Italy – the country where you drink the best espresso in the morning, admire the two-thousand-year-old Colosseum at midday and enjoy the best pizza in the world in the evening, with a view of the sunset over the sea. La dolce vita (the sweet life) surrounds you at every step – in the chaotic lanes of Rome, on the romantic canals of Venice and in the sun-drenched vineyards of Tuscany.
We’ve put together an overview of the iconic landmarks and places you simply want to see in Italy!
Italy landmarks – a map of places to see in Italy
1. The Colosseum (Rome)
The Colosseum, originally the Flavian Amphitheatre, is the largest amphitheatre ever built and an iconic symbol of Rome. Construction began under the emperor Vespasian in AD 72 and was completed in AD 80 under his successor Titus. This enormous stadium hosted gladiator fights, public spectacles, animal hunts and re-enactments of famous battles for tens of thousands of spectators.
Practical tips: Book your tickets online well in advance to avoid the extremely long queues. A combined ticket also covers the Roman Forum and the Palatine Hill.
Admission and opening hours: Open daily; opening hours vary by season (usually from 8:30 until an hour before sunset). Definitely buy tickets in advance, otherwise long queues await you.
2. The Roman Forum (Rome)
For centuries the Roman Forum was the centre of everyday life in ancient Rome. It was the setting for triumphal processions, elections, public speeches and commercial activity. Today it’s an extensive archaeological site of ruins that includes the remains of temples, basilicas and government buildings.
Practical tips: Set aside several hours for your visit and wear comfortable shoes. The site is vast and the ground uneven.
Admission and opening hours: Entry is included in the combined ticket with the Colosseum. The opening hours are the same as for the Colosseum.
3. The Pantheon (Rome)
The Pantheon is one of the best preserved ancient Roman temples. It was originally built as a temple to all the gods. Its most striking feature is the incredible dome with an opening in the middle (the oculus), which to this day is the largest unreinforced concrete dome in the world. Since the 7th century it has served as a Catholic church.
Practical tips: Remember to dress appropriately (shoulders and knees covered).
Admission and opening hours: Open daily, but opening hours may be restricted during services.
If you’re heading to Rome, read: 45 most beautiful places to see in Rome
4. The Trevi Fountain (Rome)
The Trevi Fountain is the largest and best known Baroque fountain in Rome. According to legend, anyone who throws a coin into it (with the right hand over the left shoulder) is guaranteed a return to the Eternal City. The fountain is a masterpiece of sculpture and architecture depicting the god Oceanus on a chariot drawn by sea horses.
Practical tips: The best time to visit is early in the morning or late in the evening, when there are fewer people. Watch out for pickpockets.
5. The Spanish Steps (Rome)
This monumental staircase of 135 steps links Piazza di Spagna with the church of Trinità dei Monti. It’s a popular place to meet and rest. In spring the steps are decorated with azaleas, which makes for a wonderful sight.
Practical tips: Since 2019 sitting on the steps has been forbidden. It’s a great spot for photos, especially at sunrise or sunset.
6. The Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel (Vatican)
The Vatican Museums hold one of the largest and most valuable art collections in the world, gathered by the popes over the centuries. The highlight of the visit is the Sistine Chapel with its breathtaking frescoes by Michelangelo, including the famous “Creation of Adam” and “The Last Judgement”.
Practical tips: Booking tickets online is an absolute must unless you want to spend hours in a queue. Set aside at least 3–4 hours for the visit.
Admission and opening hours: Open Monday to Saturday. Opening hours may vary, so check them on the official website.
7. St Peter’s Basilica (Vatican)
The largest church in the world and the centre of the Catholic Church. It’s a masterpiece of Renaissance and Baroque architecture, designed with the involvement of artists such as Bramante, Michelangelo and Bernini. You can admire Michelangelo’s Pietà and climb to the top of the dome for an amazing view of St Peter’s Square and Rome.
Practical tips: Entry to the basilica is free, but you have to pass through a security check where long queues can build up. Observe the strict dress code (shoulders, knees and midriff covered).
Admission and opening hours: Open daily. The opening hours differ for the basilica and the dome.
Accommodation tips in Rome
If you want to enjoy the real historic centre and have everything within reach, try:
If, on the other hand, you’re looking for a cool district with a bohemian, lively atmosphere, try Monti:
8. The Leaning Tower of Pisa
The world-famous bell tower (campanile) of Pisa Cathedral became famous for its unintended tilt. Construction began in the 12th century, but because of the unstable subsoil it started to lean almost immediately. After extensive stabilisation work at the end of the 20th century, this icon – part of the Piazza dei Miracoli (UNESCO) – is safely accessible again and offers a unique experience when you climb to the top.
Practical tips: Visitor numbers are strictly limited, so booking tickets online well in advance is essential. Children under 8 are not allowed in and all bags have to be left in the luggage store beforehand.
Admission and opening hours: Opening hours vary through the year; in the summer months they’re often extended into the evening. Entry is allowed only for the specific time slot printed on your ticket.
9. The Uffizi Gallery (Florence)
The Uffizi Gallery is one of the oldest and most important art museums in the world. It holds a unique collection of Renaissance art, including works by Botticelli (“The Birth of Venus”), Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo and Raphael.
Practical tips: Booking tickets in advance is crucial if you want to avoid queues that last several hours.
Admission and opening hours: Open Tuesday to Sunday. It’s a good idea to check the current opening hours.
10. Ponte Vecchio (Florence)
The “old bridge” is a medieval stone bridge over the river Arno, famous for the shops built along it. Butchers originally had their premises here, but today you’ll mainly find jewellers and souvenir shops. It’s the only bridge in Florence that survived the Second World War.
Practical tips: The bridge is often crowded. For the best photos, head to the neighbouring Ponte Santa Trinita.
Admission and opening hours: Freely accessible 24 hours a day.
If you’re heading to Florence, be sure to read our guide: What to see in Florence: 15 most beautiful landmarks + map
11. The Doge’s Palace (Venice)
This magnificent Gothic palace was the heart of the political power of the Venetian Republic for centuries. It served as the residence of the doge and as the seat of the government and the courts. Visitors can admire the beautiful halls and works of art, and also cross the famous Bridge of Sighs into the former prison.
Practical tips: Buy a combined ticket for the museums on St Mark’s Square. Consider the “Secret Itineraries” tour for access to the hidden parts of the palace.
Admission and opening hours: Open daily; it’s worth checking the seasonal opening hours.
12. The Rialto Bridge (Venice)
The oldest and best known of the four bridges over the Grand Canal. The present stone bridge was completed at the end of the 16th century and is an architectural icon of Venice. There are many shops on and around the bridge, along with a busy market.
Practical tips: The bridge is very busy. For a calmer experience and nice photos, come early in the morning.
Admission and opening hours: Freely accessible 24 hours a day.
13. St Mark’s Square (Venice)
The main public square in Venice, reputedly called “the most beautiful drawing room in Europe” by Napoleon. It’s surrounded by the city’s most important landmarks: St Mark’s Basilica, the Doge’s Palace and the bell tower (the Campanile).
Practical tips: Coffee in the cafés on the square is very expensive. Watch out for the pigeons and for the “acqua alta” (high water), when the square can be flooded.
14. Milan Cathedral (Milan)
The Duomo of Milan is one of the largest and most magnificent Gothic cathedrals in the world. It took almost six centuries to build. It’s famous for its thousands of statues, gargoyles and spires. The highlight of a visit is a walk across the roof with amazing views of the city.
Practical tips: Buy a ticket that includes entry to the cathedral, to the roof (by lift or on foot) and to the museum. Observe the dress code.
Admission and opening hours: Open daily. Times may differ for the various parts of the complex.
15. The Last Supper (Milan)
Leonardo da Vinci’s famous mural is in the refectory of the Santa Maria delle Grazie monastery. It depicts the emotional scene of Jesus’ last supper with the apostles. Because the work is so fragile, access is strictly regulated.
Practical tips: Tickets have to be booked months in advance. The visit is limited to 15 minutes.
Admission and opening hours: Open Tuesday to Sunday. Booking is compulsory.
16. The Verona Arena
This superbly preserved Roman amphitheatre from the 1st century AD is the third largest of its kind. Today it’s world-famous for the spectacular open-air opera performances held here in the summer months.
Practical tips: If you’re going to the opera, book your tickets in advance. The arena is open for visits outside the opera season too.
Admission and opening hours: Open daily (unless a performance is taking place). Opening hours may vary.
17. Juliet’s House (Verona)
Although the story of Romeo and Juliet is fictional, Verona has adopted it as its own. This 13th-century house with a small balcony is presented as the home of the Capulets and attracts couples in love from all over the world. A bronze statue of Juliet stands in the courtyard.
Practical tips: The courtyard is freely accessible and tends to be crowded. Entry to the house is charged. Many people believe that touching the right breast of Juliet’s statue brings luck in love.
Admission and opening hours: The house is open daily, except on Monday mornings.
18. Cinque Terre
Cinque Terre (the Five Lands) is a dramatic stretch of the Italian Riviera made up of five picturesque, colourful villages: Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore. The villages perch dramatically on cliffs above the sea and are connected by hiking trails.
Practical tips: The best way to travel between the villages is by train or boat. The hiking trails can be demanding. For some trails you need to buy the Cinque Terre Card.
Admission and opening hours: The villages are freely accessible. The Cinque Terre Card is recommended for the hiking trails and the train.
19. The Amalfi Coast
One of the most beautiful stretches of coastline in the world, on the UNESCO list. It’s characterised by dramatic cliffs into which picturesque little towns such as Positano, Amalfi and Ravello are carved, and by winding roads with breathtaking views.
Practical tips: In high season the traffic is very heavy. Consider using the ferries between the towns – it’s often faster and offers beautiful views from the sea.
20. The island of Capri
A charming island in the Bay of Naples that has been a favourite resort since the days of the Roman emperors. It’s known for its luxury hotels and shops, its beautiful gardens and natural attractions such as the famous Blue Grotto (Grotta Azzurra).
Practical tips: You can reach the island by ferry from Naples or Sorrento. From the Marina Grande harbour you can get up to the town of Capri by funicular.
Admission and opening hours: Entry to the Blue Grotto is charged and depends on the weather conditions.
21. Mount Vesuvius
The only active volcano on the European mainland, rising above the Bay of Naples. It’s notorious for its eruption in AD 79, which destroyed the towns of Pompeii and Herculaneum. Today you can climb all the way up to the rim of the crater.
Practical tips: The walk to the crater takes about 20–30 minutes uphill on an unpaved path. Wear sturdy shoes and be ready for changeable weather.
Admission and opening hours: Entry to the national park is charged. Opening hours vary by season.
22. Pompeii
This ancient Roman town, buried under volcanic ash in AD 79, is like a time capsule. A walk through its streets, among the ruins of villas, temples, baths and the amphitheatre, offers a unique and chilling look into everyday life in the Roman Empire. The plaster casts of the victims’ bodies, captured in their final moments, are a silent testimony to the power of nature and the fragility of life.
Practical tips: The site is enormous – set aside at least 4–5 hours to explore it. Don’t forget comfortable shoes, plenty of water and sun protection, because there’s little shade here. Pick up a map at the entrance; it will help you find your way.
Admission and opening hours: Open daily except 1 January, 1 May and 25 December. Opening hours vary by season (usually from 9:00 to 19:30 in summer, with last entry at 18:00). You can buy entry with an audio guide here.
23. The National Archaeological Museum (Naples)
This museum houses one of the most important collections of Greco-Roman antiquities in the world. Most of the exhibits come from Pompeii and Herculaneum, including frescoes, mosaics, statues and everyday objects that give an incredible insight into life in the 1st century.
Practical tips: It’s ideal to visit the museum after seeing Pompeii, so you get the full context. The museum is extensive – allow at least 3 hours.
Admission and opening hours: Open daily except Tuesday.
24. The Valley of the Temples (Agrigento, Sicily)
A magnificent archaeological park that is home to the best preserved ancient Greek temples outside Greece. There are eight temples here, built in the 5th century BC; the best known is the Temple of Concordia (Tempio della Concordia), which is almost intact.
Practical tips: The park is very large and there’s hardly any shade. Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Consider buying a combined ticket with the archaeological museum.
Admission and opening hours: Open daily; in summer the opening hours are often extended into the evening.
25. Mount Etna (Sicily)
The highest and most active volcano in Europe, dominating the eastern coast of Sicily. Its frequent but mostly mild eruptions are constantly changing its landscape. Visitors can travel up by cable car and off-road vehicles to the vicinity of the summit craters.
Practical tips: Even in summer it can be cold and windy at the top, so take warm clothes and sturdy shoes. To climb to the highest areas you need to be accompanied by a mountain guide.
Admission and opening hours: Access to the lower craters is free. The cable car and off-road vehicles are charged, and their operation depends on the weather and volcanic activity.
If you’re planning to climb Etna on your own, read: Mount Etna: advice and tips for the climb – everything you need to know
26. The Greek Theatre in Taormina (Sicily)
An ancient Greek theatre that was later rebuilt by the Romans. It’s famous for its perfect acoustics and above all for the breathtaking panoramic view of the sea and Mount Etna, which forms its natural backdrop.
Practical tips: Visit the theatre early in the morning to avoid the crowds and the midday heat. Concerts and performances are often held here in the evening.
Admission and opening hours: Open daily. Opening hours vary by season.
27. Sassi di Matera
The Sassi (Stones) are the historic quarter of the town of Matera, made up of a complex of cave dwellings carved into the rock. This area, considered one of the oldest continuously inhabited places in the world, was once a symbol of poverty, but after its revitalisation it’s now a fascinating tourist attraction on the UNESCO list.
Practical tips: The terrain is steep and full of steps, so wear comfortable shoes. Visit one of the “casa grotta” (furnished cave houses) to get a sense of life here in the past.
Admission and opening hours: The area is freely accessible. Entry to the individual cave churches or house-museums is charged.
28. Alberobello (Puglia)
A little town famous for its unique dwellings called “trulli”. These are small white houses built of dry stone with a conical roof. Two districts, Rione Monti and Aia Piccola, are completely filled with them and create a fairy-tale scene on the UNESCO list.
Practical tips: Rione Monti is more touristy, with lots of shops and restaurants, while Aia Piccola is a quieter, more authentic residential quarter.
Admission and opening hours: Some trulli serve as museums and entry to them is charged.
29. The Basilica of St Francis of Assisi
One of the most important Christian pilgrimage sites in Italy and a masterpiece of medieval architecture. The basilica consists of two churches built one above the other – the Lower and the Upper. St Francis is buried here, and the interiors are decorated with famous fresco cycles, especially those by Giotto in the Upper Basilica.
Practical tips: Observe the strict dress code (shoulders and knees covered) and keep quiet – this is an important religious site. Photography inside is forbidden.
Admission and opening hours: Entry is free. Open daily, but it may be closed during services.
30. Piazza del Campo (Siena)
One of the largest and most beautiful medieval squares in Europe, known for its unique shell shape. It’s the heart of Siena and twice a year it hosts the famous Palio di Siena horse race. The square is lined with palaces and dominated by the Torre del Mangia tower.
Practical tips: It’s an ideal place to rest and watch the world go by. Climb the Torre del Mangia for an amazing view of the square and the town.
Admission and opening hours: The square is freely accessible. Entry to the tower is charged.
31. Siena Cathedral
A masterpiece of Italian Gothic architecture. The facade of white, green and red marble is stunning, but the interior is even more impressive. Its most striking feature is the unique marble mosaic floor depicting biblical and historical scenes.
Practical tips: Buy the combined “Opa Si Pass” ticket, which includes entry to the cathedral, the Piccolomini Library, the baptistery and the “Panorama del Duomo” viewpoint.
Admission and opening hours: Open daily; opening hours vary by season.
32. San Gimignano
The “medieval Manhattan” of Tuscany, famous for the skyline formed by its surviving medieval family towers. At the height of its glory there were more than 70 of them; today 14 remain. The town has kept its feudal atmosphere and is on the UNESCO list.
Practical tips: The town is small but very popular. Walk away from the main streets too, and climb the Torre Grossa, the tallest tower, for the best view.
Admission and opening hours: The town is freely accessible. Entry to the tower and the museums is charged.
33. Lake Como
The third largest Italian lake, considered one of the most beautiful in Europe. It has the distinctive shape of an inverted letter “Y”. Its shores are lined with grand villas with wonderful gardens and picturesque little towns such as Bellagio, Varenna and Como.
Practical tips: The best way to explore the lake is by the ferries that connect the individual towns. Consider visiting one of the historic villas, such as Villa Carlotta or Villa del Balbianello.
Admission and opening hours: The lake and the towns are freely accessible. Entry to the villas and gardens is charged.
34. Lake Garda
The largest Italian lake, offering varied scenery – from the mountains in the north to the gentle hills in the south. It’s a popular destination for water sports, cycling and family holidays. There are many charming towns here, such as Sirmione, Malcesine and Riva del Garda.
Practical tips: Take the cable car from Malcesine up Monte Baldo for spectacular views. Visit the Scaliger Castle in Sirmione.
Admission and opening hours: The lake and the towns are freely accessible. Entry to the castles, cable cars and amusement parks is charged.
35. Castel del Monte (Puglia)
A unique and mysterious 13th-century castle built by the emperor Frederick II. It has a perfectly octagonal ground plan with eight octagonal towers, one at each corner. The purpose of the building isn’t entirely clear – it may have been a hunting lodge, an observatory or a symbolic site. It’s on the UNESCO list.
Practical tips: The castle stands alone on a hill, so it’s clearly visible from a distance. The interior is fairly plain; the main attraction is the architecture and symmetry itself.
Admission and opening hours: Open daily. It’s worth checking the current opening hours.
36. The Royal Palace of Caserta
A magnificent Baroque palace designed to rival Versailles in size and splendour. It was built in the 18th century for the Bourbon kings of Naples. Besides the grand interiors with more than 1,200 rooms, the palace is known above all for its enormous park with a cascade of fountains and an English garden.
Practical tips: The park is huge. Consider hiring a bike or using the shuttle bus to reach the Great Cascade at the far end.
Admission and opening hours: Open daily except Tuesday. The park and the palace have slightly different opening hours.
37. Herculaneum
An ancient Roman town that, like Pompeii, was destroyed by the eruption of Vesuvius in AD 79. It was hit by a pyroclastic flow, which preserved it differently from the ash at Pompeii. As a result, organic materials such as wood and papyrus survived here, and even two-storey buildings.
Practical tips: Herculaneum is smaller and more compact than Pompeii, but often better preserved. You can comfortably walk around it in 2–3 hours.
Admission and opening hours: Open daily. Opening hours vary by season.
38. Paestum
An archaeological site south of Naples with three exceptionally well-preserved ancient Greek temples from the 6th and 5th centuries BC. The temples dedicated to Hera and Athena are among the finest examples of Doric architecture in the world. The site also includes a museum with important finds.
Practical tips: Visit the museum first so you understand the history of the place better, and then the temples themselves. In the evening the temples are beautifully lit.
Admission and opening hours: Open daily.
39. The Borghese Gallery (Rome)
This gallery, set in an elegant 17th-century villa, holds one of the finest private art collections in the world. It’s famous above all for the masterly sculptures by Gian Lorenzo Bernini (“Apollo and Daphne”, for example) and for paintings by Caravaggio.
Practical tips: Entry is strictly regulated and allowed only in two-hour slots. Booking several days to a week in advance is absolutely essential.
Admission and opening hours: Open Tuesday to Sunday. Booking is compulsory.
40. Castel Sant’Angelo (Rome)
Originally built as a mausoleum for the Roman emperor Hadrian and his family. Over the centuries it was rebuilt into a papal fortress and residence, connected to the Vatican by the secret Passetto di Borgo corridor. Today it serves as a museum. From the top there’s a beautiful view of Rome and the Ponte Sant’Angelo.
Practical tips: The castle has several levels and a maze-like system of corridors. The tour leads you through history from antiquity to the Renaissance.
Admission and opening hours: Open daily.
41. St Mark’s Basilica (Venice)
The main church in Venice and a superb example of Byzantine architecture in the West. Its interior is dazzlingly decorated with more than 8,000 m² of gold mosaics depicting biblical stories. It holds the relics of St Mark.
Practical tips: Entry to the main part of the basilica is free, but long queues build up. Entry to the museum, to the Pala d’Oro treasure and to the terrace with its view is paid separately. Observe the dress code.
Admission and opening hours: Open daily, but the opening hours are restricted during services.
42. Villa d’Este (Tivoli)
A masterpiece of Italian Renaissance garden architecture on the UNESCO list. The villa is famous above all for its wonderful terraced gardens, which contain hundreds of fountains, cascades, water spouts and grottoes.
Practical tips: Tivoli lies just outside Rome and is an ideal destination for a day trip. The best time to visit the gardens is in spring, when they’re in full bloom.
Admission and opening hours: Open daily except Monday.
43. Hadrian’s Villa (Tivoli)
An extensive complex of ruins that served as the country residence of the Roman emperor Hadrian in the 2nd century AD. The emperor had scaled-down replicas built here of the buildings and places he admired on his travels around the empire. The site is so large that it resembles a small town.
Practical tips: The site is very extensive – set aside at least 3–4 hours for your visit. Wear comfortable shoes and take plenty of water.
Admission and opening hours: Open daily.
44. Palazzo Pitti (Florence)
An enormous Renaissance palace on the south bank of the river Arno. It was once the residence of the Medici family and later of the Habsburg-Lorraine grand dukes. Today it houses several museums and galleries, including the Palatine Gallery with works by Raphael and Titian, and the Gallery of Modern Art.
Practical tips: Tickets can be bought separately for the individual galleries or as a combined ticket with the adjoining Boboli Gardens.
Admission and opening hours: Open Tuesday to Sunday.
45. The Boboli Gardens (Florence)
The historic gardens behind the Pitti Palace are one of the first and most important examples of the Italian garden. They’re effectively an open-air museum with ancient and Renaissance statues, fountains and grottoes.
Practical tips: The gardens are extensive and on hilly ground. From the highest point there’s a beautiful view of Florence.
Admission and opening hours: Open daily.
46. Basilica di Sant’Antonio (Padua)
A massive and architecturally varied basilica that is one of the largest pilgrimage sites in Italy. It’s dedicated to St Anthony of Padua, whose tomb and relics are here. The building combines Romanesque, Gothic and Byzantine elements.
Practical tips: There’s a devout atmosphere inside, so please be quiet and respectful. Photography is restricted.
Admission and opening hours: Entry is free. Open daily.
47. Orvieto Cathedral
One of the greatest works of Italian Gothic architecture. Its facade is a dazzling mosaic of gold, bas-reliefs and statues. It was built to commemorate the Corporal of Bolsena, the miracle that confirmed the dogma of transubstantiation.
Practical tips: Take the time to study the facade in detail. Inside, don’t miss the San Brizio Chapel with its amazing frescoes by Luca Signorelli depicting the apocalypse.
Admission and opening hours: Open daily. Admission is charged.
48. Nuraghi di Barumini (Sardinia)
Su Nuraxi di Barumini is the best known and most complex example of the “nuraghe” – the prehistoric megalithic structures typical of Sardinia. These stone towers, built by the Nuragic civilisation in the Bronze Age, probably served as fortresses, dwellings or sanctuaries.
Practical tips: The central tower can only be visited with a guide. Wear sturdy shoes, because the ground is uneven and the steps are steep.
Admission and opening hours: Open daily. Guided tours run at regular intervals.
49. The Royal Palace of Turin
The former residence of the House of Savoy, which ruled Italy until 1946. This grand palace is the centre of the Royal Museums complex in Turin, which also includes the Royal Armoury, the Savoy Gallery and the Archaeological Museum.
Practical tips: Buy the single ticket to the Royal Museums (Polo Reale), which gives you access to every part of the complex.
Admission and opening hours: Open Tuesday to Sunday.
50. Mole Antonelliana (Turin)
A tall tower-like building that is the landmark and symbol of Turin. It was originally designed as a synagogue, but today it houses the excellent National Cinema Museum. A panoramic lift takes you up to a viewing platform with an amazing view of the city and the Alps.
Practical tips: The cinema museum is very interactive and entertaining. Queues can build up for the lift, especially at weekends.
Admission and opening hours: Open daily except Tuesday.
51. The Egyptian Museum (Turin)
The oldest museum in the world devoted exclusively to Egyptian civilisation and, after the museum in Cairo, the second most important. Its collections contain thousands of artefacts, including statues, sarcophagi, mummies and papyri documenting 4,000 years of ancient Egyptian history.
Practical tips: The museum is extensive and arranged in a modern way. Allow at least 3 hours for your visit.
Admission and opening hours: Open daily, with shorter opening hours on Mondays.
52. Villa Romana del Casale (Sicily)
A late Roman villa near the town of Piazza Armerina, famous for its extraordinary collection of floor mosaics. These incredibly well-preserved, detailed mosaics cover an area of 3,500 m² and depict scenes from mythology, hunting and everyday life, including the famous “bikini girls”.
Practical tips: Walkways have been built above the mosaics, which makes viewing them comfortable. The site is covered, so it offers shelter from both sun and rain.
Admission and opening hours: Open daily.
53. The island of Elba
The largest island of the Tuscan Archipelago, famous as the place of Napoleon Bonaparte’s first exile. Besides the historic sites connected with Napoleon, Elba offers beautiful beaches, a clean sea and a mountainous interior ideal for hiking.
Practical tips: You can reach the island by ferry from Piombino. Explore the different parts of the island – each has a different character. Visit Napoleon’s residences, Villa dei Mulini and Villa San Martino.
Admission and opening hours: The island is freely accessible. Entry to Napoleon’s villas is charged.
54. Sacra di San Michele (Piedmont)
An ancient abbey built on the summit of Mount Pirchiriano in Piedmont. This mystical, imposing place, said to have inspired Umberto Eco to write The Name of the Rose, offers stunning views over the Susa valley. The steep “Stairway of the Dead” leads to the main entrance.
Practical tips: Getting to the abbey requires a hike or a drive along a winding road. Wear comfortable shoes.
Admission and opening hours: Open daily, but the opening hours can vary and there’s usually a break at midday.
55. The Saturnia hot springs (Tuscany)
This natural gem in the heart of Tuscany is one of the most photogenic places in Italy. The Cascate del Mulino cascades are formed by sulphurous thermal water at 37.5 °C, which over the centuries has carved small natural pools into the limestone. Bathing in the open air in these turquoise pools with a view of the Tuscan countryside is an unforgettable, relaxing experience.
Practical tips: The natural cascades are freely accessible all year round, 24 hours a day.[9] There’s a paid car park nearby. It’s a good idea to bring older swimwear because of the sulphur in the water.
Admission and opening hours: Freely accessible without restrictions. There’s also the luxury Terme di Saturnia spa complex, where entry is charged.
56. Ravenna and its mosaics (Emilia-Romagna)
Ravenna, once the capital of the Western Roman Empire and later the centre of Byzantine power in Italy, is a real treasury of early Christian art. The city is famous all over the world for its breathtaking 5th- and 6th-century mosaics, which decorate the walls and ceilings of eight monuments on the UNESCO list. The glowing gold and coloured pieces of glass in the Basilica of San Vitale, the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia or the Basilica of Sant’Apollinare Nuovo tell biblical stories with incredible vividness and unmatched artistic skill.
Practical tips: To visit most of the mosaic monuments, it’s best to buy a combined ticket. The city is compact and easy to explore on foot.
Admission and opening hours: Most of the monuments have standard opening hours, but it’s worth checking them in advance. A combined ticket makes access easier.
57. Syracuse and the island of Ortigia (Sicily)
In antiquity Syracuse was one of the most powerful and important cities of the Greek world. Today the city is divided into two main parts: the modern town with the Neapolis archaeological park, home to the enormous Greek theatre and the cave known as the Ear of Dionysius, and the charming historic centre on the island of Ortigia. Ortigia is a labyrinth of narrow lanes, Baroque squares and seafront promenades where thousands of years of history mingle at every step.
Practical tips: Park your car before the bridges leading to Ortigia and explore the island on foot. Don’t forget to visit the local market, where you’ll soak up the real Sicilian atmosphere.
Admission and opening hours: Entry to the archaeological park is charged. The island of Ortigia is freely accessible.
58. Lago di Braies (Dolomites, South Tyrol)
Lake Braies is considered the pearl of the Dolomites and one of the most beautiful lakes in the Alps. Its emerald-green to turquoise water, reflecting the majestic Seekofel peak, creates a fairy-tale scene. The place is also known for the traditional wooden boats you can hire.
Practical tips: In the main summer season (usually from July to September) daytime access to the lake is regulated and parking has to be booked online. For a calmer experience, come early in the morning or outside the main season.
Admission and opening hours: The lake is freely accessible. Boat hire and parking are charged.
59. Reggia di Venaria Reale (Piedmont)
This monumental Baroque palace near Turin is often called “the Versailles of Piedmont” and is on the UNESCO list. Originally a hunting lodge of the House of Savoy, it was rebuilt into a magnificent residence. Its most stunning parts are the Great Gallery (Galleria Grande) and the Chapel of St Hubert by the architect Filippo Juvarra, together with the extensive, restored gardens.
Practical tips: Allow plenty of time to see the whole complex including the gardens. The palace also hosts important art exhibitions.
Admission and opening hours: Open daily except Monday (unless it’s a public holiday). It’s worth checking the current opening hours and the exhibitions on show.
60. The Scrovegni Chapel (Padua)
This unassuming chapel hides one of the greatest treasures of Western art: a complete cycle of frescoes by Giotto, painted at the beginning of the 14th century. The frescoes depict the life of the Virgin Mary and Jesus Christ and are considered a groundbreaking work that heralded the Renaissance.
Practical tips: Entry is strictly regulated to protect the frescoes. The visit is time-limited (about 15 minutes in the chapel) and booking well in advance is absolutely essential.
Admission and opening hours: Open daily. Booking is compulsory.
Practical tips for travelling around Italy:
- The currency is the euro.
- Sockets are compatible with ours so you won’t need an adapter.
- Payment cards are accepted in most places. Most Czech banks, however, give you an unfavourable exchange rate when you pay by card. If you want to save that money, get a Revolut card for your trips abroad.
- Tipping – if it’s already included, you’ll find it stated on the restaurant menu, most often as benandata, coperto or couvert. It’s customary to round up the bill.
- Don’t forget to arrange travel insurance before you go – for our readers we have a 50% discount on travel insurance with AXA.
More tips for your travels:
We have prepared for you this comprehensive list of links, discounts, and resources for travel planning in one place. Bookmark this page and whenever you plan a vacation in the future, just open it and save yourself a lot of time.
1) Where to book accommodation?
- We prefer to find an accommodation using Booking.com.
- It's also worth it to compare with AirBnb.
- Read also our guide - How to search for the best accommodation.
2) How to find cheap flights?
- We recommend searching for flights on Skyscanner.
- Read also our complete guide - How to find cheap flights.
3) How to rent a car?
- We recommend a comparison portal RentalCars.com to compare the best offers of all available rental companies.
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