Italy is like a museum of the past that is alive, a country where history is made known at every corner and art, architecture, and culture of the past centuries decorate its most famous historical landmmarks. Starting from the splendor of Rome’s ancient Colosseum and the detailed frescoes of the Sistine Chapel, to the great Renaissance masterpieces of Florence and Venice with its deserted medieval roads, history is literally at your fingertips all over the country.
From north to south, there are many historical sites in Italy, including the cities of the North with their Gothic style cathedrals, the heart of Italy which displays the might and beauty of the Roman Empire, and the south with its ancient ruins and prehistoric cave dwellings.
Archaeological Area & Patriarchal Basilica of Aquileia, Friuli Venezia Giulia
Aquileia in Friuli Venezia Giulia, near the Adriatic coast is considered one of the most significant archaeological sites of Italy, from which one can see the splendor of the Roman empire. What was once a lively Roman city, center of commerce, culture, and military strategy, today is a vast UNESCO World Heritage Site with one of the most extensive archaeological areas in the world documenting the ruins of the Roman roads, forums, houses, and ancient river ports.
The Patriarchal Basilica of Aquileia, with its impressive 4th-century mosaic floor, is without a doubt one of the most famous early Christian mosaics in the world, decorated with very detailed, pictorial, and symbolic biblical themes one of the biggest and finest early Christian mosaics in the world.
By train or bus, the town is easily reachable from Udine or Trieste. In case you want to stay in comfort nearby, Hotel Patriarchi offers nice and cozy rooms just a few minutes walk from the basilica.
Le Strade Nuove & Palazzi dei Rolli, Genoa
Genova’s historic center and the Strade Nuove and Palazzi dei Rolli, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage, are located in the former heart of the city that ruled the seas during the Renaissance era. Constructed between the 16th and 17th centuries, these streets were famous for the palaces of Genoa’s wealthy merchant families. The feature that most distinguishes this place is the Palazzi dei Rolli system where private palaces were randomly drawn to host foreign dignitaries as a means of demonstrating Genoa’s affluence and hospitality. At present, besides Palazzo Rosso and Palazzo Bianco, there are many palaces that have become museums and are filled with baroque art sumptuous interiors.
If you’re looking for a place to stay nearby, NH Collection Genova Marina is a chic hotel with a view of the old port, where you can relax and unwind after the tour of the palaces.
Cinque Terre, Liguria
The Cinque Terre are the five colorful fishing villages—Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore, perched dramatically on the cliffs of the Ligurian coast. One of the most beautiful places in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Cinque Terre is known by tourists for its terraced vineyards, winding hiking trails, and postcard-perfect harbor views. Rainy weather in Cinque Terre gives the dramatic coastline a misty, romantic quality and it’s a perfect time to visit cozy cafes, small museums, and wine bars.
The trains linking the five towns are a convenient way of getting around without walking on the slippery hiking trails, and the La Spezia Centrale train station is the closest major hub. For accommodation, Hotel Porto Roca in Monterosso offers spectacular sea views and comfortable rooms, with easy access to the trails and beaches.
Two Towers, Bologna
Bologna’s Due Torri—Asinelli and Garisenda—are two medieval wonders constructed in the early 12th century. These famous leaning towers were the visual representations of the Borgo’s wealth and power of the noble families. Asinelli, the taller one, is almost 98 meters high and tourists can ascend through its 498 wooden steps to enjoy the view of the city from above. Garisenda, shorter and more tilted, was the one that Dante referred to in the “Divine Comedy”.
On rainy days, the ascent may not be as tempting, but the Piazza di Porta Ravegnana with its many arcades around the towers allows you to admire the towers in all their architectural magnificence without getting wet. Situated not far from Bologna Centrale train station, this is the epicenter of the city with cafes and bookstores on its perimeter. Enjoy the comfort of Hotel Corona d’Oro, a luxurious and charming historic hotel that is only a few steps away from the towers.
Porticoes of Bologna, Bologna
The Porticoes of Bologna are one of the city’s most prominent landmarks. Being over 40 kilometers long, these arcades which are on the UNESCO World Heritage list, have been protecting both the inhabitants of the city for centuries. Using the porticoes, one can move from one landmark of the city to the other without exiting on the street, as the porticoes link the city with a lot of its landmarks, including Piazza Maggiore, the Two Towers and the Sanctuary of Madonna di San Luca.
If you want to have a luxurious holiday in Bologna you better book your stay at Grand Hotel Majestic “già Baglioni, a five-star hotel close to Piazza Maggiore.
Milan Cathedral, Milan
The Duomo di Milano is the biggest church in Italy and is among the most impressive Gothic architecture examples in the world. The work started in 1386 and took almost six centuries to complete, therefore ending up being a 135 spires, 3,400 statues, and intricate stained-glass windows masterpiece. Situated in the city’s center at Piazza del Duomo, the cathedral, with its golden Madonnina statue that metaphorically watches over the city and dominating the skyline. The cathedral, with its shining marble façade is one of the city’s most dramatic structures, as well as one of the most beautiful ones.
Nearby hotel: Rosa Grand Milano – Starhotels Collezione is a wonderful place to stay within walking distance from the Duomo, where you can enjoy classy rooms and vistas of the city.
Sforzesco Castle, Milan
One of the cultural landmarks of Milan is the Castello Sforzesco, a fortress-turned-palace of the 15th century. Built by the Sforza family, the palace today is home to a handful of different museums, which feature works by Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo, including his last piece, Rondanini Pietà. The castle, surrounded by the park Sempione, is a beautiful green area perfect for a visit after seeing some of the museum’s interactive shows.
Nearby hotel: Hotel Milano Castello provides you an elegant and budget-friendly stay within a short walk of both the castle and the Duomo.
The Rialto Bridge, Venice
Strolling on the Rialto Bridge, which was finished in 1591 and is Venice’s engineering masterpiece of the Renaissance, is a great way to observe this remarkable stone arch that still has a great number of people going through it everyday. The bridge also has a few souvenir shops on both sides of it. The best way to get to the bridge is by Vaporetto (water bus) to the Rialto stop and then enjoy the view of the bridge as it passes beneath you.
Nearby hotel: H10 Palazzo Canova is a boutique place right next to the Rialto Bridge with stunning decorations and the view of the canal.
Doge’s Palace, Venice
Doge’s Palace or Palazzo Ducale is an outstanding Gothic architectural decorative piece of art that can be seen by St. Mark’s Square. The amazing building dating back to the 14th century used to be home to the Venetian government residence and is widely known for the decorated front, the extravagant council rooms, and the Bridge of Sighs that connects the palace to the prison. Among the grandeur of the palace, you’ll encounter beautiful frescoes and Tintoretto’s Paradise, which is one of the largest oil paintings in the world.
Nearby Hotel: Hotel Danieli, a Luxury Collection Hotel with the gorgeous Ven etian style and only a few minutes walk from the palace, is the perfect place to stay.
Saint Mark’s Basilica, Venice
St. Mark’s Basilica, nicknamed the “Church of Gold,” dazzles with Byzantine mosaics covering over 8,000 square meters. Built in the 11th century, this cathedral reflects Venice’s maritime power and Eastern influences. Its domes and golden interiors shine especially on cloudy days when interior lighting adds warmth to the mosaics. Located in St. Mark’s Square, it’s a short Vaporetto ride from Santa Lucia train station and offers some of the most amazing panoramic views in Venice.
Nearby hotel: Hotel Cavalletto & Doge Orseolo sits right behind the basilica, offering gondola dock access and Venetian charm.
Palazzo Vecchio, Florence
Palazzo Vecchio, Florence’s 14th-century fortress-palace, has been the symbol of civic power for centuries. Originally the seat of the city’s government, it was transformed into a lavish Renaissance residence by Duke Cosimo I de’ Medici. Today, it’s a museum showcasing frescoes by Vasari and sculptures by Michelangelo and Donatello. Its crenellated tower offers panoramic views over Florence’s terracotta rooftops, particularly beautiful on rainy days when the city glistens under soft light. Located in Piazza della Signoria, the palace is at the heart of Florence’s historic center, a UNESCO site, and a short walk from Santa Maria Novella train station.
Nearby hotel: Hotel Bernini Palace combines luxury and Renaissance style, just steps from Palazzo Vecchio.
Uffizi Gallery, Florence
The Uffizi Gallery, one of the world’s most famous art museums, houses masterpieces by Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, Caravaggio, and Michelangelo among others. Originally built in the 16th century as offices for Florentine magistrates, its upper floors became a showcase for the Medici family’s art collection. On a rainy day, wandering the gallery’s halls is a dream for art lovers, as Florence’s skyline peeks through the tall arched windows. The Uffizi is located next to Piazza della Signoria and is easily reached from the main train station on foot or by bus.
Nearby hotel: Gallery Hotel Art, a boutique hotel inspired by modern art, is steps from the Uffizi’s entrance.
Ponte Vecchio, Florence
Florence’s Ponte Vecchio is one of Italy’s most famous medieval stone bridges. It crosses the Arno River and is famous for its historic jewelry shops. Built in 1345, it’s the city’s only bridge to survive World War II intact. Once home to butchers, it became a prestigious hub for goldsmiths under the Medici family. The bridge is just a 15-minute walk from Santa Maria Novella station, placing you in the heart of Florence’s Old Town.
Nearby hotel: Portrait Firenze offers luxury suites overlooking Ponte Vecchio and the Arno River.
Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, Florence
This list of the best and most famous historical sites in Italy couldn’t be complete without Florence’s iconic Duomo, with Brunelleschi’s groundbreaking red-tiled dome, which dominates the city’s skyline. Construction began in the late 13th century, and its marble façade in green, white, and pink hues is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Climb to the top of the dome or Giotto’s bell tower for unbeatable views. Located in Piazza del Duomo, it’s a short walk from Florence’s main train station.
Nearby hotel: Hotel Spadai offers stylish, modern rooms right around the corner from the Duomo.
Duomo di Siena, Siena
Siena Cathedral is celebrated or well-known as one of the prominent Gothic treasures of the world because of its striped black and white marble and the intricate mosaic floors. It was built in the 13th century, however, the plans for an enormous extension were stopped due to the plague, leaving behind some very expressive unfinished walls. Some of the cathedral’s highlights feature Pisan’s pulpit, the Piccolomini Library’s frescoes, and the floors that can only be seen a few months a year.
Nearby hotel: Hotel Athena provides comfortable rooms with a view of the medieval roofs of Siena and is just a short walk from the Duomo.
The Pantheon, Rome
The Pantheon is considered as one of the masterpieces of Rome’s ancient architecture and a marvel of Roman technical skills. Emperor Hadrian built it between 118-125 AD, marking the end of the period of Marcus Agrippa’s temples. The main attribute of the Pantheon is the giant concrete dome without any reinforcement, which to this day is the biggest of its kind and has an open space at the top from where the light comes in and also rain drops fall creating a relaxing environment as the water goes down through the vents hidden in the floor. As the building was transformed into a Christian church in 609 AD, it converted into a functioning basilica.
Nearby hotel: Albergo del Senato is a place which has beautiful rooms with a view of the Pantheon.
The Colosseum, Rome
This list of the most famous historical sites in Italy just can’t be complete without one of the world’s mos famous monuments- The Colosseum, which was built in 80 AD under Emperor Titus. It’s a highlight of ancient Rome’s architectural skills and the place where the most brutal gladiator fights took place for over 400 years. Part of the building has been heavily damaged (about two-thirds), but the Colosseum still has its majestic beauty.
Nearby hotel: Roommate Collection Mia is a hotel full of charm which is very close to the Colosseum on foot.
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Trevi Fountain, Rome
Constructed over the Aqua Virgo aqueduct that dates back to the 18th century, the Trevi Fountain (Fontana di Trevi) is the biggest Baroque fountain in Rome. It’s also one of the most popular fountains in the world, and one that receives the most coins; approximetaly $3,000 worht of coins is thrown in the fountain every day by tourists, most of it which is donated to charity.
Nearby hotel: Relais Trevi 95 Boutique Hotel has stylish, contemporary rooms just a few steps from the fountain.
The Roman Forum, Rome
The Roman Forum, previously the center of power and the social life of ancient Rome, is an incredible open-air archaeological site dotted with the remains of the basilicas, temples, and arches. The ruins of the forum allow a peek into the splendor of Rome at its heights.
Nearby hotel: Hotel Forum provides alfresco dining on the rooftop with stunning vistas over the antiquities.
St. Peter’s Basilica, Vatican City
First and foremost among the things to see in Vatican City, the church of St. Peter’s is the biggest temple worldwide and a place of pilgrimage for Catholics. The construction of the church, which was funded among other things by Michelangelo and Bernini and took from 1506 to 1615, is known for its dominating dome that can be seen from the whole city of Rome. The beauty of the place is never enough to be stunned with mosaics, sculptures, and the famous work of Michelangelo, the Pietà. The basilica can be reached by walking for 15 minutes from the Ottaviano metro station.
Nearby hotel: Hotel Atlante Star provides comfortable rooms with a rooftop terrace that offers a great view of the Vatican.
Leaning Tower of Pisa, Pisa
Pisa’s the Leaning Tower of Pisa is among the most famous landmarks of Italy, one of those rare masterpieces of medieval architecture which were not planned. The beginning of the building was in 1173, but bad soil made the soft land move and this is how the tower got its tilt, quite a few meters before the fourth level was even reached. In the end, it went up to eight floors and the work was carried out for almost 200 years. Nowadays, tourists can take the 294-step spiral stairs walk to the top, feeling a little inclination under the foot as the climb is made.
If you want to stay close to the place, the Grand Hotel Duomo is only 100 m from the tower and it has rooftop views of this landmark of the world.
Orvieto Cathedral, Orvieto
The Duomo di Orvieto is an impressive Gothic architectural work that stands on a volcanic plateau in Umbria. Its building started in 1290 and lasted for more than 300 years, mixing a mainly Romanesque structure with eye-catching Gothic features. Facade has been there with gold mosaics, one of the rose windows, and intricate sculptures, while inside, the San Brizio Chapel is decorated with frescoes from Luca Signorelli. Orvieto can be visited by a train from Rome (around 1.5 hours), a funicular ride up the historic center is then taken.
Stay at Palazzo Piccolomini, a historic and charming hotel located in a 16th-century palace, just a few minutes’ walk from the Duomo.
Hadrian’s Villa, Tivoli
Hadrian’s Villa (Villa Adriana) is a remarkable example of ancient Roman architecture and one of the best-preserved Roman villa complexes, which is almost 250 acres in area and is located near Rome. Emperor Hadrian’s palace, which included the usual villa comforts like palaces, libraries, and gardens, along with the now-famous Maritime Theatre—a circular island where Hadrian enjoyed his solitude—was constructed here in the early 2nd century AD. By bus or taxi, the villa is about 10 minutes from Tivoli Station, which is around 50 minutes by train from Rome’s Tiburtina Station.
A stay at Hotel Torre Sant’Angelo, a once-a-medieval-convent-with-breathtaking-views-over-Tivoli, makes for a very comfortable and pleasant base for explroing Lazio’s highlights.
Civita di Bagnoregio, Lazio
Nicknamed “The Dying Town,” Civita di Bagnoregio is a medieval hilltop village that seems frozen in time. Founded by the Etruscans, its location on eroding tuff cliffs has left it accessible only via a pedestrian bridge, creating a magical arrival. Visitors can explore Etruscan tunnels, the Cave of Saint Bonaventure, and charming cobblestone streets. It’s best reached via a train to Orvieto, followed by a bus to Bagnoregio. Rainy weather heightens its mystical appeal, with mist wrapping the cliffside town like a fairytale scene.
Stay at Civita B&B, which offers cozy, rustic rooms right in the village, giving you the rare experience of staying overnight in this fragile gem.
Sistine Chapel, Vatican City
One of the Vatican City’s most cherished Renaissance wonders, the Sistine Chapel is the Apostolic Palace of the Vatican City. The interior includes frescoes, statues, and other delicate pieces of art, including the ceiling frescoe and a frescoe of the last judgment painted by Michelangelo himself (1508-1512). The chapel, in addition to being a religious site, is also home to the papal conclave and a place where the College of Cardinals elects a new pope. You can get there in a 10-minute walk from Ottaviano Metro Station in Rome.
For a classy and comfortable stay near the spot, Hotel Atlante Star with its rooftop terrace overlooking the Vatican is a perfect choice.
Capua Gladiator Museum, Santa Maria Capua Vetere
Visiting the Capua Gladiator Museum is like taking a trip back in time to the world of ancient Roman gladiators. The museum, which can be found in Santa Maria Capua Vetere, a small town near Naples, which is also home to the ancient Campania Amphitheatre, the second-largest in Italy after the Colosseum. The museum exhibits dioramas and some original artifacts, among them gladiatorial weapons, to help people understand the preparation and daily life of these fighters. The closest train station is Santa Maria Capua Vetere, which is about 1.5 km from the place.
If you’re looking for a place to stay, Palazzo Benucci – Residenza di Charme is a cozy spot that features beautiful and serene décor, which is not far from the museum.
Sassi di Matera, Matera
The Sassi di Matera are ancient caves made from the cliffs of limestone, dating back to the Paleolithic period. These homes, churches, and streets that have a complex network architecture are an ancient landmark of the UNESCO World Heritage site in Matera, Basilicata, and represent an extraordinary example of early human settlement. You can get to Matera by train from Bari or Naples.
Il Palazzotto I Residence & Winery, within the Sassi district, combines the best of the past with the present and is highly recommended place to stay.
Pompeii & Herculaneum, Campania
Pompeii and Herculaneum are historically significant sites, famous for being destroyed by eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD and afterward uniquely preserved. These sites are located close to Naples and are a rare snapshot of the life of Romans, with their buildings, frescoes, and artifacts unchanged to a large extent. Pompeii is a vast commercial center known for its preserved frescoes and street layouts, whereas Herculaneum is a smaller, wealthier resort town. Both sites can be reached via train from Naples.
If you want a place to stay, then Hotel Herculaneum is highly recommended, it is only 50 meters from the entrance of the Herculaneum ruins, providing easy access and nice rooms.
Trulli of Alberobello, Alberobello
The Trulli of Alberobello are unique Apulian stone-built, dry-stone, whitewashed houses with distinctive conical roofs, unique to the Puglia region of southern Italy, which have been on the list of UNESCO World Heritage sites. These buildings in Alberobello, Puglia, are made by using a method that dates back to the prehistoric era of stacking stones without any mortar. Alberobello has the largest concentration of trulli, which now serve as tourist accommodations, restaurants, and shops and the town can be reached by train from Bari.
A nice hotel to stay at is Trulli Holiday Albergo Diffuso, which provides one-of-a-kind lodgings in the historic Trulli stone houses in the center of Alberobello.
The Greek Theater, Sicily
The Greek Theater of Taormina in Sicily is, without a doubt, one of the most spectacular ancient amphitheaters of Italy, not only because of its fascinating past but also for the amazing view it offers over the Mediterranean. Erected in the 3rd century BCE by the Greeks and later remodeled by the Romans, it is the second largest theater of Greek origin in Sicily, after that of Syracuse. The building was at first a place for staging dramatic works and Gladiator combats. Its location on the hill offers beautiful views of Mount Etna, the Ionian coast, and the surrounding Sicilian countryside.
To access the theater, visitors can take a train or a bus to Taormina-Giardini station, followed by a short taxi ride or a wonderful walk down into town. In the vicinity, Hotel Villa Schuler is providing stylish accommodation only a few minutes walk from the theater with sea with gorgeous views of Mount Etna in the distance.
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