Did this hike with my friends and although I did find it challenging at points with regular breaks it’s not only very doable but simply beautiful (keep in mind I hadn’t hiked in years at that point). Lovely views and even a spot for a swim right at the top for those who are brave enough to face the chilly waters!

Magnificent high waterfall. You can walk directly up to the waterfall but before you should take off your clothes unless you are completely wet. It's possible to swim in the river. There is a huge paid parking nearby.

every time I visit chiavenna I always pass by the cascate. they’re so beautiful in winter or summer. recently I’ve been doing some of the hikes that you can find behind the waterfall which continue up alongside it and let me say it’s definitely worth it. you can find many pools near the summit for a quick dip in summer and in winter the serenity is amazing and the running water is a great soundtrack to accompany your hike. recommended 10/10 experience. brought my friends from australia with me the most recent time I did the hike and they also loved it. we swam in the spot in the second photo but beware even in peak summer the water is freezing (worth it though)

A very beautiful and fantastic waterfall, really worth going to ✌️👌👍

First I went to Alone by myself, then I took my whole family and now we go here for picnics every summer♥️. It is a very beautiful and peaceful place🥰.

Beautiful place I love the view

Very nice waterfalls right next to the SS37 road.

Never miss out going here once you plan to visit Lake Cumo.They have only guided tours and it's totally worth it.A brief about the ammunition storage and the thought process which went into building such a fort during a crisis. A special mention about the guides here, they are special and kind and take time to clear all your doubts.

What a wonderful find in Colico! We didn't really know about this fort until we got to Colico, but I'm so glad we decided to visit it. Our guide Luke was wonderful, truly enthusiastic, very knowledgeable, and very friendly and charming. Apparently we were the only ones visiting the fort that day, so full marks to him for doing such a brilliant job of the tour when we were the last and only tour of the day. I know this is highly rated here, but I still think it's not very well known and it should be! The working canon is amazing, the entire site is very well maintained, and the signs are in Italian, English and German. Luke spoke fluent English and made the whole experience very interesting. Highly recommended!

The guided tour is very interesting! The guide was very knowledgeable, and told us a lot of interesting facts about the fort. The cannons are well-preserved and still move, which was very cool to see. I learned a lot of war-history that I did not know yet, and the tour made it really come alive. The views are also great from the roof of the fortress, definitively worth a visit! Again thank you!

We had an excellent English speaking guide who was very knowledgeable on the history of the Fort, the WWI and the guns. Views from the top were fabulous.

Remarkable Fort. For all those who are WW1 /WW2 enthusiasts, this is a must. Fantastic tour guide who was more than happy to answer any additional questions. Great views from the tops well.

Very interesting museum. Canons are in still perfect condition having 100 years.

Superb example of WW1 defensive thinking, augmented today by people in uniform. Astounded to see that the original canon are maintained and can be moved as smoothly as they day they were made. Even the munitions hoists worker.

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.

A beautiful estate with a fascinating walk to and from the site. Definitely touristy but absolutely worth the visit. Be aware: Google’s “mostly flat” description is misleading—you’ll need to tackle some uphill sections, so bring good shoes.

Very beautiful and pristine villa. Everything is very manicured and clean. It is about a 2km walk from the Leno ferry terminal. Definitely some gradients so wear comfortable shoes. This villa is home to famous scenes in Star Wars and also James Bond Casino Royale.

Such an incredible place to visit if you are going to Lago di Como, I would suggest buying the tickets in advance so you can skip the wait, bring comfortable shoes, I wouldn’t recommend heels or anything like that if you do want to enjoy the most hidden places here. Very clean, it takes about 2-3 hours so see and enjoy most of the villa! Is a must!

One word – magnificent. I recommend buying tickets in advance to avoid waiting. We arrived at 10 a.m. and waited about 20 minutes in line. The villa opens at 10:00 a.m. They allow only a limited number of visitors inside, which is great because it’s not overcrowded. The ticket costs €14.

Beautiful Villa... Looked stunning in Casino Royale! In person so much more!!! Tour is a must do to understand the last owner.. ended up buying the book about him. A must visit if in the area.

To reach it, you have to walk about 750-800 meters after parking your car, but believe me, it's worth it 👍I think if you came to visit Lake Como, you should definitely see this place, the entrance fee is 13€ per person, very well preserved, Italian architectural features and the magnificent Como atmosphere, wonderful 👍

Famous from Hollywood-movies this gorgeous villa and surrounding gardens are a must visit when visiting Lake Como. We took the guides tour inside the Villa which was very fascinating. It was very hot and crowded in gardens however, so would recommend to visit off-season and make sure to buy your tickets in advance.

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 place in the middle of the lake you can enjoy the view of como city 360 and the vibes is very nice you can see the sunset and take very nice photos and this place also you can make a mirror selfie ;p but the humidity was very high then and the lake itself need to be cleaned

This spot is really beautiful, perfect for capturing the entire lake and its surroundings. A top viewpoint and a must visit if you’re in Como. Just be prepared for a bit of a long walk to reach it

A great spot for beautiful shots of the entire lake. The promenade in the middle of the lake is a very popular tourist attraction.

a striking modern sculpture located on Lake Como, Italy, dedicated to Alessandro Volta, the inventor of the electric battery. The site offers wonderful views of the lake and surrounding mountains, especially at sunset. Walking along the pier to the sculpture is peaceful and scenic. It’s open 24 hours, perfect for short visits and photography.

The place to enjoy the 360 degrees of Come lake view.

This beautiful, gleaming monument to Como native Alessandro Volta, the renowned physicist who invented the first electric battery, stands in the lake a short distance from the shoreline. Life Electric was a gift to Como from Polish-American artist Daniel Libeskind, who owns an architecture school in the town. The twelve ton steel sculpture depicts the electrical tension between the poles of a battery and is connected to the town via a three hundred and fifty meter pier paved with flagstones. Wonderful views of the lake are to be had from the pier and the base of the sculpture. Free entrance and not crowded at all at mid-morning on a Sunday end of June.

Cool artwork on the lake. Walk slowly and enjoy the atmosphere. However, the road does not connect to the other side of the lake; it is a round trip walk.

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!

Huge park, great for cycling waking etc. It's so big it has the monza F1 track, a farm, a golf course and loads and loads of space to spare.

Wonderful place for walking, with kids’ play areas scattered throughout the park. Loved it

Good park very Italian would recommend. Mamma Mia!

I love meandering through this park and watching the sunset by the fountain in front of Palazzo Reale. Lingering is a priority here! We stumbled on a Beer/Food Truck festival on the last visit ... which was fun! they had trucks reprenting almost every type of cuisine in the world.

Largest walled park in Europe! Beatifullll

Incredibly huge park. The racing circuit part is very big alone, but the rest is big as well. Suitable for sports activities of many kinds. They even have running tracks for several lengths. Prep for many kms walk or better, ride. There was a huge storm in July 23 that massacred the racing track surrounding. Over 10 000 trees fell down.

Big beautiful park of the royal palace. 🌳🪵🍃 We spent not one but two days walking around and feeding the squirrels. 🥜🐿️ There are so many. 😍 There is a lake, with plenty of fish 🐟 and ducks 🦆 The tower looks cool. You really have plenty of options how to enjoy this place. ☺️

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.

What an exceptional experience. Once in a life time for me! as an Asian person, it was great to attend opera. Reminder to be aware of dress code as Italian dress really proper for opera!!! Good thing is there’s subtitle in English for the opera . Staff is helpful. Nice bar during the break too, good champagne.

A beautiful place, full of charm and history. The architecture, colors, and overall atmosphere are stunning, it truly feels like a grand theatre. The stage is massive, and the chandelier is absolutely gorgeous. The foyer is spacious and elegant, with mirrors that add to its classic feel. The museum is also worth exploring, filled with fascinating objects and paintings. Definitely a must-visit in Milan.

Went to see the ballet productions Études, Petite Mort, Boléro with the Ballet Company of the Teatro alla Scala and the Orchestra of the Academy of La Scala Theatre and it was epic. The orchestra and conductors were brilliant but the dancers were the stars especially the Boléro, she was amazing and the piece was spectacular. No idea how she spend 20+ mins like that but I'd watch it again any day. Only problem is for a 6 foot plus person the seats in the balcony are real tight, almost makes Ryan Air look a little comfy. Was fanatic to see so many kids at the ballet, smiling, laughing and enjoying it. We need more of this in Ireland

The museum is very interesting. The building is beautiful and there is a lot to see. It is really nice that you have the chance to look into the stage and watch a current rehearsal. The ticket is 12 euro and the visit is totally worth it. We visited on a Tuesday morning and there were very few visitors so it was quite.

Remember to book in good time in advance as the tickets sell out fast! This legend is one of the top opera houses in the world. The foyer space is quite small compared to the big number of seats and it gets really crowded in the intermission. The bar is cramped so go to line first for a separate ticket to get the drinks, only then to the service area so you get your purchase. We saw Verdi’s Rigoletto. The expectations were very high so we were a bit disappointed. The tenor had gotten sick and the replacing singer was not at the same level with other soloists that were stunning. We found the regie, set and clothing a bit outdated, even if the turning set worked well. The lighting was off and I guess with better lighting design the opera would have looked much better. Overall we were pleased with the evening.

Even just from the outside, La Scala is elegant and timeless. The neoclassical façade is beautifully preserved and radiates quiet grandeur. It’s one of those places where you instantly feel Milan’s connection to art and culture — worth a short stop even if you don’t go inside.

I give 4 stars because its a beautiful theater, but is not breathtaking. Its just la scala. The performance was good Not impressive. After watching thurandot at new york opera house ..im not easy to impress.. Lol. Weirdly we got tickets the night before, so , we didn't have to make lines.

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.

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.

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.

Great place for younger children, height limits on some rides (105cm & 120cm) so worth keeping this in mind before you visit. Was a hot June day, plenty of wet areas to cool down but they are a bit manic so need to supervise young ones Bought our tickets in advance, and walked right in Food was responsibly priced, and the pizza I had was really good!

Nice place for younger children that want to experience rides. However, we were bit disappointed about Thomas the train been on service on that day so we couldn't experience it. We were waiting for it and after asking to one of the staff members we discovered that wasn't operating. Was a quite day so we didn't experience any queue. I don' t think is worth waiting 45min or more for a ride on peak season. Overall was a nice experience, my son had so much fun and had the possibility to experience different rides that he never tried before

Definitely interesting if you have kids and a spare day near Milan, though underwhelming if you’ve been to other parcs in Europe/US. It’s really geared to young kids, teenagers and up would quickly get bored. The parc itself is small but spacious, and clean. The only downside is the access roads; whover design the last couple of kms of entrance to the olace must have truly hated the parc (or people in general). Expect to waste about 30’ sitting in the car from the moment you see the entrance sign at a distance till you actually cross it

Great for little kids. Very crowded. Service is amazing. Paid parking (7 Euro). Very clean.

Unfortunately they have beit's becoming a place where the crowds exceed the livability just to pursuit profit. The ambience is actually well done and plenty of services. But you'll easily spend more time queuing (average 20 mins) instead of enjoying carousel.

We enjoyed so much me and my friends specialy on boat ride last photo

We loved it.. very nice place and good for toddlers.. the rides start for children from the length of 90cm and there are many for that age.. there is an aquario and rettilario which made it more interesting.. there is a mini Italia and it very nice too..

Great place to go around, but closed during the week. The place is rid with mosquitos though...

It's a UNESCO site, unique as it's the only one in the world that is complete as a citadel built in the Late 1700 s and built for an army of 70-100 thousand soldiers. The area has been invaded so many times over history, the buildings are so intact and well constructed the scale is mesmerising, when you're there you can only imagine how once it was so busy with thousands of young soldiers through time occupying that space and training . All that is left is the silence and the sound of the birds . It's free to view and at the weekend you can view the museum with the uniforms .

The building itself is impressive and has a lot of potential. But the site is not developed and in quite a sad state. It's OK for a quick walk through but I would not go out of the way to explore it.

Nice thing to see. Very impressive structure. But as it in many cases it looks more spectacular from Google Maps than in teal life. It feels abit abandoned .. not well kept.

Such a shame that this site has been left to ruin. We walked around the main square as that was as much as you had access to. Main entrance was closed so wasn't able to go inside.

Very disappointed how neglected this place is. Not recommended!

Can you immagine a better place where to talk about the story of Jossua and the walls of Jericó?

A highlight of Lodi!

The Tempio Civico della Beata Vergine Incoronata, also known as the Sanctuary of the Incoronata, is a Catholic church in Lodi, Lombardy, Italy, and a masterpiece of Lombard Renaissance art. Origins: The temple was built starting in 1488, following reported miracles in 1487, when a fresco of the Virgin Mary on a brothel’s facade in Via Incoronata (formerly Contrada Lomellini) allegedly wept during a fight. This prompted the citizens of Lodi to construct a civic temple dedicated to the Crowned Virgin. Civic Significance: The term "Civico" (municipal) reflects its ownership by the Lodi commune, not the diocese, as it was funded and promoted by citizens and local authorities, symbolizing civic pride and devotion. Construction: Designed by Giovanni Battagio, a pupil of Bramante, construction began on May 29, 1488. Gian Giacomo Dolcebuono took over in 1489, completing the dome by 1491, and Lorenzo Maggi finished the bell tower in 1503. The facade was completed in 1879 by Alfonsino Truzzi.

Best.

Built in 1488 by Dolcebuono who was a pupil of Bramante. Decorated by Amadeo. Well worth a visit.

Very beautiful place

(Translated by Google) A small sanctuary in Lodi located near the cathedral, construction began in 1488 and is one of the greatest masterpieces of the Lombard Renaissance. It has an octagonal plan and is richly decorated with frescoes and works of art. It belongs to the municipality because its creation stems from a citizen initiative. (Original) Piccolo santuario a Lodi situato vicino alla cattedrale, edificato a partire dal 1488, è uno dei maggiori capolavori del rinascimentale lombardo. È a pianta ottagonale ed è ricchissimo di decorazioni, affreschi e opere d'arte. È di appartenenza comunale perché la sua nascita deriva da un'iniziativa cittadina.

(Translated by Google) The church, built between 1488 and 1494 based on a design by Giovanni Battaggio, is one of Lombardy's most astonishing Renaissance jewels. It is called a civic temple because it was commissioned and financed by the Lodi community, in recognition of the strong popular devotion to the miraculous image housed there. The octagonal plan, a symbol of perfection and rebirth, houses a fully decorated interior, a true Baroque-Renaissance treasure trove overflowing with paintings, sculptures, frescoes, and stuccoes created by the greatest Lombard artists of the 16th and 17th centuries. The works are truly numerous: rather than listing them, the motto here applies: "not to describe, but to contemplate." (Original) La chiesa, edificata tra il 1488 e il 1494 su progetto di Giovanni Battaggio, è uno dei gioielli rinascimentali più sorprendenti della Lombardia. È detto tempio civico perché voluto e finanziato dalla comunità lodigiana, riconoscente per la forte devozione popolare legata all’immagine miracolosa che vi era custodita. La pianta ottagonale, simbolo di perfezione e rinascita, accoglie un interno interamente decorato, un vero scrigno barocco-rinascimentale traboccante di tele, sculture, affreschi e stucchi realizzati dai maggiori artisti lombardi tra Cinque e Seicento. Le opere sono davvero numerosissime: più che elencarle, qui vale il motto “non si descrive, si contempla”.

Serravalle Designer Outlet is a popular shopping destination located in Serravalle Scrivia, Italy. First time visited this outlet. It was great shopping experience here. To get here, I took the bus from Largo Cairoli Castello, which takes approximately 1.5 hours with cost 24 euro for roundtrip. It features a wide range of luxury and designer brands, offering discounted prices on high-quality products such as clothing, shoes, accessories, and more. The outlet mall provides a pleasant shopping experience, with modern facilities and a variety of dining options. It's an ideal place for shoppers looking for premium brands at affordable prices. Open daily , from monday to sunday 10 am to 8 pm.

A true melting pot of brands, ranging from luxury labels like Prada, Gucci, and Armani to more accessible names like Nike, Levi’s, and Lindt. If you're looking for a specific item at a reduced price, this is definitely the place to check out. Even without a shopping goal, it's easy to stroll around, enjoy the pedestrian streets, shaded corners, and the pseudo-village atmosphere. Parking is free and convenient, which makes the experience even smoother. Sure, the setting feels a bit artificial, but for a day of shopping or casual wandering, it does the trick.

If you’re imagining rows of glamorous boutiques and hidden designer treasures, think again. Serravalle is what happens when someone takes the word *“outlet”* too literally — it’s been drained of stock, charm, and reason to exist. Most stores look like the aftermath of a clearance sale nobody wanted. Celine’s men’s section had maybe twenty sad pieces clinging to hangers for dear life. Dolce & Gabbana? Just the bargain-bin D&G line pretending to be designer. Truly inspiring. And let’s talk about the “discounts.” They’re so tiny you’ll need a microscope to find them. Moncler’s “outlet prices” could double as comedy — same old coats, barely cheaper, just worse lighting. Add in an hour-long drive from Milan, and you’ve got the perfect recipe for regret. Serravalle isn’t a shopping destination — it’s a **masterclass in marketing disappointment**. Unless your idea of fun is overpaying for leftovers while surrounded by tour buses, do yourself a favor: **stay in Milan and shop like a sane person.**

Serravalle Designer Outlet is a fantastic shopping destination – spacious, clean, and very well-organized. It’s easy to get around, accessible, and offers a fun atmosphere for a full day out. The variety of shops is impressive (almost overwhelming – one day isn’t enough to see everything!). There are plenty of options for food and coffee, plus free Wi-Fi which makes the experience even more convenient. Overall, a great place to shop, relax, and enjoy.

There were discounts in every store. You can easily find sizes. It takes a whole day to visit all the stores. Visit the shopping center on weekdays because there are very few people.

We stopped to do some shopping here on the last day before returning to our country. The place is quite spacious, the parking is hard to find, but many famous brands aren’t available here.

We had 6 hours here due to the bus we booked from Milan, we saw a corner of this place, absolutely huge! Got very good discounts and there was enough stock.

Very nice fortress but not too much to see inside even with the paid guided tour (€5/person). So if you don’t won’t to pay just stay in Gavi and enjoy the view up the hill ;-)

WOW! What an awesome and inspiring historical masterpiece! I wish it has been open. Walking around it was awesome, but I'd really love to go inside.

We came at the perfect time to catch a tour with a couple who reserved it in advance. They do tours about once every hour and a half, you have to wait if they are on a tour as the door is clothed in between. The tour is an hour and a half and it’s in Italian. A lot of history and art. The views are nice. There is no exploring on our own- just the tour.

Very impressive fort with a rich history. Unfortunately you can only visit it on very specific days and times (very random days). So double check before showing up - you can always walk a bit around it when it's closed, but that's about it!

An interesting fortress which has been rebuilt from a medieval castle. Entry with a guided tour every hour at half past. The guide spoke no English, but was very friendly, and fortunately there were detailed printed texts in English.

It's a beautiful fort with a rich history. I recommend looking at the opening times though. When we visited, it only opened at fixed times - and guided tour only. So it wasn't possible to walk around freely. The tour took about 100 minutes.

The people who are working at Forte di Gavi do a Bad job, we went there two Times on one Day one time at 12am and then again at 17pm both time. They were closed because it Was to hot. Yeah Sure its Italy what youre expecting. They did not a Single Tour They, said we can come Back at 15:30 and then they closed again after 1 hour. We are really pissed!! 😡😡because the explanation that They giving us were totally Messed up. Online it said open from 9:30-17:30 last Tour. But in reality its Not!!

Beautiful place! Quiet, very well restored. Enchanting landscape.

Beautiful hermitage, surrounded by chestnut trees and with a large oak tree in front. The paintings are true medieval frescos, and there are reliquaries of saints. Heartwarming the history of the blind brother Ave Maria.

Beautiful views inside and outside

Best place to pray, to make retreat and to buy the hand made religious articles of Fraiers of Don Orione. The tomb of venerable Frate Ave Maria adds more to the religious experience.

Very authentic and moving. Loved the smell of conifers on the patio. Good place to rest and let the thoughts wander.

Lovely to be able to work around freely and see the church. The grounds are beautiful too.

Peaceful, delightful and calm. The perfect place to meet the Infinite, just what an Hermitage should be

Super nice place for hiking and mtb XC & enduro riding. Lots of trails . Shuttle service available for 30e a day (varazze/Alpicella)

Amazing place, nice walks. Good pair of shoes and get ready to walk, worth it

A terrace on the Mediterranean Sea! Great geological and naturalistic area.

Beautiful place with many different paths for more or less experienced hiker. The park is very big and you can access from various points; from some paths it's possible to enjoy the quietness of the mountain and the view of the sea.

Excellent views and easily walkable paths and unpaved roads. The trees don't block the view, so one can see the whole coastline.

Amazing place for hiking and biking. Or just enjoy the the view.

A quiet, bit windy place at 1200m above sealevel, from where you could see the bay of Savona, nice view, good place to take your dog for a walk

Really cool historic bridge with a stunning view. We parked outside the town, just next to the bridge. There's nothing much around, but it was worth the hour drive for us.

Beautiful place, in fact the village has been awarded as the most beautiful village in Italy couple of years back. I fully agree with that! Since we went on Xmas day, there were literally nobody around. The drive through the hill (last 10-15mins of drive) is bit difficult since the width of the road is just enough for one vehicle. But with almost no traffic, seems to be ok. I love to visit the tourist places when it is empty, and I am glad I picked the Xmas day for the visit. There is a restaurant near this bridge, but was closed. The village also was very quite. Just my kind of place!

Amazing medieval bridge below which is an area of river perfect for swimming. Lots of families, my children had a great time swimming about looking at the fish. Some shade under the arches of the bridge, recommend taking a picnic.

Great old bridge that you can walk from(into Bobbio. Also, it's possible to have a swim nearby, or cool your feet off

Historic Bridgestone with nice view. Good for stopover if you are driving through.

This old Roman bridge is worth a stop and walk over. Anyway if you want to take a nice pic you need to get to the other side. It's one if those places you can almost feel the history.

Beautiful bridge

Galata Museo del Mare is an absolute must-visit for history and maritime enthusiasts alike. Located in the heart of Genoa, this museum offers a fascinating journey through the city’s rich maritime heritage. The exhibits are incredibly well-curated, blending historical artifacts, interactive displays, and multimedia presentations. The life-size galley is a highlight, giving a vivid sense of what life was like aboard these magnificent vessels. The section on migration is particularly moving, offering an immersive experience that transports you to the journey of those who crossed oceans in search of a better life. The rooftop terrace provides stunning panoramic views of Genoa’s harbor—worth the visit alone! The museum is family-friendly, with plenty to engage children and adults alike.

Tons of interesting stuff, from ships, submarines all the way to immigration, it's great even if you are just a little bit interested in maritime transport.

Nice spot to explore and learn about naval history. Gallery has to-scale ships and also many interactive spaces. You can also go inside a decommissioned submarine. There is a nice view of the Genova area at the top of the gallery.

The museum is quite big. It consist of 4 levels with each floor has a different stor in which youre directed to have a tour route to enjoy all the story it host some colombus history, the genovese role, italian immigration around the world, and a replica how the ship looked like in the past. If youre scared of narrow space, id suggest to skip the submarine experience. Note: im a bit confused how to find the exit door at the end of the route.

Excellent journey through the centuries. A story of adventure, warfare, trade, slavery, immigration will told. Fun for all ages.

It is good maritime museum dated from beginning of ship development industry to the current status

Outstanding experience, not often seen in museums in general. Five floor building with a lot of contents, including real-size genoese vessels, various historical stuff about maritime history of the Genoa republic, and a great panoramic view and a seating area on the top floor. At the end, you even get a real submarine experience, located in the nearby port. Definitely worth visiting!

Great place with a nice and calm view on the yachts. Great service and delicious food that isn't expensive. Definitely enjoyable, especially on hot days as there are shady tables as well. The Tiramisu was amazing!

beautiful place with tasty food and an amazing view! the prices are also very nice and service on the high level, my waitress was super nice and friendly! Thank you for good lunch and mood!

A wonderful place located in Genoa Marina with delicious varieties of pasta.

No break time between lunch and dinner. You can enjoy a nice view. Staff is friendly. Food is good.

Delicious pasta, friendly service, beautiful location when the sun is shining for a glass of vino.

Stopped for drinks, lovely friendly owner,and staff. Nice happy atmosphere. Lovely views of the port, great coffee and beer. Wish we had more time to sample the food! Great prices too

I vomited for 2 days after eating there

The places does impress the wanderers due to its vastness and abundance of various exotic expostinions. There are many interesting acquariums including both commonly known sea critters as well as even more interesting unpopular ones. If it's not enough for you, don't worry! There are a handful of beautifully recreated biomes containing the richness of coral reefs, raw desert enviroments full with beautifull animals as well as huge pool with eager to play dolphins within.

I love visiting aquariums. My favorite places among the aquariums I've visited so far are L’Oceanogràfic Valencia, Monterey Bay Aquarium, Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium and Moskvarium. This aquarium Genoa is quite small but it's easy to visit location for tourists and jellyfish tanks were lovely. I visited there during the winter off-season and there was no line so I am not sure if it was necessary to buy the on-line entrance ticket in advance.

This city is unique, special, and legendary. Although there are a lot of immigrants who create problems of cleanliness and also other kind. This aquarium is very large and interesting. It took about 2 hours to fully explord it. There are many species of marine animals here. It is always interesting to look at them and at the same time read information about them. And a large hall with a huge panoramic glass wall, through which you can see dolphins swimming underwater, was the realization of a child's dream. Sitting there, listening to the soothing music and looking at this magnificence was incomparable. Many people believe that the price of entering an aquarium is high. Maybe that's true.

We LOVED IT, this aquarium is huge and has some sea life I haven’t seen in US. We love aquariums, you can’t go wrong. Our daughter loves the jellyfish and some cool snakes in there Husband said the manatees were amazing and large variety of sea life and frogs. When you start you are on the bottom level and you go through the whole bottom level… then you go upstairs and see everything upstairs but also have a view of sharks and other animals you saw downstairs and upstairs is best for pictures of the dolphins and sharks - for me. There is also an area you can touch some sea life.

Really enjoyed the aquarium! It is quite busy as one wood expect but it flows pretty well out and back. Lots of different species of marine life to see from all over the world. Buy tickets in advance to avoid lining up twice and beware all the people outside trying to sell/force stuff into your hands.

Great place to visit for all ages. It’s a beautiful aquarium that has everything you would expect. The heating is terrible and it is hot if you go in the summer. The animals are very active and seem to be taken care of well. If in the area, it is worth your time to visit.

Thoughtfully curated exhibits and environments such as Amazon, Lake Malawi, corals in addition to cetaceans, penguins, seals, sharks. Although the tanks and holding areas are quite large, it is sad to see the mammals and large fish confined. Dark tunnels add to the anticipation. Children will enjoy the touch tank area. Cafe, gift shops. Commentaries in Italian and English.

On this street, there are countless buildings that look like little palaces. Some can be entered for free, while others require a ticket to explore further. From the outside they don’t seem particularly special, but inside they’re full of surprises. I recommend going into one or two to take a look.

Impressive cathedral that features the typical black and white marble stripes which were a symbol of medieval Genoese nobility. The church, without 5o Genoese Gothic architecture, was completed in the early 14th century. The ​Interior is primarily Romanesque, with Renaissance and Baroque additions in later centuries. Watch the lion sculptures besides the stairs at the front.

Such a beautiful church. It was free and definitely worth a visit inside. I was wearing shorts, and so they said people not go past a certain point wearing shorts or skirts. So be aware of that in summer.

The church contains purported sacred relics of Saint John the Baptist (the city's patron saint), which arrived in 1099 AD; and the Sacred Belt of the Virgin Mary. Although I probably walked past the chapels with these relics, I didn’t know what I was looking at so didn’t get pics. So research beforehand so you don't miss them like I did!

Gorgeous. Keep in mind they expect a dress code. So if you have tank top and a skirt you wont be able to go further in. Cathedral is free, but for a fee you can also go to the tower and museum. Very very pretty!

Genoa's Cathedral of San Lorenzo (Cattedrale Metropolitana di San Lorenzo) is one of the city's most important and recognizable churches—a blend of history, diverse architectural styles, and rich sacred art. Below is a general description: history, architecture, interior, works of art, and interesting facts. The first churches on this site date back to the 5th and 6th centuries. An early basilica existed here, already being expanded and serving as a Christian community. The current church was consecrated by Pope Gelasius II in 1118, at which time San Lorenzo gained cathedral status. In the 13th and 14th centuries, the building underwent significant renovations: Gothic elements were added, and a distinctive façade, interior colonnades, and side chapels were created. After a fire in 1296, repair and reconstruction work were necessary. In the 16th century, the architect Galeazzo Alessi designed significant modifications, including: The dome, apse, and roofs of the side naves. Restorations were carried out in the 19th and 20th centuries, restoring or enhancing the medieval elements of the original building. This work was also carried out as part of the Jubilee of the Year 2000. The façade features characteristic black and white marble stripes—a feature common to many churches in northern Italy, including the influence of Pisa and Liguria. Three portals are decorated with reliefs and sculptures. The lunettes above the main portal feature a motif of the Martyrdom of St. Lawrence (San Lorenzo) and an image of God the Father with symbols of the Evangelists. Two towers (bell towers) flank the façade: one left tower was not originally completed, while the upper part of the right tower was completed later (16th century). The divergence of the towers gives the façade a slightly asymmetrical character. Stairs and fortifications in front of the cathedral: In the 19th century, the front stairs were rebuilt and marble lions were added, repositioned following urban changes (raising/lowering the square, etc.). The basilica has a traditional layout with three naves divided by columns. The side naves contain numerous chapels, donated by various families and foundations. Behind the main altar are the dome and apse designed by Galeazzo Alessi. The apse features late Mannerist and Baroque decorations, including frescoes by Lazzaro Tavarone. The Chapel of St. John the Baptist (San Giovanni Battista) — one of the most valuable interiors: sculptures, reliefs, marble decorations, and works by artists such as Matteo Civitale, Andrea Sansovino, and Giovanni d’Aria. The interior is rich in frescoes, stained glass, marble decorations, and stucco; Decorative elements represent the artistic traditions of Liguria, Tuscany, and Lombardy. The Museo del Tesoro (Treasury of the Cathedral of San Lorenzo) — beneath the church, in cellars or vaults, it houses numerous sacred objects and relics from the 11th to the 21st centuries. Among the most important artifacts: Sacro Catino — a green crystal or glass bowl/dish, considered for centuries a probable "Grail," mythically associated with the Last Supper. Today, research indicates it is an Islamic/Shiite artifact from the 9th-10th centuries. Gold and silver arks and crosses, including the Zaccaria Cross. Ark of the Relics of St. John the Baptist — the saint's ashes from the Holy Land, donated to Genoa. San Lorenzo is the diocesan cathedral — the main church of the Archdiocese of Genoa. This place is important not only religiously, but also historically and socially. For centuries, the square in front of the cathedral (sagrato) was a place for public gatherings, political events, and urban rituals—it served as the "agora" of the medieval city. During World War II, the cathedral was hit by a bomb (1941). The bomb lodged in the nave, did not explode, and remains a curiosity within the building to this day. The celebration of the feast of St. Lawrence (August 10) is an important day for Genoa. Entrance to the cathedral is free, there is no waiting time, and the cathedral is open every day.

Impressive exterior, with the black and white stripes, which also feature inside, but the inside leaves a little to be desired overall. Of course beautiful and intricate in design, but feels slightly unfinished and messy inside. Also got kicked out halfway through for wearing shorts, as many other comments mention. An odd experience overall - the basilica a few minutes walk away was much more impressive inside!