Classic South Italy

Italy's eternal capital boasts historic sites, ancient ruins, fine architecture, rich culture, superb food, and vibrant nightlife.

Make a wish and toss a coin into this world-famous Baroque fountain, admire its sculptures, then head off to explore the nearby cafes.

This iconic landmark is a triumph of Roman architecture, dating to the 1C and hailed as the largest amphitheater ever built.

A very lively neighborhood in the heart of Rome. Great for an evening stroll and a good meal.

Once the political and commercial center of ancient Rome, this archaeological park now houses nicely-preserved ruins.

Dramatically set on an eroding volcanic plateau overlooking the area, this town retains much of its historic architecture and charm.

The romantic gardens feature medieval ruins, a variety of trees, meadows, exotic plants, and roses that grow over the ruins.

Set in the Vatican City, these 54 museums house an exquisite art collection dating to the 16C, including the famed Sistine Chapel.

Climb up the elegant 18C Spanish Steps to visit the church, or spend your time loafing on the square below, soaking in the ambiance.

This beautiful 20C villa houses an exquisite 17C collection of artwork and historic artefacts, including choice pieces by Caravaggio.

Erected by the Torlonia family in the 18C and occupied by Mussolini in the 20C, this Neoclassical mansion now hosts a small art museum.

Flanked by two gorgeous 16C villas, these elegant gardens boast an intricate design, fountains, sculptures, and a wealth of blossoms.

Boasting a fascinating history dating back to the Bronze Age, this town was abandoned during the 18C but retains some interesting remnants.

Originally a Roman temple, this famed 2C rotonda is a superbly-preserved cultural monument, as well as a feat of Roman engineering.

The veritable heart of Rome, this hill is an archaeological park featuring a wealth of remarkable ancient ruins and a museum.

Once a wealthy suburb of ancient Rome full of elegant villas and rich gardens, the district is now a great spot for a stroll.

This magnificent 19C monument commemorates Italy's first king, and features an array of artistic and architectural elements.

Evacuated by the government and repopulated by artists and artisans decades later, this quaint town on top of a volcano bursts with culture.

Visit the ruins of this once thriving Etruscan metropolis, sacked in the 1C BC, but still retaining remnants of its former grandeur.

Take a walk through the residential Aventine Hill quarter, famed for the Santa Maria Church whose keyhole offers a superb view.

A Neoclassical square strewn with fountains, cultural monuments, and restaurants, offering a great opportunity for people-watching.

Stroll through the tranquil expanse dotted with fine tombstones, admiring the fruit trees and noting some of the historic relics.

Once a Roman arena used for games, this lively Baroque square is a great spot to rest your feet and enjoy some people-watching.

This lush peninsula in the south of Tuscany is full of small towns, hidden beaches, biking roads, and hiking trails.

Not far from Rome rests the mountaintop Tivoli, whose long history has left an array of villas, temples, and landmarks in its wake.

The first church to be built with a Baroque facade, this 16C institute features fine architecture and remarkable ornamentation.

A masterpiece of Renaissance architecture, this awe-inspiring 16C church boasts artwork by Italian masters and exquisite furnishing.

Housed in the artist's own residence, this museum exhibits an array of Anderdsen's work from sculpture, to painting, to design.

An underground cemetery used from the Greek period onward, now featuring several notable mausoleums and sarcophagi.

One of the best areas to take a scenic drive in Tuscany, this valley offers great views of the countryside at its best.

Spanning across a strip of coastal land, including stretch of forest, the park features several types of climates and scenery.

A most striking town, Matera seems to hail straight from the middle ages, rich in churches, fine buildings, and history.

Hewn into the rock, these ancient cavernous dwelling date to the 70C BC at least and are the heart of the town.

You can wander for hours through Mater's old town and feel like you're transported back to the middle ages.

Erected in the 13C to overlook the entire town, this medieval cathedral is home to Byzantine murals and fine ecclesiastical relics.

Located on a small hill, this uniquely constructed fortress dates to the 13C and affords lovely views of the surrounding area.

Abandoned in the 1980s due to natural disasters, this ancient town dates to the 6C BC and retains a unique almost-biblical scenery.

Venture into the forests, trace the rivers, and climb the mountains dominating this national park, home to fascinating wildlife.

Explore the lush expanses of this national park, rife with natural attractions, archaeological sites, and breathtaking scenery.

Famed for its traditional and somewhat peculiar trulli buildings, this historic little town is a national cultural monument.

A charming little town with Moorish influences, best known for its gorgeous medieval center and wonderful local wine.

Perched on a cliff that affords great views, this lovely town features superb beaches, several monasteries, and historic sites.

Prominently positioned on a rocky outcrop, this medieval monastery offers great views and houses a notable Byzantine painting.

Grab a coffee or a pastry and head off to explore the nooks and crannies of this lovely center, as well as its historic streets.

Spend the day enjoying the beauty and the serenity of this sandy beach, listening to lapping waves and the chatter of travelers.

Boasting historic landmarks and archaeological sites along with rich nature and wildlife, this national park is great fro hiking.

Take your time exploring the many peaks in this national park, each with its breathtaking views and gorgeous natural landscape.

Although Reggio Calabria is the oldest city in the region, its history is balanced by its modern urban system and amenities.

Beautiful coastal town with great beaches, food and historic sites. A good base for exploring mount Etna.

Climb a 1,250 steps to reach the top pf this steel tower, and enjoy the magnificent views overlooking the Strait of Messina.

A coastal city on the Ionian Sea with great beaches, nice eateries, a youthful atmosphere, and several architectural gems.

A great spot from which to explore the riches of the Amalfi coast, this picturesque town offers lush views and historic buildings.

Enjoy fine veiws of Mount Vesuvius, Island of Capri, and the entire Amalfi coast from various vantage points scattered around town.

Stroll along Sorrento's central streets, lined with quaint shops overflowing with nice souvenirs, ceramics, and local delicacies.

Skirting the Salerno Gulf, this scenic drive will afford you breathtaking views, many options for interesting stops on the way.

Covered by ash since the 1C, this historic Roman city offers a wonderful insight into ancient life, architecture, and art.

While Positano is a small village, little compares with its pastoral beauty, white Moorish houses, and gorgeous turquoise bay.

Many opt to drive, but some choose to hike this incredible scenic road, named for the Roman temples that once stood here.

Carved by a volcanic eruption 35,000 years ago, the valley now boasts unique vegetation, as well as remnants of an ancient mill.

One of several in the world, this sea cave is famed for its brilliantly blue water illuminated from an underwater outlet.

Buried by Mount Vesuvius in the 1C and thus well-preserved, these excavated Roman town ruins can be explored in their entirety.

A lively small town with a long naval history, Ravello overlooks the sea, offering spectacular views over the Amalfi coast.