Wow, what a wonderfully unique and electic castle. Fabulous design and wonderful trompe l'oeil. Definitely a dream brought to life. You have to join a tour - you cannot just wandering through the castle at your own pace, because it's a bit of a maze. However, we were given plenty of opportunity to photograph the rooms and views (stunning!) Our tour was in Italian, but our fabulous guide Alexandra translated key points for us, and there are information boards/signs in every room, explaining key points. Highly recommended!

It’s an interesting tour, especially if Alessandra is your guide! She makes the whole visit a great experience. Keep in mind you need to book in advance, and it is open only during the weekends (at least for now).

Very beautiful, but it is 5 of 7 days in week closed.. and now there is reconstruction, so not that beautiful at all. :)

Our guide, Alessandra, was amazing. In our group we were the only ones (four of us) who didn't speak Italian and she took the time to explain things in English after speaking in Italian to the rest of the group. She had great energy and clearly loves her job. The castle is a visual treat, and quite lovely. Thanks Alessandra for making our day a memorable one!

Authentic castle from the period of 19th century. 🏰 Rocchetta Mattei is like something out of a fantasy novel—an eclectic, whimsical castle nestled in the Apennine Mountains of Emilia-Romagna, Italy. It’s not just a feast for the eyes, but a place steeped in eccentric history and curious science. 🌟 Highlights of the Castle - Architectural Mash-Up: The castle blends styles from Medieval, Gothic, Moorish, and Art Nouveau traditions. Think turrets, mosaics, and labyrinthine staircases that make every corner feel like a new discovery. - Count Cesare Mattei: The mastermind behind the castle, Mattei was a self-taught physician and inventor of electrohomeopathy, a controversial medical practice. He laid the first stone in 1850 and lived there like a medieval noble, complete with a court jester. - Famous Visitors: The castle attracted royalty and intellectuals from across Europe, including Ludwig III of Bavaria and Alexander II of Russia. Even Dostoevsky mentioned Mattei in The Brothers Karamazov. 🛠️ Restoration & Rebirth - After WWII, the castle fell into disrepair. It was later revived thanks to local efforts and the Fondazione Cassa di Risparmio di Bologna, reopening to the public in 2015. - Today, it’s managed by the Comune di Grizzana Morandi and hosts guided tours, concerts, weddings, and cultural events. 📍 Visiting Tips - Booking is mandatory due to the castle’s maze-like layout and guided tour format. - It’s about a 45-minute drive from Bologna, making it a perfect day trip. - Nearby gems include the village of La Scola, the Church of Santa Maria Assunta by Alvar Aalto, and the Giorgio Morandi Home Museum. If you ever get the chance to visit, it’s not just a castle—it’s a storybook come to life.

Beautiful architecture and a splendid collection of old musical instruments. All visits are guided, helping a lot in understanding the incredible and mysterious history of the place. Highly recommended.

Found it while browsing places to visit in the area. We arrived there without reservation, but the lady at the ticket shop squeezed us into a tour with only 15min waiting time - thanks for that! The castle itself is very picturesc, with sometimes unbelievable amounts of details to discover. We enjoyed the stay a lot!

One of the nicest museums related to motorbikes I have ever been to. So much to see, friendly staff, fantastic texts to read, the collection is just amazing, great light for photos etc. One can truly see that Vespa owners know what they are doing and the success of the brand is no wonder. Bravo and thank you.

If you are a scooter or motorbike enthusiast this is the place for you! So much to see, so much info and such knowledgeable staff. It was amazing to see how Piaggo/Vespa developed. To see how the scooter has changed over the years, to see rare things. They also have a motorbike collection too with bikes ridden by greats such as Rossi. Wonderful way to spend an afternoon. Free entry but please give a reasonable donation to keep such a wonderful museum going.

The most impressive free museum I have ever visited. It offers a rich and broad representation of the company's history and exposes visitors to the people behind the scenes of Vespa's success. Beyond that, I also learned a lot of new things, such as the subsidiaries I had no idea existed and the impressive record of competition victories. The museum offers an audio guide (available in several languages, we used English) that accompanies the exhibits, and each section has its own part that can be accessed via a QR code. Fascinating and highly recommended.

This place is awesome! And free so may as go. Some of the vespas are amazing. Very much worth the visit.

We had an excellent english language tour of the museum. You can reserve a day and time for a tour ahead of time, but you don't have to purchase tickets ahead of time. Highly recommended.

I got my first Vespa aged 14, I’m now 54, so I’ve wanted to visit Pontedera for 40 odd years. It did not disappoint! I loved it! Vespa heaven

An absolute gem and free entry! I don’t know how it’s possible not to give this 5 stars Superb collection of Piaggio scooters from through the ages, as well as a good collection of Gilera and Aprilia bikes too. You don’t need to be a petrol head to enjoy this place, genuine fun for the family!

Riding the funicolare to the top of the mountain is totally worth it!! While you are up there- explore the small medieval village! The view is fabulous! 👍❤️

Great experience—definitely recommend! The return ticket was €7 per person, and absolutely worth it. Montecatini Alto felt like stepping back in time. I absolutely loved it! 🥰

It was a fun, relaxing ride, you have plenty of information available on the spot regarding its history an elevation angles. And the view from Montecatini Alto is magnificent. The funicular program makes it hard to miss the experience (it is open until 24.00).

The journey is gentle and slow enough to be able to enjoy the view. Staff were friendly and a return ticket is €7. We enjoyed our visit to Montecatini Alto, there are several small shops and a central square with restaurants, a bar, and Gelato shop. lots of outdoor seating and shade in a medieval village.

If you're in Montecatini then you should visit Montecatini Alto using the Furnicular! This is the mountain Railcar that takes you up to the small town with big views! Trains run every 30mins all day and night (not overnight) and tickets cost €7.50

This was a really nice experience. If your in this region of Italy, then you must try it

A lovely little ride up/down the mountain in a historic funicular car. The cost for a round-trip/return ticket is €7.50, and the cars run on the hour and half-hour until midnight (see the attached schedule). Walking up the Alto is quite a trek (I did it and was certainly out of breath by the top), so save yourself the trouble and take this!

Very unique place of the walled city of Lucca. Its almost whole round walkable on the top of the walls or street inside the walls. Plenty of trees, walkways are suitable for jogging and fitness exercises and walking of the locals. very calm green place. From the walls you can see the old city and also outside, small water channels under the wall. All around are about 11 bastions and couple of gates to the city. The wall is 4 km long and is among the best preserved Renaissance fortifications in Europe, and the second largest intact example of a fully walled Renaissance city after Nicosia on Cyprus.

A short walk...even with your roller bag...from the train station to the walls of Lucca. I always get a smile when the gate comes into view. The walled city of Lucca still holds plenty of lore with its many restaurants and merchants. This trip we stayed at the Grand Universe right in the center of Lucca so we could be immersed in the city culture and people.

We used the ramp at Porta di San Pietro to take a one-hour stroll anticlockwise along the wall. The views of the old city on one side and of the Lucca hills and Apuan Alps on the other are charming and inspiring. Due to lack of time we were not able to walk the entire length (4.4 km) of the wall, but the segment we did, was organized as a usual public park. The park would benefit of informative panels that could provide visitors with historical context and details on the surrounding area.

Well worth seeing. Amazing. Careful with toddlwrs near the top as its a sheer drop

Fun way to visit the city. You can walk, stroll, bike, we rent a 6 person bike. 1-2h walking.

My favourite part of our visit to Lucca was the Mura di Lucca. An absolutely brilliant use of the city wall by having a multipurpose recreational trail on top of the wall! Paved for walking and wheeling, the many ramps give ready access for users. The bulwarks of the wall have parks, playgrounds, and picnic areas. Several museums and the Botanical gardens are accessed from the trail. The Mura also has several gates as well as pedestrian tunnels. Stunning views of the hills surrounding Lucca. Worth a saunter!

Amazing and beautiful scenery. You can either walk around on the walls or rent a bicycle for faster movement. The view from the walls is truly beautiful.

This is a beautiful atmospheric place that will please lovers not only of delicious food, but also of modern art. There is great cuisine and delicious cocktails. For little money you will get a delicious dinner, a great drink, wonderful acquaintances and a creative atmosphere. We were happy to come here every day during our vacation in Livorno.

Wonderful little bar with a great atmosphere and friendly service from the staff. A couple of people were playing music on the piano and guitar inside, a lovely environment to sit in the sun next to the water and enjoy a drink.

Only in for a beer, but the atmosphere left us sitting there for a few more. Cosy and artistic. A couple were entertaining on the piano, and a singer with a great voice. With the lady owner on the saxophone. Just great.

Absolutely love this place. They always treat my sister, sister in law, my niece, and myself with such respect and kindness when we come out here. Whether we come out here together or separately, it’s always the same politeness from the staff. 12/10 service and atmosphere, the food is good as well. If you’re American or traveling from outside of here, or if you even live here, I highly recommend stopping by here 🫶🏼

Great vibes! Live music, piano etc. Perfect setting to watch the sun set. Cheap and cosy

Nice artistic bar with a terrace and live instruments for guests to play rhe piano or guitar. Go!

By far the best experience in Livorno and there were many. This bar is situated next to The Grand Hotel on the sea front. Never the same experience with musicians and artist all visiting to set the vibe with the owners many available musical instruments being loaned to all. We concluded every day of our visit here and met some wonderful people especially the owners. A true treasure of Livorno.

The Leaning Tower of Pisa is one of the most iconic and fascinating landmarks in the world a true symbol of Italy’s charm and history. Seeing it in person is an incredible experience; its famous tilt is even more striking and impressive than photos can capture. The white marble gleams beautifully under the sun, and the detailed Romanesque architecture is simply stunning. Climbing to the top is an unforgettable experience. As you ascend the spiral staircase, you can actually feel the tower’s tilt, which adds a sense of adventure and wonder. Once at the top, the panoramic view of Pisa and the surrounding Tuscan landscape is breathtaking. The tower is part of the Piazza dei Miracoli (Square of Miracles), surrounded by other magnificent monuments like the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta and the Baptistery, all of which are worth exploring. The area has a lively, joyful atmosphere with cafés, souvenir shops, and green lawns perfect for photos and relaxing. Whether you come for history, architecture, or just the fun of taking the classic “holding up the tower” photo, the Leaning Tower of Pisa never disappoints. It’s a place full of charm, beauty, and a sense of wonder that makes every visit truly special.

Iconic, Beautiful, and Worth the Hype (Visited in September 2025) I visited the Leaning Tower of Pisa in September 2025, and it was every bit as impressive as I hoped. Seeing it in person — slightly tilted yet perfectly balanced — was surreal. The weather was warm and sunny, perfect for walking around the Piazza dei Miracoli and taking photos without feeling rushed. Climbing the tower was an unforgettable experience. The marble steps are worn and slanted from centuries of use, and as you ascend, you can actually feel the lean — it’s both thrilling and slightly dizzying! The view from the top is absolutely worth it, offering panoramic views of Pisa and the surrounding Tuscan landscape. The area can be busy with tourists, but if you go early in the morning or later in the afternoon, it’s much quieter. The cathedral and baptistery nearby are also stunning and definitely worth exploring. Overall: A must-see once in your lifetime. The Leaning Tower of Pisa isn’t just a famous landmark — it’s a masterpiece of history, architecture, and human perseverance.

Pisa is a charming and historic city that truly captures the spirit of Italy. Famous for its iconic Leaning Tower, the city offers much more than just that – beautiful architecture, cozy streets, and a relaxing atmosphere. Walking around the Piazza dei Miracoli feels like stepping into a living museum, surrounded by stunning buildings and rich history. The locals are friendly, the food is delicious, and there’s a lovely mix of culture and calmness throughout the city. Whether you come for sightseeing, photography, or simply to enjoy authentic Italian vibes, Pisa is definitely worth visiting. A small city with a big heart — unforgettable and full of beauty! 🇮🇹✨

Before I went to visit, I thought it would be overrated, old and uninteresting, but when I got there, I was completely wowed! The tower and surrounding buildings have been maintained in such a pristine way that they look like they were built last week. For a building that is over 850 years old, it sure has aged well. The scale and lean of the tower is unbelievable and cannot be felt from pictures. This is a must visit when you are in Italy. It is truly a majestic sight.

The Leaning Tower of Pisa is an absolute blast to visit! Seeing it in person is way more impressive than any photo, and the tilt is even more dramatic up close. The best part? Getting creative with photos! We had so much fun “holding it up,” pretending to push it over, leaning against it, or even putting it in an ice cream cone — endless silly opportunities for memories and laughs. The surrounding Piazza dei Miracoli is beautiful too, with the cathedral and baptistery making the perfect backdrop. Even just walking around and soaking in the architecture is a treat. Tip: bring your camera and a playful attitude — it’s all about the fun angles and perspective tricks. Crowds can get busy, so a little patience helps to get your perfect shot. Visiting the Leaning Tower isn’t just sightseeing — it’s a joyful, hands-on experience that’s perfect for families, friends, and anyone who loves a little photo fun. Definitely one of the most memorable stops in Italy!

Iconic- such an amazing view. I loved this place but so crowded. I would recommend visiting the museum next to the tower of Pisa to get an amazing view with minimal people spoiling your photos. Also there is a restaurant in this museum and you get a stunning view. Recommend climbing the tower of Pisa that was amazing make sure you are willing to climb as can be tiring. Trainers recommended for the climb.

Had a lovely time here. The tower itself has a beautiful view when you're at the top. The steps are slippery tho so be careful aspecially when walking back down. The cathedral is gorgeous also on the inside. We bought tickets that included entree to all buildings and museums and also walked the walls of pisa all the way (which was quite long). Definitely recommend visiting and also going inside.

The building was amazing but everything else lacked in excitement. There was only one fountain open to obtain water to drink. Nothing else was open. I was under tge influence that there was access to the hot springs for wading but that wasn't the case. I did catch a local orchestra practicing. Honestly, that was the highlight of that visit

The Piazza of miracles' is indeed filled with miracles of architecture. We visited them all. Get a full ticket from the Sinopie Museum. It will give you a set time for the Leaning Tower on day of purchase, while you have a year to visit all other locations! If you include a separately charged wall access from the corner tower, there are 7 things to visit.

Piazza del Duomo is one of the most breathtaking squares in the world — a true masterpiece of harmony, art, and faith. Surrounded by the Cathedral, Baptistery, Leaning Tower, and Camposanto, every corner shines with elegance and history. The white marble buildings glowing under the Tuscan sun create an almost dreamlike scene. Standing here feels like being inside a living work of art — peaceful, majestic, and timeless. Absolutely magnificent and unforgettable!

This something This place is simply spectacular. The architecture is massive and incredibly impressive—pictures don't do it justice. Inside, it’s a masterpiece of art and history, packed with stunning stained glass and biblical details. My top recommendation: definitely buy the ticket to go up to the top. Walking around the exterior and seeing the views from above is the highlight of the trip. Totally worth the wait!

This is how beautiful it can be in Pisa, this small fantastic cosy city with it’s unbeatable charm. I walked the street and tje wall, everything was almost as a dream, I met fantastic people, I saw buildings that almost made me faint, it was like I was hit by Stendahls Syndrome. Pisa is a MUST city and the Tower area is the symbol of great architecture with classical style and grace. I’ll ne back!

Piazza del Duomo in Pisa was one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever seen. From the moment you enter through the gate, you’re surrounded by breathtaking architecture and a truly positive atmosphere. The intricate details of the icons and sculptures inside are stunning, and every corner of the square feels rich with history and beauty. An unforgettable experience

It's true you can't go far in Italy without running into history and this is no exception. Using viator, ITaly, lime (scooter rental), the world is your oyster. In your typical basilica, cathedral or place of worship related to Catholicism. The walls will be lined with this stations of the cross, not the duomo. It's its walls were lined with apostles and followers of Jesus. Make sure you catch the show output at noon.The bells ring the mechanical figures put on a lovely show in the piazza. If you're interested, pay a visit to the museum located on-site as well as the cript.

We visited the Ferrari Museum in Maranello as a family, and although it’s not the first place you’d imagine bringing a baby, it turned out to be one of the highlights of our trip. We decided to leave the stroller in the car and use our Ergobaby carrier instead, and that was the perfect choice — it gave us full freedom to move around without worrying about stairs or elevators, and our daughter was cozy, calm, and close to us the whole time. The museum itself is spotless, modern, and beautifully designed. From the very first hall, with rows of gleaming red cars under dramatic lighting, we felt immersed in the Ferrari legend. Our little one, still so small, was captivated by the reflections and the bright colors — her eyes kept darting from car to car, and several visitors stopped to smile at her reactions. Those small moments made us feel really welcome, and staff members were also warm and attentive without ever being intrusive. The exhibitions cover both Ferrari’s road cars and its Formula 1 history. On the practical side, the museum worked well with a baby. The restrooms were very clean, though not perfectly equipped for diaper changes, but we managed without trouble. The only real downside for us was the price: tickets are 27€ per adult. For a museum that takes about one to two hours to visit, it feels expensive, and I think a family ticket or a slightly lower entry fee would make the experience more accessible. That’s the only reason I’m giving four stars instead of five, because otherwise it was a truly memorable and surprisingly baby-friendly outing. Overall, I would definitely recommend the Ferrari Museum in Maranello even with a little one. Using a baby carrier made it very easy, the atmosphere was welcoming, and it gave us a special family memory in a place you wouldn’t necessarily expect to be child-friendly. For us, it was worth it — an unforgettable mix of Ferrari’s world and our own new chapter as parents.

Very modern and stylish museum for Ferrari cars. A unique collection of road, prototype and racing cars from the early years up until now. Rather small compared to Porsche and Mercedes museums in Stuttgart, but that was the only “negative” and hence 4 of 5 stars. Nevertheless, for anyone with petrol in the blood, this is a truly great visit and experience!

A good place for Ferrari or car enthusiasts. Is a bit of a trek from Modena, but they have a bus leaving from the station once daily in the morning. Use the link on the museum ticketing page to book a seat. Tickets sold on the bus but pre oiled seats will get preference. The museum itself is well laid out and has lots of cars on display. From the early models to F1 cars. Kids over 150cm can get on the stimulators for a 7 minute test ride. The stimulators are pretty good. Gift shop is expensive but has a few scale models around the 30 Euro mark. You can't buy just one, has to be bought with another item. Magnets, key chains etc are 20 euro so better off buying 2 models instead. An hourly public bus runs at 18 minutes on the hour from a nearby bus stand, takes 45 minutes to Modena. Better to take this than stay till 2:45 when the museum bus leaves. Walking to the bus stand we saw some options for a ride in a Ferrari car outside. Was a rainy day so did not explore around, but doesn't look like there is much else in the surrounding area

The Ferrari Museum in Maranello remains one of the essential stops for any automotive enthusiast — and for Ferrari fans, it’s practically sacred ground. The F1 display alone is worth the visit: an incredible lineup of race cars that showcases the evolution of Ferrari’s championship heritage in a breathtaking way. The collection of special cars is equally impressive, with the highlight for me being the ultra-rare 288 GTO Evoluzione — an unbelievable treat to see in person. However, one negative moment stood out during this visit. A woman managing the foot traffic at the entrance made us wait outside for no clear reason, and her attitude came across as unnecessarily rude. It genuinely took away from an otherwise fantastic experience for several of us. It’s a shame, because everything else inside the museum was excellent. On a brighter note, the gift shop is fantastic, packed with high-quality merchandise that any Ferrari fanatic would love. I’ve been to the museum multiple times, and despite the small hiccup, I’ll continue to return. It’s a must-visit when in Maranello — a place where Ferrari’s history, passion, and spirit truly come alive.

I changed my route on the way back to the Netherlands just to visit the Ferrari Museum. As a designer, I expected something inspiring and memorable, but that moment never came. Arriving in Maranello is actually the best part, with a great view of the factory. At the museum the experience drops immediately. The outside looks messy and the paid parking system is poorly organised. The payment machine is on the opposite side of the building, so you walk back and forth before you can even enter. Inside, the student discount is nice. Upstairs it starts promising with a few special cars, but then you are met with an overwhelming amount of text. The English explanations are entirely in italic, which becomes tiring to read. Text on the walls is printed extremely large and the information next to the cars is placed very low to the ground. It does not feel visitor friendly. The biggest disappointment is how static everything is. There is nothing interactive, no sound design, no immersive elements, no behind-the-scenes look at the design or engineering. For a brand built on emotion and innovation, the museum feels strangely flat. There are around fifteen cars and you are done in about twenty minutes. At the end you can pay twenty euros to sit in a Ferrari for a photo, which feels unnecessary. The shop looks nice at first but the prices are shocking. A cap for €65 and a basic T-shirt for €85, all made in China. For a brand known for Italian craftsmanship, this feels disappointing. I expected a world-class, inspiring museum from Ferrari. Instead it felt like a short and text heavy exhibition with very little magic. A missed opportunity.

Well, it speaks for itself, the museum of the greatest car maker in the world. A must see probably for everyone, not just car lovers. If you go on weekends don't rush to be too early there, there were far less people waiting to go in as we left. The parking lot directly at the museum is pretty small and gets occupied quickly, so use the other one, it's also free and only one street north from the museum. For exiting you need the bar code of your ticket, so if you did not buy it online, don't throw it away. One can take photos in an F8 Tributo at the end of the tour even if one did not book it, it is of course charged. You can drive in an F1 Simulator, I recommend you book your desired time slot for that one.

A wonderful collection and curation of Ferrari. Thoroughly enjoyed reading the write up behind each vehicle. Parking was available on site with overflow parking across the road. Free parking for ticket holders and you just scan your barcode to exit the overflow parking.

(Translated by Google) Great location, nice clean apartment. The promenade and the beach are 50 meters away. Convenient to all the main services without using the car which can be left in the private parking space. The owner is very helpful and very kind Highly recommended. (Original) Ottima posizione appartamento pulito grazioso. La passeggiata e la spiaggia sono a 50 metri. Comodo a tutti i principali servizi senza utilizzare l'auto la quale si può lasciare nel posto auto privato. Il proprietario è molto disponibile e gentilissimo Consigliatissimo.

(Translated by Google) Very close to the beach, quiet corner, no SUV or large station wagon can be parked in the back yard. All shops can be reached on foot. (Original) Sehr nah am Strand, ruhige Ecke, im Hinderhof past kein SUV oder großer Kombi rein zum Parken. Alle Geschäfte sind zu Fuss zu erreichen.

(Translated by Google) I highly recommend the house, perfect, comfortable, very close to the sea and in the center of the Viareggio carnival, precise and helpful owner 👏👏 (Original) Consiglio vivamente la casa, perfetta, comoda, vicinissima al mare e nel centro del carnevale di Viareggio, proprietario preciso e disponibile 👏👏

(Translated by Google) Excellent accommodation, location, cleanliness and communication. Really enjoyed it. (Original) Excelente alojamiento, ubicación, limpieza y comunicación. Lo pasamos muy bien.

(Translated by Google) Optimal (Original) Ottimo

(Translated by Google) I liked everything (Original) Усе сподобалося

It’s a relatively new station, high speed trains connect Reggio Emilia to both North and South but it’s based a little out of the city. Has some bars, free public bathrooms and parking place. Overall a nice station.

A STUNNING PIECE OF MODERN ARCHITECTURE. IT LOOKS LIKE A GIANT WAVELENGTH. A RAILWAY STATION THAT LOOKS MORE AKIN TO JAPAN THAN NORTHERN ITALY.

Service at the TrenItalia desk was very good. The train station is clean and bright and my experience on the FrescaRosa to Milan was outstanding.

A modern and eye catching high speed train station with two platforms and two middle tracks for nonstop trains. Below the platforms, you’ll find a cafeteria, the Italo and Freccia Rossa waiting areas where you can buy train tickets or just await the arrival of your train, especially since there aren’t many seats on the platform itself. The station overall feels safe due to the presence of police officers with an office present close to the cafeteria. The place is kept very clean. You’ll find both a bus terminal and a regional train station, not the forget taxi services awaiting for you downstairs.

Feel like not in Italy.

If you're coming to take photos, beware that the car park is under construction so this will obstruct some exterior photos. I still got 70% of the photos I wanted

Lots of parking, reasonably easy access, ok services (pretty depressing selection of sandwiches at the bar), free toilets, easy to access platforms.

Hard to find anything for free nowadays! This church was unreal!! I have been to the Sistine Chapel and it was really nice but so crowded and honestly hard to see most of it with really long line ups. This place was painted at the same time in the 1500 and looks so perfect! All free with no lineups !! If you're looking for paintings and beautiful art then you have to make the trip to Parma , pulse the food is way better!!!!!

Simply stunning. Don't miss the cathedral and baptistery if you travel via Parma, a real gem. Tickets for baptistery and museum can be purchased from museum, and cathedral entry is free.

The Cattedrale di Parma is absolutely breathtaking. The artwork painted on the walls and ceilings is some of the most extraordinary we have ever seen anywhere in the world, and we have traveled all over Europe. Every detail is magnificent, and standing inside feels like stepping into a masterpiece. We are here in Parma from the US for a month and loving every moment of this city, but the cathedral is truly unforgettable and a must-see.

Beautiful cathedral with stunning frescoes inside. Peaceful spot to take in some history and art right in the heart of Parma.

One of the moat beautiful churches I have ever visided with immense scale and beautiful paintings. It is open and free for the public and it is a miat if you visit Parma.

This cathedral wows you immediately as soon as you walk in. It’s magical, the pictures on the ceiling and walls, the marble work together with wood work in sculptures and inside balconies, simply incredible. No words to describe it, you must visit the Cathedral.

The church is opened every day from 7.45 am to 7.20pm ! Free entry ! The cathedral is dedicated to Virgin Mary! The interior is shaped on a Latin cross! Very impressive church

Teatro Farnese is absolutely breathtaking; one of the most remarkable spaces I’ve ever stepped into. Built entirely of wood in the early 1600s, it feels like a time capsule of Baroque grandeur. The scale is massive, yet the warm tones of the timber give it an almost intimate atmosphere. Standing in the arena, you can feel the weight of history and spectacle that once unfolded here. It’s hard to believe it survived (and was rebuilt after WWII damage), but that only adds to its mystique. A must-see for lovers of architecture, theater, or anyone who appreciates the rare magic of a place that feels truly one of a kind.

My wife and I spent a full month in Parma and out of everything we saw across Italy, Teatro Farnese was by far one of the most breathtaking places we visited. Walking inside feels like stepping back in time. The entire theater is made of wood and when the light shines through the upper windows it gives the space a warm golden glow that pictures can never capture. The history makes it even more special. It was built in the early 1600s for the Dukes of Parma and later destroyed during World War II. What you see today was carefully rebuilt using the same original design and materials. You can feel the care and craftsmanship that went into every detail. Standing in the center of the theater surrounded by rows of wood seating is a moment that stays with you. It is quiet and grand all at once and you can almost imagine the performances that once filled the space. If you are visiting Parma, do not miss it. Teatro Farnese is absolutely spectacular and one of the true treasures of Italy.

Wonderful and quiet teatro farnese was beautiful welcoming . Between my broken Italian and little English from staff, we were shown the way around so as to not miss anything. Great two hours of wonderful architecture and paintings the library was one of the best I have seen. The grand wooden theatre is amazing you smell the wood as you approach. Wonderfully taken care of.

the main masterpiece of Ranuccio's time is the Farnese Theatre. You will definitely not see anything like it anywhere else. A huge theatre from the beginning of the 17th century... made of wood! A unique landmark. In fact, there are similar theatres, the Olimpico in Vicenza and the Antica in Sabbioneta, the architect of Parma used them as models. But the theatre in Parma is larger.

Great musuem, so much to see. Many rooms and floors. Was a great addition to our day in Parma

The most incredible theatre I have ever seen. It was renovated a few years ago in the early 2000. It's like ab old Roman theatre and the minute you walk in you will smell the aroma from all of the wooden beams that hold up and make up this incredible structure. The theatre is part of the greater Palazzo Della Pilotta complex. Your €16 ticket gives you access to the Library, Theatre, Archeological museum and the gallery. There are some great models on display as well as Roman ruins. Your theatre visit will likely be short like ours, 30 mins is all you need but it will leave you in awe. It was like stepping back in time on an old movie set. It really is remarkable. Highly recommended

One of a kind! A definit must see if you visit Parma!

We walked from Vernazza to Monterosso. It took about an hour and a half. The first half hour, in particular, is quite tiring and challenging; you're walking uphill. There are beautiful views along the way. There's no way to refill your water bottle along the way, so stock up on water beforehand.

Please take cat food with you - lots if possible!!!!!! There is a cat village and a designated area to leave food so people can feed them over time. It is up to us to feed these homeless cats. Walked this trail today and to my surprise, there was a few homeless cats who are in a small gated area with cat houses and a sign that states something along the lines of “homeless and unloved cats, please feed” …there was no food there and they looked quite skinny. If you are planning to walk this trail, please bring a bag of cat food, maybe some wet cans (not tin, they can cut their tongue on those), water… whatever you can. If I had known this going into the hike, I would’ve brought it. I’m not sure what the deal is with any caretakers for the cats but it would be nice to have a sign or something prior to starting the trail to let people know there are cats along the way, so people can purchase food before going up…. Lots of people were very upset to see the cats there with no food and there’s nothing to do about it at that point… it is mid-trail and nothing around. Otherwise, it is very uphill so be very prepared - but the sights are well worth it!

Pro tip: apparently you need a Cinque Terre pass to enter but everyone was passing through just to check the views and then come back. This is where you'll take the best photo of Vernazza. The start is just on the side of a restaurant, to the left you'll see a narrow street.

3.6 km, about 2h walk. It tooked us 2h15 with a big break at a bar about 1km away from Monterosso, the only one along the way. Lots of steps, but pretty easy to walk with good shoes... And the viens are so worth it !

This is a very strenuous trail with 800 ft of elevation. It was quite difficult with many stairs on both the accent a decent. We’re in our 30s and 40s and it took us about two hours with several stops for photos and the drink water. The terrain is treacherous at times. Make sure you wear the appropriate shoes with tread and waterproofing if possible as it is very muddy in some areas. The views and experience is absolutely worth it though!

Very beautiful hike. WARNING for anyone that wants to do this hike but isn’t a seasoned hiker: start from Vernazza and go towards Monterosso!! I started from Monterosso and it was a LOT of steep stairs & uphill. I read a review from someone on here who talked about having to climb up on all fours… while I didn’t get to that level I DEFINITELY was feeling that review to my core 😂😭 If I were to do it again, I would start from Vernazza. It’s doable both ways, but know that it will be more difficult if you start from Monterosso. The views will be beautiful & the same whichever town you start from. I had to take a lot of breaks, but many people (both old & young) did the same so I didn’t feel too left out. I recommend you do the hike early in the morning or towards late afternoon, that way you can have a little bit of a breeze and it’s not constantly hot. For reference, we did the hike with a lot of breezes and I STILL had my shirt drenched with sweat. If it is rainy, be careful!! Wear appropriate shoes for that. We did it while it was sunny & dry but there were many areas that were slip-potential. Also, you can access the viewpoint of the Vernazza background for picture-taking WITHOUT having to hike. I have included a picture so you know which viewpoint I’m talking about.

Beautiful hike! Definitely lots of stairs, which worked up quite a sweat in the heat. Views were totally worth it. Also, there was a small cat community (with little cat houses) that lives along the hike route close to Vernazza. A sign asks visitors to bring cat food/water because they have no owners. Really sweet cats!

This area is worth a visit there are plenty of bars in the village one shop we found at the top of the hill there is a free art gallery. Churches of course and 2 museums , archaeological and the castle there is a joint ticket entry for 7 euros the climb up To the top of the castle tower provided a stunning view,the rest less interesting

Stunning hilltop castle nestled in a medieval Italian borgo. The entry fee is minimal and the photos you can take alone are worth the price. The history is also quite interesting. Worth the trip.

It was a great opportunity to visit what still stands of an old castle. Tons of stairs to get to the top. Not a real lot to see. But glad I did it. Not for anyone with issues with heights. I was lucky to do this when no one else was in the building. If you are pressed for time may be worth just checking out the town instead.

Came here to spend a few hours, to see the castle and the other sights and some walk. The whole small medieval town is a sight for itself. We parked down in the village and walk the hill up to the castle. Beautiful buildings and architecture all the way up. And on top of course the castle, the tower and many other sights. As well as a small park with some nice views. The town dates back to the 8th Century, but it believed to be even older. The castle itself (the "Borgo") was build in 1342, while the nearby church "Santa Maria Assunta" dates back to the 11th Century. Then there's the Palazzo del Podestà and the Bell tower and other notable buildings up there in the castle area. It was also the filming location of "Ladyhawke" starring Matthew Broderick, Rutger Hauer and Michelle Pfeiffer. We came here on a sunday, there were some visitors, but we expected a lot more, free parking available down in the village as well. A really wonderful old town worth visiting. We didn't expect much, since we really didn't know much about the place, but were really impressed by this beautiful town.

Full of bourgeoisie with expensive cars who live in the castle. But beautiful view from the castle and also museum of Italian history and culture.

Well worth a visit to this medieval castle, beautiful buildings and view

Quite and very authentic medieval town. With local food and super views. Here starts Apenino so many possibilities to trekking. Good place to try piacentino cuisine, specific for Emilia Romagnia

So because & so peaceful here. So glad we stopped in. Such a beautiful cathedral!

One of the most beautiful Cathedrals I’ve had the opportunity to visit. Make sure you look up in every vestibule !

It’s a lot of steps to go up the tower but there is something to see on each floor as well as to catch your breath. It is really worth paying to see the tower which includes access to the Baptist part. But the Tower makes you really look at the clock which is far, far advanced to anything we have still and it still works in part. Plus the great views of the city at the top. The cathedral itself is a must too including the crypt and really a great respite from the heat.

Absolutely beautiful cathedral! The architecture is impressive from both outside and inside. The atmosphere inside is peaceful and highly decorated with paintings. It's definitely worth a visit if you're in Cremona.

A fantastic cathedral. We went to mass which was incredible with voices of the choir like angels. And what a beautiful church. The art is beautiful. Plan on at least an hour for a visit. Longer if you attend mass.

This place is wonderful, the Torrazzo is the 3rd tallest brickwork bell tower in the world, was constructed in 1309. the view from the tower is astonishing

Imposing and vast, much more than you might reckon for a relatively small city as Cremona. The inside is richly decorated (many reinassance artists contributed to its beautifully preserved frescoes) and the vault awe-inspiring. The church is free to visit - the rest of the complex, for example the bell tower, is not. Don't miss the floor mosaics in the crypt!

Found this bay on the last morning of our stay in Sestri and had to stop and eat at a little osteria on the beach. It was so lovely and tranquil we ended up staying a lot longer than we had anticipated, but it was well worth it. Definitely worth a visit

(Translated by Google) Serious and professional agency, the lady is kind and scrupulous, available for any doubts. (Original) Agenzia seria e professionale, la signora cortese e scrupolosa, disponibili per ogni dubbio.

(Translated by Google) We traveled several times with the Baia del Silenzio agency, including for our honeymoon. We had a great time! Rossano is super helpful and attentive to dispensing useful advice! We'll be back soon! (Original) Abbiamo viaggiato più volte con l'agenzia Baia del Silenzio, compreso per il nostro viaggio di nozze. Ci siamo trovati benissimo! Rossano super disponibile e attento a dispensare utili consigli! Torneremo presto!

(Translated by Google) We often turn to our friend Rossano who never disappoints us. His advice is always excellent. Seriousness and competence (Original) Ci rivolgiamo spesso al nostro amico Rossano che non ci delude mai. I suoi consigli sono sempre ottimi. Serietà e competenza

(Translated by Google) [Italian] Our family (2 adults + 1 child) used Mr Rossano's agency to organize transport from Pisa airport to the seaside hotel. He was very kind, the communication was perfect, the prices were more than reasonable. His agency handled our unforeseen events with infinite courtesy (plane delayed for hours, child with carsickness). Perfect cars, always arrived on time, with the correct size seat. We will certainly use it again. —— [English] We used Mr Rossano' agency for the car journey between Pisa airport to our hotel in Liguria. He's been extremely polite, communicated timely and the prices were more than fair. He handled gracefully when we created some inconveniences for him: our flight was 3 hours late and our toddler was car sick. The cars were impeccably clean, arrived on time and had the correct baby car seats that we had requested. We'll certainly use his services again. (Original) [Italiano] La nostra famiglia (2 adulti + 1 bambino) ha usato l agenzia del signor Rossano per organizzare il trasporto dall aereoporto di Pisa all’hotel al mare. Lui e’ stato gentilissimo, la comunicazione perfetta, i prezzi piu che ragionevoli. La sua agenzia ha gestito con infinita cortesia i nostri imprevisti (aereo in ritardo di ore, bambino col mal d’auto). Auto perfette, arrivate sempre in orario, con il seggiolino della dimensione corretta. Lo useremo certamente di nuovo. —— [English] We used Mr Rossano’ agency for the car journey between Pisa airport to our hotel in Liguria. He’s been extremely polite, communicated timely and the prices were more than fair. He handled gracefully when we created some inconveniences for him: our flight was 3 hours late and our toddler was car sick. The cars were impeccably clean, arrived on time and had the correct baby car seats that we had requested. We’ll certainly use his services again.

(Translated by Google) We bought a trip to Paris for two hoping that everything would go well, everything was perfect until the last day when an asymptomatic positive swab prevented us from returning. Our agency didn't abandon us for a moment, it found us a studio apartment in centre, the flight has been postponed several times, reassured and followed up until your return. I would like to add that Italy prevents you from returning but abandons you there, does not give you instructions on what to do through someone, so we are rightly very worried. heartfelt thanks to our agent Rossano. (Original) Abbiamo comprato un viaggio a Parigi per due sperando che andasse tutto bene, è stato tutto perfetto fino all'ultimo giorno quando un tampone positivo asintomatico ci ha impedito di rientrare.La nostra agenzia non ci ha abbandonati un attimo,ci ha trovato un monolocale in centro,spostato più volte il viaggio aereo,rassicurati e seguiti fino al rientro.Vorrei aggiungere che l'Italia ti impedisce di rientrare ma ti abbandona lì,non ti dà attraverso qualcuno disposizioni sul da farsi,quindi ci siamo giustamente molto preoccupati.Un grazie di cuore al nostro agente Rossano.

(Translated by Google) I recommend this agency for reliability, seriousness and efficiency. they respond immediately and are always available. I would say excellent. Thank you (Original) Consiglio questa Agenzia per affidabilità, serietà ed efficienza. rispondono subito e sono.sempre reperibili. Direi ottima. grazie

Getting caught up on reviews/pics from out trip to Italy in May/June 2024. What an amazing castle! The owner/family still lives there, but has opened the castle for tours. The history of the castle goes back some 1500 years. It’s on a large hill overlooking the Trebbia River, in the province of Piacenza, Italy. Many of the rooms in the castle are “as is”… as they have been for centuries. So much history there, from prisoners to royal guests from all over Europe. It really is a very cool place to visit, good for families as well!

Would be a great trip but if you are not Italian, the tour guides are extremely inhospitable and rude. They do not try to hide their xenophobia. In certain rooms they refuse to speak anything but Italian, and they will not make eye contact with anyone who does not. We were dismissed quickly and the visit was not worth the money. I agree with other reviews, the staff make this a must-miss and unpleasant experience.

This could be a fantastic experience if only the (still living) descendants weren't so selfish and exclusive. For instance: you can't take photos inside the castle; wonder why? me too! Also, the rooms and most of the castle isn't true to its origin: it's rebuilt, not restored. Not recommended.

gorgeous ancient castle. had a lovely visit, a historian took us to see some of the rooms although the family still lives there. I particularly appreciated the 17th century games and toys and the armours hall.

The location is timeless and absolutely gorgeous! The food was really really good with a great service! Absolutely delighted by the fabulous lunch that we had!

Magnificent stronghold. Well maintained and with a simply great static display of uniforms and weapons. Competent guide illustrated all castle secrets

Nice place to visit. Unfortunately the castle was closed when we arrived here but we had a very good lunch in this area.

Certosia di Pavia is a magical place. The monks who lead guided tours are extremely knowledgeable about the history of the monastery and the sanctuary. There's a little shop where you can buy some delicious local rice perfect to cook risotto.

Beautiful throughout. Amazed at how large the place was overall. Needed maintenace in the living quarters but the church portion was in much better condition. No entrance fee. Sold teas of many kinds. Has a free group guide that explains different areas in Italian.

Magnificent monastery with a truly striking gothic church embellished by masterly carved tombs and a simply majestic wooden choir. You have to join a free tour to visit the complex, departing at fixed hours and led by very knowledgeable monks. At the end of the tour a small shop offers food prepared on the premises (and from the surrounding areas, I guess)

A truly special site of spiritual and historic importance that has retained its stunning craftsmanship and artistry as well as its character and ambience over 7 centuries since its foundation. Well worth visiting especially in the afternoon when the sun shines on the western facade.

This is not about the place itself, but about one staff member. One woman shouted at us about our clothing. I calmly apologized, explained we didn’t know, and told her there was no need to shout. She continued yelling and never calmed down. Yet I fully understand that we must dress modestly. However, it also clearly says that no one should be shouting in this place, as you can see in the photo I attached. In addition, as the Bible says, “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger” (Proverbs 15:1). A kind explanation would have been far more respectful and effective. However, the two young women at the entrance were lovely and welcoming.

Visiting the Certosa di Pavia monastery was nothing short of a mesmerizing experience. Nestled in the Lombardy region of Italy, this monastery is a true architectural gem. Inside, the monastery's tranquility provides a haven for introspection and spiritual rejuvenation. The impressive church, dedicated to the Virgin Mary, features a harmonious blend of rich frescoes, ornate wooden choir stalls, and marble sculptures. The cloisters, characterized by elegant arches and manicured gardens, are yet another striking feature of the Certosa di Pavia. Walking through the peaceful cloisters offers an intimate experience of monastic life, while also allowing one to appreciate the exquisite craftsmanship that adorns the walls and columns. A visit to the Certosa di Pavia is a must for anyone interested in art, history, and spirituality. The serenity and splendor of this architectural masterpiece offer a truly unique experience that leaves a lasting impression.

So easy to arrive there by train from Milan, just 40 mins, 3,80€ / tickets and you ca enjoy such a wonderful historical place absolutely for free. We arrived at 14:30 and at 15:00 started a guided tour by a monk who lived there. It was very interesting and we enjoyed a couple of hours at this place.

Walking around during the roof terraces on a sunny day was terrific. The outside of the Cathedral is more interesting than the inside, but that is still very impressive. The museum was a lit more interesting than I thought it was going to be We bought timed tickets (the timing is for the roof) before going. When I bought them, I thought they were expensive. After the visit, they seem good value as visiting all areas took the whole day.

El Duomo in Milan was one of the most breathtaking landmarks I’ve ever seen. The moment you walk into the square, the cathedral’s incredible gothic architecture completely captures your attention—every detail, every spire, every carving is stunning up close. The inside is just as impressive, with soaring ceilings, beautiful stained glass, and an atmosphere that feels both grand and peaceful. But the rooftop was my favorite part. Walking along the terraces and seeing the city from above while standing among the intricate marble spires is an unforgettable experience. Everything is well-organized, and the staff were helpful throughout the visit. Whether you’re into history, architecture, or just want a truly awe-inspiring moment, El Duomo is a must-see when in Milan.

Visited Duomo di Milano, and it was one of the most awe-inspiring sights of my entire trip. The gothic architecture is stunning from every angle — the spires, sculptures, and stained glass tell centuries of history and craftsmanship. Climbing up to the rooftop terrace offers breathtaking views across Milan, especially at sunset. Inside, the light filtering through the colored glass creates a quiet, sacred feeling. It’s not just a landmark — it’s a masterpiece of art, faith, and human effort. A must-visit for anyone coming to Milan.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Absolutely breathtaking! The Duomo is beyond beautiful — every detail is incredibly intricate and far more impressive than words can describe. If you plan to take the elevator to the rooftop for the view, I highly recommend booking tickets online in advance.

Lots of tourists arrive here every single day, and it’s easy to understand why. The architecture of this ancient cathedral is absolutely stunning every part of the exterior is covered with beautiful carvings and statues that reflect centuries of history and devotion. We also visited this place during our trip to Milan, and it was an unforgettable experience. The atmosphere around the cathedral is lively, with people taking photos, enjoying the view, and admiring the beauty of the structure from every angle. Inside, it feels peaceful and majestic at the same time. The stained glass windows are colorful and full of intricate details, and the tall pillars make you realize how grand this church really is. If you visit, I highly recommend going up to the rooftop. The view from the top is simply amazing you can see the whole city of Milan and appreciate the details of the spires up close. There might be a queue, but it’s definitely worth the wait. Overall, the Duomo di Milano is not just a church, but a masterpiece of art, history, and architecture. A must-visit place for anyone coming to Milan!

Breathtaking – Day and Night! I absolutely loved visiting the Duomo di Milano! It's one of the most stunning places I’ve ever seen. I was so impressed that I went back three days in a row – both during the day and at night – and each time it felt just as magical. The architecture is incredible, especially when it's lit up in the evening. Whether you're exploring inside, walking on the rooftop, or just enjoying the view from the square, this place is unforgettable. A must-see in Milan!

Genuinely one of the most stunning, astonishing places I've ever visited. Its genuinely so breathtaking, I'll never visit another place that makes you feel so amazed. I'd recommend getting tickets beforehand and remember to cover your shoulders and ladies, wear a long dress or they'll make you buy a bag to cover up.

Awesome building and great atmosphere grand arches make it a must see landmark. It’s perfect for a leisurely stroll, luxury shopping, or enjoying a coffee while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. A truly iconic Milanese experience.

A stunning masterpiece of Italian architecture and style. The soaring glass dome, marble floors, and ornate ironwork make the Galleria one of the most elegant spaces in Europe. Standing at the center, beneath the famous mosaic of the bull, is a little ritual — spin your heel for good luck — and it’s fun to watch visitors from all over the world take part. Even if you’re not shopping, the beauty of the place makes it worth visiting. The light through the dome, the hum of conversation from the cafés, and the view toward the Duomo capture everything you imagine Milan to be — sophisticated, timeless, and full of life.

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is one of those places that makes you stop and stare even if you were just walking by. The second you step inside, you feel like you have entered a different world. The glass roof, the iron structure, and the floor covered with mosaics all hit you at once. It is elegant without trying too hard, classic but still alive. Every angle looks like it was made to be photographed, and somehow it never feels fake or staged. You can hear the sound of footsteps echoing through the hall, mixed with the low buzz of people talking, laughing, and shopping. Luxury stores line both sides, but even if you are not there to spend money, just walking through is worth it. The smell of coffee from the cafes mixes with the city air, and for a moment everything feels balanced between chaos and calm. If you look up, the glass dome above makes the light fall in a way that changes through the day, from soft in the morning to golden near sunset. It gives the whole place a quiet glow. You start to realize it is not just a shopping gallery, it is a piece of Milan’s identity. Old, proud, stylish, and built to last. It is one of those spots that remind you why Milan feels different from every other city.

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is not just a shopping mall it’s truly a masterpiece of architecture and Italian elegance. Located right next to the famous Duomo, this historic gallery feels like stepping back in time to the golden age of Milan. The stunning glass dome, the detailed mosaic floors, and the grand arches make it one of the most beautiful and photogenic places I’ve ever visited. The moment you walk in, you can feel the luxury and history surrounding you. Every corner is picture-perfect, and even if you’re not into shopping, it’s still worth visiting just to admire the design and atmosphere. The galleries are lined with high-end fashion brands like Prada, Louis Vuitton, and Gucci a paradise for luxury shoppers. Even the window displays are pieces of art. We also stopped for a coffee at one of the cafes inside, and it was a lovely experience sitting under the glass roof watching people pass by. Prices are a bit high (as expected in such a prestigious location), but the experience is totally worth it. You can also find restaurants offering delicious Italian cuisine perfect for a relaxing lunch after exploring the Duomo area. One tip: visit early morning or late evening to avoid the big crowds and enjoy the peaceful beauty of the gallery. At night, when the lights glow softly through the glass ceiling, it feels truly magical. Whether you’re a tourist or a local, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is a must-see in Milan a symbol of Italian craftsmanship, style, and timeless beauty.

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II in Milan is a stunning 19th-century shopping arcade, named after Italy’s first king and designed by Giuseppe Mengoni. Opened in 1877, it’s Italy’s oldest active mall and a masterpiece of iron-and-glass architecture. Visiting with my family was a joy—we captured countless photos and videos of its elegant mosaics, soaring dome, and vibrant atmosphere. The Galleria connects Piazza del Duomo to Teatro alla Scala and hosts luxury brands like Prada, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and Rolex. It’s not just a shopping destination, but a cultural landmark where history, fashion, and architecture blend into an unforgettable Milanese experience.

Walking into the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II felt like stepping into a luxury postcard. The glass dome, the mosaics, the high-end stores—all insanely elegant. I didn’t go inside any boutiques, just enjoyed the vibe. It’s the kind of place where you stroll slowly and take everything in.

The architecture here is IMPRESSIVE! While it looks like a regular shopping street, it's nowhere near that. It's a reminder of how majestic Italy and their history is. Take a look above you, and you see a dome. Take a look below you and you see Mosaic tiles. Each corner, each crevice, each tile perfectly placed. As you walk around, you will see the HEAVY hitters in luxury stores. LV, Prada, Chanel, Gucci, Versace, and many more. Even if you don't shop, it's still impressive to walk around and take in the beauty.

On a recent trip to Milan, we had the pleasure of visiting Castello Sforzesco and absolutely loved exploring this historic treasure. Admission is free, and you can walk around the grounds to enjoy the beautiful landscape and gardens. There are clean washrooms and even a few food trucks inside the premises where you can grab a drink or snacks. This castle is wonderful for visitors of all ages and is quite picturesque, perfect for some lovely Instagram photos. You’ll need about 1–2 hours to stroll around and take in the surroundings, though you can certainly stay longer and relax in the peaceful gardens.

Chose the free option so could only walk around the grounds but still a very impressive building. I believe a lot of the rooms are little museums and exhibitions. Definitely worth a visit whether you pay or not. Dates back to the 15th Century I think. Lovely fountain in front one of the entrances.

Really great walk even if you don’t visit the castle itself. Lots of different areas, I liked the fountain and the park the most as was a good walk in the Milan weather. It does get very busy though so watch out for any pickpockets but besides that great attraction to see.

Bring water! It’s a lot of stone and no breeze at all even on a November day it’s hot. The building is beautiful and fun to read about the different times and styles people wanted to build. (And all the holes are for scaffolding for fast and easy repairs)

Went here at around 16.00 with my boyfriend, it’s already dark and to go inside the castle is almost closed so we just spend an hour around the palace field and garden and it was Beautifuuuuuuuuul! They have a lot of information board with stories about the castles! Very interesting (and one tips is to bring your AI friends to ask them about everything you’ve been curious about) there are so many magnificent remains even outside the castle! Would love to come here again maybe in the morning to really explore inside 🤓

a lovely castle with many museums (picture gallery, Museum of Ancient art, Museum of musical instruments, Museum of decorative art and Museum o prehistory and protohistory). When I can, I go to the early period music concert which is a great quality in an exceptional atmosphere. The entrance ticket is not expensive and there are really many ancient objects to enjoy. There is a big park, Parco Sempione, just behind the castle.

Castello Sforzesco is a very large majestic castle in Milan. There are several entrances/ exits. There are both ends towers. Free toilets are also available. Outside, next to the castle is a large beautiful fountain. There is a food stall selling nice fluffy chestnuts at the entrance. Policemen on horses are awesome.

Seeing The Last Supper at the Monastery of Santa Maria delle Grazie was truly a once-in-a-lifetime moment for me. No photo or book could ever prepare you for the feeling of standing in front of Leonardo’s masterpiece. The atmosphere is quiet and almost sacred—you can sense the history in the room. I felt completely in awe, almost like time had stopped, just taking in the details and the emotion on each Apostles faces. It was absolutely worth the wait and all the planning. If you’re dreaming of seeing it, please do yourself a favor and book well in advance—tickets sell out quickly and you can’t just walk in on the day. This experience is something I’ll carry with me forever.

Amazing masterpiece of Leonardo da Vinci the last supper. We got a tour paid with the company GetYourGuide and it was very good. Not too friendly but very good explanations about the origin of the painting, history and holy stories about it. Bucket list

Visiting the Last Supper Museum in Milan requires significant advance planning, as there are no ticket sales on site. All tickets must be purchased online, and securing them is widely regarded as one of the most challenging museum bookings in Europe. Tickets are released only four times per year. For instance, tickets for the period from 1 November through 31 January become available on 30 September of that year. In addition, the museum releases a very small number of supplementary tickets every Wednesday at 12:00 PM (Milan time) for dates within the following couple of weeks. As a result, obtaining tickets often requires planning months in advance and checking the booking system diligently each Wednesday. It is, without exaggeration, a rather daunting and time-consuming process. Fortunately, we managed to secure a morning time slot during the week we were visiting Milan. Visitors must arrive at the gate 15 minutes before the scheduled entry time. The visit itself is strictly timed: you are allowed only 15 minutes inside the refectory to view Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper. While brief, the controlled environment helps preserve the fragile mural and ensures a quiet, intimate viewing experience. Despite the effort required to obtain tickets, the experience is unequivocally worth it. The painting is breathtaking; even after centuries of deterioration, restoration, and careful preservation, the mastery of Leonardo’s technique remains evident. The composition, the expressions, and the sheer presence of the work are awe inspiring and offer a profound connection to one of the greatest masterpieces in art history. A visit to the Last Supper is unquestionably worth the logistical challenge. It stands as one of Milan’s most extraordinary cultural treasures.

📍 Leonardo’s Last Supper Museum (Cenacolo Vinciano) – Milan, Italy 🇮🇹 Home to one of the most famous artworks in the world 🎨—Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper. The painting is housed in the refectory of Santa Maria delle Grazie ⛪ and seeing it in person is breathtaking. Entry is strictly timed ⏰, with only small groups allowed inside for about 15 minutes, which helps preserve the fresco. Tickets 🎟️ must be booked well in advance as they sell out quickly. A once-in-a-lifetime experience and an absolute must when visiting Milan. 🙌

15 minutes with one of the top 5 most famous works of art in the world. How do the tour guides maintain their pleasant demeanor when a recently minted Dan Brown-expert asks about the female to Jesus right?!

Must do with a guide. You only get 15 minutes to see the painting so the information from the guide really helps in bringing the story alive. Our guide Silvia Zucco was excellent - knowledgeable, patient and a wonderful storyteller.

Take the guided tour. Our guide was very nice, told in detail about the history of the painting, the characters and also took us to the church. You need to explore the interior yourself ( which is the best part)! They have preserved the place very nicely.

It’s a very beautiful garden right on the lake. I don’t mind paying 10€ just to walk through the park because it does take some work to maintain the garden. It’s a nice place, there’s a museum too. However you cannot enter the main villa and it’s just not that amazing overall. It’s still a great place to be away from the touristy centro of Bellagio

Nice place to stroll in Bellagio! The garden is super well-kept and even has tropical plants like banana trees 🍌🍌🍌 Great for photos, an afternoon walk, or just to chill after lunch. Worth a visit if you’re around!

Beautiful place for a 45-60 minute walk, to have the full experience. Nice walking paths along the garden with various plants and trees. All this goes along the Como lake waterfront.

Opening hours are daily 10 am to 6:30 pm. The gardens are closed in the winter time. In 2025 it will close on Oct 31st and will reopen in March 2026. Cost is 10€ you buy tickets at the gates. 2 gates entry one on each side. Located in the town of Bellagio on lake como. Parking is limited as the town of Bellagio is very popular in the summer.

The grounds are absolutely gorgeous and so well cared for. Everywhere you look, there’s beautiful greenery and an incredible variety of trees. It’s such a peaceful, stunning place to walk through. If you’re visiting Bellagio, this is a must see. I highly recommend making time for a visit.

Gorgeous gardens with different small hiding places and paths. Beautiful scenery, amazing views, you can really unwind and soothe your soul here. If you're into gardens you can't miss this one. If you're not so much into gardens, you should still visit this one.

Villa Melzi is one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever visited. The gardens are immaculate, peaceful, and filled with stunning colors, especially in spring. Every path reveals something new—ancient trees, vibrant flowers, classical statues, and breathtaking views of the lake. The atmosphere is serene and elegant, perfect for a relaxing stroll or quiet reflection. The neoclassical villa adds a timeless charm, and the small museum and chapel offer fascinating historical insight. The combination of nature, art, and history is truly unique. It felt like walking through a living painting.

Nice museum with several exhibits. Also has gorgeous views of lake como. There is also a restaurant to grab some lunch. It was not crowded when we visited also there was no line to buy tickets. Worthwhile visiting the villa.

An absolute architectural, botanical and historical marvel of the last 500 years. The grounds of the villa are absolutely gorgeous - fountains sculptures, and perfectly manicured floral heaven. The garden is truly remarkable with how much variety of plants there are and also the way it's been maintained. For the building itself, nothing short of extraordinary - the design and architecture is impressive. There is so much history and craftsmanship behind this place.

Inside and out Villa Carlotta was a joy to visit. We loved the art work inside the villa. Be sure o look up as many of the rooms are adorned with frescos and or reliefs. The grounds are a botanical wonder with species brought in from around the world.

Must see! Great place to visit, beatiful inside, many sculpture, paintings few rooms with furniture with very great conditions. Amaizing garden around, it takes 2-3 hours to visit and see all villa and garden. Beautyful view from balcony for Como lake.

Beautiful villa with stunning lake views and lush gardens. The inside has some impressive art and sculptures, but the real highlight is walking through the gardens, peaceful and scenic, a perfect spot to slow down and take in the beauty of Lake Como.

Lovely visit especially enjoyed the extensive gardens, agricultural history and interactive commentary in our language about basement life at the Villa. Reasonable €15 entrance (€13 for over 65s) Luggage lockers were helpful. Bistro service for 2 hot drinks was slow on the day(20/8/25) as they seemed short-staffed.

I have no words. Grand, classy, ​​green. Bamboo plants, very tropical. The great beauty of a sea of ​​over 150 species of plants. All this is combined with the view of Lake Como, which is open from almost every point of Villa Carlotta. Very good restaurant.

Visiting the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta in Como was an unforgettable experience. The architecture is breathtaking — a perfect blend of Gothic strength and Renaissance grace. Every detail, from the grand façade to the colorful stained glass, tells a story of faith, art, and history. Inside, the peaceful atmosphere and the play of light through the windows create a sense of timeless beauty. Absolutely worth visiting — a masterpiece that captures the soul of Italy.

Very interesting. But what I would like is a MAP of the figures on the OUTSIDE of this structure. Clearly there are some very unique figures (not usually seen on churches), like Pliny the Younger. I would like to know more about the why each of these figures/animals were chosen and why they were placed in their current location. The construction of this Cathedral was begun in 1396 and over 300 years combined Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque styles. What is interesting is that the cathedral in Milan was just begun 10 years before. There is a timeline of events related to the Cathedral di Sant Maria Assunta, is located inside, which is informative.

I was surprised by this duomo. It is very well preserved and has an interesting way of keeping the parishioners and tourists separated while not strongly impacting either. This is the only catholic church I have been in that has the old style offering candles. Finally, make sure to take in the ceiling. The use of blue is rare.

This cathedral is one of the most beautiful for sure I have ever seen. You can enter inside for free and also you can admire its beauty from the cafe across it. Order an aperol and enjoy stunning view. Dolce far niente 🇮🇹

The cathedral is within walking distance from the train station. It is open to tourists for praying and picture taking M-S. You can get closer to the altar past the rope to pray only. Beautiful church!

Lovely Cathedral situated right in the middle of the shops and market . Free entry using a separate door than the staff and people who actually pray here . Well maintained .

The Duomo di Como is a beautiful cathedral with a mix of Gothic and Renaissance styles. The outside is impressive, and the square around it makes it even more special. Inside, the stained glass windows, frescoes, and intricate decorations are amazing – I could stay for hours just admiring every detail. The atmosphere is calm and peaceful, making it a perfect place to relax and enjoy the art. Definitely a must-visit in Como!