
The Colosseum
Unleash your inner gladiator as you wander around this vast amphitheatre, the largest in the world. Top tip – buy your tickets the day before and skip the queues.
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Unleash your inner gladiator as you wander around this vast amphitheatre, the largest in the world. Top tip – buy your tickets the day before and skip the queues.
The centre of life in Rome for almost 1000 years as the venue for gladiatorial matches, criminal trials and public speeches, this is just as imposing and majestic today.
Only 15km from the more famous Pompeii, it’s smaller and more compact, so if you’ve only got a single day this might be the better choice. Its buildings are more intact (you can see two story houses) and things are much better preserved; you can wander into a house and almost expect the owner to come and greet you!
Looming high over the surrounding countryside, this volcano is a real sleeping giant. Visiting the crater is a must and tourists from across the globe climb the path each year to peer into its depths. The trail is about 4km up and back; there are buses and shuttles that climb the lower slopes.
If you want to come back to Rome again, make sure you throw a coin (or three - according to Mr Sinatra) into these ornate fountains.
These museums are home to some of the most exquisite Renaissance and Classical works of art in the world. Founded over 500 years ago, you can take in their priceless treasures on a guided tour.
The world’s smallest nation with just 1000 citizens – including the Pope. Don't miss the Sistine Chapel, decorated by some of the finest artists of the Renaissance period, including Michelangelo. You’ll miss the worst of the crowds late afternoon, and don’t forget to keep your shoulders covered and avoid wearing shorts and miniskirts.
A perfectly preserved ancient temple, The Pantheon boasts a spectacular open dome, an imposing portico and huge bronze doors.
Don’t miss out on a trip to Italy’s most famous island, Capri. Only 9 miles from Sorrento, the ferry takes half an hour. The magical Blue Grotto is Capri’s star attraction, take a boat tour and make sure you duck down through the rocky passageway into the grotto! For stunning island views try the coastal footpath, or the chairlift at Monte Solaro.
Take a scenic drive through dramatic landscapes; meander along the winding backroads between Spoleto and Assisi, and you’ll discover gorgeous little towns like Montefalco, Bevaga and Spello. Allow a full day for the journey, so you can explore at your leisure, before ending up at the impressive Basilica of St. Francis, a UNESCO World Heritage site.