So special to experience these beautiful churches - up and down! We got to enjoy an English mass at 9am on Sunday. Touring with Rick Steeves podcast in our ear was great (also the town walk is so good). Loved the museum in the back. The highlight of course was the crypt, to spend some time in the presence of St Francis. Well- we know his presence is with us in Christ, but so cool to see his tomb. The Giotto frescoes are amazing and the ceilings- wow, that blue- I love it.

Lovely Medieval town - Assisi - famous for St Francis' Basilica, which we visited. Also had a lovely cappuccino but didn't stay for lunch. Escalators available to get you into the higher parts of town from all the car parks so no worries for older and less mobile visitors. A must-see if in Umbria

Today's highlight. You don't want to miss this place when in Assisi. Prepare for a walk uphill and downhill. Travel light but bring some coins or bills for the offering and candles. There's plenty of good restaurants and giftshop in the area. Walking distance to visit the tombs of St. Clare and Saint Carlo Acutis.🙏🙏🙏

What an amazing experience to be able to come on a pilgrimage here. The church is very beautiful and full of meaning. There is a tomb of St. Francis of Assisi under this church. There is also a museum, and a souvenir shop. Don’t forget when you enter, there is a prayer paper that we can take and write, so that later we can bring it to the tomb area of St. Francis, and we give to the brothers here to pray. Then don’t forget after shopping at the souvenir shop, bring it to the blessing section near the exit.

We visited here as part of a tour group, it has amazing art work throughout, its just a shame you can not take photos of your visit. It is a very large complex and will stun you by its size, it gets busy and has some stairways that are narrow.

Another beautiful and amazing church in Italy, the Papal Basilica and Sacred Convent of Saint Francis in Assisi. We can visit the tomb, the mortal remaining of St Francis of Assisi, which was preserved since 1230. Also, this church is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. there are two distinct churches: the Upper and Lower Basilicas. Visitors can explore intricate chapels adorned with remarkable artwork while learning about the rich history through audio guides.

A beautiful building with breathtaking murals inside. Photos are not permitted inside but it is well worth visiting. The murals are floor to ceiling and it's also a pleasant place to spend an hour out of the heat just admiring the works. ⛪

We attended the procession at night. Arrive early for the rosary and have time to pick up a candle. It was packed inside the church. It was a nice, moving experience when in the area. The church is currently undergoing some renovations.

What a beautiful church. Most special because of the portinocula - St Francis’ special little church. Incredible works of art- especially one of Francis receiving the stigmata. They also have confession booths with multiple languages, with very caring and open priests ready to hear and help you draw close to God. Francis’ place of death and his rose garden as well. Wonderful masses offered. A great gift shop. I wish I had bought more Tau necklaces while I was there to give to others. Also the bookstore is awesome. So many great Franciscan themes and authors.

Hi there, A Cathedral with impressive art on walls and ceiling. Well it was not allowed to take pictures but I've done one.

A very nice basilica in Assisi, probably often overlooked because people flock up to the hilltop to the town and the more famous basilica and other attractions. This is on the other side of the main train station of Assisi. It’s actually walkable distance from the train station. There is a nice museum, rose garden and gift shop in side as well. The piazza Della Porziuncola in front of the basilica is quite large and nice to walk around and take in the beauty of this place.

Beautiful Basilca where inside there is the Little Church that St Francis Of Assisi had renovated when he mistakenly got the message from The Cross wrong as he thought he had to rebuild the small Church but realised God meant the World Church .

Amazing experience, was able to take my mom to the place she always dreamt of… such a lovely experience

Attended Mass here on Sunday, with a good amount of pilgrims. Large inside, under renovations now even the Porziuncola. It’s a very special place to visit where St Francis prayed with his followers & passed away.

Really good tour. First part is sat down listening to a lady speak (who was excellent) and a video. Then a look at the exhibits in the museum. Best bit was then the factory tour which takes place on a kind of enclosed, raised walkway. Fascinating. My kids loved seeing the robots packing chocolates. Finishes with an opportunity to taste the range. Very well done and a good 2 hour experience.

We went there without any appointment. But lucky us, we still got a chance to join an Italian group to visit the factory. Although we don’t speak any Italian, the guide lady was super friendly and nice! She played an introduction video in English and explained to us in English as well. And the workers at the factory look so happy. Last but not least, the entire factory smells sooooooo yummy 😋 Highly recommend to visit! We had a lot of fun there. Of course, it would be better to check their schedule before going, they have English tour as well.

They came highly recommended, but very disappointing!! Please don’t waste your money here. They are not willing to accommodate or help you. Wanted to book a private tour in English, cost over 600E for a tour and private class. Won’t take a credit card, wanted my bank information….. Booked a tour at Lindt in Switzerland and very helpful and worked with you!!! Someone told me about another chocolate factory in Perugia called Be Well… great people…very nice….

We called their number and made a reservation for an English tour in advance. The entrance is closed from 1300h to 1400h (and they did not open it early despite seeing lots of us waiting outside in the sun). Adult tickets are €10 each; children accompanied by an adult are €8 (you buy tickets there). The 1400h tour started at 1412h. Our guide was Gloria, she speaks English very well, and was very friendly with the group. She gave a short introduction and then we watched a ten minute video about the history and how their chocolate is made (disappointing that Perugina company was taken over by Nestle). Then we had a five to ten minute period of sampling chocolate (four Baci, one dark OR milk chocolate egg, and one Milky Bar and one After Eight - seven chocolates in total). The group all went to the museum portion together where Gloria explained more of the history, etc... (probably about 15 minutes). Then we went to tour the factory (probably about 15 minutes). It was unfortunate that we didn't see the chocolate being made on the assembly line (nothing was coming out on the machines), but we did see the chocolate being boxed up. We got into their shop area just over an hour after the start of the tour (around 1530h). This is an ok thing if you're looking for something to do in the area, but not worth a special trip only for this IMO. They ramp up production in October for Easter (so you'd see the giant eggs being made with the surprise in the middle). The town has a chocolate festival in October as well. What ruined our experience (otherwise this would have been three stars), was there was a massive group (greater than 20 people, at least 12 of which were children ranging in age from toddler to about 10yo) who came in after the video, and were extremely loud. There was so much yelling, crying, children running around everywhere, it was hard to hear the guide, and if you happened to be more than three to five people behind the guide in the factory you could not hear her at all. Because of advance booking for the tour, this group should have been put by themselves. Our "original group" of about 15 people would've been great. If the factory is going to have groups greater than 15 people they should have head sets for everyone to be able to hear the guide, or simply keep the groups smaller and run more frequent tours.

An extensive tour of the famous ‘Baci’ chocolate factory and adjoining museum. Event (pre-booked on their website) starts off with a video feature, followed by some tasty chocolate samples, and a guided tour starting with an exhibition on how it all started, with an extensive display of the many products sold and on sale, ending with an overhead walk along the factory and a well-stocked shop with items for sale. All you chocolate lovers this is worth a visit to set you dreaming!

If you visit perugia is a must experience!We had the pleasure of English guide and she explained everything sharing the passion for the company its values!We ate a lot of chocolates and we had the opportunity to buy some chocolate souvenirs on low price.The tickets were 8 euros as it was weekend and some production machines didn't operate. However it was a pleasant visit!

A tasty history and tour of the world's leading chocolateer. Brief and interesting video, tasty tasting treats followed by a very interesting tour of this gigantic and highly automated tour of a chocolate factory that would make Willie and the Wonka-heads proud.

A decade ago, I visited the Fortress of San Leo, and I was really impressed by how well-maintained the construction still was. One of the most striking parts of the visit was the torture room, where people accused of heresy, like Cagliostro, were imprisoned by Pope Pius IV. The tools used for torture were on display, which gave a chilling but fascinating glimpse into the past. The region itself is full of culture and offers stunning landscapes, plus the food in Emilia Romagna is incredible—definitely a highlight of the trip!

Tricky to rate this. We went mid may. Clouds had rolled in so not much of a view. Went to the tourist info area which seemed to be closed even though someone was inside. We decided to walk up to the castle. The pedestrian walkway was very crumbly and slippy. Not good. Again the ticket shop was lit up and sort of open but no one inside. There was an automatic ticket machine. We pressed the English translation button. All it did was change the top word to "Entance" but the rest stayed in English! Worked out as a 10 euro entry. But no one to tell what there was and no views due to low cloud decided not to go in. Walked back down the road rather than go down the dodgy steps. The town itself was nice with an interesting church. We were unlucky with weather but the service could have been better.

Impressive structure and great views. However inside is less impressive, mostly empty rooms (which is understandable given it’s previous role as a prison). Majority of information in Italian only. If you are a fan of torture tools, you will see plenty inside.

We followed the steep, zig zag path up the hillside through the forest to arrive in front of the castle. The castle looks like a state of the art 16th century creation and the location must have made it almost impregnable to assault, with sheer cliffs on almost every side and just one narrow road leading up to it. Entry was 10€ and we spent a couple of hours there as there was so much to see. The views were the most obvious and spectacular thing - all the way to the Adriatic Sea and possibly San Marino, with every hilltop on the Appenines seems to have a castle on it. There is a well marked route through the castle with the fortified tunnels and fireports followed by the original prison cells and exhibits of torture and the inquisition. The inner structure had barracks, armouries, cells for Papal prisoners and a museum about the life of the enigmatic Cagliostro. He was the most famous prisoner of the fortress, a confidence trickster who travelled throughout Europe and mixed with the rich and famous, involved in alchemy, freemasonry and healing and regarded as a heretic by the church. His death sentence was commuted to life imprisonment in the fortress. He had a small cell with no door, he was lowered in from the room above, where his guard stayed and watched him through a grille and spyhole. I'm sure the view lost its appeal after a while and he died after 4 years in his cell. The armouries had a mixture of medieval, WW1 and WW2 weapons, quite a comprehensive collection! We sat and had an ice cream from the museum shop before doing a final circuit of the walls and then carefully making our way down the path.

Very nice and quiet place. You can buy the tickets directly from the touch machine at the entrance. We didn't manage to go inside as we had the dog and nobody was in the office area to ask if it was possible to enter with the dog. It was less busy then we expected but the view is nice from outside as well.

Lovely place for a day trip - especially if you like walking, castles, history, and great views! You could spend many hours inside the castle looking at all the artifacts and watching the films they have about the castle. If you spend time walking around everything then it's well worth the €9 entry fee.

Wonderful visit on a very foggy day but still worth it. Easy walk up hill that is well sign posted. Good signage inside. Probably great views but not the day I visited as you can see in the photos.

Amazing place. A convent/church that has been revived by a genius architect and artist who built magnificent and creative theaters behind it. Unique. Wherever you look, you'll see another work of art. Entrance only on weekends by pre reservation. The tour (mandatory) is a bit too long, and *you can't* leave before it ends...

PLEASE AVOID! Leaving one star because I can’t leave no stars. I don’t even know where to begin. We arrived after 11am on a Saturday morning (hadn’t checked the website as I always check opening times on google maps, perhaps my fault), and were rushed in by somebody standing at the gate to the property. Without explaining much, he told us it was 10€ per person, and we paid in cash. He locked the gate and told us to follow him. We arrived to an amazing amphitheater where there were about 100 people, half of them listening to an older guy speaking very loudly in Italian. It was no problem we didn’t understand half of it, at least we would get a tour of the place, or so we thought. He rambled for at least 45 min… not really sure if that was supposed to be a tour or what, but we decided we were not willing to spend the next hour listening to a mad man talking about the universe in the intense heat, without seeing any of the actual place! Worst 10€ spent, ever. Still, we thought we’d cut our losses and asked the man who we paid to let us in, to let us out. No big deal right? He told us to wait 5 min, which we did. After that, we asked again if we could leave. Very very quickly he got quite defensive, and said (not jokingly) he “might not let us out at all”. EXCUSE ME, WHAT? I’ve never ever experienced such awful customer care/experience. We can laugh about it now but panic was starting to set it, honestly. I was so ready to call the police when he started walking towards the exit. We followed him and thank god! What an absolute nightmare. We were finally free. I’m sure the place is amazing, and I would have loved to see more of it, but it’s really not worth dealing with such tw***. Spend your money somewhere else. In a pizza, a glass of wine, an aperol spritz or anywhere else where you’ll feel you’re actually treated with respect. PLEASE AVOID!!

The place is beautiful and for sure culturally and historically fascinating, but as a person with limited understanding of Italian, I felt like I was a prisoner of the tour guides who refused to let us leave after an hour of listening to an abstract monologue full of insults and inside jokes that no one found funny. In the end we convinced someone to open the door for us, but were denied the honor of seeing medieval frescoes, which felt a lot like a vendetta for our lack of appreciation for the tour. The road leading to the place is definitely only fit for 4x4 cars. If you have one, speak Italian and also have 10€, 2 hours and a lot of patience then I guess it can be worth it. Really curious to know what guardia di finanza would say about the fact there is cash only & no receipts policy.

The architect Tomaso Buzzi is the creative mind who brought together historical styles, symbols, and quotes from the past in his designs for this aritecture park. Built on the ex-property of a Franciscan monestary. Our guide, the nephew of Buzzi, opened the visit by noting: "St. Francis was the first who used drugs" as a way to think about the way people use drugs today to change their perception of the world. The tour is in italian but there is someone on hand to help with English sums on the side. Group visit is big (c100 people) but the guide uses a speaker-microphone so it was easy to hear. Also, big open spaces and much freedom to walk around and take photos. It seemed to me many people in my group did not read about the site in advance OR were not open-minded enough to appreciate the site and the guide. I highly recommend the site for people who want to have an experience outside the norm of guided visits to art-gardens in Italy. Be sure to rsvp weeks in advance.

Incredible history of architecture and sculpture! Must visit but call and book in advance as they often don't take bookings/no last minute entries! 10euro per person

Amazing surreal place in the middle of nowhere. Despite all the complaints about the guide I thought it was fantastic and suit the uncommon nature of the place itself! He's a genius.

A different experience into a place hidden from society and frozen in time. Not quite easy to reach but definitely worth it. The architecture is full of mystical symbols and the guide stories are both interesting and fun. Preorder are received by emails for groups of min 8 persons

​The Orvieto Cathedral is truly impressive. Its location on top of the hill structure naturally provides it with a well-protected position. The most striking feature is the exterior, where the gold-painted facade beautifully catches the sunset light. Inside, the sculptures and the overall aesthetic of the interior make for a very pleasant and rewarding visit.

As the most famous attraction in the city, this church is magnificent and rich in historical value. Legend has it that Michelangelo visited it in his youth to draw inspiration, which shows how profound its artistic value is. The church itself is not as magnificent as other churches in Rome, but the sculptures here convey the people's worship and longing for the church at that time. If you have enough time, I recommend purchasing a ticket to visit the underground city. Unfortunately, we arrived early this time and the guided tour had not yet started. I believe I will definitely visit the underground city next time I visit!

It's a massive Cathedral. The experience is amazing. It is as much a gallery of art as a place of worship. So as a mark of respect don't use camera inside the Cathedral. For tourists, take a train from Rome, or Florence to Orvieto. Then the Funicular to the top of the hill. There's a small fort and a underground place also for visitors. Local food is very good and reasonably priced

The Duomo in Orvieto is one of the most beautiful churches I’ve visited in Italy. The outside is stunning — the front is full of detailed mosaics, sculptures, and gold decorations that shine in the sunlight. The walls are made of black and white stone in stripes, which makes it look very unique compared to other cathedrals. Inside, the cathedral is peaceful and full of history. The most impressive part is the Chapel of San Brizio, where you can see amazing frescoes by Luca Signorelli. These paintings show scenes from the Last Judgment and the Apocalypse, and the emotion and detail in the faces are incredible. It’s hard to believe they were painted over 500 years ago. Another highlight is the crypt, which many visitors miss. It’s small but very interesting, with ancient frescoes, old tombs, and Christian symbols. It feels like a hidden part of the cathedral that connects you to a much older time. Overall, the Duomo is not just beautiful — it also tells many stories through its art and structure. If you’re in Orvieto, don’t miss it. It’s a perfect mix of architecture, art, and history in one place.

Stunning architecture! Italy is home to many exceptional cathedrals, but this one truly stands out as one of the most remarkable in all of Europe. Entry is only €6.50, and remember to cover your shoulders and legs to be allowed inside. The grandeur and beauty are absolutely breathtaking, you’ll be amazed.

This is a stunning 1500 church in the Florence style using the black and white stones to create the iconic stripes. The fresco paintings inside are well worth a look. They depict the Last Judgment, featuring vivid scenes of the Resurrection of the Flesh, the Elect in Paradise, and the Damned in Hell.Buy the entry tickets opposite.

Absolutely worth every cent. This Cathedral is beautiful, there is only one Cathedral more beautiful and that's the Berliner Dom in Germany. In November 2025 the entry cost is €8 per Adult. This is a must see destination in Italy.

Lake is pretty but too dirty to swim in, and no beaches are worth mentioning. Many better places to stay in Umbria and Tuscany

It’s a nice lake to look at, but not to swim in. Fist of all, it’s a challenge to find a nice place to enter the water without walking through a swamp. Secondly, the water is murky, smelly and shallow. I’m a huge fan of natural lakes but when here, I (unfortunately) preferred the touristic swimming pools.

A magnific place where to pass your Italian holidays! Many restaurants, cafè lake view and boats to go to Islands! Cool for nature lovers and family with kids! 😉😊

Lake Trasimeno, Italy's fourth-largest lake, is a stream-fed body of water surrounded by vineyards, olive trees, and old castles. It offers freshwater fish and fishing, as well as all the water sports one can handle. With swimming-safe waters, a 50-kilometer bike path around the lake promoting exploration, and a natural park that encompasses the entire lake, this is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts. If you want a very relaxing and laid back holiday in Italy then consider this area. Out of the madding crowd but close enough to roam Umbria, Tuscany and Lazio for those more adventurous types. Highly recommended.

Very beautiful view, especially during sunset!

I went there for a picnic tour. That lake is really amazing. I wanna go there again.

Very beautiful, But unfortunately, the water is very dirty and too hot 🔥 Hopefully they can clean it because its worth it 🙏🏽

What a place to live. Monks and nuns share this beautiful spot in honour of St. Francis. A must see when in this area

Cool place. Lits of tourists though. Great views, chappels everywhere, interesting 'caves' and history!

Beautiful stay at the monestary on top of the mountains. A lot of tourisrs but if you stay the night you can catch the monestary in its quiet tranquility. Beautiful hikes all around the area.

Beautiful place to experience the serenity and grace of the Franciscan spirituality. A place so dear to St Francis of Assisi. Set amongst a hill top cliff, it speaks of all things Francis, nature, serenity, wildlife.

It was indeed a gem. We had a lot th whole day. Prayer, meals, encounter, tour around the place and concluded with a procession and a mass.

Absolutely STUNNING PLACE whether you are believer or not. It is very suggestive place in the mountains in province of Arezzo (Tuscany). It consists of couple of buildings of sanctuary, church, chapels, place where Saint Francis received the stigmas, small museum, shop. You can feel strong spirituality and huge peace there. When i entered the church, one of Franciscan monk played the grand piano and I burst into tears without reason. We didn't planned this visit on our journey, we were with our dog, which was not a problem everywhere outside. Please pay attention, there is about 5-7 degrees colder in this valley, we suggest to take jumper or jacket with you. We ate local "piadinas" in small bar near the parking place. Surely WORTH OF NEXT VISIT AGAIN.

Nestled in the heart of Tuscany, Italy, La Verna is a place of unparalleled natural beauty and spiritual significance. Its rugged cliffs and lush forests provide a stunning backdrop to the iconic La Verna Sanctuary, where St. Francis of Assisi once communed with nature and received the stigmata. A pilgrimage to this hallowed site promises a profound connection with both the divine and the wonders of the Italian landscape.

Charming public square in Montepulciano -- go up into the tower of the Palazzo Comunale for one of the best views of the Valdichiana

Beautiful historical center of the central. Must visit day and evening.

Piazza Grande in Montepulciano may be small, but it’s truly a Tuscan gem. It offers a stunning view of the historic town hall, surrounded by charming Renaissance buildings, and from the square, you can wander into the quaint, atmospheric streets typical of this beautiful region. A must-visit for lovers of history, architecture, and wine alike — Montepulciano will surely capture your heart.

Very beautiful place and the souvenir shop sells Twilight: New Moon merchandise.

Piazza Grande is the heart of Montepulciano, a stunning medieval square surrounded by Renaissance architecture, including the Palazzo Comunale and Duomo of Montepulciano. Its origins date back to the 14th century, and it has long been a symbol of civic pride and Tuscan elegance. Film fans will recognize it as a key location in Twilight: New Moon, where the dramatic Volturi scenes were shot - adding a cinematic layer to its timeless beauty. Whether you're here for the history or the Hollywood connection, Piazza Grande is a must-see in southern Tuscany.

Montepulciano is a medieval hilltop town in Tuscany, Italy. Surrounded by vineyards, it’s known for its vino nobile red wine. The Torre di Pulcinella is a clock tower topped by a figure of the Pulcinella, a commedia dell’arte character. On the Piazza Grande is the 14th-century Palazzo Comunale, with a tower offering views of the surrounding countryside. Also here is the Duomo, with a huge triptych above its altar.

Montepulciano’s Piazza Grande is a solid mix of history, Renaissance architecture, and tourists trying to find the perfect selfie angle. The main attraction? Aside from the impressive Palazzo Comunale and the cathedral, it’s the town’s famous Vino Nobile di Montepulciano - a red wine 🍷so well regarded that even popes were fans. It was also the filmed location for the Vampire series - Twilight. 🧛 Climb the town hall tower for a great view (if you don’t mind the steps), or just grab a glass of Vino Nobile and enjoy the square from ground level. Either way, it’s worth the visit, just be ready for some uphill walking.

Beautiful thermal baths with relaxing pools, perfect water temperature, and a peaceful atmosphere surrounded by nature. Staff are very friendly and everything is well organized. The only drawback was the showers — they switch off every 30 seconds and the cabins are a bit small. Still, a wonderful place to relax and I’d be happy to return! 🌿✨

Used the day spa services. I have been three times this year since we live fairly close. The spa offers different pools and lovely grounds with different types of chairs and umbrella options to relax. The half day pass is a bargain at 15 euros. Be sure to bring your own flip flops or water sandals and robe or towel. no street shoes allowed outside of locker rooms. Daily use includes free lockers showers blow dryers etc. I have booked various massages and massage staff are all very professional. Front desk staff helpful and some can speak English. Easy selection of fresh salads in casual lunch restaurant. Reasonably priced. Overall a good way to spend the day in Tuscany.

This place is definitely worth visiting. The mineral pools are so great for your health. Everything was positive. The reception was welcoming and friendly, the facilities were clean and in good condition. We had a fantastic time and it is so affordable. The 15 euro morning pass was more than enough time for us and included so many pools and stunning views.

Pretty place, but honestly the worst massage I’ve ever had. I’m not even sure it was a real masseuse or just someone hired. I’ll be booking a proper deep tissue massage when I’m back home. My friend had one too and felt the same way. I would not book a massage here. 3 stars over how terrible the massage was

We went for a girls trip, highly recommend. Facilities where great, staff very friendly and everything in general I would say was high quality. Food and cocktails are very good and the treatment list has fair pricing. Really recommend if you are looking for some relax and peace of mind!

Great place with a beautiful view for a reasonable price. On a cold day, the temperature of the water is comfortable in the covered pool and in the first external pool. The further away you go from the covered pool, the lower the temperature of the water. A bit crowded on weekends.

We did a non-VIP day spa visit on a cloudy day in October (19°C). We arrived around noon, rented robes walked around the facility. The pools and sunbeds were not busy. The water temperature varies from pool to pool so the warm and hot pools were the only ones in use. By mid afternoon the indoor pool (hottest) was crowded. Based on visits to thermal spas in Iceland, Budapest and Canada, the facilities are mid-range but the presence of significant silt on the bottom of the pools was disconcerting. At times it felt like walking through muck, and the water is very milky so you can't see your feet/the bottom of the pool. Also, we weren't informed at the check in desk that you get access to the saunas only with the VIP ticket as they are located on the hotel side. Overall, I wouldn't go out of my way for this spa.

The water is very cold. Tuscany has some of the absolute best hot springs I’ve been to, but I can tell you, regrettably, that these aren’t one of them. I found the general cleanliness of the pools to be quite lacking, and the water temperature is the lowest of the 10+ hot springs I’ve been to in Tuscany. This is a real shame because this place could be much better. It’s got the potential to be n1, but has a long way to get there. Without doing much research, the owners should simply see what the competition has to offer to improve Terme di Saturnia. Some general things the staff should provide: - indication that there are only outdoor pools - soap, shampoo and conditioner should be provided in the shower rooms - towels for showering (they’ll give you one for the sun loungers, a robe for walking outside, but what are customers supposed to use to shower? you can’t ask people to buy 3 separate towels). - food selection: very poor, almost non existent vegetarian and gluten free options at the café near the pools - tea, water or infusions should be provided for free (see competitors) Only positive is the price (€14 if you are a resident is rather competitive). But as they say… you get what you pay.

We visited the day spa in mid April. We were so much looking forward to it but got so disappointed. The whole facility is cold. The thermal pool is not warm enough when it’s 15 outside, the sauna is only 50C and the indoor space is cold. The food in the bistro must be the opposite of Tuscan gourmet, it was actually disgusting, like a bad school cantine, over cooked pasta and no taste. And you had to eat in your wet bathrobe in the cold. The place is very worn down and mold in the showers. In the men’s shower the light wasn’t working, it was dark and slippery, almost like a scene from a scary movie. The owners should visit the blue lagoon on Iceland, Vabali in Germany or Yasuragi in Stockholm to learn what a spa should be. Go to the free outdoor one instead.

They lie to people about what their access covers. I only wanted to see the cascate di Saturnia but they claimed their admission covered access to this. 26€ wasted, time wasted. Then they take zero accountability for it. Claim they will refund me but don't. Their so called director Maria Vittoria is an unethical liar

My husband and I were disappointed with our experience here. The website is a false representation & shows it to be upmarket and much nicer but in reality the pools didn’t feel well maintained & some were very dirty. Way over priced for the experience. We were in the sauna & were told to leave due to a “ritual” that you had to pay to attend. Why is this not included in the high price? Very strange. The free public baths 5 minutes away are much nicer!! For some reason the photo of the free ones are used here and it’s incorrect.

We have booked the entrance with sunbeds online and upon arrival the staff told us they don’t have the availability for sunbeds. Very disappointing. The bistrot is just a bar with only piadine and sandwiches to eat (dry and poor), the Greek yogurt was good though. The white dress code is not that obvious, because it’s seems more like a suggestion. If you want the people to wear only the WHITE outfit here — include it in the price and there will be no questions asked. Or make a warning on the website that is visible, I don’t have to search the whole website to find this rule. The whole atmosphere in the place was rude and angry. I’ve expected a nice and relaxed day, I got angry people and no sunbeds🔥👍🏼 To be fare I must say that we were offered a free cup of mud (face mask). Also it’s confusing the pictures on the website. It seems there are the natural pools, but it’s actually another location. It was not necessary to come here at all. The pools that are advertised everywhere are free of charge and are located nearby. The place is understaffed and the queue in bistrot was endless.

It was the worst experience ever. We left the place as soon as we entered. All old stuff. Small spaces very old and worn out towels, small and limited showers which weren’t clean with just a soap! There were worms also in the water! Also the staff were rude. We traveled 2 hours to get there but it was terrible. Never again!

### WARNING ### Today I arrived at 10:30 for a day pass to the pools. Before driving 120kms I looked up the tariffs for entrance and rental of towels and gown as well as 2 sunbeds. The advertised price in the latest pdf. Says midweek €29 entrance. I was charged €39, when I questioned this I was told that they have decided that till the 4th of May every day is considered weekend. This is not posted either on the website or on the premises that I have seen. As I had traveled so far I decided to enter anyway. But I find this appauling. I have stayed at the hotel previously but this has really put me off as it is clearly untoward.

Amazing place, worth visiting. Also, visit the Castelnuovo above the abbey and walk the streets. One of the most beautiful places around.

I love the georgian live music. Beautiful place very simple, quite and peaceful.

Historic church. Great 5 mile hike loop. Take coins for parking (2 euros per hour). With Casisano winery along the way. Definitely stop in if they are available for a tasting.

Lovely quiet area and nice olive trees but the whole visit was a disappointment because of the lady in the shop. She was very unpolite and as soon as I stepped inside the small shop she told me the shop will close in 2 minutes. It was 17.54. 🙄 I thought the whole place was open until 18.30. The abbey had a mass so we didn’t enter into it. The smell that came from that small shop was so good so it was a pity that I couldn’t buy anything.

Definitely the most beautiful abbey in Italy! We've come here for at least 20 years. In the beginning there were almost no tourists. Now the way down is paved, paid parking and there even is a shop at the top of the hill..... But still it's the most beautiful abbey of Italy :-) Try to stay for a service when you're here.

Truly beautiful Abbey. The electronic self guide is 7€ but we’ll worth the money. The view from the to of the Abbey is amazing. The shop is lovely too. We’ll worth an hour or two of your time for some valuable peace and tranquillity.

The Abbey, a jewel of medieval mysticism. It is one of the most beautiful monuments in an ancient Roman style, which also has elements of the French and Lombardy styles. Legend has it that the abbey was founded by Charles the Great in 781. The king and his army stopped here on the way back from Rome as the soldiers were afflicted by an unknown pestilence. An angel appeared to Charlemagne, telling him to make his men drink an infusion with a local herb. The cure worked and the army was saved so the king decided to build the church in gratitude.

A historic spot in a Beautiful city. A great spot to sit & people watch, have a bite to eat or an apertivi! There is a Pharmacy, shopping, restaurants, gelato and much more right in the square. A beautiful city to walk around and explore!

Piazza del Campo is one of the most stunning and unique squares in all of Italy truly the heart and soul of Siena. The moment you step into the piazza, you’re surrounded by incredible medieval architecture, warm terracotta colors, and a sense of history that feels alive in every corner. The square’s distinctive shell shape makes it unlike any other in the world, and it’s beautifully designed to draw your eyes toward the majestic Palazzo Pubblico and its famous Torre del Mangia. It’s a wonderful place to sit, relax, and soak in the authentic Tuscan atmosphere. You can enjoy a coffee, gelato, or a glass of wine at one of the many cafés and restaurants that line the square, while watching people go by or admiring the view. During sunset, the light gives the buildings a golden glow that’s absolutely magical. Piazza del Campo is also famous for hosting the Palio di Siena, the traditional horse race that takes place twice a year an event full of excitement, tradition, and passion that truly represents the spirit of the city. Whether you visit for the history, the architecture, or simply to enjoy the atmosphere, Piazza del Campo is a place that leaves a lasting impression. It’s one of those rare spots where time seems to slow down, allowing you to experience the true beauty and charm of Siena.

A visit to Siena isn't complete without seeing Piazza del Campo. This enormous piazza sits at the center of the town and is lined with fantastic bars and restaurants. It's common to see people relaxing in the square, enjoying a moment to read or reflect. We grabbed some happy hour drinks and spent our time watching the mix of tourists and locals pass through.

What a place, this must be one of the best original urban squares ever. A photo taken a 100 years ago would probably look very much the same. Siena is such a beautiful town, if you are in Tuscany go and see for yourself. Love it.

We had a great day in Siena; you need a few hours walking through the alleys to see how beautiful the city is. Weekdays are definitely quieter than weekends. If you plan to visit Siena, try to do it between Monday and Thursday.

A very visually and spatially stunning place to visit. The color of the buildings around the piazza and the floor really set the scene of the place. It was rich and strong. A bit crowded with a lot of people sitting around and some people would sell you stuffs. Not the safest place you can sit back and relax. It was fairly safe and lovely place to visit.

One of the most beautiful places I’ve ever been to! The energy here is so positive and peaceful — it truly feels like I’ve traveled back in time. Such a magical and unforgettable experience. ✨

Siena Cathedral is one of the most breathtaking religious sites in Italy - a true gem of Gothic architecture and medieval artistry. From the moment you arrive, the striped marble façade and intricate sculptures command attention, blending elegance with grandeur. Inside, the cathedral is a treasure trove of art and history. You’ll find works by Michelangelo, Donatello, and the stunning pulpit by Nicola Pisano, each piece telling a story of devotion and craftsmanship. The Piccolomini Library, with its vibrant Renaissance frescoes, is a must-see highlight. If you're up for it, the Gate of Heaven tour lets you walk above the nave and enjoy panoramic views of the cathedral’s interior - an unforgettable experience. Built between the 12th and 14th centuries, the Duomo was originally intended to be even larger, but plans were halted by the Black Death in 1348. What remains is a powerful symbol of Siena’s ambition and artistic legacy. Whether you're an art lover, history enthusiast, or simply a curious traveler, Siena Cathedral is a must-visit. Allow at least a couple of hours to take it all in - you won’t regret it.

A splendid cathedral, richly decorated inside. We hadn't bought tickets online, but lined up outside to buy tickets. The view of the cathedral from the square outside is fantastic. But what set it apart for us was the inside. The floors are covered in inlaid marble (I believe some of it is usually covered, but it wasn't when we were there), and there are many other fantastic pieces of art. Don't miss the small library to the side, also fantastic. Afterwards we spent some time in the gift shop - it is pretty good.

A beautiful cathedral with beautiful artwork. It was reasonably old and had a bit of history to it as well. Tickets to see the cathedral was roughly 5 euros, but even the most expensive ticket to the museum, cathedral, and baptistry was the price of admission of a church in Florence, and was definitely reasonably priced. The biggest thing is that if you come from the town square, you will see the baptistry first, which is NOT where the ticket office or the cathedral is, and you need to climb either the stairs or get to the cathedral's square. Overall, was definitely worth seeing and was worth the day trip I took from Florence to see it.

A fabulous experience! Make sure though, that if you’re booking tickets in advance you are doing it for the one on SIENA, not FIRENZE. They look similar, but are in fact different. We got to go into the cathedral, museum (with the panoramic view), crypt, and baptistery. All very beautiful.

Truly amazing and stunning piece of architecture. The white and black stripes marble gives it an even more solidified feel than many other cathedrals in Europe. We were there at late afternoon, the lighting ambience was truly amazing and setting en

You look at this cathedral and the details of its construction and you wonder, how did they do this 800 years ago? (the cathedral was built in 1215). You definitely have to visit this cathedral. The entrance fee is €8 per person, but it's well worth it. The interior of this cathedral is something unimaginable.

Really just to say that I agree with the great majority of reviewers: Siena Cathedral is absolutely worth visiting. It looks great from the outside, perched on its hill, but the interior is even more impressive, with black and white stripes throughout. The ticket queue was quite long, so if you know ahead of time when you will be going it would make sense to book ahead.

We had such a lovely experience! I was on the lookout for a small, family-owned winery with quaint, local charm and a commitment to quality and sustainability. Montefioralle did not disappoint! The drive up to the winery is a stunning adventure in and of itself. Definitely pay close attention to the directions they provide — super helpful! We arrived and had a few moments to take in the spectacular view just as a rainstorm was rolling in. The rain, thunder, and lightning made the experience even more magical! Manila was so welcoming, knowledgeable, and helpful, and the wines were delightful (even for young wines!). Looking forward to opening our bottles in a few years after they’ve grown up a bit more.

We last minute booked here and I’m so happy we did! We got a tour, great explanations of the process and the wines. Got to taste multiple wines with each a plate of snacks! Snacks were delicious !!! And to top it all off, A BEAUTIFUL LOCATION

Alessia gave us a wonderful experience as she shared the history and wine process to us. As it is a family business, she shared her passion for this winery that her grandfather started many years ago. The wine tasting was very educational. We enjoyed our light lunch on-site. Nearby is a great spot for dining and shopping, a beautiful, quaint village nestled in the hills of the Chianti area of Tuscany.

Absolutely fabulous local winery - My family and I throughly enjoyed an intimate tour of the winery and tasting of the wines. Alessia was very knowledgeable and gave us a great insight into the history of both the winery and Chianti wines. One of the highlights of our trip!

This is a lovely family owned and operated vineyard. Their Chianti was the best Chianti we had while our stay in Italy. This is a small quaint vineyard with a sweet little history. The food provided with the wine was very nice as well as the view of Montefioralle. It was worth taking a little extra time to visit to little village to us. I would recommend parking in the parking provided by the vineyard and walk to the village from the parking lot as there is limited parking in the village. We found a cafe open and enjoyed splitting a delicious panni while taking in the quaintness of the village. We enjoyed the experience.

I can fully recommend the wine tasting. We had a small tour through the cellar. Very interesting and well explained. Then we tried 4 wines with some food. For the price of the tour the value was very good with sufficient wine to test in our glasses. Not all of the wine was fully our taste. But 2 of them met our taste very well, so we bought some of them. Overall a nice experience with great views from the terrace.

Great day at this beautiful family owned winery. The wine was exquisite and Mateo, the owner’s grandson, did a wonderful job sharing the hard work, care and love put into keeping this beautiful winery together. Thank you❤️.

Magical. A stunning, free location where you are as high as the Duomo, and can see across the city with a vista that would rival any of the towers in the centre. Moreover, at sunset, it provides one of the best view of the bridges of Florence, and has a playful vibe. It feels safe, and the panoramic spot is not the only part to enjoy. There are shuttles to take you up there, but the walk up is not too challenging if you are see to walking up stairs a bit. Thing is to take your time. It is exposed, so in the height of summer would be a lot. But Spring and Autumn is perfect, and a little less bothered by the hawkers of jewellery and handbags who constantly appear. You might want to bring some food and water up, though there is a nearby eatery. If you feel adventurous you can head further uphill to the Abbazia San Miniato for views higher up, but further away. For me, I find the Piazza Michelangelo is quite enough for the best views, higher isn’t always better. I tried this view during midday, and sunset, but wasn’t here at night, though it felt safe enough I’d expect it would be fine, but check other reviews here. There is a pretty route up from the Porta San Niccolo, approached from the Piazzetta di San Miniato. This Piazza was one of THE highlights of my trip to Florence, I could have spent hours up here.

A must do when in Firenze. The ideal would be passing through Ponte Vecchio and walking down the river until you find the stairs with all the fountains. The view from the Piazzale is really amazing, lots of people though. From here you can have a wide view of the city and also from some amazing gardens. Unfortunately we had torrential rain as soon as we arrived there but it was well worth the visit.

It's a decent hike up the hill that's worth the effort. You'll be rewarded by a great view of Florence and if you're lucky, a sunset over Florence is a majestic view after all. However, there are just too many tourists at the peak that might diminish your experience overall.

Piazzale Michelangelo is hands down one of the best places in Florence to catch the sunset. The panoramic view of the city is absolutely breathtaking — you can see the Duomo, Ponte Vecchio, and the entire skyline bathed in golden light. It’s one of those moments that make you fall in love with Florence all over again. Be sure to arrive a little early — the place fills up quickly, especially around sunset. I took the bus up and was lucky to get on; several others had to wait because it was already packed. If you enjoy walking, you can also hike up from the river for a great workout and an even better reward at the top! The atmosphere is fantastic — people chatting, musicians playing, couples dancing, and everyone just soaking in the magic of the view. It’s lively yet peaceful at the same time. An unforgettable experience and one of the must-see spots in Florence. I’d come back in a heartbeat to watch the sun set over that beautiful city again.

Stunning place to see the whole city view. During the night lights, city shines even more. You have road climbing and stairs climbing at the same time. They also have some bars, restaurants and gift shops on the top. The place, worth to see if you in Florence.

You have to see the city from this view, it’s fantastic. We were there on a Sunday in November and although there was a decent sized crowd, it wasn’t overwhelming. I can imagine in the summer months this place is crawling with people especially at sunset.

Beautiful experience! If you’re lucky to get a sunny day, all of Florence turns orange with beautiful lighting at sunset. You can see the entire city from up here. There are a lot of people, but the place is big enough to find your own spot. There are also food trucks and places to eat and drink if you’re looking for that kind of experience.

Lovely spot — surprisingly not too crowded during our visit. This open medieval square offers a refreshing change of pace in a city that can sometimes feel a bit tight and busy. A peaceful breath of fresh air, both literally and figuratively.

Visiting during Christmas as just like you own this place! No tourist. Only few people hanging around in the perfect weather. The church is really interesting inside with no fee to entrance.

Enchanting Piazza - criss crossed many times for few days got to see different shades of beauty every time. Peaceful, warm with lovely heritage around.

The Santo Stefano square in Bologna is a place of 7 churches and it has historical significance due to this. A serene place to visit and enjoy the architecture and spiritual environment of churches. Also, you can get food for affordable prices near this square. In Italian, the 7 churches are known as Sette Chiese in Piazza Santo Stefano.

Its cute and nice. Its a minute walk from centre but its so quiet. Very italian. Very beautiful. The piazza in front is good if u just want to chill. Very glowy also

Beautiful Piazza with loads of restaurants. Safe but can be noisy late into the night on Weekends.

Great place, Must see in Bologna. Seven churches - free admission, journey through ages. Square itself is a place to greet and fest graduations. Fun to observe.

Beautifully restored towers in central bologna - monumental of Bologna’s history. The towers served as status symbols, and the city once had 80 to 180 towers as people competed to outdo one another in status.

Impressive historical landmarks in the heart of Bologna. The taller tower, Asinelli, offers a breathtaking panoramic view if you're up for the 498-step climb. The smaller, Garisenda, leans dramatically and adds to the charm. A must-see for anyone visiting the city!

The Two Towers of Bologna (Le Due Torri) – A must-see landmark in Bologna! Standing tall in the heart of the city, the towers are not only impressive but also full of history. Walking around them gives you a true sense of medieval Bologna. Truly iconic and worth the visit!

97m tall tower build in year 1119. Still standing 👍 At this moment the inside is closed. The smaller tower is really lean strongly to the side.

Le Due Torri are impossible to miss and even harder to stop staring at. Rising at a dramatic tilt over the heart of Bologna, the Asinelli and the leaning Garisenda towers feel like something out of a medieval fantasy; tall, weathered, and slightly defiant against the modern city buzzing below. They're not just symbols of Bologna; they are Bologna, standing watch over centuries of change. Even from the ground, they carry a sense of mystery and gravity that makes you pause and look up; just like everyone else passing by.

We had seen the Two Towers on Rick Steve's show and wanted to take a look while in Bologna on our trek through Europe. The towers were easy to find. Google maps brought us right to them. The construction on the streets around the towers as well as the tower project made it difficult to get good pictures. We could see pretty well but so much chaos going on and it was very loud...we moved along promptly.

Absolutely beautiful tourist attraction, a lot of history. Unfortunately climbing up wasnt an option as it got closed when I went to visit a week ago.

It was such a great experience visiting the Accademia di Firenze! The sculptures and paintings are absolutely wonderful, and the place is quite large - you’ll need plenty of time to explore. I bought a skip-the-line ticket in advance, so I didn’t have to wait at all and could enter right away. Totally worth it! Otherwise, you’ll have to queue for a long time.

The Galleria dell’Accademia in Florence is one of the most inspiring places to experience the essence of the Renaissance. Though smaller than the Uffizi, it holds one of the greatest treasures of human creativity — Michelangelo’s David. Seeing it in person is overwhelming: carved from a single block of marble between 1501 and 1504, the 5.17-meter figure stands tall and alive, every muscle and vein rendered with breathtaking precision. The sculpture captures both physical perfection and the inner courage of Florence’s republican spirit, embodying the Renaissance belief in human potential. Beyond David, the gallery offers an intimate journey through Florentine art from the 14th to 16th centuries. The “Prisoners” — Michelangelo’s unfinished statues — seem to struggle to free themselves from the marble, revealing the artist’s process and philosophy. The museum also includes a fascinating collection of historical musical instruments, adding depth and variety to the visit. The atmosphere is serene, especially during early morning hours. Booking a skip-the-line ticket is recommended to avoid crowds. Though compact, the Accademia’s focused layout allows visitors to truly appreciate the masterpieces without distraction. Standing before David is not just an art encounter — it’s an emotional connection to the genius and ideals that defined an entire era.

The David and the prisoners is a must see. The corridor they are within? Magnificent. I highly highly recommend making sure you go through it in the direction that has you entering the prisoner's/David's room/corridor from the far end though. If you go through the music section first, which is quite good, you will enter halfway through the prisoners, and some of the effect will be lost. Overall my favorite Galleria we went to!

The Galleria dell’Accademia di Firenze is an absolute must-visit when in Florence. It’s not a large museum, but every corner holds something fascinating — and of course, the highlight is David. Seeing Michelangelo’s masterpiece in person is breathtaking; no photo can truly capture its scale, detail, and presence. Standing before it, you can feel the energy, perfection, and genius behind every carved muscle and curve of marble. The museum also features other wonderful works by Michelangelo and Renaissance artists, as well as a beautiful collection of paintings and sculptures that give you a real sense of Florence’s artistic soul. We visited in the afternoon and found the crowds manageable, though booking tickets ahead of time is a good idea. The visit doesn’t take long — about an hour or so — but it’s one of those experiences that stays with you. The Accademia is more than just a museum; it’s a quiet, reverent space that reminds you why Florence is called the cradle of the Renaissance. Don’t miss it — David alone is worth the trip.

A beautiful museum with Michelangelo’s genius as the highlight. Seeing David up close was surreal knowing he carved such perfection from a single block of marble left me in awe. A must-visit in Florence.

Make sure you pre book to avoid queues. I can't imagine what they are like in peak period as we went early evening in November and it was still very busy. However, the exhibits were amazing and obviously the main attraction being Michaelangelos David!!

One of the best experiences visiting a gallery in life. I recommend buying tickets online before your arrival to ensure that you don't have to wait in line. This is a "must-visit place" in Florence.

The piazza is truly a beautiful place to visit, showcasing stunning architecture. Throughout the square, one can feel the weight of history, which is quite impressive. The feeling of being surrounded by such a historic setting is an unforgettable experience. The piazza offers a unique and immersive journey into the past. Overall, it's a truly remarkable destination.

Piazza Maggiore is the main square of Bologna, Italy — and one of the country’s most iconic public spaces. Located in the heart of the historic center, it has been Bologna’s political, social, and cultural hub since the 13th century. Basilica di San Petronio – A massive, unfinished Gothic church dedicated to Saint Petronius, Bologna’s patron saint. It’s one of the largest brick churches in the world. Palazzo d’Accursio (or Palazzo Comunale) – Once the seat of Bologna’s government, now home to the Morandi Museum and the city hall. Palazzo del Podestà and Palazzo Re Enzo – Medieval buildings from the 13th century, when Bologna was an independent commune. Palazzo dei Banchi – A beautiful 16th-century portico closing off the eastern side of the square, connecting to the old market streets.

Such an amazing piazza with lots to see. The duomo, the statue, the tower and many on. Also if you are looking for the 7 secrets of bologna, one of them is here. The whispering walls. Its a funny and weird experience and you should definitely try it

A beautiful and vibrant city center with a perfect blend of history, culture, and modern charm. The magnificent Neptune sculpture stands proudly as a centerpiece, surrounded by elegant architecture and lively public spaces. The nearby library adds a touch of intellectual and cultural richness, making it a pleasant area to explore and relax. Everything is within easy walking distance — from charming cafés and local boutiques to upscale shopping destinations such as Hermès, Louis Vuitton, and Bottega Veneta. Whether you’re here for sightseeing, shopping, or simply soaking in the atmosphere, this area offers an enjoyable and well-balanced urban experience

Beautiful big piazza in the heart of Bologna. The Basilica is also in the square which is also worth visiting. It has the longest indoor meridian in the world, dating back to the 1600's.

Great central square and public space used to great effect, every evening i was there, a stage was set with speakers talking about future possibilities, and last night an italian classic covering themes like poverty, innocence, friendship from the viewpoint of a young boy. I believe there is a free movie every evening until end of August. Over 500 seats were taken which shows people have an appetite to use pubic spaces in creative ways, well done bologna!

The nightlife in this pizza was unbelievable! We were there at 12:00 am and the live music was still going on with a good crowd and didn't seem it's going to go down anytime soon! Beautiful, big piazza with good vibes and plenty steps to sit on and chill.

The Florence Duomo is more than just a building; it is an architectural symbol of the entire Italian Renaissance, dominating the city and the skyline. What immediately strikes you is the opulence and intricacy of its decoration. The façade, clad in colored marble (white from Carrara, green from Prato, and pink from Maremma), is a stunning sight. Nearby stands Giotto's majestic Campanile and the ancient Baptistery of San Giovanni, decorated with a black-and-white geometric pattern on the outside. Brunelleschi's dome itself is an engineering marvel of the era, visible from virtually anywhere in the city. Climb beneath it to admire the stunning fresco cycle "The Last Judgment." The frescoes are striking in their scale and detail. They depict Christ in glory, the Virgin Mary, and detailed scenes of the saved and condemned. The interior of the main nave has majestic but more restrained proportions than its exterior. Note the unusual details, such as the 24-hour clock (the so-called Hora Italica) by Paolo Uccello above the entrance. The nave also features monumental equestrian frescoes, including an image of the condottiere John Hawkwood, and marble tombstones. The Duomo complex is the pinnacle of Florentine art and architecture. The exterior of the façade and Campanile is a triumph of color and decoration, while the interior, especially the monumental frescoes of the dome, makes one feel like a tiny speck of dust in the midst of history and art. But be aware that you'll have to wait in line for 20 minutes to an hour to get inside.

The Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore — or the Duomo — is absolutely breathtaking! The architecture alone is enough to leave you in awe, but climbing up to the roof was a real highlight. From the top, you get an incredible view of Florence, the surrounding rooftops, and the Duomo itself in all its glory. It’s the perfect spot for photos and to truly appreciate the scale and beauty of this masterpiece. Inside, the cathedral is just as impressive. The frescoes, stained glass, and intricate details showcase the artistry and devotion poured into every inch of the building. Even just walking around the piazza, the grandeur of the Duomo dominates the skyline and gives a real sense of Florence’s history and culture. If you’re visiting Florence, don’t miss climbing the dome — it’s a bit of a workout, but totally worth it. The Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore isn’t just a landmark; it’s an unforgettable experience that captures the spirit and beauty of the city.

This one is hard... I can't give it 5 stars. First of all the Cathedral is GORGEOUS from the outside, way too many people for the free entry. We had a Brunelleschi Pass and to be able to enter the cathedral and visit the Santa Reparata, we waited almost one hour outside, raining! The Dome was amazing to climb (again lots of people) but dear lord, the church inside is so anti climatic. I could not believe my eyes! The Batistero was a complete disaster. It's being renovated so you enter to look up and see some replica of the ceiling on some tissue... Honesyit would be better if they closed that place until it's done. The views from the Dome are just spectacular. The outside marble work is amazing. 1 star less for the overly crowded experience and the "disappointing interior"

Climbed the Dome and the Bell Tower. An absolutely incredible experience. You get to see the Dome interior fresco up close. Up at the top, you get the whole view of Florence which is stunning and breathtaking. Highly recommend anyone who are physically fit to do the climb and remember to buy tickets in advance as tickets will be sold out for the day.

Florence Cathedral, Florence, Italy. It is situated in the Piazza del Duomo in the heart of Florence's historic center. It's iconic dome, was designed by Filippo Brunelleschi, took 16 years to build and happens to be the largest masonry dome in the world. It commenced in 1296 in a Gothic Style and was completed by 1436. It's exterior is faced with marble panels featuring an elaborate 19th Cent. Gothic revival facade. An extremely fascinating and Awesome structure, which couldn't be clicked in just a few shots.

I attended Sunday Mass at the Duomo in Firenze this morning, Santa Maria del Fiore, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Construction began in 1296 and the church was not consecrated until 1436, 140 years later! It is of the largest cathedrals in the world. Brunelleschi's Dome is still the largest brick dome ever constructed. It was a groundbreaking undertaking of engineering in its time.

Humongous cathedrals and very iconic. Could not go in but I would recommend doing a ticketing system where you can buy to go in because although it’s free, the queue almost circles the entire cathedral. Very pretty architecture and detailed, similar to the one in Milan.

It was magnificent. As someone who isn't an art affectionado, it was a bit overwhelming in some ways. Take a walk through it at your pace, and don't worry about missing anything. By the time you are done with this and the other art museums (like the Gallery Accademia) you will be kinda art-ed out and it will blue together. Absolutely worth going to though overall. In my opinion, the Vasari Corridor is cool, but probably not worth it.

Very nice gallery, on par with other big museums and art galleries of the world (Louvre and co.). I highly recommend reserving a slot online otherwise the waiting times are very long. Botticelli, da Vinci....just go and see. You certainly will not regret it. And by the way, the best thing is that children and teens uo to 18 years of age have free entry!!! That's a great way to encourage families to make the kids aquainted with high end artistry 👍

Amazing art gallery and museum - Rembrandt, Michaelangelo, Raphael, Caravaggio and many more. You could easily spend a day or more in here - if you're on a shorter time line like I was, check out the maps and decide which bits over the two floors you want to focus on. Also lots of benches to sit down on and get off your feet for a moment which is great.

Good one! Great staff and amazing art collection. Some tips: - Download official app for audio commentary about the exhibits. It worth few bucks to unlock all descriptions but it worth it. - Highly recommend free Rick Steves audio guide for Uffizi Gallery. Download his app for your device and get a great tour for free! - Cafe is overrated. High prices with poor food selection. The view is blocked by plants. Try to grab a bite before visiting the gallery. - The staff is kind of strict regarding name on the ticket. Make sure that you have your ID or photo of your ID with you. Make sure that your name is on the ticket. - Make sure that you enter within an hour of your ticket time. They are pretty strict about it. - Everyone complained that it's crowded. Bit we visited on the week day in the middle of November and had no problems with crowds. - Buying ticket on the day of your visit is cheaper than in advance. - Views from the windows are amazing. Make sure to check them out. - Didn't visit Vosario Corridor as it's too expensive for a corridor with white walls.

Superb experience at the Uffizi Gallery. The rooms are filled with high-quality paintings and sculptures—Botticelli, Leonardo, Michelangelo—masterpieces everywhere. It’s very popular and can be crowded because so many people come, but it’s well organized and absolutely worth it. I easily spent 2–3 hours and could have stayed longer. A must-do in Florence; book ahead if you can. There is a lovely cafeteria at the end on floor two which is also a must visit

This museum is a must see in Firenze. I booked a tour with a guide and was so happy I did. We got through security quickly and were able to see all the most.famous pieces with a rare insight into their origin and their place in history. I plan on going back again since there is so much to see. Definitely go. You will do glad you did.

Museum is huge and I advice visitors to go as early as they can to avoid the crowd. The Gallery was built in the 16th century and designed by Giorgio Vasari. It is famous worldwide for its sculptures and paintings. Collection is huge and includes some of the famous works from Botticelli, Michelangelo, Caravaggio, Piero della Francesca, Giotto and many other. It requires approximately 3-4 hours to see most of things and to enjoy some of the masterpieces inside.

**A Hauntingly Beautiful Step Back in Time** The **Abbazia di San Galgano** (San Galgano Abbey) is a **mesmerizing** 13th-century Gothic ruin with no roof—just towering stone walls open to the sky. The atmosphere is **magical**, especially at golden hour when sunlight streams through the empty windows. Don’t miss the **legendary Sword in the Stone** in the nearby hermitage (Monte Siepi Chapel)—it’s said to be the real-life inspiration for King Arthur’s tale! **Why it’s worth visiting:** ✔ **Photography paradise**: The skeletal arches and grassy floor make for stunning, otherworldly photos. ✔ **Peaceful vibe**: Far from crowds, ideal for quiet reflection or a picnic. ✔ **Rich history**: Free info plaques explain the abbey’s rise and fall (or bring a guidebook for deeper context). **Tips:** - Wear **sturdy shoes**—the ground is uneven. - Pair your visit with the nearby **Chiusdino village** for lunch or a wine tasting. - Visit **early morning or late afternoon** to avoid tour groups. **A must-see** for history buffs, romantics, and anyone who loves evocative ruins. Like stepping into a medieval fairy tale.

I had the pleasure of photographing a wedding at San Galgano Abbey, and it was absolutely magical. The atmosphere of the roofless abbey, with its dramatic architecture and open sky, creates an unforgettable setting for a wedding ceremony. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a breathtaking venue in Tuscany.

The entrance fee feels steep for a ruin with very little information provided… but it’s still 100% worth the visit! ⛪✨ Standing inside this roofless church, in the middle of nowhere, is an unforgettable experience. The atmosphere is truly unique. The surrounding landscape is beautiful, and the history of the site is absolutely fascinating 🌿📜 Take your time to explore, soak it all in, and maybe enjoy a picnic in the shade of the centuries-old walls of this mysterious and hauntingly beautiful place 🧺🧱

Open air 13th Century Abbey just outside of Siena. If this is something you’re into and enjoy – very much worth a visit. Looks spectacular from the outside and magical from the inside. Certainly unique. If you are not into architecture, historical buildings or church history, this is probably not for you. There is little explanation of the place once you’re there, so you need to ideally already be a fan or interested. Also visit the Chapel on the hill whilst you're in the area

There was an art exhibit when we were there which were really great to take photos. We had leave early because of a funeral.

Speechless spiritual place, knowing this place from Andrei Tarkovsky’s ‘Nostalgia’, as a metaphor of the protagonist’s memory and religious experience. No photos or documentaries can compare to being here personally, even if it might be an arduous trip for visitors without a car…

Historic place. Impressive to see and understand. When in the area take time visit and enjoy lunch at the nearby bar.

I saw about 60 people, maybe as it was so hot? Prices are not worth the detour. Clean and secure though, some nice eateries

We have been here hoping to find some gems. Although there are a lot of shops, there were few clothes, at least for women. Or the collections at this moment in time were awful…I am not sure. And the discounts, in some shops it did not feel like outlet prices. Anyway, not worth the 50 min trip.

No better place for a Sunday after 5 PM! The outlet near Florence is the perfect spot to spend a relaxed Sunday evening. After 5 PM, the crowds thin out, making it ideal for browsing top designer stores without stress.

It’s an okay outlet — nothing special. On the plus side, there’s a huge parking area with over ten charging spots for electric cars, which is really convenient. But despite the number of stores, the selection is underwhelming, and prices are exactly the same as in downtown Bologna. Honestly, there’s no real reason to come here just for shopping. You’ll find the same brands and deals in the city, with a much better atmosphere. Not worth a dedicated trip.

Very nice outlet, you can walk around and enjoy lot of italian and worldwide brands, prices are good. Lot of stores for kids clothes. There are coffee shop to rest and enjoy drink.

Wow… amazing place. Just the experience of this place is spectacular Local hotels/hosts might have discounts for this place.. ask in reception

Decent outlet mall just outside of Florence, has most of the larger brands you would expect. No large discounts however when we were there. Parking options are great and layout of the area is well arranged. Felt however a bit desolated on a rainy weekday.

We didn't really see much of the area. We stayed overnight at a hotel inside the walls and ate at Caffetteria Gelateria dell'Olmo. The restaurant was not good. Our hotel, Hotel Leon Bianco, was very nice and had a wonderful breakfast. We had a heck of a time navigating the streets.

San Gimignano is the reason we came back to Tuscany after visiting it last yearfor a few hours, while driving through Tuscany. Beautiful walled medieval town, that was originally restored in 1800s, and probably the biggest attraction in Tuscany. The towers were a sign of wealth, and the taller the tower, the wealthier the family that owned them. They were originally built as protection against marauding neighboring townspeople, street scuffs, etc. these towers were connected to the residences of the owners. You can climb the tallest tower in town, for 7 Euros.

San Gimignano is a true gem of Tuscany and a must-visit destination for every traveler. This picturesque town is famous for its well-preserved medieval towers that create an iconic skyline. Walking through its stone streets feels like stepping back in time. History comes alive at every corner, and the atmosphere is utterly enchanting. A highlight is the Duomo di Santa Maria Assunta, the town’s cathedral adorned with stunning frescoes by prominent artists – a true architectural treasure. San Gimignano is a place you’ll fall in love with at first sight

San Gimignano is a small medieval hills town in Tuscany, encircled by 13th-century walls and full of beauty and life. Medieval festivals are happening from time to time and, if you're lucky to be here during such an event, you'll feel the history and understand Italian culture and life better. Like a reduced-scale Sienna, San Gimignano is one of my favorites luttle old towns in Italy.

Love this town, love walking amongst the buildings. The old part of the town is just amazing, wonderful restaurants.

Lovely town and dumo church definitely worth visit with spectacular paintings

One of my favorite places to visit! Walking the streets felt like going back in time! The architecture is unbelievable. The shops are quaint and full of authentic treats. The cobblestone streets lead to amazing sites and the views are spectacular. Stop for an ice cream, a meal or a souvenir. Make it a point to stop on your visit to Italy, it’s worth the trip.

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!