Pisa Attractions

Pisa, City in Italy

Pisa is a city in Tuscany, Central Italy, on the right bank of the mouth of the River Arno on the Tyrrhenian Sea. It is the capital city of the Province of Pisa

Pisa, chief town of its province, lies on the Arno in the northern coastal region of Tuscany. In Roman times it was a considerable port, but as a result of the silting-up of the mouth of the Arno it now lies fully 10km/6mi inland.

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History
In all probability Pisa was originally a Greek foundation of the seventh or sixth century B.C. The town, which then lay on the coast, was equipped by the Romans with a harbor which became of great military and commercial importance. In medieval times Pisa was able to maintain its importance as a port in spite of Saracen raids; and the defeat of the Saracens by Pisan and Norman forces at Messina and Palermo in 1063 marked the beginning of Pisa's rise to become mistress of the western Mediterranean. The cathedral was built in thanksgiving for these brilliant victories. The Pisans took part in the first Crusade with a large fleet and brought back huge quantities of booty. Commerce and industry flourished, and architects, sculptors and painters created works famed throughout Europe.
Towards the end of the 11th century Pisa became the first town in central and southern Italy to be governed by the townspeople themselves, political authority being exercised by a Council of Twelve. Pisa took the Ghibelline (Imperial) side in the conflict between the Pope and the Holy Roman Emperor Frederick Barbarossa with the grant of extensive lands in the coastal area between the present-day towns of Portovénere and Civitavecchia. But Pisa had constantly to be prepared to defend itself against attack by its rivals - the land powers Lucca and Florence, the maritime republics of Amalfi and Genoa.
At the peak of its power the Republic of Pisa was mistress of the Near East, Greece, North Africa, Sicily, Sardinia and the Balearics; but on August sixth 1284 it suffered an annihilating defeat at the hands of the Genoese in the naval Battle of Meloria and thereafter ceased to exist as a Great Power. Democratic rule alternated with dictatorship; the city was compelled to give up its possessions and its profitable trading activities; for a time it was held by the Visconti family of Milan, and in 1406 was captured by Florence. The Médici who now ruled Pisa took a keen interest in the town, promoting great engineering projects like the regulation of the rivers Arno and Serchio and the construction of bridges and canals. The destinies of Pisa were now increasingly bound up with those of Florence. During the Second World War Pisa suffered considerable damage in Allied air raids, now long since made good.
Pisa is the birthplace of the mathematical and scientific genius Galileo Galilei (1564-1642).

 

Leaning Tower of Pisa

The Leaning Tower of Pisa is one of the most famous structures in the world – not because of its gently rising series of arches, but because of its legendary tilt.

Constructed as the bell tower to accompany the cathedral, the tower began to shift on its foundations in 1178, before the architect, Bonanno Pisano, had completed the first three tiers.

Fortunately, the lean has now been halted, due to tricks with cables and counter-subsidence. The tower now leans on an angle of 4.1 meters (13 feet), rather than the previous 5 meters (16 feet).

It’s well worth paying the extra to climb the spiral stairs leading to the top of the Leaning Tower for views across Pisa. Make sure you book ahead as reservations are compulsory and numbers are limited.

 

Pisa Duomo

Pisa’s marvelously striped marble cathedral is a textbook example of Pisan Romanesque architecture, dating back to 1064.
Roughly cross-shaped, the duomo features a galleried exterior topped with a small dome and completed with a rounded apse.
Inside, the building’s five naves create a sea of pillars rising to a golden coffered ceiling.
Much medieval detail was lost during a disastrous fire in 1595, but the mosaic by Cimabue surrounding the altar survived intact. Another highlight is the ornately carved pulpit by Giovanni Pisano.

Piazza dei Miracoli

Some of the finest gems of Western architecture are clustered on Pisa’s Piazza dei Miracoli, known locally as Piazza del Duomo.
Your first sight of the Leaning Tower of Pisa, the Duomo and the Baptistery is literally breathtaking, their white marble shining in the sunshine on a bed of emerald green lawn against a summer’s blue sky.
Apart from the glorious architecture – white, red and green marble, Romanesque curves, Tuscan arches and Gothic points – it’s the almost surreal spatial quality of the buildings that creates a sensation.
Come here during the day to see the buildings’ white marble shine in the sunlight, and return again at night when visitors are fewer and the buildings are beautifully floodlit.

Chiesa di Santa Maria della Spina

The exquisite church of Santa Maria della Spina is one of the prettiest fairy-tale churches in the world.
Designed in classic Pisan Gothic style, the tiny striped marble church was built to house a thorn from the Crown of Thorns.
The building dates back to 1230, with Gothic enlargements in the 1350s. Originally, the building sat much closer to the river, and it was moved to its present site on the riverside walkway in 1871.
The interior is less ornate than the fanciful exterior, with many statues and details being lost during the relocation. However, a magnificent Madonna and Child remains, sculpted by Andrea and Nino Pisano in the mid-14th century.

Knights' Square (Piazza dei Cavalieri)

In Roman and medieval days, the Knights’ Square was Pisa’s central city square, a place for meetings and discussion.
The piazza was lavishly remodeled by the famous architect Vasari in the 16th century, creating a landmark example of spacious Renaissance town planning.
The grand space is gracefully lined with palatial palazzos and the church of the Knights of Santo Stefano dei Cavalieri. The church was also designed by Vasari, and named for the religious and military order founded by Cosimo de’ Medici.
A statue of Cosimo stands in front of the Palazzo dei Cavalieri, which features detailed monochromatic etchings on its facade known

 

Florence Attractions, Italy

Top 10 Things to Do in Florence

1. Tour the Uffizi Gallery
   I know this won’t be popular with the art haters out there, but the Uffizi Gallery is definitely my pick for the #1 thing to do in Florence. It’s easily the best collection of Italian paintings on earth, and I think it’s well worth the time if for no other reason than you get to hang out for awhile in a room that’s got enormous Botticelli paintings all over the walls (it’s a surreal experience, like you’re in the paintings). But because it’s just about everyone’s top recommendation for Florence, the Uffizi is also plagued by long lines to get in. You can avoid the worst of the lines by booking your ticket in advance, or by trying to get last-minute tickets at this still-relatively-unknown ticket window. If your time in Florence is short and you can’t get advance tickets, I’m not sure spending 5+ hours in line for the Uffizi is worth it – but this is one art museum that’s worth planning ahead for.
   
2. Eat Two Scoops of Gelato Every Day
   This is actually a rule a friend of mine who lives in Italy established for her guests (and as far as I’m concerned it’s applicable throughout the country), but in Florence – where the gelato is known for being especially fantastic – it’s so important I’m putting it on my to-do list. There are gelato shops all over the city (including my favorite Florence gelateria), but before you dive in you’ll want to read more about how to make sure you’re getting good gelato so you don’t end up disappointed. You can also study these gelato flavors and learn how to order gelato in Italy before your trip, but just take care not to drool on your computer as you read. And if you’re one of those people who actually wants to eat a well-balanced diet even on vacation, then in addition to your gelato desserts be sure to try some of the local Tuscan specialties when you’re dining out – like the famous (and famously gigantic) bistecca Fiorentina!
   
3. Do Some People-Watching in the Piazza della Signoria
   There are a couple of great places to people-watch in Florence, but for my money the best one is the Piazza della Signoria – if for no other reason than the artwork surrounding the square is always fabulous-looking, even if the people in the square aren’t! This gorgeous open piazza is the front “yard” of what was once the ruling Medici family’s home – the Palazzo Vecchio, which has a “David” replica standing at its entrance. The Loggia to the right of the Palazzo Vecchio is a fantastic outdoor sculpture gallery, and though the restaurants lining the square are mostly overpriced you should feel free to bring your gelato cone in from elsewhere to enjoy the view while you eat. If you want to splurge on a sweet treat with a view of the Piazza della Signoria, I recommend getting a cioccolata calda at Rivoire (and sit outside if you can get a table). For a bit of the macabre, find the circular marble plaque toward the middle of the piazza that marks the spot where the monk Savonarola (the “bonfire of the vanities” guy) was burnt at the stake in 1498.
   
4. See the Sights in Duomo Square
   Another excellent spot for people-watching is the nearby piazza in front of the Florence Duomo, although this one is almost always more crowded (or it just always feels more crowded because it’s not as open). The two big sights here are the Duomo (obviously) and the Baptistery, but the main attraction of the Baptistery is actually on the outside. The set of doors that faces the front of the Duomo was designed by Ghiberti in the early 1400s, and a young Michelangelo thought they were so beautiful that they could be the Gates of Paradise. The original panels are now kept in the Duomo Museum, but the replicas on the Baptistery are still gorgeous and still attract quite a crowd. The Duomo’s relatively barren interior can be a bit of a disappointment after seeing its festive exterior, but most of the art was removed to the Duomo Museum after the 1966 flood. Still, entry into the Duomo is free, so if you need a break from the weather or crowds you can wander around inside. Note that especially in the high season the Piazza del Duomo can be a preferred hang-out for both hawkers of useless crap and pickpockets, so keep an eye out.
   
5. Climb Either the Duomo’s Dome or Giotto’s Tower
   Right in Duomo Square you can take advantage of the height of two of its structures to get great views of the historic city center. The dome of the Duomo, designed by Brunelleschi, not only offers a lovely view but also a quick lesson in architecture as you climb the slanty staircase between the two layered domes (the only way to create a dome of that size at the time) – while the top of the bell tower, designed by Giotto, gives you city views that include a close-up of the dome as well. You may want to climb both, but if you’re on a budget do note that both charge a fee. Anyone interested in design and architecture will want to pick the dome for the history, and if you get a chance to read “Brunelleschi’s Dome” before your trip it’ll make the climb even more meaningful. Also, these climbs are enough to give anyone both vertigo and claustrophobia, whether you’ve had them before or not, so proceed with caution!
   
6. Watch the Arno Pass Under the Ponte Vecchio
   Although the Ponte Vecchio bridge itself is often wall-to-wall people and full of expensive gold jewelry shops (the likes of which I’ll probably never go into), there’s nothing quite like ending a day in Florence perched in the center of the bridge overlooking the river as the sun goes down. Yes, you may well be shoulder to shoulder with lots of other tourists (not to mention teenage Italian lovebirds who are far more interested in making out than the view), but I can still get lost in the movement of the river. I think about how many thousands of people have stood where I’m standing over the past 600+ years. I think about how the Medicis used to walk along the corridor over the bridge from their palace to their offices so as not to mix with (or smell) the commoners. And I think about how lucky I am to have spent the day in such a glorious city. So whatever you think about as you gaze at the Arno from the Ponte Vecchio, I hope you leave with a smile on your face like I always do.
   
7. Pay Your Respects at Florence’s Famous Graves
   Florence is well-known as the birthplace of the Renaissance – not to mention many famous people. Many of its most famous sons were laid to rest in the city, and many of the “celebrity” tombs in Florence can be found in one church – Santa Croce. Among the names you’ll recognize on the elaborate sarcophagi are Galileo, Machiavelli, Rossini, Ghiberti, and Michelangelo himself. There’s also an honorary tomb for Dante, although he’s actually buried in Ravenna. Santa Croce is a pretty open church with a distinctive painted wooden ceiling and featuring frescoes by Giotto, but the main attraction is definitely the famous graves. Another spot to go for famous graves is the Medici Chapel, adjacent to the San Lorenzo Church. There, you’ll find two tombs adorned with sculptures by Michelangelo and containing members of the illustrious Medici family. While you may not know their names as well as you know the names of the people in Santa Croce, without the Medici not only would Florence not be Florence, you might not even know the names of artists like Michelangelo, whose art the Medici sponsored. After visiting the Medici tombs, it’s worth the side trip to the Laurentian Library (with its grand and beautiful staircase designed by Michelangelo) above the nearby cloisters in the same church complex.
   
8. Check Out the Sculpture at the Bargello
   Yes, there’s a lot of art in Florence. And at least two of the city’s most popular galleries routinely have hours-long lines to get in. But luckily, at this point anyway, the Bargello Museum isn’t one of those, despite being to sculpture what the Uffizi is to painting. It’s housed in a former jail, and it contains some incredible early Michelangelo works you may never have heard of, including a fantastic “Bacchus,” and Donatello’s beautiful (and recently restored) bronze “David,” which Michelangelo saw often during his childhood. Also on display are the two entries in the competition which was held to determine who would design the doors for the Baptistery – you can decide for yourself if the right guy won. Although the pieces in the Bargello collection are world-class, the museum tends to be overlooked by most tourists, so it’s a great option for art lovers who are tired of the crowds.
   
9. Get the Perfect Postcard View from Piazzale Michelangelo
   You know that amazing city view you see in all the best postcards of every city you visit around the world? The one that’s basically only possible to re-create if you hire a helicopter or know the person who lives in that incredible penthouse with the view? Well, in Florence, anyone can get that perfect cityscape shot – as long as they know where to go. And you do – head straight for the Piazzale Michelangelo, which overlooks the city from its perch in the hills above the Oltrarno. It’s either a good hike up to the top or a bus route through Florence’s less-scenic neighborhoods to get there, and provided the weather is being kind you’ll be rewarded with the best view of the city you can possibly imagine. The “David” replica at the center of the square lets you add to your fake-”David” count in the city, too. As an added bonus, for those who get to the Piazzale via their own foot power, you’ll get the chance to wander through the Oltrarno (which is the neighborhood on the other side of the Arno river – the name means “beyond the Arno”), which is often overlooked by tourists who cluster around the Duomo. Not up for the hike? Take the bus up the hill and walk back down.
   
10. Take a Stroll through the Leather Markets
    Even if you’re not a shopper, taking a stroll through Florence’s famous leather markets is something that’s worth a few minutes of your time. There are a couple outdoor leather markets in Florence, and they’re within walking distance of one another so you can easily visit both – but I like the one next to San Lorenzo Church because after a stroll through the gauntlet of leather stalls outside you can take a turn through the fabulous Mercato Centrale as well. This indoor market, in a building that dates from the late 19th century, is full of countless food vendors selling everything from the makings of the best picnic lunch you’ll ever have to the ingredients that will populate the menus in restaurants all over the city, as well as several places you can order a ready-made meal. And if you need a food souvenir to bring home (olive oil, dried pasta, or shrink-wrapped cheese, perhaps?) this is the place to go. Just be aware that pickpockets target tourists in the outdoor leather market especially, taking advantage of the close quarters and all the ooh-ing and ahh-ing people are doing over the leather goodies, so make sure your valuables aren’t on display.

Forence Attractions, Italy

Mercato Nuovo

The Mercato Nuovo (new market) is a covered market located in the historic center of Florence. It is so called to distinguish it from the Mercato Vecchio (old market) located in the area of today’s Piazza della Repubblica. Initially, it was intended for the sale of silk and luxury goods and then for the famous straw hats, but today mainly leather goods and souvenirs are sold. Its biggest attraction is the Fontana del Porcellino (Piglet Fountain). Rubbing the animal’s nose would ensure a visitor to return to Florence. The original from the 16th century can be found at Palazzo Pitti.

Palazzo Pitti

The Palazzo Pitti is a large 15th century palace situated on the quieter south bank of the Arno river The palace was long the residence of Florence’s rulers until 1919, when it was handed over to the Italian state, which transformed the palace into a museum complex. In spite of its metamorphosis from royal residence to a state-owned public building, the palazzo, sitting on its elevated site overlooking Florence, still retains the air and atmosphere of a private collection in a grand house.

 

Piazzale Michelangelo

The Piazzale Michelangelo is a large, partly pedestrianized square located across the Arno River from the center of Florence. From the square visitors have a magnificent view over the city. The spacious square was laid out in 1860 by Giuseppe Poggi, a local architect who is also known for his creation of boulevards around the center of Florence.

 

Boboli Gardens

Locaed behind the Palazzo Pitti, the Boboli Gardens were created by the Medici family in the 16th century. The beautiful and varied Italianesque garden is home to a large number of statues and fountains. The gardens have passed through several stages of enlargement and restructuring work. They were enlarged in the 17th century to their present extent and have come to form an outdoor museum of garden sculpture that includes Roman antiquities as well as later works.

 

Basilica di San Lorenzo

Situated at the center of the city’s main market district, the Basilica di San Lorenzo is one of the oldest churches of Florence and was the burial place of all the principal members of the Medici family. The church, originally designed by Filippo Brunelleschi in the 15th century, is an early example of ecclesiastical Renaissance architecture. The façade of this church was never completed, giving it a striking, rustic appearance. Inside the church is pure Renaissance neo-classical splendor.

 

Palazzo Vecchio

One of Florence’s most significant buildings is the Palazzo Vecchio, a grand palace overlooking the Piazza della Signoria. Built in the 12th century, the Palazzo Vecchio housed the powerful Medici family as well as Florence’s supreme governing body for six centuries. Since 1872, it has served in part as a museum and as the city town hall. This impressive palace packs a wealth of artifacts and art works that include beautiful frescoes, sculptures, painted ceilings, intricate carvings and tapestries that all depict historic and Biblical events.

 

Piazza della Signoria

Serving over the centuries as an important center for politics and the site of several historic episodes, the Piazza della Signoria is a beautiful square centered among some of the top attractions in Florence. It is here that tourists can visit remarkable places like the Palazzo Vecchio, the Uffizi Museum, the Palazzo Uguccioni, the Loggia de Lanzi and the nearby Ponte Vecchio bridge. This town square is also a treasure trove of notable sculptures such as Michelangelo’s Statue of David, the Fountain of Neptune, Hercules and Cacus as well as Perseus with the Head of Medusa.

Uffizi Gallery

Regarded today as one of the world’s greatest art museums, the Uffizi Gallery is located off the Piazza della Signoria. This former palace was first built in 1560 to house the offices of the city magistrates. After the ruling dynasty of the Medici family relinquished its power, the palace evolved into an art gallery to showcase its stunning collection of Renaissance art treasures. Opened to the public since 1765, the museum offers thousands of art works by masters like Michelangelo, Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci and Titian.

 

Ponte Vecchio

Spanning the Arno River, the Ponte Vecchio is one of Florence’s oldest and most photographed bridges. Noted for its three segmented arches, the bridge was first built by the Etruscans and later rebuilt in the 14th century. The bridge’s most striking feature is the line of high-end jewelry shops flanking along each of its edges. Many visitors come here to shop and take photographs. Night time presents stunning views when the lighting from the bridge is reflected upon the water.

Santa Maria del Fiore

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Dominating the panoramic view of Florence is the Santa Maria del Fiore, the domed cathedral that is often called the Duomo. Known today as the world’s largest masonry dome, this majestic cathedral features 600 years worth of stunning architecture and art works. From its beautiful Gothic facade of red, green and white marble to its elaborate interior of stained-glass windows, mosaics, frescoes and bronze statues, the Duomo complex also includes the impressive structures of the Baptistery and Giotto’s bell tower. A climb to the top will reward tourists with incredible views of Florence and outlying valley.

Rome Attractions

Once upon a time I asked readers which city in Italy they’d spend a week in, if they had to choose only one. Overwhelmingly, you chose Rome – so I figured it’s about time I got around to posting my list of the Top 10 Things to Do in Rome.
Before I get to the list, however, a note about why I put off doing this list for so long. I compiled similar lists for a few other cities in Italy with relative ease (only one of them gave me fits), but every time I thought about trying to squish The Eternal City into 10 must-do things, I got gunshy. I mean, really – the title of “Eternal City” has always made me think “you’d need an eternity to see everything here.”
And while that remains true to an extent, it’s also true that there are some big-time sights that everyone expects to check off their lists when they visit Rome. Some of them live up to their reputation, while others (in my opinion) can wait for future visits. Certainly, the more people you ask what you should see in Rome, the more varied your to-do list is going to be – so if my suggestions don’t match everyone else’s, don’t be surprised.

Top 10 Things to Do in Rome

1. Hang Out in the Pantheon
   The Pantheon in Rome is, hands down, my favorite building in the city. In a city that is simply replete with important historic buildings and monuments, the Pantheon still manages to stand out. Because while the Forum requires a spectacular imagination (or a spectacular guide, or both) and even the Colosseum is a shell of its former self, the Pantheon looks today – inside and out – much the way it has for nearly 2,000 years. Those marble floors you’re walking on? Yeah, people have been walking on them for two thousand years. The building’s been in constant use for two thousand years. Sun (or rain, depending on when you visit) has been streaming through the oculus for… Well, you get my point. If book history leaves you yawning, give real-life history a try. This is the stuff that gives me chills. And incidentally, another reason I suggest the Pantheon before the Forum and Colosseum is so you can see what a Roman building looked like back in the day – which can give you a better feel for what the ruins you’ll check out in #2 and #3 once looked like.


2. Walk Through History in the Roman Forum
   As mentioned above, being in truly historic spaces really gets my blood going, so an easy #2 on my list here is to walk on the cobbled streets of the Roman Forum. If I’m honest, even though I love thinking about all the feet that have walked on those cobblestones (my inner dialogue tends to be, “did Caesar walk on this one? how about this one?“), the Forum still pales in comparison to the Pantheon for me. The ruins are so ruined in most cases that it’s impossible to really see the grandeur of what used to be. Which is why I advise a stop at the Pantheon first, so you have a better idea of what all of these piles of stones used to look like. And be sure to pick up a copy of “Rome: Past & Present,” with its plastic overlays of what the Forum looked like in ancient times, before you go in. A good tour guide helps immensely, too. But even though I prefer the Pantheon, just knowing that the streets of the small area of the Forum were the epicenter of the massive Roman Empire is enough to make me say, “Wow.” (And for a commanding view over the whole Forum, take the Rome from the Sky elevator to the top of the Vittorio Emanuele II Monument next door!)


3. Circle the Colosseum, Inside & Out
   I’ll confess that on my first draft of this list, I actually left Rome’s most famous monument, the Colosseum, off. I know, I know. But hear me out – back when I first visited, the lines were atrocious, the gauntlet of sweaty men dressed in plastic gladiator attire pressuring you to pay for a photo with them was annoying, and the interior of the Colosseum itself was (I thought) kind of disappointing after all the build-up. But the truth is that it’s the largest remaining Roman-era amphitheatre anywhere, and although the inside was used as something of a rock quarry for later building projects (if you think it looks torn apart inside, that’s because it was), it’s still a fascinating look back at one very important (though gruesome) aspect of life in the ancient capital. You’ll be well-served by a good guide (either a book, an audio-guide, or a person) to explain things, and you can avoid the worst of the ticket lines by buying a combo ticket – good for the Forum and the Palatine Hill as well – at one of those other two locations.


4. Get a Tour of Vatican City
   While Vatican City is technically its own independent city-state, no one visits Vatican City on its own without visiting Rome as well. For most travelers, touring the Vatican is one day out of a trip to Rome, and that’s exactly what I suggest when people ask me how much time they should spend in Vatican City – but in addition to allotting a day for the Vatican, I also highly recommend signing on to a good guided tour of the Vatican. This will not only help you navigate the maze of the Vatican Museums (and make sure you don’t miss any of the truly important stuff), a good guide will also help you understand the context of what you’re seeing as well. And whether or not you’re Catholic, a visit to St. Peter’s Basilica is made infinitely more interesting when you know what it is you’re looking at. (Oh, and if you want to see something that most tourists don’t even know about, then check out the secret Vatican Scavi tour!)


5. Stroll the Trastevere Streets
   I’m one of the people for whom Rome remains more overwhelming than enticing, so although there are things about the city that I genuinely love I also need a break from the cityness of it from time to time. My favorite relatively peaceful haven is the Trastevere neighborhood during the day, and I think it’s an area everyone should visit even if they’re not in need of a retreat. The cobbled streets are mostly car-free, the restaurants and cafes serve up some of the cheapest eats you’ll find in Rome (and it’s good, too), the shops aren’t hawking the usual tourist crap, and the piazza in front of the Santa Maria in Trastevere church (which is beautiful) is as charming and delightful as you’d find in any Tuscan hill town. After nightfall, the Trastevere becomes the place to be for young locals and travelers alike, so it loses its “retreat” quality after dark, but it then becomes interesting for many other reasons.


6. Check Out the Cappuchin Crypt
   I’ll admit that a visit to the Cappuchin Crypt, one of my favorite sights in Rome, isn’t going to be up everyone’s alley. It’s not big, so it’s a quick visit, but seeing several small chapels decorated (if one can use so mundane a word for this) with the bones of more than 4,000 Cappuchin monks definitely falls into the “creepy” category for some people. While it used to also fall into the off-the-beaten-path-sights list as well, I think the Cappuchin Crypt has been written about so much now that it’s far more common a stop than it once was. So if it doesn’t sound like it’d be your cup of tea, then you have my permission to amend my #5 suggestion slightly to read “check out something weird in Rome.” Everyone visits the Forum, but not everyone visits the Museum of Purgatory or the Pasta Museum. I’m just saying, make your visit stand out a little bit with something a little quirky on your itinerary. I’ve listed a bunch of weird sights in Rome, but there are more. Many more.


7. Eat Something Typically Roman
   This one’s a bit vague, so bear with me for a second. My first inclination was to tell you to head for the old Jewish ghetto and order yourself a plate of Jewish-style carciofi, or artichokes, which are deep-fried. But as Italian cooking is all about seasonal ingredients, you can only get carciofi in the spring when they’re fresh. That doesn’t mean, however, that there isn’t something wonderful and very Roman for you to enjoy, no matter when you’re there. One of the most popular cheeses in Roman cooking is pecorino romano (makes sense, eh?), and one of the favorite dishes of my many Rome-loving friends is cacio e pepe – a simple pasta dish with lots of pecorino romano and black pepper. Other common Roman pasta dishes, which you may be familiar with from restaurants outside Italy but should try in the place where they come from, are bucatini all’amatriciana (a tomato sauce cooked with onion and a fatty pork called guanciale) and spaghetti alla carbonara (the sauce is made from egg yolks, pecorino romano, and pancetta). In short, get yourself a copy of “The Hungry Traveler” before your trip so you know what’s local, and sample liberally.


8. Do Some People-Watching at the Trevi Fountain
   I admit that the Trevi Fountain is seriously touristy, and can even be kind of a pain in the you-know-what to visit in the height of the tourist season because of the crowds. But if your agenda at the fountain isn’t the same as everyone else’s, then it’s not as much of a pain. See, if you’re intent on clawing your way through the hordes to throw your coin in the water (right hand over left shoulder, remember!), then you’ll get annoyed by the sheer number of humans milling about taking pictures and silly videos. But if you can skip the ceremonial coin-toss, then you can just relax, hang out, and watch the throngs of people repeating the same ritual over and over again. It gets pretty amusing, actually – especially when the designated photographer or videographer goofs up and the whole process has to be repeated (there goes another euro!). I do suggest that if you’re taking this opportunity to slurp down some gelato that you bring your cone or cup from elsewhere, as the gelaterie around the fountain are overpriced and not as good as you can find in other nearby neighborhoods.


9. Visit Another Church in Rome
   

If you’re reading the title for #9 with an eyebrow raised, I don’t blame you. I’m cheating a little bit with this one, but I’ve got a good reason for it. Most people I know make plans to see St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican during a visit to Rome, but many people overlook all the other fantastic churches in this church-heavy city. (And I know that technically the Pantheon is still a church, but I don’t count it as such for these purposes.) Rather than just suggest one of them, however, I’m suggesting that you find at least one other church that sounds or looks interesting to you and make it a point to visit it. Many of the churches in Rome house works of art by masters, artists whose names you know, and there’s often no fee to get in, so it’s a bargain traveler’s dream, too. Santa Maria del Popolo has two Caravaggio paintings, Santa Maria della Vittoria has Bernini’s “St. Teresa in Ecstasy,” San Carlo alle Quattro Fontane was designed by Borromini, San Pietro in Vincoli has a Michelangelo statue of Moses, Santa Maria in Trastevere is one of the city’s oldest churches, San Luigi dei Francesi has three Caravaggios, Santa Maria alla Minerva is the only Gothic church in Rome… The list goes on and on. At the very least, poke your head inside any church you see that looks even vaguely interesting – you might end up finding what is, to you, a hidden Roman treasure. And that’s one of the best things that can happen when you travel.

1. Browse the Campo dei Fiori Markets
   Every Italian city has an outdoor market where you can buy foodstuffs, and cities the size of Rome have several. But the one that’s worth your time to visit is the market at Campo dei Fiori. It’s not far from the famous Piazza Navona, and while the name means “field of flowers” it’s been the setting for a daily morning food market since the mid-1800s. Far from being just a tourist attraction, the market at Campo dei Fiori – like nearly all Italian food markets – is where locals come to stock their kitchens. If you’re staying in a hostel in Rome or have an apartment rental with a kitchen, you can peruse the offerings and buy what you need to cook your own meal. If you don’t have a kitchen at your disposal, don’t worry – you can still interact with the vendors by purchasing the makings of a lovely picnic lunch. The market is only in the piazza in the mornings, so you can’t sleep in or you’ll miss it. And don’t forget to read up on all the market rules you’ll need to know before you buy

Italy - Places Of Interest

Best Places to Visit in Italy

Vacation travel in Italy is about as good as it gets and the best places to visit in Italy are spectacular. For the art buff Italy is the home to the major works of Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, Raphael and other notables; for the architecture aficionado there’s the Colosseum in Rome, St. Mark's Square in Venice and the Duomo in Florence; and for those of you who like chic, it's shopping in Milan. Those looking for the countryside will revel in Tuscany, Umbria, Liguria, Campania or Sicily. We cover the all of the below, but recommend you see our detailed travel guides for the cities and regions of Italy for details on what to see and do, as well as some stunning photos of your chosen destination.

Rome (Roma)

• The "Eternal City" is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. Once the capital of western civilization, Rome has an incredible number of world-class attractions, including the Colosseum, the Forums of the Roman Empire, gorgeous piazzas, stunning fountains, and fabulous museums.
  • The saying "All roads lead to Rome" was a truism during the Roman Empire and the city displays its heritage in a spectacular fashion. Rome is a fantastic destination; you will run out of time before you run out of worthwhile things to see and do. Rome is a tourist friendly city - see our recommendations on the best places to visit in Rome and, then, book your vacation.
    • Be sure the see Ancient Rome, including the Colosseum, the Capitoline Hill, the Roman and Imperial Forums, the Pantheon, and Castel Sant'Angelo.
      
    • The city's many piazzas (Piazza Navona, Piazza di Spagna (and the Spanish Steps), Piazza Venezia) and the city's fabulous fountains (the Trevi Fountain, the Fountain of the Four Rivers and others) are popular places for good reason. In addition to the masterpieces they contain, these areas usually are surrounded by good quality restaurants, fine shopping, and gelato shops (gelaterias) are usually easy to find.
      
    • Museums are the city's strong suite, but the museums dedicated to the history of Ancient Rome, as well as to the arts are the most acclaimed.
      
    • You might want to spend an afternoon visiting a few of Rome's many churches, as they often are incredibly beautiful and endowed with stunning art and architecture.

For detailed descriptions and numerous photographs of the Eternal City's many famous attractions, see our expanded travel guide to the Best Places to Visit in Rome.

• Anyone who visits Rome should reserve time to experience the Best Places to Visit in the Vatican, which we cover in our destination guide for the Holy See.
  • Take time to see the Vatican Museums, as they contain unimaginable treasures of civilization, as well those of the Catholic faith. In addition, be sure to see St. Peter's Basilica and its famous Square.
    • Although surrounded by Rome, the Vatican is an independent state that was established under the Lateran Treaties of 1929 (see our section on country facts on the Vatican for more information).

Venice (Venezia)

• Travel in Venice oozes romance and history. Canals, beautiful buildings, world famous landmarks - Venice is an experience unique in the world of travel. Whether taking a gondola down the Grand Canal or gazing at this romantic city's unique setting and architecture, Venice is a vision that you will never forget.
  • Be sure to see the Piazza San Marco, including the Basilica (St. Mark's) and the Doge's Palace (Palazzo Ducale). The Grand Canal is another must, as are its palazzos, bridges and gondolas.
    
  • Venice has delightful art museums such as the Guggenheim, the Galleria dell'Academia and the Museo Corer, incredibly beautiful churches, and if that were not enough, you can take a boat trip the colorful islands of Murano (center for glassmaking) and Burano (center for lace).

• Click this link for detailed descriptions and photographs of the Best Places to Visit in Venice, Italy.

Florence (Firenze)

• From the point of view of art and architecture, Florence rivals Rome. During the renaissance, Florence was the art center of western civilization. A list of past residents of the city represents the "Who's Who" of the Masters, including: Dante, Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Raphael, among others.
  
  • Culture is the strong suite of Florence; perhaps that is why its museums are so popular. However, this is not a one-stop town, as shopping and restaurants in Florence tend to be incredibly attractive to tourists. If you have an interest in cooking, this may be the place to find a cooking school.
    
    • Be sure to see the Duomo (cathedral) and its impressive Piazza and the adjacent Piazza San Giovanni, containing the famous Baptistery, the Museo of the Duomo and the famous Bell Tower by Giotto.
      
    • For art, it is the Uffizi Gallery and the Galleria Dell'Accademia, which contains Michelangelo's world-famous sculpture of David
      
    • While museums abound, you may find yourself lured to the Ponte Vecchio, the famous shop-lined bridge across the Arno River.

Click this link for detailed descriptions and photos of the Best Places to Visit in Florence, Italy.

Tuscany (Toscana)

• Florence is the crown jewel of Tuscany (Toscana), although the region is known for its scenic, rural hill towns, agricultural setting interesting culture and unique architecture.
  
  • While the region's quaint hill towns are popular with all travelers, Tuscany and its people are the main attraction. The countryside is beautiful and varied, including coastal plains and mountains. In turn, the magic of Tuscany's landscapes has been used to establish the setting of many wonderful works of literature.
    
  • Tuscany is a region to be savored and it has become the region of Italy most favored for lengthy vacations by visitors. Its hill towns are known for their scenic settings, interesting history, good food and pleasant quality of life. An increasing number of vacationers who visit Tuscany do so in hopes of savoring the pace and quality of Tuscan life, rather than flitting from one eye-popping attraction to the next, as is common when visiting Rome, Venice, or Tuscany’s own Florence.
    
    • Leading destinations in Tuscany include Florence, Siena, Pisa and these famous hill towns: San Gimignano, Cortona, and the Chianti Hills between Florence and Siena.
  • Click for our detailed guide to the attractions listed above as well as other of the Best Places to Visit in Tuscany

Liguria and the Cinque Terre (Ligurian Coast)
The Ligurian Coast is home to the Italian Riviera, one of the most scenic and appealing sections of the Italian coast, although the Amalfi in Campania is preferred by some. There are three sections to the Ligurian Coast and each has a distinctly different flavor.

• • The Riviera di Ponente is to the west of Genoa and includes the wonderful, popular, and pricey resorts towns as San Remo and Ventimiglia.
    
  • The central section of the Italian Riviera includes and surrounds Genoa, a working port that celebrates its history of navigation and its amazing explorers.
    
  • The Riviera Levante to the east of Genoa includes the five scenic villages nestled within dramatic craggy hillsides and coastline of the Cinque Terre, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This is an area that invites you to hike between the towns and visiting is a treat, although the villages (Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore) can be quite crowded at the peak of summer.
    
    • Further north on the Riviera Levante, you will find the storied resort towns of Portofino, Santa Margherita Ligure and Rapallo that are a popular spots for yachting, luxury vacations and fun in the sun.
      
    • For photographs and more detail on the locations mentioned above, click here for our travel guide to the best places to visit in Liguria and the Cinque Terre.

 Milan (Milano)

• Be sure to see the Cathedral (Duomo) and its museum, as well as La Scala (the world-famous opera house), the impressive Castello Sforzesco and the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II for fine shopping and dramatic architecture.. Budget time to see the city's many interesting art museums, such as the Brera Art Museum and the Museo Poldi Pezzoli.
  
  • If you plan on seeing DaVinci's famous painting The Last Supper at the Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie, you will need to reserve tickets several weeks in advance to guarantee admission.
    
  • Milan is the perfect place to begin on a tour of the majestic and charming Italian Lakes..

• For photos and details on visiting Milano, see our travel guide to the best places to visit in Milan.

Naples and the Amalfi Coast (Campania)

Campania is one of the most popular regions of Italy, and its attractiveness is largely manifested along its spectacular scenic coast. If you like hairpin turns, this is a great coast to drive (unless you are stuck behind a string of tour buses). For mariners there are numerous boating adventures that let you view this elegant coastline from the sea, where its beauty is close to overwhelming, especially near dusk.

• Campania is on most traveler's wish list due to the magnetic attraction of the picturesque towns of the Amalfi Coast (Amalfi, Ravello, Positano) and nearby Sorrento. These colorful resort towns, all with winding, narrow streets, colorful buildings, and fine restaurants crawl from the waters edge up and into the nearby imposing mountains.
• Campania is, also, famous as the site of Pompeii, the Roman town that was encapsulated by lava and gases from an eruption of nearby Mount Vesuvius in 79 A.D.
  • Now excavated and in remarkable condition, Pompeii is one of Italy's most popular attractions.
• If you have want to get away from it all for a relaxing vacation, consider the lure of the scenic Isle of Capri and its luxury resorts and spas. Most visitors are day trippers, but the lure of staying on this enchanting island appeals to many.
• Of course, there are other attractions to fill your time, such as the wonderful museums in Naples (where you will find most of the treasures from Pompeii), the well-preserved Greek Temple at Paestum and the island of Ischia, a lower cost alternative to Capri, although it is somewhat less attractive.

• For details on this area, see our detailed guide to the best places to visit in Campania

Italy's Lake Country (The Italian Lakes)

Along Italy's scenic border with the Swiss Alps are several large glacial lakes nestled into the rolling hills leading to the mountains. The landscape is beautiful, the shoreline serene and the combination creates an area that is pure delight. The Italian Lakes are a place to savor. Driving through the area and slowing for a view will allow you to see a lot, yet miss the best parts of this peaceful, serene and amazing corner of Italy.

• Lake Como is considered by many to have the most beautiful setting of all the lakes, although Lake Maggiori attracts many visitors to its Borromean Islands and the gardens of Isola Bella.
  
• Lake Garda is a recreation center and the most popular of the lakes with locals.
  
• Although most of the shoreline of Lake Lugano is in Switzerland, it can easily be accessed from Italy and benefits from the mix of cultures.

• For photographs and more information on visiting the Italian Lake Country, click for our travel guide to the best places to visit in Italy's Lake Country.  
  Umbria (Regione Umbria)

Often thought of as an alternative to Tuscany, Umbria, which is graced with beautiful countryside and interesting, fortified hill towns, represents some of the best travel in Italy. While each town has its artistic and architectural treasure, the beauty of Umbria is in its simplicity and its residents leisurely approach to life.

• • Popular towns include Perugia, Assisi, Spello and Orvieto. These are smallish hill towns with interesting architecture, mysterious winding streets, amazing town halls, wonderful piazzas and amazing churches. However, the attractions are limited, as are the museums, although we find them delightful to visit.
  • Perhaps it is the pace life, the beauty of the countryside or the marvelous food, but the ambiance of Umbria will grow on you, if you give it the chance.
  • Note that the area can be very crowded during the high travel season and for that reason, we recommend you consider spending a night or two in one of the hill towns to understand the lure of Umbria.

Click here for our detailed guide the best places to visit in Umbria

Sicily (Sicilia)

• Sicily is the largest island in the Mediterranean and was long considered a strategic stepping stone for those interested in invading southern Europe. The earliest colonization of the island was by the Phoenicians, followed by invasions by almost every empire that developed along the shores of the Mediterranean. The Greeks, Romans, Muslims and Normans had the greatest historical influence, although modern Sicily is a mix of numerous cultures.
  • Visit Palermo for its spectacular mix of architectures inspired by the Muslim and Norman conquests.
  • Segesta is another must-see location that is known for its large collection of well-preserved Greek temples.
    • More temples and excavations can be found at Selinunte, although Agrigento (known as the Valley of the Temples) is world-famous for its unusual collection of excavated Greek Temples.
    • Visit the Roman Villa at Casale to view some of the finest mosaics to be found anywhere in the Mediterranean.
• For a little variety plan on touring the active volcano Mount Etna, although this is usually a side-visit from the nearby Taormina, a beautiful town that is one of the most popular resort areas of Sicily.
• If you need more reasons to visit Sicily, then plan to exploring Siracusa, once the largest city in the Greek Empire, to see its impressive collection of Greek ruins.
• Those wanting a water adventure and willing to travel a little further afield might find the scenic Aeolian Isles, just the place for a summer vacation.
• For photos and details on the locations described above, see our travel guide to the best places to visit in Sicily.

Assisi travel guide

Assisi, situated in the Abruzzo region on the offshoots of the Subasio range, is a lovely medieval town with beautiful architecture, which, for the number of its monuments, is considered one of the most artistically rich destinations in Italy. The churches, palaces, castles and ruins are the heritage of an eventful past. The town’s main square has the perfectly preserved Roman Temple of Minerva, however the focus point of Assisi is the St. Francis Basilica. Assisi was St. Francis’ birthplace and masses of peregrines come every year to visit the town in his honour. Assisi has a mystical atmosphere that mixed with the medieval charms of the narrow cobblestone streets make it a fascinating holiday destination. As well as the art monuments and churches, Assisi has a lot of traditional festivals such as the medieval celebrations at the beginning of May. The Easter celebrations are very touching and picturesque, as well as the Ascension and the celebrations in honour of St. Francis, Patron Saint of Italy. The city is surrounded by a beautiful countryside of rolling hills covered with olive groves and vineyards producing very good olive oil and wines. Click on our interactive maps on the side menu and check out the sites that interest