15th to 18th centuries. Some of the more famous pieces include a portrait of pope Innocent X by Velázquez and two busts of the same pope, created by Bernini. The Gallery of Mirrors is one of the most lavish rooms in the palace and includes frescoes depicting the Labors of Hercules.

Practical Info

The Doria Pamphili Gallery is located at Via del Corso 305.

Via del Corso 305, Rome, Italy

Open every day from 9.00 a.m. to 7.00 p.m. (last entry 6.00 p.m.) Closed: 25th December, 1st January, Easter.

Adults: €11

From $ 29

Corniglia

Pint-sized Corniglia might be the smallest of Italy’s Cinque Terre seaside villages, but what it lacks in size, it makes up for in dramatic scenery and rustic beauty. Climb the dizzying 365 steps to the clifftop hamlet and you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views over the neighboring villages and a cluster of charming shops, cafés, and restaurants.

The Basics

Corniglia’s tiny size means it’s best suited for a day trip rather than as a base for exploring the region. Day tours to Corniglia run from La Spezia, Florence, and Milan, and typically include visits to the neighboring villages of Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Riomaggiore, and Manarola, as well as a stop in nearby Portovenere. It’s a popular stop for hikers exploring Cinque Terre National Park, which encompasses all five Cinque Terre towns.

Things to Know Before You Go

Corniglia can get busy in peak summer season, so book tours and accommodations in advance.
Day trips from Florence to the Cinque Terre can last upwards of 12 hours, so prepare for a long day.
Bring comfortable, sturdy walking shoes, as the village roads are steep and often uneven.
While some hotels and tourist attractions in Corniglia are wheelchair and stroller accessible, the village’s steep and narrow lanes can be challenging for those with mobility issues to navigate.

How to Get There

Located in Cinque Terre National Park, between Vernazza and Manarola along the Italian Riviera, Corniglia is a 2.5-hour drive from Florence or 50-minute drive from La Spezia. Parking is very limited in Corniglia, so unless you are staying in town overnight, it’s best to join a tour or arrive by train from La Spezia (a 15-minute ride). On arrival at the train station, it’s a steep walk or short shuttle bus ride to reach the cliff-top village. Corniglia is the only one of the five Cinque Terre towns not accessible by ferry.

When to Get There

Corniglia and Cinque Terre see the most visitors and the highest temperatures—upwards up 100°F (40°C)—during the summer. Hikers should aim to visit in May or September to avoid the peak heat, while budget-minded travelers might want to skip August, when hotel prices skyrocket. Visiting in winter is possible, but some hiking trails may be inaccessible in inclement weather.

Corniglia’s Most Stunning Viewpoints

When it comes to Corniglia’s sweeping views, there isn’t a bad seat in the house. Climb the 365-step Scalinata Lardarina up to the village for the most impressive vistas, then make your way to the oceanfront terrace at the top for a panoramic view along Cinque Terre and watch the sunset from Bar Terza Terra. Alternatively, hike the coastal road to Vernazza or Manarola, enjoying expansive looks over the Mediterranean Sea.

Corniglia, Italy

From $ 139

Domus Augustana

One of the many ancient Roman ruins atop the Palatine Hill is the Domus Augustana, part of the huge Flavian Palace, built for Emperor Domitian.

The Domus Augustana – sometimes called the Domus Augustiana – was the luxurious residence of the emperor (his official name was Titus Flavius Domitianus, hence the name of the palace). The palace complex was built in the late 1st century, and the Domus Augustana was lived in by emperors until about the third century. It's fairly well-preserved.

Practical Info

The ruins on the Palatine Hill are open to the public starting at 8:30am, with the closing time varying from 4:30pm-6:30pm depending on the season. A 48-hour combined ticket that includes the Colosseum, Forum, and Palatine Hill costs €12. Children under age 18 are admitted for free, and there's free admission the first Sunday of every month.

Via di San Gregorio, 30, Rome, Italy

Open to the public starting at 8:30am, with the closing time varying from 4:30pm-6:30pm depending on the season.

€12, Children under 18 are free

From $ 70

Dante House Museum (Museo Casa di Dante)

A bit of a misnomer, the Dante House Museum was never the 13th-century Italian poet Dante Alighieri's residence. Instead, this small museum is home to reproductions of early manuscripts of his magnum opus, The Divine Comedy, and other engaging exhibits that re-create Dante's life and times.

The Basics

Although there is nothing on display that actually belonged to the great poet, the museum provides a glimpse into the politics, economy, and social life of medieval Florence. Exhibits include a reconstruction of Dante's bedroom, illustrations of his poems, and reproductions of his magnum opus, written after he was banished from Florence for backing the wrong side in political intrigue. In exile, Dante was forced to wander northern Italy for several years before ending his days in Ravenna in 1321.

The Dante House Museum is included in the Florence Card museum pass and offers guided tours and workshops on the writings of Dante. Otherwise, you can visit the museum during a private electric bike tour or walking tour of Florence that also includes nearby attractions like the Duomo with its Baptistery of San Giovanni and Giotto's bell tower, the Badia Fiorentina monastery, and the Uffizi Galleries.

Things to Know Before You Go

The Dante House Museum’s labyrinthine medieval-style building is said to be located on the spot where the Alighieri family home once stood, but dates from the early 20th century.
The museum is partially accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
A stop here is particularly interesting for lovers of medieval history and literature.
Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and dress for the weather if joining a bike or walking tour.

How to Get There

The Museo Casa di Dante is located on Via Santa Margherita in the heart of Florence's largely pedestrian-only historic center, a short walk from the Firenze Santa Maria Novella train station.

When to Get There

Florence is one of the most popular destinations in Italy, and the attractions in its historic center can be very crowded in the high-season summer months. Consider touring in the spring or fall to take advantage of mild weather and fewer visitors.

Dante Alighieri's Divine Comedy

This poet who lived between the 13th and 14th century is among the most important writers in western literature. His Divine Comedy is divided into three parts—Inferno, Purgatory, and Paradise—and the most famous copy is a manuscript commissioned by Lorenzo di Pierfrancesco de'Medici and illustrated by Botticelli, pages of which can be seen in Berlin's Museum of Prints and Drawings and the Vatican Museums.

Via Santa Margherita, 1, Florence, Tuscany 50122, Italy

Varies

From $ 70

Collegio del Cambio

Collegio del Cambio - Perugia’s exchange guild - was built sometime between 1452 and 1457 and originally operated as a bank. Today, this stunning example of Roman architecture is a destination for travelers who want to experience the beauty of the best-preserved Renaissance frescoes in the nation.

Though only two rooms are open to the public at a cost of about five euros, visitors say what lied behind the massive wooden doors is definitely worth a visit. Stunning works from the artist Perugino, ornate wood carvings and a truly spectacular ceiling make this an attraction that is not to be missed while in Perugia.

Practical Info

Collegio del Cambio is located in Perugia’s Palazzo dei Priori at 25 Corso Vannucci. It is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. and from 2:30 p.m. until 5:30 p.m. Sundays and public holidays the museum is open from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m.

Corso Vannucci 25, Perugia 06121, Italy

Open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. and from 2:30 p.m. until 5:30 p.m. Sundays and public holidays the museum is open from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m.

€ 4,50

From $ 185

Donnafugata Castle (Castello di Donnafugata)

A little more than 9 miles from Ragusa in southeastern Sicily sits a beautiful 14th-century castle with a pretty name - Donnafugata Castle. The word translates to “fugitive woman,” but the castle’s name stems from an Arabic word, so there’s no romantic story to go with it.

Donnafugata Castle is a patchwork of architectural and artistic styles, including one Venetian Gothic facade and Baroque interior. Visitors can walk through many decorated rooms on the first floor of the castle, including a Hall of Mirrors, smoking room, music room, royal bedrooms, and many rooms with trompe l’oeil paintings on the ceilings.

The castle’s gardens are also open to the public, including a Neoclassical temple building among the gardens of Mediterranean trees and plants. Tours of the filming locations for the “Inspector Montalbano” television series typically include a stop at Donnafugata Castle, which figures into the show as the residence of a mob boss.

Practical Info

In addition to the “Inspector Montalbano” show, Donnafugata Castle has also appeared in the films “Chaos” and “Il Racconto dei Racconti.” It is not the castle of the same name from the famous book, “The Leopard,” however.

Contrada Donnafugata, Ragusa, Italy

Tue-Sun 9am-7pm

€8 (castle & park), €6 (castle only), €3 (park only) - reduced prices for under 18/over 65

From $ 98

Dorsoduro

Most visitors to Venice head directly to the San Marco district, but if you want to enjoy the quieter side of the city, don’t miss Dorsoduro. Home to important art collections, excellent restaurants, beautiful churches, and impressive architecture, the neighborhood has it all—with a fraction of the crowds.

The Basics

Dorsoduro, one of the six Venetian districts (sestieri) in the city center, is located just across the Grand Canal from the more touristy San Marco. Walk across the wooden Accademia Bridge and along the canal to the Gallerie dell’Accademia—home to masterpieces by Titian, Tiepolo, and Veronese—and the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, famous for its modern art. The 18th-century Ca' Rezzonico museum is one of the most sumptuous in the city, and the Church of San Sebastiano and Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute are among the most ornate.

To really get a feel for Dorsoduro, join a walking tour led by a local guide who’s familiar with the district’s big-name landmarks and secret corners. Pair a Dorsoduro tour with a gondola ride or a Venice highlights tour that includes St. Mark's Basilica, the Doge's Palace, and the Rialto Bridge.

Things to Know Before You Go

Tours of Dorsoduro require a bit of walking, so wear comfortable shoes and a sun hat.
Because of the thinner crowds and outdoor spaces, the Dorsoduro district is easier to manage with kids.
This district is known for its excellent restaurants serving traditional Venetian cuisine and cafés serving cicchetti, or Venetian-style tapas.
If you’re looking to take an evening stroll, Fondamento della Zattere (along the Giudecca Canal) and the Campo Santa Margherita square are both great destinations at night.

How to Get There

Dorsoduro, just across the Grand Canal from San Marco, is easily reached by walking over the Accademia Bridge.

When to Get There

With views of San Marco to one side and the island of Giudecca to the other, Dorsoduro is particularly beautiful at night, just as the sun is setting. Plan to tour its sights by day and then linger at its restaurants and cafés after dark.

Venice's Six Sestieri

Venice has six districts—Castello, Cannaregio, Dorsoduro, San Marco, Santa Croce, and San Polo—in addition to the outlying districts of Lido and Giudecca and Lido and the islands of Torcello, Murano, and Burano.

Sestiere di Dorsoduro, Venezia 30100, Italy

From $ 35